Unistellar eVscope eQuinox

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Summary

Instructions

Setup and Connection

Covers tripod setup, smartphone connection, and initial eVscope configuration.

Focusing and Observation

Details focusing techniques, observation steps, and parking the device.

Performance Enhancement and Alignment

Provides tips to improve observations and guides on mirror alignment.

Power and Data Management

Charging and Battery

Explains eVscope charging, battery life, and usage.

Data Handling

Guides on saving and uploading observation data from the eVscope.

Safety and Maintenance

Safety Precautions

Essential safety guidelines for using the eVscope and its accessories.

Device Care

Covers proper storage, cleaning, tripod, and battery maintenance.

Specifications and Compliance

Technical Details

Lists the technical specifications of the eVscope eQuinox.

Regulatory Information

Details compliance, declarations, and recycling guidelines for the device.

The Unistellar eVscope eQuinox is a smart telescope designed for astronomical observation, offering an enhanced viewing experience of celestial objects. It is intended for use under clear skies, away from direct streetlights, and performs best when sheltered from strong winds and placed on stable ground. For optimal results, it is recommended to avoid observing during a full moon.

Function Description

The eVscope eQuinox functions as a digital telescope that connects to a smartphone via Wi-Fi, allowing users to control the device and view observations through a dedicated Unistellar app. It features an "Enhanced Vision" mode to improve the visibility of faint objects by adjusting gain, exposure time, contrast, and brightness. The telescope is equipped with an automatic "GoTo" function that enables it to point to selected celestial objects. It also includes a "Park my eVscope" function that automatically moves the telescope to a zenith position and turns it off when observations are complete. The device saves raw data during Enhanced Vision, which can be downloaded to a smartphone and uploaded to Unistellar servers, contributing to a community-driven observation experience and scientific campaigns.

Usage Features

To begin using the eVscope eQuinox, the tripod must first be set up. Users should open the tripod legs and adjust the height for comfortable viewing. It is crucial to ensure all tripod screws are tightened, using the provided tools if necessary, as they may loosen during shipment. The device's level bubble needs to be adjusted to the center of the black circle by manipulating the tripod legs, a step recommended each time the eVscope is moved. The eVscope eQuinox is then installed vertically on the tripod by loosening and re-tightening two tripod screws, being careful not to over-tighten.

Powering on the eVscope involves pressing the ON button for 2 seconds until a red light appears, indicating it is ready for use. It's important to note that the button light's low intensity in daylight is intentional to prevent dazzling at night. The dust cap must be removed from the top of the tube before observation.

Connecting the eVscope to a smartphone is achieved by downloading the Unistellar app, turning on the smartphone's Wi-Fi, and connecting to the eVscope's Wi-Fi network (named "eVscope-xxxxxx"). The app should then be launched. If connection issues occur, restarting the app or disabling Auto-Lock on the smartphone is advised.

Focusing the eVscope is a critical step for clear observations. Initially, the telescope should be lowered to approximately 45° using the in-app joystick. Basic focus involves aligning a visual cue with the top screw by adjusting the focusing wheel at the bottom of the eVscope. For more precise focus, especially for excellent results, the Bahtinov mask (included in the tube top cover) is recommended. To use the mask for accurate focus, users should navigate to the "Explore" tab in the app, select a bright star, and use the "GoTo" function to point the eVscope at it. In the "eVscope" tab, activate "Auto" mode in the settings and place the Bahtinov mask on top of the tube. The mask creates a specific diffraction pattern (a central line and two spikes forming an X) on the star. Perfect focus is achieved when the central line is exactly in the middle of the X, which is adjusted by manually rotating the focusing wheel. The orientation of the cross does not affect focus. If coma adjustment is needed, two screws on the adjustment mechanism can be used.

After focusing, users can proceed with observations, referring to the Quick Start Guide for detailed instructions. When observations are complete, the "Park my eVscope" function should be used, which first moves the tube slightly beyond zenith before returning to it and turning off the device. The dust caps should then be replaced on the tube.

To enhance future observations, users can adjust the gain and exposure time in "Live View" mode, and contrast and brightness in "Enhanced Vision" mode. Observing conditions (city, suburb, countryside) can also be set in the "Explore" settings. The app allows users to check the battery charge level in the "User" tab. The eVscope eQuinox can be used while charging, which takes 7 to 8 hours for a full charge. A blue flashing LED indicates charging progress, with flashes decreasing as the battery fills. It is strongly advised not to recharge the eVscope below 10°C. A low battery can compromise performance. Only the provided USB-C charger should be used, though an external battery can also recharge the eVscope. The eVscope can also charge a smartphone via its USB-A port.

Maintenance Features

Proper storage is essential for the longevity of the eVscope eQuinox. It should be stored in its original packaging or backpack, with its cover on to prevent dust entry. The device should not be stored with an empty battery, in wet environments, or at temperatures below -20°C or above 50°C. Direct sunlight exposure during storage should also be avoided.

Mirror removal and cleaning can be performed by removing the four screws on the back of the adjustment mechanism. When manipulating the mirror, gloves must be worn. Once the back is removed, the mirror can be cleaned with dry compressed air. No liquids or wet tissues should be used for cleaning.

Tripod maintenance involves periodically checking and tightening the tripod screws, which may loosen with use. Three different "tripod tools" are provided in the accessories box for this purpose.

The battery of the eVscope eQuinox is not designed to be removed by the user.

Mirror alignment is recommended after the eVscope has been transported over a long distance. This procedure requires the smallest hex key (S2 3mm) from the toolbox and a clear sky with visible bright stars. After setting up, connecting, and focusing the eVscope, users should point it at a bright star and center it using the joystick. If the dark cross (visible in the app) is not centered, the mirror needs realignment. The telescope should be moved with the in-app joystick to place the star at the edge of the screen in a specific direction (e.g., top, bottom, left, or right, depending on where the cross is off-centered). Then, the vertical or horizontal screw in the mirror mount should be turned with the hex key to bring the star back to the center of the screen, which will recenter the cross. This process may need to be repeated several times until the cross is centered. Finally, the focus should be returned to the default position by aligning the visual cue with the top screw.