Important Telescope Notices

1) NEVER (ever, not even once!) turn the Right Ascension slow-motion control knob or attempt to move the optical tube manually when the R.A. lock is in the LOCKED position. Such movement will damage the internal gears or strip the knob-shaft screw.

(This will be the subject of an exam question: MEMORIZE IT!)

2) R.A. Setting Circle:

In the Northern Hemisphere (where we are) use the OUTER series of numbers on the R.A. setting circle.

The hours increase COUNTERCLOCKWISE.

3) Always adjust your Telrad first. Everything else will become easier if you do.

4) Always use the 26 mm eyepiece (biggest glass and FOV) first.

5) Turn off tracking motor before removing telescope from mount.

6) Align yellow lines on telescope and box when packing up.

7) Defocus a star to help you find its color. Refocus when done.

8) A donut-shaped body in your eyepiece indicates that you are out of focus. Turn the focus knob in the direction that makes the donut smaller.

9) Report any telescope problems to John or your instructor.

10) Don’t move the telescope base. If it needs doing, call for help.