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Aligning SmartFinder
In order for the SmartFinder to be useful, it must first be aligned with the main telescope, so
that both the SmartFinder and the main telescope are pointing at precisely the same location.
To align the SmartFinder:
1. Point the main telescope at some well-defined distant (perhaps a mile away) land object,
such as a telephone pole or sign. Center the object, as precisely as possible, in the SP
26mm eyepiece's field of view. Tighten the vertical and horizontal locks (6 and 9, Fig. 1) so
that the tube cannot move and the object remains centered.
2. While looking through the SmartFinder (1, Fig. 6), turn the top or side alignment screws (2
and 3, Fig. 7), until the red dot of the SmartFinder points at precisely the same position as
the view through the eyepiece of the main telescope.
The SmartFinder is now aligned to the main telescope. Unless the alignment screws are
disturbed or the LNT Module is moved out of place, the SmartFinder should remain aligned
indefinitely.
Fig. 6a: SmartFinder Location.
Aligning the Viewfinder
Like the SmartFinder, the viewfinder helps you locate objects and must also be aligned to the
main telescope. To align the viewfinder, perform steps 1 through 5 during the daytime; perform
step 6 at night.
1.
Slide the track on the bottom of the viewfinder into the slot in the viewfinder mounting
assembly. See Fig. 7a. To secure the viewfinder to the mounting assembly, tighten the two
thumbscrews (Fig. 7a) to a firm feel only.
2.
If you have not already done so, insert the Super Plössl 26mm eyepiece into the diagonal
prism.
3.
Unlock the R.A. (9, Fig. 1) and Dec (7, Fig. 1) locks so that the telescope moves freely on
both axes.
4.
Point the telescope at some well-defined and stationary land object at least 200 yards dis-
tant, such as the top of a telephone pole or street sign. Center the object in the telescope
eyepiece. Re-tighten the R.A. and Dec locks.
5.
Look through the viewfinder eyepiece (Fig. 7b) and loosen or tighten, as appropriate, one
or more of the viewfinder alignment screws (Fig. 7b) until the viewfinder crosshairs are pre-
cisely centered on the object you previously centered in the telescope eyepiece.
6.
Check this alignment on a celestial object, such as the Moon or a bright star, and make any
necessary refinements, using the method outlined in steps 3 and 4.
Mounting
Slot
Track
Fig. 7a: Viewfinder Assembly.
Looking at or near the Sun will cause irreversable damage to your eye. Do not point this telescope at or near the
Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving.
15
Fig. 6b: Turn the top (2) or side
(3) SmartFinder.
Alignment
Screws
Thumbscrews
Viewfinder
Eyepiece
Fig. 7b: Viewfinder Assembly.
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