Star Pointer Operation - Celestron NexStar 114 Instruction Manual

Star Pointer Operation

The star pointer is powered by a long life 3-volt lithium battery (#CR2032) located underneath the front portion of the
Star Pointer. Like all finderscopes, the Star Pointer must be properly aligned with the main telescope before it can be
used. This is a simple process using the azimuth and altitude control knobs located on the side and bottom of the Star
Pointer. The alignment procedure is best done at night since the LED dot will be difficult to see during the day. Note:
Before using the StarPointer, you must first remove the protective plastic cover over the battery.
1. To turn on the Star Pointer, rotate the variable brightness control (see figure 2-5) clockwise until you here a
"click". To increase the brightness level of the red dot, continue rotating the control knob about 180º until it stops.
Note
Remember to remove the plastic cover over the battery, and always turn the power off after you have found an
object. This will extend the life of both the battery and the LED.
2. Locate a bright star or planet and center it in a low power eyepiece in the main telescope.
3. With both eyes open, look through the glass window at the alignment star.
If the Star Pointer is perfectly aligned, you will see the red LED dot overlap the alignment star. If the Star Pointer
is not aligned, take notice of where the red dot is relative to the bright star.
4. Without moving the main telescope, turn the Star Pointer's azimuth and altitude alignment controls until the red
dot is directly over the alignment star.
If the LED dot is brighter than the alignment star, it may make it difficult to see the star. Turn the variable brightness
control counterclockwise, until the red dot is the same brightness as the alignment star. This will make it easier to get
an accurate alignment. The Star Pointer is now ready to be used .
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