The NexStar User’s Guide II: For the LCM, SLT, SE, CPC, SkyProdigy, and Astro Fi (The Patrick Moore Practical Astronomy Series)

From the Back Cover As with the first edition, this book is a thorough reference for the telescope models covered. The original NexStar User's Guide has remained very popular among the NexStar owner community. This updated edition has been completely rewritten to cover all current Celestron altitude-azimuth computerized telescopes (German EQ mounts are not discussed). Detailed information on the alignment and operation of these 'scopes provides a complete reference that expands greatly upon the manuals provided by Celestron. It also serves as a guide to buying the most suitable model for a variety of budgets and interests. Connecting and controlling the telescope with PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones is covered in great detail. A chapter is dedicated to updating the firmware in the hand control, mount, and StarSense camera (an optional accessory). Chapters on accessories, collimation, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips round out the book's extensive coverage of the subject matter. Additionally, the book offers a brief, though complete, introduction to amateur astronomy, making it an ideal source for both the beginner astronomer as well as the seasoned veteran looking to get the most out of a new telescope. Michael Swanson's online discussions with literally thousands of NexStar owners made it clear that there was a desperate need for a book such as this - one that provides a complete, detailed guide to buying, using and maintaining NexStar telescopes. It also covers the StarSense system and the SkyPortal app in complete detail. Detailed information on the alignment and operation of these scopes provides a complete reference that expands greatly upon the manuals provided by Celestron. Details are provided on each model allowing owners to enjoy trouble-free use of their telescope and providing the information a prospective buyer needs to make a smart purchasing decision. Extensive information on connecting and controlling the telescope with PCs, Macs, tablets and smartphones is provided. A chapter is devoted to updating the firmware in the hand control, mount and StarSense camera. Chapters on accessories, collimation, maintenance and troubleshooting tips round out the book's expansive coverage. Additionally, the book offers a brief, but thorough, introduction to amateur astronomy, making it an ideal source for both the beginner to astronomy as well as the seasoned veteran looking to get the most out of a new telescope. Front Matter ....Pages i-ix Introduction (Michael Swanson)....Pages 1-9 Astronomy Basics (Michael Swanson)....Pages 11-55 Overview of Celestron’s Alt-Az Computerized Telescopes (Michael Swanson)....Pages 57-84 Alignment (Michael Swanson)....Pages 85-125 NexStar and StarSense Hand Control Operation (Michael Swanson)....Pages 127-151 SkyPortal Operation (Michael Swanson)....Pages 153-160 Connecting a PC, Mac, Tablet or Smartphone to your Telescope (Michael Swanson)....Pages 161-172 Expanding Your Horizons: Choosing Objects to View (Michael Swanson)....Pages 173-187 Accessories for Your Telescope (Michael Swanson)....Pages 189-216 Firmware Updates (Michael Swanson)....Pages 217-225 Collimation, Maintenance, Care, and Cleaning (Michael Swanson)....Pages 227-242 Tips, Solutions, and Troubleshooting Common Problems (Michael Swanson)....Pages 243-255 Back Matter ....Pages 257-274 Annotation Celestron's NexStar telescopes were introduced in 1999, beginning with their first computer controlled "go to" model, a 5-inch. More models appeared in quick succession, and Celestron's new range made it one of the two dominant manufacturers of affordable "go to" telescopes. Michael Swanson's online discussions with literally thousands of NexStar owners made it clear that there was a desperate need for a book such as this - one that provides a complete, detailed guide to buying, using and maintaining NexStar telescopes. Although this book is highly comprehensive, it is suitable for beginners - there is a chapter on "Astronomy Basics"--And experts alike Celestron’s NexStar telescopes were introduced in 1999, beginning with their first computer controlled "go to” model, a 5-inch. More models appeared in quick succession, and Celestron’s new range made it one of the two dominant manufacturers of affordable "go to” telescopes. Michael Swanson’s online discussions with literally thousands of NexStar owners made it clear that there was a desperate need for a book such as this - one that provides a complete, detailed guide to buying, using and maintaining NexStar telescopes. Although this book is highly comprehensive, it is suitable for beginners - there is a chapter on "Astronomy Basics” - and experts alike. Michael Swanson's online discussions with literally thousands of NexStar owners made it clear that there was a desperate need for a book such as this – one that provides a complete, detailed guide to buying, using and maintaining NexStar telescopes. Although this book is highly comprehensive, it is suitable for beginners – there is a chapter on "Astronomy Basics" – and experts alike. Celestron's NexStar telescopes were introduced in 1999, beginning with their first computer controlled "go to" model, a 5-inch. More models appeared in quick succession, and Celestron's new range made it one of the two dominant manufacturers of affordable "go to" telescopes.