iOptron SMARTSTAR IEQ45TM - Manual (Page 13)

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(3) Use the ▲ or ▼ button to turn the DEC axle to unblock the Polar Scope view.
(4) Adjust polar scope eyepiece shown in Figure 13 to bring the polar scope dial in focus.
(5) To rotate the Polar Scope to align the 12 position of the dial on the top, as shown in Figure 12,
release the four R.A. clutch screws while holding the OTA, then turn the R.A. drive using HC’s ◄
or ► button (press 9 button to change the rotation speed to MAX). PLEASE remember to hold
onto the OTA or it could swing. If your Polar Scope is equipped with a bubble level indicator, as
shown in Figure 13, simply make sure the bubble is in the middle.
Figure 13. Polar scope with bubble level indicator
CAUTION: It is recommended that whenever possible you perform this procedure before
loading the OTA.
Quick polar axis alignment
(1) Turn on the mount power by pressing the On/Off switch on the R.A. unit. Waiting “GPS OK” is
shown in the upper right corner of the HC. If you are practicing inside or the GPS signal is weak,
manually enter the correct site information and locate time. Pressing the MENU button, then
select “Align” and “Polaris Position” to display the Polaris Position on the LCD screen, as
shown in Figure 14 (a). For example, on May 30, 2010, 20:00:00 in Boston, US (Lat N42º30’32”
and Long W71º08’50”), 300 min behind UT, the Polaris Position is 1hr 26.8m and r= 41.5m, as
shown in Figure 14 (a).
(2) Look through the polar scope; make sure the polar scope is not blocked by the DEC axle. The
12 o’clock indicator of the Polar Scope Dial must be positioned on top.
(3) Follow the Polar axis adjustment procedure (not the hand controller) to adjust the mount in
altitude (latitude) and azimuth (heading) direction and place Polaris in the same position on the
Polar Scope Dial as indicated on the HC LCD. In this case, the Polaris will be located at a radius
of 41.5’ and an angle of 1 hour 26.8 minute, as shown in Figure 14 (b).
(a) (b)
Figure 14
Polar scope
eyepiece
Level indicator