Levenhuk Skyline PRO 80 Mak Telescope

Introduction

The Levenhuk Skyline PRO 80 Mak is a catadioptric telescope designed for experienced users. It features an equatorial mount with manual controls, allowing for precise tracking of celestial objects. The mount also supports the installation of an optional electric drive for the Right Ascension axis. With an 80mm aperture and a 1000mm focal length, this telescope is well-suited for observing both Solar System planets and various deep-sky objects.

1. Setup and Assembly

Follow these steps to correctly assemble your Levenhuk Skyline PRO 80 Mak telescope:

1. Assemble the Tripod: Extend the aluminum tripod legs to your desired height (adjustable from 710mm to 1230mm). Ensure the tripod is stable on a level surface. Attach the accessory tray to the center spreader bars for added stability and convenience.

   

2. Mount the Equatorial Head (EQ1): Securely attach the EQ1 equatorial mount head to the top of the tripod. Ensure all locking knobs are tightened to prevent movement.

3. Attach the Optical Tube: Place the telescope's optical tube onto the equatorial mount. The tube weighs 1.37 kg. Secure it firmly using the mounting rings or dovetail plate, depending on your specific model's attachment mechanism. Balance the telescope by adjusting its position in the mounting rings and adding counterweights if necessary (mount weight without counterweights is 3.6 kg).

4. Install the Finder Scope: Attach the red dot finder scope to its designated bracket on the optical tube. Ensure it is securely fastened.

   

5. Insert the Diagonal Mirror and Eyepiece: Insert the diagonal mirror into the focuser (1.25-inch diameter). Then, choose one of the included eyepieces (Super 10mm or Super WA LER 25mm) and insert it into the diagonal mirror. Secure it with the thumbscrew.

   

   

2. Operating the Telescope

2.1 Aligning the Finder Scope

Before observing, align the red dot finder scope with the main telescope. Point the main telescope at a distant, stationary object (e.g., a streetlight or a distant tree) during daylight hours. Center the object in the main telescope's eyepiece. Then, adjust the finder scope's alignment screws until the red dot is also centered on the same object.

2.2 Using the Equatorial Mount (EQ1)

The EQ1 mount allows you to track celestial objects as they move across the night sky due to Earth's rotation. This requires polar alignment:

1. Rough Polar Alignment: Point the Right Ascension (RA) axis of the mount towards Polaris (the North Star) in the Northern Hemisphere, or roughly towards the South Celestial Pole in the Southern Hemisphere. Adjust the mount's latitude setting to match your geographical latitude.

2. Tracking: Once roughly aligned, you can track objects by slowly turning the Right Ascension fine adjustment knob. The mount has fine adjustment mechanisms on both axes for precise positioning.

3. Optional Electric Drive: An optional electric drive can be installed on the Right Ascension axis for automatic tracking, eliminating the need for manual adjustment.

2.3 Focusing

To achieve a sharp image, use the focuser knob. Turn it slowly until the image in the eyepiece appears clear and crisp. Different eyepieces and atmospheric conditions may require refocusing.

2.4 Changing Magnification

The telescope comes with two eyepieces: Super 10mm and Super WA LER 25mm. To change magnification, simply swap the eyepieces. The 10mm eyepiece provides higher magnification, while the 25mm eyepiece offers a wider field of view and lower magnification, useful for locating objects.

3. Care and Maintenance

• Cleaning Optics: Use a soft, lint-free cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces to clean lenses and mirrors. For stubborn dust, use a blower brush first. Avoid touching optical surfaces with your fingers.

• Storage: When not in use, store the telescope in a dry, dust-free environment. Use dust caps for the optical tube and eyepieces to protect them from dust and moisture.

• Handling: Always handle the telescope and its components with care. Avoid sudden impacts or dropping the equipment.

• Environmental Protection: Do not expose the telescope to extreme temperatures or humidity. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight for extended periods.

4. Troubleshooting

5. Technical Specifications

6. User Tips

• Allow for Cool-Down: For optimal performance, especially in colder temperatures, allow your telescope to cool down to ambient outdoor temperature for 30-60 minutes before observing. This helps prevent thermal currents inside the tube that can distort images.

• Start with Low Magnification: When searching for objects, always start with the lower magnification eyepiece (25mm). This provides a wider field of view, making it easier to locate and center celestial bodies. Once centered, you can switch to the higher magnification eyepiece (10mm) for more detailed views.

• Dark Sky Location: To get the best views of deep-sky objects, observe from a location away from city lights. Light pollution significantly reduces the visibility of fainter objects.

• Steady Mount: Ensure your tripod and mount are as stable as possible. Any vibrations can make observing difficult, especially at high magnifications. Tighten all locking knobs securely.

7. Warranty and Support

For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.