Celestron AstroMaster 90AZ Refractor Telescope Instruction Manual

Introduction

Welcome to the world of amateur astronomy with your new Celestron AstroMaster 90AZ Refractor Telescope. This instrument is designed for both terrestrial (land) and astronomical (sky) viewing, offering clear and bright images. This manual will guide you through the assembly, operation, and care of your telescope to ensure a rewarding viewing experience.

What's in the Box

Carefully unpack all items and verify that you have received all components listed below. If any parts are missing or damaged, please contact Celestron customer support.

• Optical Tube Assembly (OTA)
• Pre-assembled Tripod and Alt-Azimuth Mount
• 20mm Eyepiece (1.25")
• 10mm Eyepiece (1.25")
• StarPointer Red Dot Finderscope
• Erect Image 90° Diagonal (1.25")
• Accessory Tray
• Instruction Manual

Setup

Follow these steps to assemble your Celestron AstroMaster 90AZ Telescope. No tools are required for assembly.

1. Set Up the Tripod

Spread the tripod legs outwards until they are fully extended. Extend the center section of each tripod leg downwards to the desired height. Secure each leg with the tightening knob. Attach the accessory tray to the center brace of the tripod by aligning the holes and twisting it into place.

Figure 1: The Celestron AstroMaster 90AZ Refractor Telescope fully assembled on its adjustable tripod. This image shows the complete setup, including the optical tube, mount, and tripod.

2. Attach the Optical Tube to the Mount

Locate the dovetail bar on the bottom of the optical tube. Loosen the clamp knob on the alt-azimuth mount. Slide the dovetail bar into the clamp on the mount until it is centered and secure. Tighten the clamp knob firmly to hold the optical tube in place.

Figure 2: A close-up view of the alt-azimuth mount and panhandle. The orange knob is used to adjust the tension for vertical movement, and the black panhandle allows for smooth manual tracking.

3. Install the Finderscope

Slide the StarPointer red dot finderscope into its bracket on the optical tube. Secure it by tightening the small screw on the side of the bracket. Remove the plastic tab from the battery compartment to activate the battery.

4. Insert the Diagonal and Eyepiece

Loosen the setscrew on the focuser. Insert the erect image 90° diagonal into the focuser. Tighten the setscrew to secure it. Then, insert either the 20mm or 10mm eyepiece into the diagonal and tighten its setscrew.

Figure 3: A detailed view of the focuser mechanism, showing an eyepiece inserted into the diagonal, and the StarPointer red dot finderscope mounted on the optical tube.

Operating the Telescope

Aligning the Finderscope

The finderscope must be aligned with the main telescope for accurate targeting.

1. Point the main telescope at a distant, stationary object (e.g., a treetop or street sign) during the day.
2. Center the object in the main telescope's eyepiece (start with the 20mm eyepiece).
3. Turn on the StarPointer finderscope. Look through the finderscope and use the two adjustment knobs to move the red dot until it is centered on the same object.
4. Once aligned, the finderscope will help you quickly locate objects in the night sky.

Focusing

To focus, turn the focus knob located near the eyepiece slowly until the image is sharp. For fine adjustments, turn the knob in small increments.

Changing Eyepieces

To change magnification, loosen the setscrew on the diagonal, remove the current eyepiece, insert a different eyepiece, and tighten the setscrew. The 20mm eyepiece provides lower magnification and a wider field of view, ideal for locating objects. The 10mm eyepiece offers higher magnification for detailed views.

Using the Alt-Azimuth Mount

The alt-azimuth mount allows for simple up-down (altitude) and left-right (azimuth) movement. Use the panhandle to smoothly move the telescope to your desired target. The tension knob on the mount can be adjusted to control the resistance of vertical movement.

Daytime Viewing

The AstroMaster 90AZ provides an erect image, making it suitable for observing terrestrial objects like wildlife, landscapes, or distant landmarks. Ensure you never point the telescope at the sun without proper solar filters, as this can cause permanent eye damage.

Nighttime Viewing

For astronomical observations, use the aligned finderscope to point the telescope at celestial objects. Start with the 20mm eyepiece to locate the object, then switch to the 10mm eyepiece for a more magnified view. Common targets include the Moon, planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and brighter star clusters.

Maintenance

Proper care will ensure the longevity and performance of your telescope.

• Cleaning Optics: Dust and moisture on the lens can degrade image quality. Use a soft brush to remove loose dust. For smudges, use a specialized optical cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. Avoid touching optical surfaces with your fingers.
• Storage: When not in use, store the telescope in a dry, dust-free environment. Keep the lens caps on the optical tube and eyepieces to protect them.
• Tripod and Mount: Periodically check all screws and knobs for tightness. The mount requires no lubrication.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Your Celestron AstroMaster 90AZ Telescope is backed by a 2-Year US Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers repair or replacement of the product.

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact Celestron's US-based technical support team.

• Online Support: Visit the official Celestron website for FAQs, product manuals, and support resources.
• Contact: Refer to your product packaging or the Celestron website for current contact information (phone number, email).

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty service.