Introduction
The Celestron 60LCM Computerized Refractor Telescope is designed for beginners and enthusiasts seeking an automated stargazing experience. This telescope features a GoTo mount with NexStar+ hand control, capable of automatically locating and tracking over 40,000 celestial objects. Its SkyAlign technology simplifies the alignment process, making it easy to set up and begin observing the night sky.
The 60LCM is built with all-glass optics, providing clear views of the Moon, planets, and various deep-sky objects. Its lightweight and portable design makes it suitable for backyard observations, camping trips, and star parties. This manual provides detailed instructions for assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and enjoyment of your telescope.
What's in the Box
Upon unpacking, ensure all components listed below are present:
- Celestron 60LCM Optical Tube Assembly
- Computerized Altazimuth Mount
- Adjustable Aluminum Tripod
- NexStar+ Hand Control
- 25mm Eyepiece (28x magnification)
- 9mm Eyepiece (78x magnification)
- 1.25" Erect Image Star Diagonal
- StarPointer Red Dot Finderscope
- Accessory Tray
- Instruction Manual and Quick Setup Guide
- Starry Night Basic Edition Astronomy Software (download code)
Setup
1. Tripod and Mount Assembly
Begin by extending the legs of the adjustable aluminum tripod to a suitable height. Secure the accessory tray to the center brace of the tripod. Attach the computerized altazimuth mount to the tripod head, ensuring it is firmly tightened.
Video: This video demonstrates the initial assembly of the Celestron 60LCM telescope, including attaching the optical tube to the mount and setting up the tripod.
2. Attaching the Optical Tube
Carefully place the 60LCM optical tube onto the mount's dovetail saddle. Tighten the locking screw to secure the telescope in place. Ensure the tube is balanced to prevent strain on the motors.
Image: The Celestron 60LCM Refractor Telescope fully assembled on its tripod, ready for observation. This image shows the complete setup of the telescope, mount, and tripod.
3. Installing Eyepieces and Finderscope
Insert the 1.25" erect image star diagonal into the focuser. Then, insert either the 25mm or 9mm eyepiece into the diagonal and secure it with the thumbscrew. Attach the StarPointer red dot finderscope to its designated bracket on the optical tube. Align the finderscope with the main telescope during daylight hours by pointing at a distant object.
Image: This image illustrates the 25mm eyepiece providing 28x magnification and the 9mm eyepiece providing 78x magnification, shown with corresponding views of the moon.
4. Powering the Telescope
The 60LCM requires 8 AA batteries (not included) for its computerized mount. Insert them into the battery compartment located on the mount. Alternatively, an optional AC adapter can be used for continuous power, which is recommended for longer observing sessions.
5. Initial Alignment (SkyAlign)
The SkyAlign procedure simplifies telescope alignment. After powering on, the NexStar+ hand control will prompt you to enter the date, time, and location. Then, simply center any three bright celestial objects in the eyepiece. The telescope will automatically identify these objects and align itself with the night sky. Other alignment methods like "Two-Star Align" and "Solar System Align" are also available for quicker setup.
Image: A graphic explaining Celestron's SkyAlign technology, emphasizing that no prior astronomy knowledge is required. Users simply center three bright objects for automatic alignment.
Image: A close-up of the NexStar+ hand control unit, showing its display and buttons. The screen reads "LCM Ready Press ENTER to beg", indicating it's ready for operation.
Operating the Telescope
1. Using the NexStar+ Hand Control
Once aligned, use the NexStar+ hand control to navigate the night sky. The database contains over 40,000 celestial objects. Use the arrow buttons to manually slew the telescope or select objects from the menu. The telescope will automatically move to the selected object and track it as it moves across the sky.
Video: This video provides a close-up view of the Celestron 60LCM's computerized GoTo mount, highlighting its motorized capabilities for locating and tracking celestial objects.
2. Sky Tour Feature
Press the "Sky Tour" button on the hand control to generate a list of the best celestial objects visible from your location at that specific time. This feature is ideal for discovering new objects without prior planning.
3. Focusing and Viewing
Once an object is centered in the eyepiece, use the focuser knob to achieve a sharp image. Start with the 25mm eyepiece for a wider field of view, then switch to the 9mm eyepiece for higher magnification and more detail. The 60mm aperture is suitable for observing lunar craters, planetary rings (like Saturn's), and Jupiter's moons.
Image: This image highlights the 60mm aperture of the telescope, indicating its suitability for detailed views of lunar craters, Saturn's rings, and Jupiter's moons, shown alongside a crescent moon.
4. Enhancing Your Experience with Software
The telescope includes a free download of Starry Night Basic Edition astronomy software, which provides an interactive sky simulation. Additionally, the free Celestron SkyPortal app (available for iOS and Android) allows you to locate thousands of objects overhead in real-time and offers audio descriptions of popular celestial bodies.
Image: This image displays the Starry Night Educational Software on a laptop and the Celestron SkyPortal app on a smartphone, illustrating how these tools can enhance the stargazing experience.
Maintenance
- Cleaning Optics: Use a soft, lint-free cloth and specialized optical cleaning solution. Avoid touching the lens surfaces directly.
- General Cleaning: Wipe down the telescope body, mount, and tripod with a clean, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
- Storage: Store the telescope in a dry, dust-free environment. Keep dust caps on the optical tube and eyepieces when not in use.
- Battery Replacement: Replace AA batteries as needed. Consider removing batteries during long periods of inactivity to prevent leakage.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Telescope not aligning correctly. | Incorrect date/time/location entry; insufficient bright stars for SkyAlign; finderscope misalignment. | Double-check date, time, and location settings. Ensure at least three bright stars are visible and centered accurately during SkyAlign. Re-align the StarPointer finderscope with the main telescope. |
| Short battery life. | Standard AA batteries drain quickly with motorized use. | Use high-quality alkaline or rechargeable AA batteries. Consider purchasing the optional AC adapter for extended use. |
| Fuzzy or unclear images. | Improper focusing; atmospheric conditions; dirty optics; incorrect eyepiece selection. | Adjust the focuser carefully. Observe on nights with stable atmospheric conditions. Clean optics if necessary. Start with the lower power (25mm) eyepiece. |
| Telescope shakes or is unstable. | Tripod legs not fully extended or tightened; mount not securely attached; wind. | Ensure all tripod leg locks and mount attachment screws are tight. Observe in a sheltered location if wind is a factor. |
| Computerized GoTo features not working. | Alignment failure; power issues; hand control malfunction. | Perform alignment again carefully. Check battery power or AC adapter connection. If issues persist, contact Celestron technical support. |
Specifications
- Optical Design: Refractor
- Aperture: 60mm (2.36 inches)
- Focal Length: 700mm
- Focal Ratio: f/11.7
- Mount Type: Motorized Altazimuth GoTo
- Hand Control: NexStar+ (40,000+ object database)
- Finderscope: Built-on StarPointer™ red dot finderscope
- Eyepieces: 25mm (28x), 9mm (78x)
- Diagonal: 1.25" Erect Image Star Diagonal
- Tripod: Adjustable Aluminum
- Power Source: 8 AA batteries (user-supplied) or optional AC adapter
- Item Weight: 10.4 pounds (4.7 kg)
- Product Dimensions: 37 x 15 x 11 inches (94 x 38 x 28 cm)
Image: This image shows two Celestron telescopes of different heights, labeled 38" and 52", illustrating the adjustable nature of the tripod and overall telescope size.
Warranty and Support
The Celestron 60LCM Computerized Refractor Telescope comes with a two-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact Celestron's customer support team. You are entitled to unlimited access to technical support from our team of US-based experts. Visit the official Celestron website for contact information and additional resources.
Celestron Website: www.celestron.com
