Introduction
The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign is an innovative accessory designed to simplify the alignment process for Celestron computerized telescopes. It allows users, from beginners to experienced astroimagers, to quickly and accurately orient their telescope for observing celestial objects. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your StarSense AutoAlign.
Setup
Unpacking and Component Identification
Carefully unpack all components and verify against the packing list:
- StarSense Camera
- Hand Control
- Small Camera Bracket
- 4mm Allen Wrench
- Camera to Auxiliary Port Cable
- 2 Thumbscrews for Large Camera Bracket
Physical Installation
The StarSense AutoAlign camera replaces your existing finderscope. Ensure your telescope mount is stable and level before proceeding.
Step 1: Attach the StarSense Camera
Using the provided small camera bracket and thumbscrews, attach the StarSense camera to your telescope's finderscope base. Ensure it is securely fastened.
A close-up view of the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign camera, showing its cylindrical body and the bracket for attachment to a telescope.
Another perspective of the StarSense AutoAlign camera, highlighting its compact design and the mounting mechanism.
A side profile of the StarSense AutoAlign camera, illustrating its low-profile design when mounted.
Step 2: Connect the Hand Control
Connect the StarSense hand control to the auxiliary port on your Celestron computerized mount using the camera to auxiliary port cable. Ensure all connections are firm.
Firmware Updates
It is highly recommended to update the firmware for both the StarSense camera and the included hand controller upon initial setup. This ensures you have the latest features and bug fixes. Refer to the official Celestron website for detailed instructions on using Celestron Firmware Manager (CFM) for updates.
Operating the StarSense AutoAlign
Initial Power-On and Automatic Alignment
Once the StarSense camera and hand control are connected, power on your Celestron telescope mount. The StarSense hand control will automatically initiate the alignment process.
The patented StarSense technology will "see" star patterns overhead, typically in about three minutes, and match them to its internal database to automatically orient the telescope. This eliminates the need for manual star identification.
Advanced Mount Modeling
For experienced users and astroimagers, the StarSense AutoAlign offers advanced mount modeling capabilities. You can add up to 10 additional calibration stars to achieve superior pointing accuracy from horizon to horizon. This is particularly useful for precise object location within a camera's field of view for astroimaging.
GoTo Functionality
After successful alignment, the GoTo mount will automatically locate and track over 40,000 celestial objects. Simply select your desired object from the hand control's database, and the telescope will slew to it, making stargazing effortless.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Optics
Keep the StarSense camera lens clean. Use a soft, lint-free cloth specifically designed for optics. Avoid touching the lens surface with your fingers. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of optical cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
General Care
Store the StarSense AutoAlign in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use. Protect it from extreme temperatures and humidity. Avoid dropping or subjecting the unit to harsh impacts.
Troubleshooting
Alignment Issues
If the StarSense AutoAlign fails to align:
- Ensure Clear Sky View: Make sure the camera has an unobstructed view of a significant portion of the night sky. Light pollution or obstructions (trees, buildings) can interfere with star pattern recognition.
- Check Connections: Verify that all cables are securely connected between the camera, hand control, and telescope mount.
- Firmware Up-to-Date: Confirm that both the StarSense camera and hand control have the latest firmware installed. Outdated firmware can cause compatibility or performance issues.
- Level the Mount: Ensure your telescope mount is properly leveled before starting the alignment process.
Hand Control Display Issues
If the hand control display is difficult to read:
- Adjust Brightness/Contrast: Check the hand control settings for display brightness and contrast adjustments.
- Environmental Factors: Extreme cold can sometimes affect LCD displays. Allow the unit to warm up if operating in very low temperatures.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 9.84 x 9.25 x 4.33 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.16 pounds (980 Grams) |
| ASIN | B00EZILDLS |
| Item Model Number | 94005-CGL |
| Date First Available | September 6, 2013 |
| Manufacturer | Celestron |
| Brand | Celestron |
| Model Name | StarSense AutoAlign |
| Optical Tube Length | 9.25 Inches |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 130 Millimeters |
| Telescope Mount Description | Fiber Optic |
| Power Source | USB 2.0 |
| Finderscope | Reflex |
| Compatible Devices | Advanced VX, AstroFi, CG-5 Aux, splitter, CGE, CGE Pro, CGEM, CGEM DX, CGX |
Warranty and Support
The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign comes with a 2-Year US Warranty. For any technical assistance or support, please contact Celestron's customer service team. Unlimited support is available from our team of US-based experts.
For the full warranty document, please refer to the Warranty (PDF).
Additional resources, including the comprehensive user manual, can be found on the official Celestron website or via the provided User Manual (PDF).
