Celestron SkyPortal WiFi Module Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Celestron SkyPortal WiFi Module transforms your smartphone or tablet into a powerful control center for your Celestron telescope. This module enables wireless control, guiding you through alignment processes and allowing you to slew to celestial objects with a simple tap. It integrates with the SkyPortal app, offering a vast database of celestial objects and rich informational content.

What's in the Box

• SkyPortal WiFi Module

Product Overview

The SkyPortal WiFi Module is a compact device designed for seamless integration with compatible Celestron telescopes. It features a standard RJ-45 connector for direct attachment to the telescope's AUX port.

Front view of the Celestron SkyPortal WiFi Module, showing the Celestron logo and WiFi indicator.

Side view of the module, highlighting the small switch. This switch controls the connection mode: Direct Connect (up position) or Access Point (bottom position).

Opposite side view of the module, showing a small pinhole. This pinhole conceals the reset button, which can be pressed to completely reset the WiFi module.

Bottom view of the module, displaying regulatory markings and the "Made in China" label.

An illustration of the SkyPortal App interface displayed on a tablet, showing a star chart with constellations and celestial objects.

Setup and Installation

1. Module Connection: Plug the SkyPortal WiFi Module directly into your telescope's hand control or AUX port. Ensure a secure connection.

   Note: When plugged directly into the AUX port, the module may protrude significantly, potentially causing issues when slewing the telescope towards the zenith, especially with larger mirror diagonals. To mitigate this, consider using an AUX splitter cable (sold separately) to position the module lower and out of the way, while also providing an additional AUX port for other accessories like a SkySync GPS.

2. Switch Position: Locate the small switch on the side of the module.
   • For initial configuration, set the switch to the up position (Direct Connect mode).
   • For connecting to an existing WiFi network, set the switch to the bottom position (Access Point mode).
3. App Installation: Download the free SkyPortal app from the Apple App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play (for Android devices).
4. Wireless Connection: Connect your smartphone or tablet to the WiFi signal emitted by the SkyPortal module.
5. Telescope Alignment: Use the SkyPortal app to guide you through the telescope alignment process. The app will typically take information directly from your device, such as GPS coordinates, time, and date.

Operating Instructions

Once connected and aligned, the SkyPortal app provides intuitive control over your telescope:

• Object Identification and Slewing: Tap any celestial object displayed in the SkyPortal app to instantly identify it. Tap again, and your telescope will automatically slew to that object, centering it in the eyepiece.
• Database Exploration: Explore a database of over 100,000 celestial objects. While observing, you can view astro images and listen to audio descriptions for hundreds of popular objects, including planets, nebulae (e.g., Orion Nebula), and star clusters (e.g., Hercules Open Star Cluster).
• Sky Tour Feature: Utilize the "Tonight's Best" feature in the search menu. The SkyPortal app will generate a list of optimal stars, galaxies, and nebulae to view based on your precise time and location.
• Observing Session Planning: The SkyPortal app allows you to plan your observing sessions in advance. You can find out when transits and other notable celestial events will occur, up to 100 years into the future.

Compatibility

The SkyPortal WiFi Module is compatible with a wide range of Celestron mounts. Please refer to the list below for specific models:

Compatible Celestron Mounts:

• Advanced VX
• Astro Fi
• CG-5 (with CG-5 Aux. splitter)
• CGE
• CGE Pro
• CGEM
• CGEM DX
• CGEM II
• CGX
• CGX-L
• CPC
• CPC Deluxe HD
• LCM
• NexStar Evolution
• NexStar GT (2015 models and newer with Aux. splitter)
• NexStar SE Series
• NexStar SLT
• SkyProdigy

NOT Compatible with the following Celestron Mounts:

• NexStar i Series
• NexStar GPS
• Ultima 2000
• Early generation GoTo mounts (such as Compustar)

Specifications

Troubleshooting

• Connection Issues: If the module is not connecting to your device or telescope, ensure the switch is in the correct position (Direct Connect for initial setup, Access Point for network connection). Verify that the module is securely plugged into the telescope's AUX port.
• App Functionality: If the SkyPortal app is not functioning as expected, ensure it is updated to the latest version. Restarting both the app and the WiFi module may resolve minor glitches.
• Telescope Alignment Problems: Ensure your telescope's firmware is up-to-date. For accurate alignment, make sure your finderscope is properly aligned with the main telescope. The SkyPortal app's alignment process typically requires three bright stars.
• Module Reset: If persistent issues occur, you can perform a factory reset. Locate the small pinhole on the side of the module and use a thin object (like a paperclip) to press the reset button inside. This will restore the module to its default settings.
• Physical Obstruction: If the module's position is interfering with telescope movement (especially when pointing towards zenith), consider using an AUX splitter cable to reposition the module.

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and further technical support, please refer to the official documentation provided by Celestron. Additional resources, including user guides and manuals, are available online:

• User Guide (PDF)
• User Manual (PDF)
• Warranty (PDF)

You can also visit the official Celestron website or contact their customer support for assistance.