Galileo 500mm x 45mm Refractor Telescope G-545 User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of your Galileo 500mm x 45mm Refractor Telescope, model G-545. Designed for both terrestrial and astronomical viewing, this telescope offers a clear and engaging experience for beginners and casual observers.

Product Components

Before assembly, ensure all components listed below are present in your package:

• Optical Tube Assembly: The main body of the telescope, housing the objective lens. (500mm focal length, 45mm objective lens)
• Altitude Azimuth Mount: Allows for vertical (altitude) and horizontal (azimuth) movement of the telescope.
• Fully Adjustable Tripod: A stable, pre-assembled metal tripod with rubber feet.
• 3x20mm Finderscope: A small telescope with a crosshair reticle, used for locating objects before viewing through the main telescope.
• .965″ Focuser: The mechanism used to adjust the focus of the image.
• .965″ 6mm Eyepiece: Provides higher magnification.
• .965″ 20mm Eyepiece: Provides lower magnification and a wider field of view.
• 90° Diagonal Mirror: Redirects the light path by 90 degrees, providing a more comfortable viewing angle and an erect image for terrestrial observations.
• STELLARIUM Planetarium Software: Digital software for astronomical exploration.

Image: All components of the Galileo G-545 Refractor Telescope, including the optical tube, tripod, mount, finderscope, diagonal, and eyepieces.

Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your telescope:

1. Set up the Tripod: Extend the legs of the fully adjustable metal tripod to a stable height. Ensure the tripod is placed on a level surface.
2. Attach the Mount: The Altitude Azimuth Mount is typically pre-attached to the tripod. If not, secure it firmly to the top of the tripod using the provided hardware.
3. Attach the Optical Tube: Carefully place the Optical Tube Assembly onto the mount. Secure it using the mounting screws or clamps on the mount. Ensure it is balanced and stable.
4. Install the Finderscope: Slide the 3x20mm Finderscope into its bracket on the optical tube. Tighten the small screws on the bracket to hold it in place. Ensure the front of the finderscope points in the same direction as the main telescope.
5. Insert the Diagonal Mirror: Loosen the thumbscrew on the focuser. Insert the 90° Diagonal Mirror into the focuser. Tighten the thumbscrew to secure it.
6. Insert an Eyepiece: Loosen the thumbscrew on the diagonal mirror. Insert either the 20mm or 6mm eyepiece into the diagonal. Start with the 20mm eyepiece for a wider field of view, which makes locating objects easier. Tighten the thumbscrew to secure the eyepiece.

Image: The Galileo G-545 Refractor Telescope fully assembled and ready for use on its adjustable tripod.

Operating Instructions

Aligning the Finderscope

The finderscope must be aligned with the main telescope for easy object location.

1. Choose a distant, stationary object (e.g., a tree top or a street light) during daylight hours.
2. Look through the main telescope (with the 20mm eyepiece) and center the object in the field of view.
3. Without moving the main telescope, look through the finderscope. Use the adjustment screws on the finderscope bracket to move the finderscope until the same object is centered in its crosshairs.
4. Repeat this process until both the main telescope and the finderscope are pointing at the exact same object.

Viewing Objects

1. Locate the Object: Use the aligned finderscope to locate the desired object. Center the object within the finderscope's crosshairs.
2. View through Main Telescope: Look through the 20mm eyepiece of the main telescope. The object should be visible within the field of view.
3. Focus: Slowly turn the focuser knob until the image appears sharp and clear.
4. Change Magnification (Optional): If you wish to observe the object at a higher magnification, carefully remove the 20mm eyepiece and insert the 6mm eyepiece. You will need to refocus after changing eyepieces.

Note: The 90° diagonal mirror provides an erect image, which is ideal for terrestrial viewing. For astronomical viewing, the image will be upright but may be reversed left-to-right, which is normal for many refractor telescopes.

Maintenance

• Cleaning Lenses: Use a soft, lint-free cloth specifically designed for optical lenses. Gently wipe the objective lens and eyepieces. Avoid touching the optical surfaces with your fingers. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of optical cleaning fluid on the cloth, not directly on the lens.
• Cleaning the Telescope Body: Wipe the optical tube and mount with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Storage: Store the telescope in a dry, dust-free environment. When not in use, cover the objective lens and eyepiece opening with their respective caps to prevent dust accumulation.
• Tripod Care: Ensure the tripod legs are clean and free of debris to maintain smooth adjustment.

Troubleshooting

Problem: Image is blurry or out of focus.

Solution: Adjust the focuser knob slowly until the image becomes sharp. Ensure the eyepiece is fully inserted and secured in the diagonal mirror.

Problem: Cannot find objects through the main telescope.

Solution: Ensure the finderscope is properly aligned with the main telescope (refer to "Aligning the Finderscope" section). Start with the 20mm eyepiece for a wider field of view to make locating objects easier.

Problem: Image appears dim or dark.

Solution: This can occur with higher magnification eyepieces (like the 6mm) or when observing faint objects. Ensure you are observing in a dark environment away from light pollution for astronomical objects. The 45mm objective lens gathers a limited amount of light, so very faint deep-sky objects may be challenging to observe.

Problem: Image is upside down or reversed.

Solution: For terrestrial viewing, the 90° diagonal mirror provides an erect image. For astronomical viewing, it is common for refractor telescopes to produce an image that is upright but reversed left-to-right. This is not a defect.

Specifications

Warranty Information

The Galileo G-545 Refractor Telescope comes with a One Year Warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For specific warranty terms and conditions, refer to the documentation included with your product or contact Galileo customer support.

Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or inquiries regarding your Galileo G-545 Refractor Telescope, please refer to the contact information provided in your product packaging or visit the official Galileo website. Ensure you have your model number (G-545) and proof of purchase available when contacting support.