Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of your Orion SpaceProbe II 76mm Altazimuth Reflector Telescope. This telescope is designed for observing celestial objects such as the Moon, planets, and brighter deep-sky objects. It features a 76mm (3-inch) glass primary mirror for light collection and comes with two 1.25-inch Kellner eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) for varying magnifications. A red-dot reflex sight assists in locating objects. The altazimuth mount allows for easy movement in horizontal and vertical directions.
Figure 1: Orion SpaceProbe II 76mm Altazimuth Reflector Telescope.
Package Contents
Before beginning assembly, ensure all components are present. Refer to the image below for a visual guide to the included parts.
- Telescope Optical Tube Assembly (OTA)
- Altazimuth Mount
- Adjustable Aluminum Tripod
- Accessory Tray
- 25mm Kellner Eyepiece (1.25")
- 10mm Kellner Eyepiece (1.25")
- Red-Dot Reflex Sight
- MoonMap 260
- Instruction Manual
Figure 2: Unpacked components of the Orion SpaceProbe II 76mm Telescope.
Setup and Assembly
- Assemble the Tripod: Extend the tripod legs to a suitable height and secure them. Attach the accessory tray to the center brace of the tripod.
- Attach the Mount: Secure the altazimuth mount head to the top of the tripod. Ensure it is firmly tightened.
- Mount the Optical Tube: Place the telescope optical tube onto the altazimuth mount. The tube typically attaches with a dovetail bar or mounting rings. Secure the tube firmly to prevent accidental dislodgement.
- Install the Red-Dot Reflex Sight: Slide the red-dot reflex sight into its mounting bracket on the optical tube. Tighten the retaining screw.
- Insert an Eyepiece: Loosen the thumbscrews on the focuser. Insert the 25mm Kellner eyepiece into the focuser barrel. Tighten the thumbscrews to hold the eyepiece in place.
Figure 3: Fully assembled Orion SpaceProbe II 76mm Telescope.
Operating the Telescope
1. Aligning the Red-Dot Reflex Sight
The red-dot reflex sight helps you point the telescope accurately.
- During daylight, point the main telescope at a distant, easily identifiable object (e.g., a telephone pole or building top).
- Look through the 25mm eyepiece and center the object in the field of view.
- Turn on the red-dot sight. Look through the sight and use its adjustment knobs to move the red dot until it is centered on the same object that is centered in the telescope's eyepiece.
- Once aligned, the red-dot sight will indicate where the telescope is pointing.
2. Focusing
To achieve a clear image, rotate the focuser knobs slowly until the object appears sharp. Fine adjustments may be needed as objects move or as atmospheric conditions change.
3. Changing Eyepieces
To change magnification, loosen the thumbscrews on the focuser, carefully remove the current eyepiece, and insert another. The 25mm eyepiece provides lower magnification and a wider field of view, ideal for locating objects. The 10mm eyepiece offers higher magnification for detailed views.
Figure 4: Focuser and red-dot sight detail.
4. Using the MoonMap 260
The included MoonMap 260 helps identify lunar features. Use it to locate craters, maria, and other interesting points on the Moon's surface as you observe through your telescope.
Figure 5: Orion MoonMap 260 for lunar observation.
Maintenance
- Cleaning Optics: Dust on the primary mirror or eyepieces should be removed with a soft brush or compressed air. For stubborn smudges, use a specialized optical cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth, applying minimal pressure. Avoid touching optical surfaces directly.
- Storage: Store the telescope in a dry, dust-free environment. Keep dust caps on the optical tube and eyepieces when not in use.
- Tripod and Mount: Periodically check all screws and bolts on the tripod and mount for tightness. Do not overtighten.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Image is blurry or out of focus. | Focuser not adjusted correctly. | Rotate the focuser knobs slowly until the image is sharp. |
| Cannot find objects. | Red-dot sight is not aligned with the main telescope. | Align the red-dot sight as described in the "Operating the Telescope" section. |
| Image appears dim or faint. | Observing faint objects from a light-polluted area; high magnification on a faint object. | Move to a darker observation site if possible. Use a lower magnification eyepiece (e.g., 25mm) for fainter objects. |
| Image shakes excessively. | Unstable tripod or mount; windy conditions. | Ensure tripod legs are fully extended and locked. Place the telescope on a stable surface. Observe on calm nights. |
Specifications
- Model Name: Orion SpaceProbe II 76mm Altazimuth Reflector Telescope
- Item Model Number: 10277
- Optical Design: Reflector
- Aperture: 76mm (3 inches)
- Eyepieces: 25mm Kellner (1.25"), 10mm Kellner (1.25")
- Focuser: 1.25" Rack-and-Pinion
- Finderscope: Red-Dot Reflex Sight
- Mount Type: Altazimuth
- Tripod: Adjustable Aluminum
- Item Weight: 7 pounds (approximately 3.17 kg)
- Product Dimensions: 33 x 55 x 55 inches (approximately 83.8 x 139.7 x 139.7 cm)
- Power Source (for Red-Dot Sight): 1 Lithium Metal battery (required)
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please contact Orion customer service. Refer to the product packaging or the official Orion website for the most current contact details.
Online Resources: For additional tips, guides, and frequently asked questions, visit the Orion support page.
