APPLICATION
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Chapter 5 APPLICATION
Polar Alignment in the Northern Hemisphere
The polar axis of the AXJ mount is aligned to the North Celestial Pole in the northern hemisphere. The polar axis scope utilizes 3 stars of Polaris, Delta
UMi and 51 Cep near the North Pole. Positions of the above stars are plotted on the the polar alignment reticle. To locate the N.C.P, you simply match the
scale position on the reticle with the designated 3 stars seen in the polar axis scope. Also, the patterns of the Big Dipper and Cassiopeia are engraved on
the polar alignment reticle for use as a guidepost for the N.C.P.
1
Check your observing site with a compass, a GPS system or a map in advance to confirm that Polaris, the Big Dipper and Cassio-
peia can be seen from your observing location on the date of observation.
The constellations Cassiopeia and the Big Dipper (part of Ursa Major) are near Polaris. You will be able to find Polaris if you know
the position of these groups of stars. Cassiopeia and the Big Dipper are autumn and spring constellations respectively. For most of
the year either constellation is always above the eastern or western horizon.
2
Set up the telescope on flat and hard ground where you can
see Polaris in the sky. A rough setting with a compass or
pointing the polar axis of your telescope’s mount at Polaris
will work well for visual observation. Point the polar axis of the
AXJ mount in the direction of north as shown in the figure.
Adjust the tripod legs so that the tripod is as level as possible.
3
Take off the front polar axis cap on the declination body and the
rear cap on the polar axis body. These caps can be removed
readily by twisting counter-clockwise.
Note: Be sure to extend the counterweight bar to aviod interfering
the polar alignment s cope’s field of view.
Celestial north
Northwar
d
Polar axis
Window
Front polar
axis cap
Remove
Remove
Rear polar
axis cap
Big Dipper
Delta UMI
H.C.P
51Cap
Polaris Alpha UMI
Camelopardalis
Perseus
Cassiopeia
Cepheus
Ursa Minor
Ursa Major
Draco
