Celestron 11007, Instruction Manual

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>> Observing the Sun
Although overlooked by many amateur astronomers, solar observation
is both rewarding and fun . However, because the Sun is so bright, special
precautions must be taken when observing our star so as not to damage
your eyes or your telescope .
Never project an image of the Sun through the telescope. Because of
the folded optical design, tremendous heat build-up will result inside
the optical tube . This can damage the telescope and/or any accessories
attached to the telescope .
For safe solar viewing, use a solar filter that reduces the intensity of the
Sun’s light, making it safe to view. With a filter you can see sunspots as they move across the solar disk and faculae, which are bright patches
seen near the Sun’s edge .
Solar Observing Hints
• The best time to observe the Sun is in the early morning or late
afternoon when the air is cooler .
• To center the Sun without looking into the eyepiece, watch the
shadow of the telescope tube until it forms a circular shadow .
• To ensure accurate tracking, be sure to select the solar tracking rate.
>> Observing the Planets
Other fascinating targets include the five naked eye planets. You can see
Venus go through its lunar-like phases . Mars can reveal a host of surface
detail and one, if not both, of its polar caps . You will be able to see the
cloud belts of Jupiter and the Great Red Spot (if it is visible at the time
you are observing). In addition, you will also be able to see the moons of
Jupiter as they orbit the giant planet . Saturn, with its beautiful rings, is
easily visible at moderate power .
Planetary Observing Hints
• Remember that atmospheric conditions are usually the limiting
factor on how much planetary detail will be visible . So, avoid
observing the planets when they are low on the horizon or when
they are directly over a source of radiating heat, such as a rooftop
or chimney . See “Seeing Conditions” later in this section .
• To increase contrast and bring out detail on the planetary surface,
try using Celestron eyepiece filters.
>> Observing the Moon
Often, it is tempting to look at the Moon when it is full. At this time, the
face we see is fully illuminated and its light can be overpowering .
In addition, little or no contrast can be seen during this phase.
One of the best times to observe the Moon is during its partial phases
(around the time of first or third quarter). Long shadows reveal a great
amount of detail on the lunar surface . At low power you will be able to
see most of the lunar disk at one time . The optional Reducer/Corrector
lens allows for breath-taking views of the entire lunar disk when used
with a low power eyepiece. Change to higher power (magnification) to
focus in on a smaller area . Choose the lunar tracking rate from the CPC’s
MENU tracking rate options to keep the Moon centered in the eyepiece
even at high magnifications. Lunar Observing Hints
To increase contrast and bring out detail on the lunar surface, use filters.
A yellow filter works well at improving contrast while a neutral density
or polarizing filter will reduce overall surface brightness and glare.
CELESTIAL OBSERVING
With your telescope set up, you are ready to use it for observing . This
section covers visual observing hints for both solar system and deep sky objects as well as general observing conditions which will affect
your ability to observe .