2
1. Parts List
Qty.
Description
1
Optical tube assembly
1
10x50 finder scope
1
Finder scope bracket
2
Tube mounting rings
1
Standard mounting plate
1
Dust cover
If you purchased the #21481 package, the following items
should also be included (in one or more additional boxes):
1
GP-DX equatorial mount
1
Aluminum tripod
1
Dovetail mounting plate
1
Extra 8.1-lb. counterweight
2
6mm x 1 socket head cap screws
2. Unpacking and Assembly
Exercise care when unpacking the shipping box(es). We rec-
ommend keeping the original shipping box and packing
materials; in the event the telescope needs to be shipped to
another location or returned to Orion for warranty repair, hav-
ing the proper shipping container will help ensure that your
telescope will survive the journey intact.
The only assembly required for the Argonaut 6" optical tube is
to attach the finder scope bracket (the finder scope comes
already installed in the bracket. Locate the mounting block
adjacent to the telescope ’s focuser. Line up the tab on the bot-
tom of the finder bracket base with the slot on the mounting
block. Thread the thumbscrew on the base of the bracket into
the threaded hole on the mounting block until tight. Make sure
the finder scope is positioned in the bracket so the wide (objec-
tive) end points toward the front of the telescope; you may have
to remove the finder scope from the bracket and turn it around.
Do so by first loosening all the nylon adjustment screws.
If you have purchased the package with the GP-DX mount,
refer to the instructions that come with the mount in order to
assemble it. Before the telescope can be attached to the GP-
DX mount, the optical tube will need to be connected to the
dovetail mounting plate. First, remove the standard mounting
plate that is already attached to the tube rings. Use a 5mm
Allen wrench to unthread the four socket head cap screws.
Locate the two 6 m m x 1 socket head cap screws that are
included with the package. These are not the screws that
come taped to the dovetail mounting plate; those screws
have no purpose here, and may be discarded. Attach the
dovetail mounting plate to the tube rings with the 6 m m x 1
screws. Of the three holes on the bottom of each tube mount-
ing ring, use the one that is in the center. You will need to
position the tube rings slightly closer to each other in order to
achieve the hole spacing on the dovetail bracket. This is done
by loosening the tube ring lock knob on the side of the ring,
C
ongratulations on purchasing an Orion telescope! The Argonaut 6" Maksutov-Newtonian is a preci-
sion instrument designed for high-performance astronomical observation. With its Maksutov-Newtonian
optical system expertly crafted in Russia, you’ll enjoy exquisite views of countless celestial objects.
These instructions will help you properly use and care for your telescope. Please read them over thor-
oughly before getting started.
Table of Contents
1. Parts List................................................................................................................................. 3
2. Unpacking and Assembly ....................................................................................................... 3
3. The Optics .............................................................................................................................. 4
4. Using the Telescope ............................................................................................................... 5
5. Care and Maintenance ........................................................................................................... 6
6. Specifications.......................................................................................................................... 6
7. Suggested Accessories .......................................................................................................... 6
WARNING:
Never look directly at the
Sun through your telescope or its finder
scope—even for an instant—without
a professionally made solar filter that
completely covers the front of the
instrument, or permanent eye damage
could result. Be sure to also cover the
front of the finder scope with aluminum
foil or another opaque material to prevent
physical damage to the internal
components of the scope itself as well as to
your eye. Young children should use this
telescope only with adult supervision.
