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T E L E S C O P E M A I N T E N A N C E
Refractors are generally very low maintenance telescopes. Cleaning is really
all that is needed, and even that is minimal if the telescope is stored properly.
Occasionally, dust and/or moisture may build up on the objective lens of your
telescope. Special care should be taken when cleaning any instrument so as
not to damage the optics. If dust has built up on the objective lens, remove
dust with a camel’s hair brush or a can of pressurized air. Spray at an angle to
the lens for approximately 2 to 4 seconds. Then, use optical cleaning solution
and white tissue paper to remove any remaining debris. Strokes should go
from the center of the objective lens to the outer portion. Do NOT rub in
circles! With refractive lenses, never apply the cleaning solution directly to the
lens. Because the elements are air-spaced, excess solution may seep
between the lenses. Apply the solution to the tissue, then the tissue to the
lens.
You can use commercially made lens cleaner or mix your own. A good
cleaning solution is isopropyl alcohol mixed with distilled water. The solution
should be 60% isopropyl alcohol and 40% distilled water. Or, liquid dish soap
diluted with water (a couple of drops per one quart of water) can be used.
Occasionally, you may experience dew build-up on the objective lens of your
telescope during an observing session. This may be removed with a hair dryer
or by pointing the telescope at the ground. Since your Celestron refractor has
a built-in dew cap, the dewing process is slightly reduced. If moisture con-
denses on the inside of the lens, remove the accessories from the telescope.
Place the telescope in a dust-free environment and point it down. This will
remove the moisture from the telescope tube.
To minimize the need to clean your telescope, replace all lens covers once you
have finished using it. Since the back of the telescope where the accessories
attach is NOT sealed, the plastic cap should be placed over the opening when
not in use. This will prevent contaminates from entering the optical tube.
When not in use, your Firstscope AZ can be left fully assembled and set up.
However, all lens and eyepiece covers should be put back in place. This will
reduce the amount of dust build-up on the optical surfaces and reduce the
numbers of times you need to clean the instrument. You may want to return
everthing to its original shipping container and store them there. If this is the
case, all optical surfaces should still be covered to prevent dust build-up.
Care and Cleaning of
the Optics
Storing Your Telescope
