Warning Note: Never look directly at the Sun with the naked eye or with your spotting scope. Permanent eye damage
may result.
Before Observing
Attach your spotting scope to a photo/video tripod before trying to observe as the size and power of the spotting scope requires
a solid tripod to be able to see sharp and steady views. For the Ultima 100 models a Tripod Balancing Platform should be
installed for optimum balancing on a tripod (see information below).
Make sure to remove the lens cap prior to observing. You can use the
sight tube
to
locate the object you want to look at and then look through the eyepiece.
Using the Rubber Eyecup
The zoom eyepiece includes a soft rubber eyecup for eyeglass wearers. Fold down the
rubber eyecups to observe the full field of view when wearing eyeglasses. If you
do not use eyeglasses, leave the rubber eyecup in the up position.
Focusing
To focus slowly rotate the focuser knob until the image in the eyepiece is
clear and sharp. Refocusing is usually required if the power is changed.
If you feel the focus knob no longer moves any further (in either
direction), then you have reached the end of the travel range -- don’t try
to force it to go further but you should refocus by turning in the opposite
direction. Once an image is in focus, turn the knob clockwise to focus on
a closer object and counterclockwise for a more distant object.
Changing the Magnification (Power)
Rotate the magnification ring around the zoom eyepiece to change the
power level of the spotting scope. Refocus as needed. The brightest and
widest field of view will always be at the lowest power.
Photography
With 35mm SLR Cameras:
To use your spotting scope as a telephoto lens, remove the rubber eyecup from the top of the eyepiece. You will shoot through
the spotting scope with the eyepiece attached. Thread an optional T-Ring for your make and model of 35mm camera onto the
T-threads located at the top of the eyepiece. For Ultima 65 models, thread the T-ring adapter (included with your model) onto
the eyepiece threads, then you thread a T-Ring onto the eyepiece. Attach your 35mm camera body to the T-Ring. Ultima
spotting scopes have fixed apertures and, as a result, fixed f/ratios. To properly expose your subjects photographically, you
need to set your shutter speed accordingly. Most 35mm SLR cameras offer through-the-lens metering which lets you know if
your picture is under or overexposed. Adjustments for proper exposures are made by changing the shutter speed. Consult your
camera manual for specific information on metering and changing shutter speeds.
Hint: Most photos will be the sharpest and brightest when using the lowest power on the zoom eyepiece.
With Digital Cameras:
Since digital cameras (not digital SLR cameras) do not use the T-system to mount cameras to lenses, spotting scopes,
telescopes, etc. you need a different way to be able to use them to take photos. Celestron offers a Universal Digital Camera
Adapter (Model # 93626) which makes it easy to attach a digital camera to your Ultima spotting scope.
35mm Camera
body
T-Ring
(Optional Item)
Eyepiece with rubber
eyecup removed
Spotting
Scope
T-ring adapter (for
Ultima 65 only)
