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The NexStar User’s Guide

  • Book
  • © 2004

Overview

Authors:
  1. Michael W. Swanson
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  • The first book dedicated exclusively to the Nex.
  • Star range of telescopes Everything you need to know about using and maintaining Nex.
  • Includes a guide to buying the most suitable model The alignment process, critical to accurate "go to” work, is described in full detail Explains how to use lap-top computers or PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) to enhance the Nex.

Part of the book series: The Patrick Moore Practical Astronomy Series (PATRICKMOORE)

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Table of contents (14 chapters)

  1. Front Matter

    Pages i-xviii
    Download chapter PDF

  2. Introduction

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 1-8

  3. Astronomy Basics

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 9-45

  4. Overview of the NexStar Line

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 47-68

  5. Alignment

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 69-86

  6. Basic Operation

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 87-102

  7. Expanding Your Horizons — Choosing Objetcs to View

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 103-119

  8. Using the Software Included with Little NexStars — TheSky and NexStar Observer List

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 121-139

  9. Accessories for Your NexStar

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 141-173

  10. Collimation — Optical Alignment

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 175-184

  11. Controlling Your NexStar with a PC or Palmtop Computer

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 185-191

  12. Astrophotography with a NexStar

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 193-213

  13. Maintenance, Care, and Cleaning

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 215-232

  14. Mounting Other Optical Tubes on a NexStar

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 233-238

  15. Additional Tips and Solutions

    • Michael W. Swanson
    Pages 239-258

  16. Back Matter

    Pages 259-296
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Keywords

About this book

Celestron’s NexStar telescopes were introduced in 1999, beginning with their first computer controlled "go to” model, a 5-inch. More models appeared in quick succession, and Celestron’s new range made it one of the two dominant manufacturers of affordable "go to” telescopes. Michael Swanson’s online discussions with literally thousands of NexStar owners made it clear that there was a desperate need for a book such as this - one that provides a complete, detailed guide to buying, using and maintaining NexStar telescopes. Although this book is highly comprehensive, it is suitable for beginners - there is a chapter on "Astronomy Basics” - and experts alike.

Reviews

SKY & TELESCOPE (DECEMBER 2004)

"I knew all I needed to know about my scope, didn’t I? … The NexStar User’s Guide by Michael Swanson answers that question with a resounding No." … Swanson includes thorough, model-specific descriptions of the all the telescope functions, care and maintenance, accessories, and numerous advanced topics. You’ll find advice on how to fine-tune your alignment so that a new target will fall within the eyepiece’s field of view every time you slew. I used to be pleased if that happened two or three times in a night. And are you tormented by backlash? Do you hit the hand paddle’s arrow keys to nudge the aim and have to count to four before the scope actually moves? I was vaguely aware that my 8-inch had backlash compensation settings, but I had never bothered trying to adjust them. And now? Oh, the joy of (almost) backlash-free observing! I was surprised by the difference these small improvements made in the pleasure of my observing experience. Besides owning two NexStars, Swanson’s major credential for writing this book is his NexStar Resource Site (www.nexstarsite.com), which is the precursor to the Guide … The author suggests, and I concur, that the book and the Web site be used in tandem. … [The book’s] true advantage comes from its friendly approach and sound advice based on the personal experiences of the author and other avid NexStar users."

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