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As with the first edition, this book is a thorough reference for the telescope models covered. The original NexStar User's Guide has remained very popular among the NexStar owner community. This updated edition has been completely rewritten to cover all current Celestron altitude-azimuth computerized telescopes (German EQ mounts are not discussed). Detailed information on the alignment and operation of these 'scopes provides a complete reference that expands greatly upon the manuals provided by Celestron. It also serves as a guide to buying the most suitable model for a variety of budgets and interests.
Connecting and controlling the telescope with PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones is covered in great detail. A chapter is dedicated to updating the firmware in the hand control, mount, and StarSense camera (an optional accessory). Chapters on accessories, collimation, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips round out the book's extensive coverage of the subject matter. Additionally, the book offers a brief, though complete, introduction to amateur astronomy, making it an ideal source for both the beginner astronomer as well as the seasoned veteran looking to get the most out of a new telescope.
List of contents
Chapter 1 - Introduction.- Chapter 2 - Astronomy Basics.- Chapter 3 - Overview of Celestron's Alt-Az Computerized Telescopes.- Chapter 4 - Alignment.- Chapter 5 - NexStar and StarSense Hand Control Operation.- Chapter 6 - SkyPortal Operation.- Chapter 7 - Connecting a PC, Mac, Tablet, or Smartphone to Your 'Scope.- Chapter 8- Expanding Your Horizons - Choosing Objects to View.- Chapter 9 - accessories for Your Telescope.- Chapter 10 - Firmware Updates.- Chapter 11.- Collimation, Maintenance, Care, and Cleaning.- Chapter 12 - Tips, Solutions, and Troubleshooting Common problems.- Appendix A - Internet Resources.- Appendix B - Glossary.- Index.
About the author
Michael Swanson is a veteran IT manager for the United States Navy with a lifelong interest in astronomy, technology, and computer programming. Shortly after purchasing his first NexStar telescope in the year 2000, he established what would quickly become the definitive Internet resource for NexStar telescopes - the NexStar Resource Site (www.NexStarSite.com). Since 2001, he has worked with Celestron in reviewing and testing their latest technologies, contributing numerous suggestions during the design process.
Summary
As with the first edition, this book is a thorough reference for the telescope models covered. The original NexStar User's Guide has remained very popular among the NexStar owner community. This updated edition has been completely rewritten to cover all current Celestron altitude-azimuth computerized telescopes (German EQ mounts are not discussed). Detailed information on the alignment and operation of these ‘scopes provides a complete reference that expands greatly upon the manuals provided by Celestron. It also serves as a guide to buying the most suitable model for a variety of budgets and interests.
Connecting and controlling the telescope with PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones is covered in great detail. A chapter is dedicated to updating the firmware in the hand control, mount, and StarSense camera (an optional accessory). Chapters on accessories, collimation, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips round out the book’s extensive coverage of the subject matter. Additionally, the book offers a brief, though complete, introduction to amateur astronomy, making it an ideal source for both the beginner astronomer as well as the seasoned veteran looking to get the most out of a new telescope.
Additional text
From the reviews of the first edition: “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. … I was surprised by the difference these small improvements made in the pleasure of my observing experience. … true advantage comes from its friendly approach and sound advice based on the personal experiences of the author and other avid NexStar users.” (Sky & Telescope, December, 2004)
Report
From the reviews of the first edition: "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. ... I was surprised by the difference these small improvements made in the pleasure of my observing experience. ... true advantage comes from its friendly approach and sound advice based on the personal experiences of the author and other avid NexStar users." (Sky & Telescope, December, 2004)
