Celestron C8-A XLT 8-inch f/10 SCT Optical Tube Instruction Manual

1. Acabatview

The Celestron C8-A XLT is an 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) designed for advanced astronomical observation. Featuring Celestron's premium StarBright XLT coatings, this optical tube is engineered to gather ample light, providing detailed views of celestial objects. With a focal length of 2032mm and an f/10 focal ratio, it offers high magnification capabilities suitable for planetary and deep-sky observations. The assembly includes essential accessories for immediate use and is compatible with CGE mounts via its integrated dovetail rail.

Figure 1: The Celestron C8-A XLT 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube Assembly.

2. Components inclosos

The Celestron C8-A XLT Optical Tube Assembly package includes the following items:

• Celestron C8-A 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube Assembly
• 25mm Eyepiece (81x magnification)
• 1.25-inch Visual Back
• 6x30 Finderscope
• Star Diagonal (1.25-inch)
• Dovetail Rail (compatible with CGE mounts)

Figure 2: Included components of the Celestron C8-A XLT optical tube assembly.

3. Configuració

Follow these steps to set up your Celestron C8-A XLT Optical Tube Assembly:

1. Mounting the Optical Tube: Attach the optical tube to a compatible CGE mount using the integrated dovetail rail. Ensure the rail is securely fastened to the mount's saddle.
2. Attaching the Visual Back: Thread the 1.25-inch visual back onto the rear cell of the optical tube. Tighten it firmly but do not overtighten.
3. Inserting the Star Diagonal: Insert the 1.25-inch star diagonal into the visual back. Secure it by tightening the thumbscrew on the visual back.
4. Installing the Eyepiece: Insert the 25mm eyepiece into the star diagonal. Secure it with the diagonal's thumbscrew.
5. Mounting the Finderscope: Attach the 6x30 finderscope to its bracket on the optical tube. Align the finderscope with the main telescope by centering a distant object in both the finderscope and the main eyepiece during daylight hours.

Figura 3: posterior view of the optical tube, showing the focuser knob and visual back attachment point.

4. Operating the Telescope

Once assembled, operating your C8-A XLT involves pointing, focusing, and observing.

• Apuntant: Use your CGE mount's controls to point the telescope towards your desired celestial object. The aligned 6x30 finderscope will assist in quickly locating targets.
• Enfocament: Adjust the focuser knob located at the rear of the optical tube until the image in the eyepiece is sharp and clear. Fine adjustments may be needed as objects move or atmospheric conditions change.
• Observant: Begin with the lower magnification 25mm eyepiece for a wider field of view to locate objects, then switch to higher magnification eyepieces (purchased separately) for more detailed observations. The Star Diagonal provides a comfortable viewing angle, especially for objects high in the sky.

Figura 4: lateral view illustrating the finderscope and eyepiece setup for observation.

5. Manteniment

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your optical tube.

• Òptiques de neteja: Use a soft, lint-free cloth and specialized optical cleaning solution to gently clean the corrector plate and eyepieces. Avoid touching optical surfaces with bare hands.
• Protecció contra la pols: Always keep dust caps on the front of the optical tube and on eyepieces when not in use.
• Emmagatzematge: Store the optical tube in a dry, dust-free environment. If storing for extended periods, consider using a padded case.
• Dew Prevention: In humid conditions, dew can form on the corrector plate. Consider using a dew shield or a dew heater (accessories sold separately) to prevent this.

Figura 5: Frontal view of the optical tube, highlighting the corrector plate and secondary mirror assembly.

6. Solució De Problemes

Aquí teniu solucions a problemes comuns que podeu trobar:

• Fuzzy Images: Ensure the focuser is properly adjusted. Atmospheric conditions (seeing) can also affect image clarity. Allow the telescope to equalize to ambient temperature for 30-60 minutes.
• Finderscope Misalignment: Re-align the finderscope with the main telescope during daylight hours by centering a distant, stationary object in both.
• Dew on Optics: If dew forms, use a dew shield or a dew heater. Avoid wiping dew off the optics as this can leave streaks.
• Difficulty Locating Objects: Start with the lowest magnification eyepiece (largest field of view). Ensure your mount is properly aligned and balanced.

7. Especificacions

8. Garantia i Suport

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Celestron website or contact Celestron customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of ownership for warranty claims.