How to Set Up a GoTo Telescope for First Use

Quick Answer

To set up a GoTo telescope for first use, assemble the mount and tripod, attach the optical tube, connect power, perform a two-star or automated alignment (like SkyProdigy's StarSense), and calibrate the finder scope.

Step-by-Step: Setting Up Your GoTo Telescope

1. 1. Assemble the Tripod and Mount: Set up the tripod on level ground, extend the legs to a comfortable height, and attach the mount head securely. Ensure the tripod is stable and the mount is oriented roughly north (for the Northern Hemisphere) or south (for the Southern Hemisphere). Common mistake: Placing the tripod on uneven ground can cause alignment errors. Use a bubble level if available.
2. 2. Attach the Optical Tube and Accessories: Mount the telescope tube onto the dovetail saddle and tighten the locking knob. Attach the finder scope, eyepiece, and any other accessories (like a diagonal). Balance the tube by sliding it in the saddle until it stays level when the clutches are loose. Checkpoint: Ensure the finder scope is roughly aligned with the main tube during daytime—this saves time later.
3. 3. Connect Power and Turn On: Connect the power source (battery pack or AC adapter) to the mount's hand controller or power port. Turn on the mount and hand controller. For Celestron SkyProdigy models, the hand controller will prompt you to start the alignment process. Common mistake: Using weak batteries can cause the mount to stall during slewing. Use fresh batteries or an external 12V power tank.
4. 4. Perform Alignment: For manual GoTo mounts, choose a two-star alignment from the hand controller menu, then center the first star in the eyepiece and confirm. Repeat for the second star. For automated mounts like the Celestron SkyProdigy 130, simply press 'Align' and let the StarSense camera do the work—no star identification needed. Checkpoint: If using manual alignment, select stars that are far apart in the sky for better accuracy.
5. 5. Calibrate the Finder Scope: After alignment, use the hand controller to slew to a bright star or distant terrestrial object (during daytime). Center it in the eyepiece, then adjust the finder scope's adjustment screws until the crosshairs or red dot align with the same object. Common mistake: Skipping finder calibration leads to frustration when objects don't appear in the eyepiece. Always do this step.
6. 6. Test the GoTo Function: Select a bright, easy object from the hand controller's database (e.g., the Moon or Jupiter) and press 'GoTo'. The mount should slew to the object and center it in the field of view. Use the hand controller's slow-motion controls to fine-tune if needed. Checkpoint: If the object is not in the eyepiece, your alignment may be off. Repeat the alignment process carefully.

Product Facts

• Celestron SkyProdigy 130 Reflector Telescope - 31153: The Celestron SkyProdigy 130 uses StarSense technology, a built-in digital camera and computer that automatically aligns the telescope without user input. This eliminates the need to manually identify stars, making it ideal for beginners who want a fast, hands-off setup.