VII. Polar Alignment

The polar alignment procedure in this section results in a fairly accurate
alignment. This alignment is sufficient for all visual observation, and for
any astrophotorgraphy that can be done with short exposure. Please see the
next section to obtain a more precise alignment.

  1. Install the illuminator in the polar axis finder scope and turn it on
  2. Rotate the polar scope until the orientation of the stars in the reticle
    match the orientation of the Little Dipper, Big Dipper and Cassiopeia
  3. Adjust the mount in elevation and azimuth until Polaris is situated on the
    gap in the line near the arrow labeled "Polaris"
  4. Place the second and third brightest stars in their respective
    places on the reticle by rotating the polar axis finder and by improving
    the adjustments made in the previous step
  5. Point the telescope to a known star, and adjust the RA setting circle to the
    star's right ascension