Celestron Astromaster 114: How To Use

Mastering the Celestron Astromaster 114: Your Beginner’s Guide to the Cosmos

Discover how to use your Celestron Astromaster 114 telescope with this comprehensive guide. We’ll walk you through setup, alignment, and observation for an unparalleled stargazing experience. Start your celestial journey with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Assemble your Celestron Astromaster 114 with care.
• Align the finderscope for accurate targeting.
• Learn basic telescope operation and focusing.
• Identify celestial objects with ease.
• Maintain your telescope for longevity.
• Enjoy observing planets and the Moon.

Embarking on your journey into the cosmos is an exciting adventure. The Celestron Astromaster 114 is a fantastic starting point for aspiring astronomers. Many beginners find setting up and using a new telescope a bit daunting. You might wonder about the best way to assemble it, how to point it at your first star, or what you can even expect to see. This guide is designed to demystify the process. We’ll provide clear, step-by-step instructions to help you get the most out of your Celestron Astromaster 114. Get ready to unlock the wonders of the night sky, right from your backyard.

Understanding Your Celestron Astromaster 114

The Celestron Astromaster 114 is a Newtonian reflector telescope. This means it uses mirrors to gather and focus light. It’s known for its ease of use and good optical performance for its price point. This makes it an excellent choice for those new to astronomy. Before we begin assembly, let’s familiarize ourselves with the main components you’ll find in the box.

Essential Components of the Astromaster 114

When you unbox your Celestron Astromaster 114, you’ll find several key parts. Understanding their names and functions is the first step to successful operation.

• Optical Tube Assembly (OTA): This is the main body of the telescope that holds the primary mirror and the focuser.
• Equatorial Mount: This type of mount allows for tracking celestial objects as they move across the sky. It has two axes of motion: Right Ascension (RA) and Declination (DEC).
• Tripod: Provides a stable base for the mount and optical tube. It’s adjustable for height and stability.
• Counterweights and Counterweight Bar: These balance the weight of the optical tube, making it easier to move and track objects smoothly.
• Finderscope: A small, low-power telescope attached to the main tube. It helps you locate objects before viewing them through the main telescope. The Astromaster 114 typically comes with a StarPointer, which is a red-dot finder.
• Eyepieces: These are what you look through and determine the magnification. The Astromaster 114 usually includes two eyepieces, often a low-power one (e.g., 20mm) for wider fields of view and a higher-power one (e.g., 10mm) for closer looks.
• Accessory Tray: Attaches to the tripod legs to hold your eyepieces and other small accessories.

Step-by-Step Assembly: Getting Ready for Stargazing

Setting up your telescope correctly is crucial for stable viewing and optimal performance. Don’t worry, it’s a straightforward process. Follow these steps carefully.

1. Assembling the Tripod and Mount

Begin by extending the tripod legs. Ensure they are locked securely in place. The tripod should be set up on a level surface for maximum stability. Next, attach the equatorial mount head to the top of the tripod. There’s usually a large bolt or locking mechanism that secures the mount to the tripod. Consult your telescope’s manual for specific details, as designs can vary slightly.

2. Attaching the Counterweight Bar and Counterweights

Screw the counterweight bar into the designated port on the mount. This is typically located opposite the declination axis. Once the bar is securely in place, slide the counterweights onto it. For now, you can leave them loosely attached near the end of the bar. We’ll balance the telescope later.

3. Mounting the Optical Tube

Carefully lift the optical tube assembly (OTA). Locate the mounting rings or saddle plate on the equatorial mount. There are usually clamps or screws that you’ll need to loosen to open the saddle. Align the mounting rings on the OTA with the saddle on the mount and then secure the tube by tightening the clamps. Make sure the tube is stable and won’t slide out accidentally.

4. Installing the Finderscope

Find the bracket for the finderscope on the side of the optical tube. Slide the finderscope into its bracket and secure it with the provided screws. This finderscope is your guide to the heavens, so ensure it’s firmly attached.

5. Attaching the Accessory Tray

Most tripods have an accessory tray that attaches to the legs. This tray is incredibly useful for keeping your eyepieces and other small tools within easy reach during your observation sessions.

Pro Tip: When assembling, ensure all screws and bolts are snug but not overtightened. Overtightening can damage components. If you’re unsure, always refer to the official Celestron manual for your specific model.

Balancing Your Equatorial Mount: The Key to Smooth Tracking

A properly balanced telescope makes tracking celestial objects effortless. This is a vital step for equatorial mounts. Balancing ensures that the motors (if you have them) or your manual adjustments move the telescope smoothly without strain.

1. Balancing in Declination (DEC) Axis

Loosen the Declination lock (usually a large knob on the mount). Slide the optical tube in its mounting rings along the Declination axis until it stays in place without drifting. Once balanced, tighten the DEC lock securely. Ensure the tube can be moved freely when unlocked and stays put when locked.

2. Balancing in Right Ascension (RA) Axis

Loosen the Right Ascension lock. Move the counterweight bar until you find a balance point for the entire telescope tube and mount. The goal is for the telescope to rest in any position without drifting down or up. Adjust the position of the counterweights on the bar until this balance is achieved. Once balanced, tighten the RA lock. You’ll want to be able to move the telescope smoothly with minimal resistance in both axes.

Aligning the Finderscope: Your Celestial Compass

The finderscope is critical for pointing your telescope accurately. It needs to be aligned with the main telescope’s view. This is best done during the daytime, pointing at a distant, stationary object.

Steps for Finderscope Alignment:

1. Daytime Alignment: On a clear day, point your main telescope directly at a distant, easily identifiable object. This could be the top of a telephone pole, a distant house number, or a specific treetop.
2. Center the Object: Use your lowest power eyepiece in the main telescope and center the chosen object in the field of view.
3. Adjust the Finderscope: Look through the finderscope. It will have adjustment screws. Carefully turn these screws until the crosshairs (or red dot) of the finderscope are centered precisely on the same object you have centered in your main telescope.
4. Test the Alignment: If you can, move the telescope slightly and then re-center the object using both the main telescope and the finderscope to ensure they are perfectly aligned.

Once aligned, whenever you center an object in the finderscope, it should also be visible in the main telescope’s field of view. This makes finding celestial targets much easier.

Using Your Celestron Astromaster 114: First Light

Now that your telescope is assembled, balanced, and aligned, it’s time for your first observation! We’ll cover inserting eyepieces, focusing, and basic operation.

Inserting an Eyepiece

The eyepiece screws into the focuser barrel. Loosen the thumbscrews on the focuser and gently slide the eyepiece into the drawtube. Ensure it’s seated properly and then tighten the thumbscrews to secure it. For initial observations, always start with your lowest power eyepiece (the one with the larger millimeter number, e.g., 20mm). This provides a wider field of view, making it easier to find and track objects.

Focusing for Clear Views

Once an object is roughly located, you’ll need to focus. Look through the eyepiece and slowly turn the focuser knob. You’ll see the image come into sharp relief. Continue turning until the image is as sharp and clear as possible. If you can’t seem to bring anything into focus, try turning the knob in the opposite direction. If you’re using a higher magnification eyepiece, you may need to make finer adjustments.

Table: Eyepiece Magnification Guide

Eyepiece (mm)	Magnification (Astromaster 114)	Typical Use
20mm	Approximately 57x	Finding objects, wide-field viewing of nebulae and star clusters, lunar observation.
10mm	Approximately 114x	Close-up planetary detail, double stars, brighter deep-sky objects.

Note: Magnification is calculated by dividing the telescope’s focal length (1000mm for Astromaster 114) by the eyepiece’s focal length.

Tracking Celestial Objects

The Earth rotates, so celestial objects appear to move across the sky. With an equatorial mount, you can compensate for this movement. Once you’ve found and focused on an object, you’ll need to track it.

• Using Slow-Motion Controls: Your equatorial mount will have flexible slow-motion control cables for both the RA and DEC axes.
• R.A. Tracking: To keep an object centered, you will primarily need to adjust the Right Ascension (RA) slow-motion control. Move it gently to follow the object as it drifts.
• DEC Adjustments: You will occasionally need to make small adjustments on the Declination (DEC) axis as well, but RA tracking is the main focus for following objects.

With practice, manual tracking becomes smooth and intuitive. If your mount has a motor drive for the RA axis, it will automatically track objects for you, allowing for longer, uninterrupted viewing.

What Can You See with the Celestron Astromaster 114?

The Astromaster 114 is a capable telescope that can reveal a surprising amount of detail. Here’s a glimpse of what you might observe.

The Moon

The Moon is an excellent first target. You’ll be able to see craters, mountains, and the different lunar seas in stunning detail. You can observe how the shadows change as the Moon goes through its phases, revealing more surface features.

Planets

With the Astromaster 114, you can observe Jupiter’s four largest moons (the Galilean moons) as tiny points of light orbiting the planet. You might even see the Great Red Spot under good viewing conditions. Saturn’s rings are a classic sight, and you should be able to clearly distinguish them from the planet. Mars will appear as a small, reddish disk, and Venus will show its phases, similar to those of our Moon.

Deep-Sky Objects

While light pollution can be a factor, under dark skies, you can see brighter nebulae, such as the Orion Nebula, appearing as a fuzzy patch. Star clusters, like the Pleiades, are beautiful targets, appearing as sparkling jewels in the sky. You can also observe brighter galaxies, like the Andromeda Galaxy, as faint smudges of light.

Advanced Tips for Better Observing

As you gain experience, you’ll want to improve your observing sessions. Here are some tips to enhance your stargazing.

Choosing the Right Location

The best viewing occurs away from city lights (light pollution). Find a dark spot in your garden, a park, or a designated dark sky site. Also, allow your telescope to acclimate to the outside temperature for at least 30 minutes before observing. This prevents internal air currents from degrading the image quality.

Understanding Atmospheric Conditions

“Seeing” refers to the stability of the Earth’s atmosphere. On nights with good seeing, stars appear as sharp points, and planetary details are steady. On nights with poor seeing, the atmosphere is turbulent, making objects appear to shimmer and making high-magnification viewing difficult. Patience is key; wait for moments of clarity between atmospheric shifts.

Using Higher Magnification Wisely

While higher magnification brings objects closer, it also narrows the field of view and can amplify atmospheric disturbances. Use your highest power eyepiece only when atmospheric conditions are stable and for bright objects like planets. For finding objects or viewing larger deep-sky objects, lower magnification is often better.

Nebula Filters

For observing nebulae, especially in light-polluted areas, a nebula filter can help. These filters block certain wavelengths of light, making faint nebulae stand out more against the background sky. Research which filters are suitable for the types of objects you intend to observe.

Keeping an Astronomy Journal

Record your observations! Note down what you saw, when you saw it, the equipment you used, and the seeing conditions. Drawing what you see can also greatly improve your observational skills. This journal will become a valuable record of your astronomical journey.

Maintenance and Care for Your Telescope

Proper care ensures your Celestron Astromaster 114 remains in excellent condition for years of use.

1. Cleaning the Optics

Never use household cleaners or abrasive cloths on your telescope optics. For dust, use a photographic air blower. For stubborn smudges, use a specialized lens cleaning solution and lint-free optical wipes or lens tissue in a gentle, circular motion. Always clean the primary mirror last, and if possible, remove it from the tube for thorough cleaning.

2. Protecting from Dew and Moisture

Desiccant packets can help absorb moisture inside the telescope case. Dew shields or a dew heater can prevent dew from forming on the front of the telescope during damp nights. Never store the telescope in a damp environment.

3. Storage

Store your telescope in its original box or a dedicated case in a cool, dry place. Ensure all caps and covers are in place to protect the lenses and mirrors.

4. Checking Alignment

Periodically check the alignment of your finderscope, especially if the telescope has been bumped or transported. Realign it as needed using the daytime method described earlier.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best equipment, you might encounter minor issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions.

Issue: Blurry Images

Cause: Out of focus, smudged optics, atmospheric turbulence.

Solution: Adjust the focuser carefully. Clean optics if they are dirty. Wait for atmospheric conditions to improve.

Issue: Difficulty Finding Objects

Cause: Finderscope not aligned properly, using too high magnification, aiming at the wrong spot.

Solution: Realign the finderscope. Start with low magnification. Use star charts or astronomy apps to locate targets accurately.

Issue: Telescope Vibrates Excessively

Cause: Unstable tripod, wind, observing from a surface that vibrates (like a wooden deck).

Solution: Extend tripod legs fully and ensure they are locked. Place sandbags or weights on the tripod legs. Avoid observing in very windy conditions or on vibrating surfaces.

Issue: Object Not Visible in Eyepiece

Cause: Object is too faint, field of view is too narrow, wrong object targeted.

Solution: Ensure you are using a low-power eyepiece. Darken your surroundings. Double-check your target with a star chart or app.

External Resources for Your Astronomy Journey

Continuing your learning is key to becoming a proficient astronomer. Here are some excellent resources:

• Celestron Official Website: For manuals, support, and information on accessories. Visit Celestron.com.
• Sky & Telescope Magazine: A wealth of articles, observing guides, and news for amateur astronomers. Their website is skyandtelescope.org.
• Astronomy Magazine: Another excellent resource for observing tips, equipment reviews, and astronomical events. Find them at astronomy.com.
• Stellarium: A free, open-source planetarium software that shows exactly what you see when you look up at the stars. Download it from stellarium.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I choose the right eyepiece for my Celestron Astromaster 114?

A1: Always start with your lowest magnification eyepiece (e.g., 20mm) to find and center objects. Then, use higher magnification eyepieces (e.g., 10mm) for more detail. The best eyepiece depends on the object you’re viewing and the atmospheric conditions.

Q2: Can I use my Astromaster 114 for astrophotography?

A2: The Astromaster 114 is primarily designed for visual observation. While some basic planetary imaging might be possible with a smartphone adapter, it’s not ideal for deep-sky astrophotography due to its mount and focal length. Dedicated astrophotography telescopes and mounts are typically required for advanced imaging.

Q3: My images are upside down. Is something wrong?

A3: No, this is normal for Newtonian reflector telescopes. The image appears upside down and mirrored. This is due to the way the light reflects off the mirrors. It’s perfectly fine for observing.

Q4: How often should I clean my telescope optics?

A4: Only clean your optics when absolutely necessary. Dust is generally okay and doesn’t significantly impact viewing. Excessive cleaning can damage coatings. If you must clean, use specialized optical cleaning supplies gently.

Q5: What is the best time to observe planets?

A5: Planets are generally best observed when they are at their highest point in the sky (culmination) and when the atmosphere is most stable. This is typically a few hours after sunset, but can vary. Always check a sky calendar or astronomy app for planet visibility.

Q6: Is an equatorial mount difficult to use?

A6: It has a learning curve, but once you understand balancing and how to use the slow-motion controls, it becomes intuitive. It offers superior tracking compared to simpler alt-azimuth mounts, making stargazing more enjoyable.

Conclusion

You’ve now learned the essential steps to set up, balance, align, and use your Celestron Astromaster 114 telescope. From understanding its components to observing the Moon, planets, and beyond, your journey into the night sky has officially begun. Remember that practice and patience are your best tools. Each observing session will bring you closer to mastering your telescope and appreciating the vastness of the universe. Keep exploring, keep learning, and enjoy the incredible wonders that await you above.