Carson Optical Telescope RP-300 User Manual

Introduction

Box Contents

Figures 1-9/Figure Key

Telescope Assembly

• Setting up Your Tripod

• Attaching the Equatorial Mount

• Attaching the Counterweight

• Attaching the Slow Motion Cables

• Attaching the Telescope Tube to the Mount

• Attaching the Finder Scope

• Attaching the Eyepieces

Balancing the Telescope

• Balancing the Mount in R.A.

• Balancing the Mount in Dec.

• Aligning the Finder Scope

Calculating Power

Understanding Celestial Movement

A Brief Overview of Celestial Coordinates

Polar Alignment

Using the Telescope

 • Image Orientation

 • Using Setting Circles

Care and Maintenance of Your Telescope

• Cleaning

• Collimation of Optics

• Adjusting the Diagonal Holder

• Adjusting the Primary Mirror

• Night Time Star Collimation Testing

Specifications

Warnings

Customer Service

Warranty Information

Congratulations on your purchase of a Carson RP-300 Red Planet

TM

Series 

telescope.  This telescope features an easy-to-use design and high perfor-

mance optics that are perfect for amateur astronomers looking to explore 

the wonders of outer space.  Please read this manual carefully to ensure that 

you assemble and use your telescope correctly.  When used properly, your 

Red Planet

TM

  telescope should provide years of exciting observations of the 

universe. Please note that this Newtonian Reflector telescope was designed

for astronomical viewing and is not recommended for terrestrial use.  

STANT AND PERMANENT EYE DAMAGE.  

• Complete Optical Tube Assembly.

• Equatorial Mount.

• Heavy-Duty Aluminum Tripod.

• 9mm Kellner Eyepiece (1.25”O.D.).

• 20mm Kellner Eyepiece (1.25”O.D.).

• Cradle Rings with Lock Knobs.

• 6x30mm Finder Scope.

• Counterweight Bar with Counterweight.

• Flexible Cable Controls for Both Axes.

Please unpack your telescope carefully and make sure that all accessories are 

included in the box.

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