Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B’s MoonScope Instruction Guide

Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B’s MoonScope

INSTRUCTION GUIDE

Caution:

• Never look directly at the sun, with or without your MoonScope. Never aim your MoonScope at the sun, or anywhere near the sun. Instant and irreversible eye damage can occur, including blindness.
• Do not let children use the MoonScope without adult supervision any time the sun is above the horizon.

WARNING:

• CHOKING HAZARD-Small parts.
• Not for children under three (3) years.

CAUTION

• Federal law requires us to advise that the GLASS OPTICAL LENSES in this educational product may contain lead which may be harmful if swallowed. We stand behind the safety of all of our products.
• For further information please contact us at [email protected] or 800-222-3909.

Introduction

Your Nancy B.’s Science Club MoonScope™ is a refractor telescope. A refractor collects light through a large objective lens and directs it through the telescope to the eyepiece for magnification. Of course, you can use your MoonScope to look at the moon, but since it’s really a telescope, you can also use it to look at other objects in the night sky as well as objects here on Earth.

Getting Started

First, use the list and pictures below to identify each part of your MoonScope.

• a. Optical tube with rack and pinion focuser (pre-assembled)

• b. Tripod with red LED light

• c. Altitiude lock knob

• d. 20mm eyepiece

• e. 4mm eyepiece

• f. Moon filter

• Next, load two AAA batteries into the tripod as shown on page 8.

Assembly Diagram

The MoonScope is shown mounted on the tripod in the more stable position. However, it can be reversed if you wish to view objects directly overhead.

Assembling Your MoonScope

There’s a lot to this MoonScope, but don’t worry—assembling it is a snap! Use the diagram on the previous page and the directions below to assemble your MoonScope. Or, watch a 4-minute assembly video at www.nancybscienceclub.com/moonscope.

• Gently pull the tripod legs (O) apart as far as they will go. Press down on the center of the tripod supports until the tripod locks open. (See Figure 1.)

• Place the optical tube (A) over the mount and lower it so that the plastic “tongue” on the mount slips into the bracket underneath the tube. (See Figure 2.) Line up the holes on the prongs with the holes in the tongue.

• Push the screw of the altitude lock knob (J) through the holes in the optical tube and the mount. Turn it clockwise to screw it in place. (See Figure 2.)

• Tighten the altitude lock knob enough so that you can move the optical tube up or down and it will stay pointed at the angle you want. (See Figure 2.)

• Find the azimuth lock knob (K) and tighten it, if necessary, by turning it clockwise. The knob, when fully tightened, will lock your telescope’s horizontal movement.

• Remove the protective plastic cap from the diagonal mirror (H). Find the 20mm eyepiece and take off the protective cap. Optional: Insert the moon filter into the back of the eyepiece. (See Figure 3.) Slide the eyepiece into the diagonal mirror.(See Figure 4.)

• To turn on the light, slide the switch on the bottom of the tripod. (See Figure 5.)

• Don’t forget to remove the lens cap before observing.

Using Your MoonScope

1. For best results, use your MoonScope outside. Don’t aim it through a window—that will cause distortions.
2. Your MoonScope will perform much better if the lenses and air inside the tube are the same temperature as the outside air, so let your MoonScope adjust to the outside temperature. In extreme temperatures, it may take up to 30 minutes for your MoonScope to adjust. Brrr!
3. Start viewing with your low power (20mm) eyepiece because it gives you the widest angle and brightest, sharpest views.
4. Loosen the altitude and azimuth lock knobs and move the MoonScope in the direction of an object you wish to view. Position your eye next to the eyepiece—about three inches back from the finder scope. Look through the finder scope so you see the crosshairs in the other end. (Can’t see the edge of the finder scope?Shine a flashlight on it for a few seconds to illuminate the glow-in-the-dark ring!) Move the MoonScope until your desired object is centered on the finder scope crosshairs. Check that you can see the object through the eyepiece and tighten the altitude and azimuth lock knobs.
   • Caution: Never look directly at the sun, with or without your MoonScope. Never aim your MoonScope at the sun, or anywhere near the sun. Instant and irreversible eye damage can occur, including blindness.
   • Do not let children use the MoonScope without adult supervision any time the sun is above the horizon.
5. Look through the eyepiece, turning the focus knob until the image is clear and sharp.
   • Note: When looking through the diagonal mirror, objects will appear right side up, but reversed, like a reflection in a regular mirror. This is normal for astronomical telescopes.

Choosing an Eyepiece for Viewing

1. Your MoonScope comes with two different eyepieces—a 20mm eyepiece and a 4mm eyepiece. Eyepieces are measured and labeled in mm (millimeters). The low-power eyepiece is the one with the higher number in mm (20mm); it provides 18 times magnification. The high-power eyepiece is the one with the lower number in mm (4mm); it provides 90 times magnification.
2. As a rule, always start with the low-power eyepiece, then switch to the high-power eyepiece only after you have located your desired object.

Tips

1. To locate things in the sky, you must learn how the sky is laid out. The internet, apps for mobile devices, books, sky maps, and local astronomy clubs can all provide information about night sky objects.
   • Three useful websites: www.nasa.gov
   • NASA’s official website: www.skyandtelescope.com
   • Astronomy website with useful information, including a customizable sky chart, where you can type in your zip code for a map of the night sky: www.astronomy.com
   • Website for an astronomy magazine with useful information about the night sky.
   • A useful app for your mobile device: Star Walk
   • Allows you to hold up your mobile device and see what’s behind it in the night sky.
2. Turn off any lights. (The red light on your tripod is OK because red light doesn’t interfere with night vision.) Give your eyes time to adapt to the darkness.
3. Use slow, steady hand movements when using your MoonScope. This will minimize vibrations and make it easier to get a steady view.
4. Remember that the rotation of the earth makes it appear as though objects are moving across the viewing area and eventually out of view. You can lessen this effect by using your low power lens. But after viewing for a while, you will need to readjust your MoonScope to keep objects in your field of view.

Caring for Your MoonScope

After using the MoonScope, there may be condensation on the optical surfaces. When you bring your MoonScope inside, take off the dust caps and let the moisture evaporate naturally. (Leave the eyepiece on during this time so condensation can’t form inside the optical tube.) Point the optical tube downward to keep dust from the air out of your MoonScope. Once the moisture has evaporated, you can remove the eyepiece and replace all the dust caps.

Storage

1. Store your MoonScope in its box with all dust caps and lens covers on. Accessories should be stored separately in the box, with all of their dust caps on, too.

Battery Installation Instructions

1. Use a screw driver to remove the battery-door screw. Then pull out the battery compartment.
2. Install two AAA batteries following the diagram.
   • Do not use rechargeable batteries.
   • Do not mix old and new batteries.
   • Do not mix different types of batteries: alkaline, standard (carbon zinc) or rechargeable (nickel-cadmium).
   • Do not recharge nonrechargeable batteries.
   • Remove rechargeable batteries from the MoonScope before recharging.
   • Only charge rechargeable batteries under adult supervision.
   • Only use batteries of the same or equivalent type as recommended.
   • Insert batteries with the correct polarity.
   • Remove exhausted batteries from the unit.
   • Do not short circuit the supply terminals.
   • To prevent corrosion and possible damage to the product, we recommend removing the batteries from the unit if it will not be used for more than two weeks.
   • For best results, always use fresh alkaline batteries. Other battery types will have a shorter life.
3. Replace the cover and tighten the screw. Do not overtighten.

Developed in Southern California by Educational Insights.

© Educational Insights, Gardena, CA (U.S.A.). All rights reserved. Learning Resources Ltd., Bergen Way, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2JG, UK. Please retain this package. Made in China. www.educationalinsights.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope?

The Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope is a specialized telescope designed for lunar observation, ideal for educational purposes.

How does the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope differ from regular telescopes?

This telescope is specifically tailored for observing the moon, offering enhanced features and capabilities for lunar exploration.

What age group is the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope suitable for?

The Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope is designed to engage and educate children and young astronomers, typically recommended for specific age ranges.

What accessories come with the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope?

The Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope usually comes with a set of accessories such as eyepieces, a tripod, and educational materials to enhance the stargazing experience.

How easy is it to set up and use the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope?

Setting up and using the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope is generally straightforward, with user-friendly instructions provided for a smooth experience.

Can the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope be used during the day?

While primarily designed for moon observation, the Educational Insights El- 5351F Nancy B's MoonScope may have limitations when used during daylight due to its specialized features.

Is the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope portable?

The portability of the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope can vary, with some models being more compact and travel-friendly than others.

What educational benefits does the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope offer?

The Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope provides valuable educational insights into astronomy, lunar phases, and celestial observations, making learning about space interactive and engaging.

Are there any maintenance tips for the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope?

To ensure optimal performance, regular maintenance practices like cleaning lenses and storing the telescope properly are recommended for the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope.

Can adults also use the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope?

While designed with children in mind, adults can also enjoy using the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope for lunar exploration and educational purposes.

How can I troubleshoot issues with my Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope?

Troubleshooting common problems with the Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope can involve checking the alignment of lenses, ensuring proper assembly, and verifying power sources as outlined in the product manual.

My Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope is not turning on, what should I check?

If your Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope is not powering on, ensure that batteries are correctly inserted, or if it requires an external power source, check the connections and power supply as per the manual instructions

How do I address issues with the tripod or stability of my Educational Insights El-5351F Nancy B's MoonScope?

Problems related to the tripod or stability of the Educational Insights El- 5351F Nancy B's MoonScope can be resolved by adjusting the legs, tightening screws, or ensuring a level surface as advised in the troubleshooting section of the manual.

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