If you're unfamiliar with the terms mentioned on this page, then check out our Optical Jargon Decoder . If these are the only instructions you have, then you will need to ignore them completely. Below we describe some procedures for correct Polar Alignment of a German equatorial and a Fork mount equatorial in the Southern Hemisphere. The images above illustrate some of the components of a simple German equatorial mount. A Declination axis, with the telescope tube mounted at one end and a counterweight for balance at the other end.
Most designs allow the removal of the tube and counterweight for more convenient transport.
A Polar axis, fixed at right angles to the Declination axis. Sometimes the Polar axis is hollow and contains a small telescope specifically for Polar Alignment. A pivot which allows the Polar axis to be tilted to a fixed orientation. This is often combined with the hardware which forms the top of the tripod. Firstly, the telescope tube needs to be almost but not exactly balanced on the Declination axis.