Meade 6" LS-6 SC, 8" LS-8 SC, 8" LS-8 ACF Menu Mode, Scope Info Mode, Sky Map Mode, Shortcuts

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The “ENTER” and “BACK” buttons on the top of the display let you move up and down the menu tree. When you press “ENTER” you will select the current active menu choice. Pressing “BACK” will move you up the menu tree. To get us to the top of the menu tree, press “BACK” until “Select Item” is displayed on line 1 of the display. This is the top level menu. Use the scroll keys to navigate through the choices until you find “Objects”. Press “ENTER”. Now you should be able to navigate to “Constellations”. Once you are there press “ENTER” again. Now press “ENTER” to select “Andromeda”.

The telescope will now start to tell you the story of Andromeda. You can listen to the whole story, or press the “MEDIA” key to skip the story and more menu choices will appear. If you want to go from the menu, “BACK” to the story, just press the “MEDIA” key again to restart the story.

A complete tree of the available menu choice is contained in figure 6 on page 23 of the manual.

CHANGING MODES

Menu Mode

Up till now we have been exploring the Menu Mode. The handbox has several other modes in addition to simple menu navigation. You will notice the “0” key is also labelled “MODE”. Pressing “MODE” allows you to cycle through the telescopes three modes.

Scope Info Mode

Press “MODE” now. In Scope Info Mode the scroll keys allow you to look at the current time, date, and location where the telescope is pointing along with other key values about the status of your telescope.

Sky Map Mode

Press “MODE” again. The hand control display will show “Sky Map FOV=45”. In sky map mode an attached video monitor shows a planetarium-like map of the sky in the area where your telescope is pointed. Use the motion keys to move the scope and notice how the sky display changes as you move the scope. You can zoom the display in or out by pressing the scroll up and scroll down buttons.

Shortcuts!

Now lets look at the numeric keypad. Each of the number keys does two things. If the telescope is requesting input, the number keys allow you to enter digits into the telescope. When you are navigating the menus they act as shortcuts. Their assignments are as follows:

1.“SPEED”: We have already used this key. It allows you to change the slew speed of the telescope.

2.“CALDWELL”: Let’s you look up members of a popular group of bright deep sky objects that make up the Caldwell Catalog.

3.“MESSIER”: Let’s you look up some of the most famous bright deep sky objects that make up the Messier Catalog

4.“FOCUS”: If you have the optional electric focuser on you your telescope you can press this key to go to focus mode. Now the arrow keys will move the focus in or out.

5. “PLANETS”: Lets you directly lookup

a planet.

6.“STARS”: Lets you directly lookup a bright stars.

7.“VOLUME”: Gives you quick access to the telescope audio volume control

8.“TOURS”: Lets you directly select a guided tour.

(note: to exit a tour at any time hit the “MODE” Key.)

Now spend a little quality time with the telescope to get comfortable navigating its features. When you a comfortable, it is time to go out and explore the night sky.

AUTOSTAR III BASIC USAGE

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INDEX

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Contents LS-6 ACF / 6 LS-6 SC Index Contents LS-6 and LS-8 LightSwitch Telescopes IntroductionAssembling the Tripod StartedGetting Started Lock-KnobPower Port Installing the BatteriesUsing an AC Adapter or DC Power Cord Mounting the TelescopeAttaching Accessories Your Telescope is now Fully AssembledMode Key Speed 5 Medium Speed 1 SlowNavigating the Menus Autostar III Handbox Basic UsageKey Functions Sky Map Mode Menu ModeScope Info Mode ShortcutsLS Keyfeatures LS KEY FeaturesLS KEY Features USB-A Connector for future expansion Eyepiece HolderLS KEY Features Using the Red-Dot Finder Adjusting the Red-Dot Finder Series 4000 Super Plössl Eyepieces are excellent Optional AccessoriesChoosing Eyepieces Series 4000 Super Plössl EyepiecesOptional Accessories Focal Reducers Power SuppliesImagers and Accessories Deep Sky Imagers DSIAutostar III Handbox Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a ButtonAutostar III Handbox Slew Speeds Orion Nebula M42 Observing ConsiderationsTree Autostar III Menu TreeGuided Tour Menu Object MenuPleiades Star Cluster M45 Event MenuTake Picture Menu Take Picture EnterUtilities Menu Setup Menu Autostar III Menu Options Advanced LS Advanced LS FeaturesTwo Star Alt Az Alignment Landmarks Alt/Az 1 Star AlignmentFinding Objects Not in the Database To enter coordinates of an object into the TelescopeObserving Satellites To view a landmark in the databaseTerrestrial Observing Capitol Reef, UtahMaintenance MaintenanceCollimation Collimation Screws Gauging the Movement of the Telescope Inspecting the OpticsUpdating Your LS Firmware Customer Service LS Mini SD Card for Updates and Image StorageDrive Appendix aAppendix B Creating User Objects and ToursAppendix C Basic AstronomyObjects in Space Deep-Sky Objects Specifications SpecificationsModel and Product Number LS-6 SC # Optical System Model and Product Number 8LS-8 ACF # Optical System Model and Product Number LS-8 SC # Optical System DOC FCC Appendix ERecycling Recycling InformationMeade Limited Warranty

6" LS-6 SC, 8" LS-8 ACF, 6" LS-6 ACF, 8" LS-8 SC specifications

The Meade 8" LS-8 SC, 6" LS-6 ACF, 8" LS-8 ACF, and 6" LS-6 SC telescopes represent cutting-edge advancements in amateur astronomy, catering to both novice stargazers and seasoned astronomers alike. Each model incorporates innovative technologies, making it easier than ever to explore the cosmos.

The Meade 8" LS-8 SC (Schmidt-Cassegrain) features a compact design with an 8-inch aperture that provides exceptional light-gathering capabilities. This telescope utilizes an advanced computer-controlled system known as the AutoStar II. This technology allows for hassle-free navigation across the night sky. The LS-8 SC comes equipped with a built-in observatory, ensuring a user-friendly experience, allowing beginners to locate and track celestial objects with ease. The telescope's premium optics guarantee sharp, high-contrast images, making it an ideal choice for planetary and deep-sky observation.

Next, the Meade 6" LS-6 ACF (Advanced Coma-Free) delivers superior optical performance with minimal distortion. This design eliminates spherical aberrations, providing exceptionally sharp images across the entire field of view. Featuring a 6-inch aperture, the LS-6 ACF is highly portable and perfect for both visual observations and astrophotography. It includes the AutoStar computer system for easy alignment and tracking, as well as a robust, sturdy mount that enhances stability during viewing sessions.

The 8" LS-8 ACF builds on the strengths of its predecessors with an even larger aperture, ensuring maximum light-gathering potential for serious observers. The improved ACF optics yield crisp images without the common off-axis distortions seen in traditional designs. This telescope is also equipped with hassle-free setup features, allowing users to spend more time observing and less time setting up. The OTA design and mount are tailored for easy transport, making it a favorite for astrophotographers seeking high-quality celestial imagery.

Finally, the Meade 6" LS-6 SC offers a balanced option for those seeking portability without sacrificing optical quality. Like its larger counterpart, the LS-6 SC is designed for ease of use and includes the AutoStar technology for automated tracking. Its compact design and lightweight build make it convenient for travel, while still providing an impressive 6-inch aperture for celestial viewing.

In summary, the Meade 8" LS-8 SC, 6" LS-6 ACF, 8" LS-8 ACF, and 6" LS-6 SC telescopes exemplify the intersection of portability, usability, and advanced optics. Each telescope supports astronomers of all skill levels, making the wonders of the universe accessible to everyone. Whether you're observing planets, nebulae, or star clusters, Meade’s innovative technologies enhance the overall experience, ensuring that the night sky is within reach.
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