Meade 6" LS-6 ACF, 8" LS-8 SC, 8" LS-8 ACF Using the Red-Dot Finder Adjusting the Red-Dot Finder

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Using the Red-Dot Finder

Adjusting the Red-Dot Finder

On/Off &

Brightness

Adjustment

LS KEY FEATURES

Because your telescope has so much magnification, its field of view is very small. This can make it hard to know exactly where your telescope is pointing by simply looking at it. To help you point the telescope quickly and accurately, for terrestrial targets or when not using Auto Alignment and GO TO pointing, the LS has a 1X Red-Dot Viewfinder.

The Red-Dot Finder will aid you in pointing your telescope easily. It works much like a fighter pilot’s heads-up display. To turn on the Red Dot Finder, carefully rotate the power switch until you feel it click on. Turning further clockwise will increase the dot brightness. Adjust the dot to the minimum brightness where it can be easily seen. This will extend its battery life and make it easier to see faint stars in the background. Look through the finder’s glass window. You will see a red dot superimposed on your view. Using the direction keys on the handbox, move the telescope until the red dot is on the target you want to view in the eyepiece. As you get close to your target, select a moderately low speed, like speed 5, and move the scope to center your target as you look through the eyepiece. This a great way to get used to finding the movement keys without removing your eye from the eyepiece.

The Red-Dot Finder has been aligned at the factory, but you may need to touch-up the alignment from time to time. To do this, look through the eyepiece of your scope and using the hand controller center a distant object. Now turn on the Red-Dot Viewfinder and adjust the brightness so you can see the red dot. Look through the sight as pictured above.

Adjustment

Screws

Now, without moving the telescope, adjust the indicated thumb screws until you have put the red dot on the object at which you were looking. It’s that simple.

Now use the hand controller to put the laser dot on a new target. Check to see that the desired target is in the eyepiece.

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INDEX

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Contents LS-6 ACF / 6 LS-6 SC Index Contents Introduction LS-6 and LS-8 LightSwitch TelescopesLock-Knob StartedGetting Started Assembling the TripodMounting the Telescope Installing the BatteriesUsing an AC Adapter or DC Power Cord Power PortYour Telescope is now Fully Assembled Attaching AccessoriesSpeed 5 Medium Speed 1 Slow Mode KeyAutostar III Handbox Basic Usage Navigating the MenusKey Functions Shortcuts Menu ModeScope Info Mode Sky Map ModeLS KEY Features LS KeyfeaturesLS KEY Features Eyepiece Holder USB-A Connector for future expansionLS KEY Features Using the Red-Dot Finder Adjusting the Red-Dot Finder Series 4000 Super Plössl Eyepieces Optional AccessoriesChoosing Eyepieces Series 4000 Super Plössl Eyepieces are excellentOptional Accessories Deep Sky Imagers DSI Power SuppliesImagers and Accessories Focal ReducersTour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button Autostar III HandboxAutostar III Handbox Slew Speeds Observing Considerations Orion Nebula M42Autostar III Menu Tree TreeObject Menu Guided Tour MenuTake Picture Enter Event MenuTake Picture Menu Pleiades Star Cluster M45Utilities Menu Setup Menu Autostar III Menu Options Advanced LS Features Advanced LSTwo Star Alt Az Alignment To enter coordinates of an object into the Telescope Alt/Az 1 Star AlignmentFinding Objects Not in the Database LandmarksTo view a landmark in the database Observing SatellitesCapitol Reef, Utah Terrestrial ObservingMaintenance MaintenanceCollimation Collimation Screws Inspecting the Optics Gauging the Movement of the TelescopeUpdating Your LS Firmware LS Mini SD Card for Updates and Image Storage Customer ServiceAppendix a DriveCreating User Objects and Tours Appendix BBasic Astronomy Appendix CObjects 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 Appendix E DOC FCCRecycling Information RecyclingMeade 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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