Meade 6" LS-6 ACF Autostar III Handbox, Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button

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AUTOSTAR III HANDBOX

“ENTER” Key

“BACK” Key

MODE Key

“GO TO” Key

Arrow Keys

Number /

Shortcut Keys

Scroll Keys

“MEDIA” Key

Coil Cord Port

Coil Cord

Figure 5: The AutoStar III Handbox

AUTOSTAR III HANDBOX

Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button

The

AutoStar III hand controller operates the

LS

telescope with just a few pushes of AutoStar’s

buttons. Some of the major features of AutoStar

IIIare:

•Automatically move the telescope to any of over 90,000 objects stored in the database or manually enter the astronomical coordinates of any celestial object.

•Take a guided tour of the best celestial objects to view on any given night of the year.

•Download the latest satellite data and software revisions directly from the Meade website (www.meade.com) and share software with other LS enthusiasts.

The AutoStar Computer handbox provides control of virtually every telescope function. AutoStar III has soft-touch keys designed to have a positive feel. The LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is backlit with a red LED (Light Emitting Diode) for easy viewing in the dark. The backlit display, key arrangement, and sequential database make AutoStar extremely user friendly.

2-Line LCD Display: Provides an interface between LS and the user.

•Top line: Lists the primary category or menu item.

•Bottom line: Contains a menu option or additional information about an object or subject, depending on which function is being performed.

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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 KeyNavigating the Menus Autostar III Handbox Basic UsageKey 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 Advanced LS FeaturesTwo 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 Gauging the Movement of the Telescope Inspecting the OpticsUpdating Your LS Firmware LS Mini SD Card for Updates and Image Storage Customer ServiceAppendix a DriveCreating User Objects and Tours Appendix BAppendix 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 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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