Meade 8" LS-8 SC, 8" LS-8 ACF, 6" LS-6 SC, 6" LS-6 ACF instruction manual Autostar III Handbox

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“ENTER” Key: Selects the option on the second line of the display. When you are looking at descriptive object text, “ENTER” will synchronize the telescope’s coordinates with the object. This is most useful when synching on bright stars to achieve better pointing in the vicinity of the star. See NAVIGATING THE MENUS, page 9 and AUTOSTAR III MENU TREE, page 23.

“BACK” Key: Returns to the previous menu or data level in the AutoStar database until the top level, “Select Item,” is reached.

NOTE: Pressing “BACK” while in the “Select Item” level moves LS to the topmost screen: “Select Item: Object.”

“MODE” KEY: Cycles the telescope through its different modes.

NOTE: During any telescope operation, pressing and holding the “MODE” key will stop the current operation

From a mode other than the Menu Mode, pressing the “BACK” key will return the telescope to Menu Mode.

Scope Info: When in Menu Mode, pressing “MODE” changes the telescope into Scope Information Mode. Information about the telescope’s status displays on the handbox and any attached video monitor. When the status displays, press one of the Scroll keys (Pg. 19, Fig. 5, 7) to display the following information:

• Right Ascension and Declination (astronomical) coordinates.

•Altitude (vertical) and Azimuth (horizontal) coordinates .

•Local Time and Local Sidereal Time (LST)

•Timer and Alarm Status

•Date

•Site coordinates

•Battery status

•Telescope Serial Number

•Free Memory remaining in the telescope

Sky Map: Press “MODE” again and the scope changes to SkyMap Mode. In this mode, an attached video monitor will display a tracking sky map, showing the stars and constellations in the area to which the telescope is pointed. Pressing the scroll-up and scroll-down keys will zoom the map in and out.

Menu: Press “MODE” again to return to the Menu Mode.

“GO TO” Key: Slews (moves) the telescope to the coordinates of the last selected object. While the telescope is slewing, the operation may be aborted at any time by pressing any key except “GO TO”. Pressing “GO TO” again resumes the slew to the object.

AUTOSTAR III HANDBOX

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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 IntroductionStarted Getting StartedAssembling the Tripod Lock-KnobInstalling the Batteries Using an AC Adapter or DC Power CordPower Port Mounting the TelescopeAttaching Accessories Your Telescope is now Fully AssembledMode Key Speed 5 Medium Speed 1 SlowKey Functions Autostar III Handbox Basic UsageNavigating the Menus Menu Mode Scope Info ModeSky Map 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 Optional Accessories Choosing EyepiecesSeries 4000 Super Plössl Eyepieces are excellent Series 4000 Super Plössl EyepiecesOptional Accessories Power Supplies Imagers and AccessoriesFocal Reducers 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 MenuEvent Menu Take Picture MenuPleiades Star Cluster M45 Take Picture EnterUtilities Menu Setup Menu Autostar III Menu Options Two Star Alt Az Alignment Advanced LS FeaturesAdvanced LS Alt/Az 1 Star Alignment Finding Objects Not in the DatabaseLandmarks To enter coordinates of an object into the TelescopeObserving Satellites To view a landmark in the databaseTerrestrial Observing Capitol Reef, UtahCollimation MaintenanceMaintenance Collimation Screws Updating Your LS Firmware Inspecting the OpticsGauging the Movement of the Telescope Customer Service LS Mini SD Card for Updates and Image StorageDrive Appendix aAppendix B Creating User Objects and ToursObjects in Space Basic AstronomyAppendix C 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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