Meade 6" LS-6 SC, 8" LS-8 SC, 8" LS-8 ACF, 6" LS-6 ACF Orion Nebula M42, Observing Considerations

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“9/Display” – Toggles video output between on/off.

“0/Mode” – This key lets you cycle through the telescope’s modes, (See the entry above).

Scroll Keys: Accesses options within a selected menu. The menu is displayed on the first line of the screen. Options within the menu are displayed, one at a time, on the second line. Press the Scroll keys to move through the options. Press and hold a Scroll key to move quickly through the options. When entering data, the Scroll Down key and the Down Arrow key move forward through the alphabet & digits (A to Z, 0 to 9). The Scroll Up key and the Up Arrow key move backward (Z to A, 9 to 0). Common symbols are also available in the list.

“MEDIA” Key: The media key lets you toggle help and audio/video descriptions on and off. At any time you are navigating the menus, pressing the Media Key will start an explanation of the menu’s function. If you have selected an object, pressing the media key, will tell you more about the object. If a media clip is playing, pressing “MEDIA” stops the media clip and moves you back to the menu or object display.

Coil Cord Port: Plug one end of the AutoStar coil cord into this port (Pg. 19. Fig. 5, 9) located at the bottom of the AutoStar handbox.

Coil Cord: Plug one end of the AutoStar coil cord into the HNDBX port (Pg. 12, Fig. 4, 23) of the input/output panel of the telescope and the other end into the coil cord port (Fig. 5, 9).

Orion Nebula (M42)

LS TIPS

Observing Considerations

•Try to pick an observing site away from street and house lights and car headlights. While this is not always possible, the darker the site, the better.

•Try not to use a standard flashlight. Experienced observers use red LED flashlights, the red utility light on the AutoStar III handbox, or tape red cellophane over their flashlights to use for setup and map reading so they don’t have to continually readjust their eyes to the darkness. Be careful not to shine bright lights if there are other observers in the area. Do not shine a flashlight into the telescope while someone is observing!

•Dress warmly. It gets chilly when you’re sitting for prolonged periods.

•Practice setting up your equipment during the day or in a lighted area to become familiar with it before going to a dark site.

•Use your 26mm eyepiece to view terrestrial objects and wider areas of space, such as open star clusters. Use optional higher power eyepieces, such as a 9mm eyepiece, when you wish to view something up close, such as craters on the Moon or the rings of Saturn.

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 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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