Meade 6" LS-6 SC, 8" LS-8 SC, 8" LS-8 ACF, 6" LS-6 ACF instruction manual Utilities Menu

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Stars”, and “Cont. Deep1” thru “Cont. Deep9”.

The setting after “Cont. Deep9” is Cust.Cont. (Custom Contrast). This setting allows you adjust the Contrast AND Brightness to create your own setting. Contrast is controlled using the LEFT/ RIGHT Arrow Keys. Brightness is controlled using the UP/DOWN Arrow Keys. NOTE: to fully utilize these the Custom Contrast setting you will need the use of an external monitor. Otherwise chose one of the thirteen pre-set Contrast curves.

•Shoot & Store: Allows you to take the image and save it to the SD once you have adjusted the settings and are happy with the preview. You must have an Mini SD Card formatted with the FAT32 file system inserted in the telescope to use this function. Press the “BACK” key to save the image.

•Dark Calibration: Allows you to take a dark frame of the same exposure as your image but with the camera lens covered to combine and subtract out noise from your image. You must cover the camera lens with the lens cap before you take the dark calibration frame.

Deep Sky Imager (DSI) Series: these high- performance, easy-to-use and affordable color and

black and white CCD camera suppresses electronic noise and by not compressing data from the sensor to increase picture quality. The Deep Sky Imager uses a full 16-bit analog-to-digital converter to enhance picture depth, contrast and dynamic range.

The DSI series are USB compatible to easily interface with most Windows-based laptop computers. It includes AutoStar Suite which automatically sorts, aligns and combines the best images, resulting in a

highly detailed color image.

The following Deep Sky Imagers models and accessories are available:

Deep Sky Imager III (DSI III)

Deep Sky Imager Pro III (DSI PRO III)

Deep Sky Imager II (DSI II)

Deep Sky Imager Pro II (DSI PRO II)

Deep Sky Imager Pro II (DSI PRO II), w/RGB Color Filter Set

Utilities Menu

The Utilities menu provides access to several extra features within LS:

Volume: Adjusts audio volume of the telescope using the Scroll keys. When complete, press “ENTER”.

HBX Brightness: Adjusts the brightness of the display using the Scroll keys. When complete, press “ENTER”.

HBX Contrast: Adjusts the contrast of the display using the Scroll keys. When complete, press “ENTER”.

Night Vision: When you have an external video monitor attached to your telescope, you will find the bright colorful displays may affect your night vision and make it difficult to see dim objects in the eyepiece of your telescope. The human eye’s sensitivity actually increases for about the first half hour you are in the dark. You have noticed this when you walk out of a dark theater into the daytime sun, how over bright the day seems. This dark adaptation of your eye can be reduced by white light. Red light does not have this effect on dark adapted vision. The night vision option on your telescope will change the display from color, to shades of red. There are three settings:

Auto – The video will automatically switch to red at night.

On – Selects full-time red video.

Off – Selects full-time color video.

AUTOSTAR III MENU OPTIONS

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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 SlowKey Functions Autostar III Handbox Basic UsageNavigating the Menus 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 Two Star Alt Az Alignment Advanced LS FeaturesAdvanced LS 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, 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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