Meade 6" LS-6 SC Alt/Az 1 Star Alignment, Finding Objects Not in the Database, Landmarks

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Alt/Az 1 Star Alignment

One-Star Alignment requires some knowledge of the night sky. LS provides a library of bright stars. One-Star Alignment is identical to Two-Star Alt/Az: Alignment (see TWO-STAR ALT/AZ ALIGNMENT above), except only one star from the database is chosen by the observer for alignment.

Finding Objects Not in the Database

Although LS contains an extensive database of celestial objects (stars, nebulae, planets, etc.) that you can observe, you may eventually want to view objects that are not part of the database. LS provides a feature that allows you to enter an object’s R.A. and Dec. and allows automatic slewing of the telescope to the user- entered coordinates.

In order to use this option, you first need to look up the R.A. and Dec. coordinates of the object or objects you wish to observe. Check out the Internet, local library, or bookstore for astronomy books, CD ROMs, or magazines (such as Sky & Telescope or Astronomy), to find coordinates of celestial objects.

To enter coordinates of an object into the Telescope:

1.Make sure LS has been initialized and the telescope has been aligned.

2.From any menu press the “MODE” key to change to Scope Info mode.

3.Scroll the display until the telescopes Current RA is displayed.

4.Press the “GOTO”key.The scope will now prompt you to enter the object’s coordinates.

5.“Right Asc.: 00.00.0” displays. Use the Number keys to enter the digits for the Right Ascension coordinate of your object. When you are finished, press “ENTER”.

6.“Declination: +00°.00’” displays. Use the Number keys to enter the digits for the Declination coordinate of your object. If necessary, use the Scroll Keys to change “+” to “-”. When you are finished, press “ENTER”.

7.The telescope will now slew to your object.

Landmarks

This menu option allows you to define and store terrestrial objects in the Landmark database. First, a landmark needs to be stored in memory using the “Landmark: Add” option. To view a landmark, use the “Landmark: Select” option.

To add a landmark to the database

In this procedure, you will store the location of terrestrial landmarks in LS’s memory.

1.Set the telescope in the home position, if necessary. Note for future reference where the telescope is located and if you have aligned the telescope, which alignment method is used.

IMPORTANT NOTE: To use the Landmark function, the telescope must be located and aligned exactly as when the landmark) was added to the database.

2.Display the “Setup: Targets” menu option. Chose “Terrestrial” and press “ENTER”. Choosing this option turns off tracking for astronomical objects. Be sure to change this option back to “Astronomical” when you wish to view celestial objects again.

3.Press “BACK” once. “Select Item: Setup” displays.

4.Press the Scroll Down key once and “Select Item: Object” displays. Press “ENTER”. “Object: Solar System” displays.

5.Press the Scroll Up key twice and “Object: Landmarks” displays Press “ENTER”. “Landmark: Select” displays.

6.Press the Scroll Down key once. “Landmark: Add” displays. Press “ENTER”.

7.“Landmark Name” displays. Using Arrow keys, enter a name for the landmark you wish to add to the database. When finished, press “ENTER”.

ADVANCED LS FEATURES

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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 SlowAutostar III Handbox Basic Usage Navigating the MenusKey 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 Features Advanced LSTwo 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 Inspecting the Optics Gauging the Movement of the TelescopeUpdating Your LS Firmware Customer Service LS Mini SD Card for Updates and Image StorageDrive Appendix aAppendix B Creating User Objects and ToursBasic 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 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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