Meade 6" LS-6 ACF, 8" LS-8 SC Inspecting the Optics, Gauging the Movement of the Telescope

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Inspecting the Optics

A Note About the “Flashlight Test”: If a flashlight or other high-intensity light source is pointed down the main telescope tube, the view (depending upon the observer’s line of sight and the angle of the light) may reveal what appears to be scratches, dark or bright spots, or just generally uneven coatings, giving the appearance of poor quality optics. These effects are only seen when a high intensity light is transmitted through lenses or reflected off the mirrors, and can be seen on any high quality optical system, including giant research telescopes.

The optical quality of a telescope cannot be judged by the “flashlight test;” the true test of optical quality can only be conducted through careful star testing.

Gauging the Movement of the Telescope

A common complaint of many first-time telescope owners is that they cannot see the telescope “move” when the motor drive is engaged. If fact, when the batteries are installed, the power is on, the telescope is moving. However, the movement is at the same speed as the hour hand of a 24-hour clock; as such, the movement is difficult to discern visually.

To check the movement of your telescope, look at an astronomical object through the telescope’s eyepiece with the telescope polar aligned and with the motor drive on. If the object remains stationary in the field of view, your telescope is operating properly. If not, check to ensure that “Astronomical” is selected in the “Targets” option of the setup menu.

Updating Your LS Firmware

Meade is constantly refining and improving the operating firmware that controls our computerized telescopes and we even add new features and capabilities from time to time. Your new LS shipped with the most current firmware at the time of manufacture, but there may well be a new version available through the AutoStar Updated program supplied on the AutoStar Suite DVD

supplied with your telescope. The Updater goes online to the Meade web site and checks to see if there is a newer version available and can download it directly to the telescope through a user supplied USB cable or it can create a bootable Mini SD Card that, when inserted into the telescope’s Mini SD Card slot (Pg. 12, Fig. 3, 10), will transfer the files to the telescope on startup. Please see the AutoStar Suite documentation for details on how to perform the update.

Here are the steps to update your firmware:

1.InstallAutoStar Suite software and the USB driver from the DVD included with the telescope.

2.Attached telescope with user supplied USB cable or insert a mini SD card or micro SD in mini holder into a card reader to internet connected computer.

3.Turn on the LS and press “MODE” to abort from the alignment.

4.Run AutoStar Suite

5.Select the “Telescope” menu from the menu bar near the top of the screen.

6.Select “Product Updates” from the drop down menu.

7.Click “OK” or “Yes” in the message box to be sure you have the latest version of the Updater software.

8.If you see “Error Box” about searching for COM Ports and you have your telescope connected with a USB cable, click “Yes”. If you are using an SD Card, click “No”.

9.Click on “Upgrade AutoStar Software Now”.

10.Open the drop down menu called “Specify Type of AutoStar...”.

11.Select LS.

12.If you want to make an Mini SD Card, check the SD box.

13.Click “OK” and the firmware will download and install.

MAINTENANCE

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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 KeyKey Functions Autostar III Handbox Basic UsageNavigating the Menus 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 Two Star Alt Az Alignment Advanced LS FeaturesAdvanced LS 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 ObservingCollimation MaintenanceMaintenance Collimation Screws Updating Your LS Firmware Inspecting the OpticsGauging the Movement of the Telescope LS Mini SD Card for Updates and Image Storage Customer ServiceAppendix a DriveCreating User Objects and Tours Appendix BObjects 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 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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