Meade 8" LS-8 ACF, 8" LS-8 SC, 6" LS-6 SC Getting Started, Assembling the Tripod, Lock-Knob

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GETTING STARTED

You may want to perform the LS assembly indoors in the light so that you become familiar with the parts and operation before moving the telescope outside into the dark for observing. This Getting Started Guide assumes you are too impatient to read the entire manual first and want to use your new telescope as quickly as possible. Just follow the simple steps below and you will be up and running before you know it.

STARTED

It is best to set up the telescope in twilight or before sunset the first time you use it. Take the telescope and tripod outside. Set the telescope in a large open area where you can see lots of sky. Don’t setup right next to a building or a wall. Also try to stay away from large metal objects like a car or a metal fence. Make sure the ground is stable and is approximately level. It is best to set up the scope away from bright nighttime lighting. Bright lights will spoil your night vision and impede your ability to see the sky. Additionally, it will take the telescope longer to align itself if there are too many bright lights around.

Assembling the Tripod

Lock-Knob

Thread in two lock-knobs on each leg (six total) near the foot of each tripod leg. Use the lock-knobs to vary the height of the inner, extendible tripod leg sections. Tighten the locks to a firm feel only; do not overtighten.

GETTING

Spreader Shaft

End Nut

Spreader Bar

Remove the field tripod from the shipping carton. Stand the tripod vertically with the tripod feet down and with the tripod still fully collapsed. Grasp two of the tripod legs and, with the full weight of the tripod on the third leg, gently pull the legs apart to a fully open position.

Remove the end nut from the spreader shaft and slide the spreader in between the telescope legs. Attach the end nut and hand tighten until the telescope legs are held snuggly in the most spread position. Position the tripod where you want the telescope to be and check that the top of the tripod is approximately level.

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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 TelescopesGetting Started StartedAssembling the Tripod Lock-KnobUsing an AC Adapter or DC Power Cord Installing the BatteriesPower Port Mounting the TelescopeYour Telescope is now Fully Assembled Attaching AccessoriesSpeed 5 Medium Speed 1 Slow Mode KeyKey Functions Autostar III Handbox Basic UsageNavigating the Menus Scope Info Mode Menu ModeSky Map Mode ShortcutsLS 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 Choosing Eyepieces Optional AccessoriesSeries 4000 Super Plössl Eyepieces are excellent Series 4000 Super Plössl EyepiecesOptional Accessories Imagers and Accessories Power SuppliesFocal Reducers Deep Sky Imagers DSITour 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 Menu Event MenuPleiades Star Cluster M45 Take Picture EnterUtilities Menu Setup Menu Autostar III Menu Options Two Star Alt Az Alignment Advanced LS FeaturesAdvanced LS Finding Objects Not in the Database Alt/Az 1 Star AlignmentLandmarks To enter coordinates of an object into the TelescopeTo 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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