Meade StarNavigator instruction manual Appendix C, Observing Satellites

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APPENDIX C

Observing Satellites

In this procedure, you will prepare your telescope to observe a satellite pass.

1.Go to the "Object: Satellite" menu option and press ENTER.

2.Use the Scroll keys to scroll through the list of satellites.

3.Select a satellite from the list and press ENTER.

4."Calculating...." and then "Tracking..." displays. If the satellite is going to make a pass, "Located" displays.

5.Use the Scroll keys to display data about the pass: aos – acquisition of signal and los – loss of signal. If you subtract the aos from the los, you can calculate how long the satellite will be visible. Location information also displays.

6."Alarm" displays after the location information. Press ENTER and Audiostar automatically sets the alarm to sound a minute before the satellite's scheduled appearance. You may return to regular observations until the alarm goes off.

7.When the alarm goes off, return to the Satellite menu and press a Scroll key until the desired satellite is on the top line of the display.

8.Press GO TO. Audiostar slews the telescope to where the satellite should appear. The motor drive stops and a countdown is displayed.

NOTE: If the scheduled appearance position of the satellite is obstructed (i.e., by a building, tree, or hill), press ENTER and Audiostar starts to move the telescope along the expected satellite track. When the track clears the obstruction, press ENTER again to pause the telescope, then continue with this procedure.

9.With about 20 seconds left on the countdown timer, start watching through the telescope viewfinder for the satellite to enter the field of view.

10.When the satellite enters the viewfinder field of view, press ENTER. The telescope starts to track with the satellite.

11.Use the Audiostar Arrow keys to centre the object in the viewfinder, then look through the eyepiece to view the object.

Satellite orbits change and new satellites (including the Space Shuttle) are launched. Visit the Meade website (www.meade.com) approximately once a month to get updated information and instructions on how to download this data to Audiostar. If orbital parameters are more than one month old, the satellite pass may not happen at the time predicted by Audiostar. Downloading requires the optional #505 AstroFinder™ Software and Cable Connector Kit. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 32.

NOTE: Satellite observing is an exciting challenge. Most satellites are in low orbit, travelling at approximately 17,500 mph/28,163 kph. When visible, they move quickly across the sky and are only in the field of view for a few minutes, requiring Audiostar to slew the telescope rapidly. Best viewing is near Sunrise or Sunset when the sky is still dark. Viewing in the middle of the night can be problematic because the satellite may pass overhead, but not be visible as it is in the Earth's shadow.

Looking at or near the Sun will cause irreversible damage to your eye. Do not point this telescope at or near the Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving.

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Contents StarNavigator Series Reflecting and Refracting Telescopes Refracting Telescope Contents Easy SET-UP Guide Slew Speeds Speed 9 Fast Arrow Assembly View Starnavigator Refractingtelescopes SideAssembly View Starnavigator Reflectingtelescopes 8 14 15This page folds out Telescope Features Altitude Setting Circle and LockComputer Control Panel Fig. Ic StarNavigator Audiostar handbox Audiostar Features Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a ButtonPads allow the mount to move smoothly How to Assemble Your Telescope Getting StartedPacking List Red Dot Viewfinder Aligning the Red Dot ViewfinderChoosing an Eyepiece Never point the telescope directly atObserving by Moving the Telescope Manually Observing Using Audiostars Arrow KeysObserving Terrestrial ObservingObserve the Moon Slew SpeedsPlaying the Audio Astronomical ObservingMoving Through Audiostar’s Menus To Track an Object AutomaticallyAlt/Az Home Position Initializing AudiostarEasy Two-Star Align How to Easy Align Your Telescope Two-Star Alt/Az AlignmentOne-Star Alt/Az Alignment Go To SaturnTake a Guided Tour Basic Audiostar Operation Audiostar Navigation ExerciseNavigating Audiostar Adjusting the Speed of a Scrolling MessageEntering data into Audiostar To Calculate Sunset timeMenus and Menu Options Object MenuEvent Menu Glossary Menu Utilities MenuSetup Menu EnterTime Zone Shift Surf the Web To Add a Site to the user-defined site list Advanced Audiostar FeaturesAdding Observing Sites To Edit a SiteTo Select a landmark from the database LandmarksTo Add a landmark to the database To perform a Landmark SurveyTo check on the available amount of memory in Audiostar IdentifyBrowse Displayed information ExampleStarNavigator Look into the Future Optional Accessories Caring for Your Telescope CollimationMeade Consumer Solutions Do not look through the telescope as it is moving Specifications StarNavigator60StarNavigator114 Appendix a Celestial CoordinatesLocating the Celestial Pole Using Audiostar to Find Objects Not in the Database Appendix BTo GO to a user-entered object Appendix C Observing SatellitesAppendix D Training the DriveAppendix E How to manually set the date to March 6How to manually set the time to 1130 p.m Appendix FObjects in Space Basic AstronomyAudiostar Glossary MoonPlanets Deep-Sky ObjectsRecycling Information EU Countries only Meade Limited Warranty

StarNavigator specifications

The Meade StarNavigator telescope is an impressive entry-level instrument designed primarily for amateur astronomers who seek a user-friendly experience without compromising on quality. Renowned for its blend of innovative technologies, ease of use, and excellent value for money, the StarNavigator series opens up the wonders of the night sky to enthusiasts of all ages.

One of the standout features of the StarNavigator is its high-quality optics. Equipped with a fully multi-coated achromatic refractor, it offers bright and clear images, which are essential for observing celestial objects. The telescope typically features a large aperture, enabling it to gather more light, thus revealing intricate details of planets, stars, and even distant galaxies.

The StarNavigator series is powered by the Autostar hand controller, which incorporates Meade's advanced computer technology. This intuitive control system allows users to easily navigate the night sky by simply inputting the desired celestial object. The telescope will automatically locate and track it, providing a hassle-free viewing experience.

Another notable characteristic of the StarNavigator is its portability. With a lightweight and compact design, it can be easily transported, making it an excellent choice for stargazing trips or backyard observations. The sturdy mount, often a form of an altazimuth base, ensures stability and ease of movement, allowing for smooth adjustments during observations.

In addition to its optical and navigational prowess, the StarNavigator includes several accessories. Users typically receive quality eyepieces that enhance their viewing experience by offering different magnifications. Moreover, many models come equipped with a finderscope, which assists in aiming the telescope at celestial objects more accurately.

Built with durability in mind, the Meade StarNavigator telescope is constructed from high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Its design is not only functional but also visually appealing, often featuring a sleek and modern look.

Overall, the Meade StarNavigator telescope represents a perfect harmony between user-friendly technology and exceptional optical performance, making it a top choice for both budding astronomers and seasoned stargazers. With its combination of responsive controls, quality optics, and portability, it promises countless nights of wonder and discovery under the stars.
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