Meade StarNavigator instruction manual Appendix D, Training the Drive

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APPENDIX D

Training the Drive

Train the telescope motors using Audiostar. Perform this procedure if you are experiencing any pointing accuracy problems. Fig. 32 depicts the complete Drive Training procedure.

NOTE: Use a terrestrial object, such as a telephone pole or lamp post, to train the drive. Complete this exercise once every 3 to 6 months to maintain the highest level of telescope pointing accuracy.

This manual gives only the briefest introduction to astronomy. If you are interested in pursuing further studies, a few topics are suggested below that are worth reading up on. Try looking up some of these topics in the Audiostar glossary.

Also below is a small sampling of books, magazines, and organizations that you might find helpful.

Topics

1. How is a star born? How does a solar system form?

2. How is the distance to a star measured? What is a light year? What is red shift and blue shift?

3. How are the craters on our Moon formed? How old is the Moon and Earth? How old is the Sun?

4. What is a black hole? A neutron star?

5. What are stars made of? Why are stars different colours? What is a white dwarf? A red giant? Have we ever seen the surface of a star besides our own Sun?

6. What is a nova? A supernova?

7. What are comets? Minor planets? Meteors? Meteor showers? Where do they come from?

8. What is a planetary nebula? A globular cluster?

9. What is the Big Bang? Is the universe expanding or contracting, or does it always remain the same? What is dark matter?

10. What is an extrasolar planet? What is an accretion (or protoplanetary) disk?

11. What is the difference between an elliptical, a spiral, and an irregular galaxy?

Magazines

1. Sky & Telescope

Box 9111, Belmont, MA 02178

2. Astronomy

Box 1612, Waukesha, WI 53187

And watch Jack Horkheimer, Star Gazer, on your local

PBS station.

Fig. 32: Training the drive

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 Side Assembly View Starnavigator Refractingtelescopes8 14 15 Assembly View Starnavigator ReflectingtelescopesThis page folds out Altitude Setting Circle and Lock Telescope FeaturesComputer Control Panel Fig. Ic StarNavigator Audiostar handbox Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button Audiostar FeaturesPads allow the mount to move smoothly Getting Started How to Assemble Your TelescopePacking List Aligning the Red Dot Viewfinder Red Dot ViewfinderNever point the telescope directly at Choosing an EyepieceTerrestrial Observing Observing Using Audiostars Arrow KeysObserving Observing by Moving the Telescope ManuallyAstronomical Observing Slew SpeedsPlaying the Audio Observe the MoonInitializing Audiostar To Track an Object AutomaticallyAlt/Az Home Position Moving Through Audiostar’s MenusEasy Two-Star Align Two-Star Alt/Az Alignment How to Easy Align Your TelescopeGo To Saturn One-Star Alt/Az AlignmentTake a Guided Tour Audiostar Navigation Exercise Basic Audiostar OperationTo Calculate Sunset time Adjusting the Speed of a Scrolling MessageEntering data into Audiostar Navigating AudiostarObject Menu Menus and Menu OptionsEvent Menu Utilities Menu Glossary MenuEnter Setup MenuTime Zone Shift Surf the Web To Edit a Site Advanced Audiostar FeaturesAdding Observing Sites To Add a Site to the user-defined site listTo perform a Landmark Survey LandmarksTo Add a landmark to the database To Select a landmark from the databaseDisplayed information Example IdentifyBrowse To check on the available amount of memory in AudiostarStarNavigator Look into the Future Optional Accessories Collimation Caring for Your TelescopeMeade Consumer Solutions Do not look through the telescope as it is moving StarNavigator60 SpecificationsStarNavigator114 Celestial Coordinates Appendix aLocating the Celestial Pole Appendix B Using Audiostar to Find Objects Not in the DatabaseTo GO to a user-entered object Observing Satellites Appendix CTraining the Drive Appendix DAppendix F How to manually set the date to March 6How to manually set the time to 1130 p.m Appendix EMoon Basic AstronomyAudiostar Glossary Objects in SpaceDeep-Sky Objects PlanetsRecycling 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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