Meade StarNavigator instruction manual Telescope Features, Altitude Setting Circle and Lock

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TELESCOPE FEATURES

Take the time to become acquainted with all of these controls before attempting observations through the telescope.

￿Focus Knob: Moves the telescope’s focus drawtube in a finely-controlled motion to achieve precise image focus. Rotate the focus knob clockwise to focus on distant objects, and counterclockwise to focus on nearby objects.

￿Eyepiece Holder: Holds the eyepiece in place. On refractor models, also holds the 90° diagonal prism in place.

￿90° Diagonal Prism (refractor models only): Holds the eyepiece upright for easy viewing. Results in an upright, but reversed viewing of land objects.

￿Eyepiece Holder Thumbscrew: Tightens the eyepiece in place. Tighten to a firm feel only.

￿Eyepiece: Place the supplied eyepiece into the eyepiece holder (reflector models only) or the 90° Diagonal Prism (refractor models only, 3, Fig. 1) and tighten in place with thumbscrew (4, Fig.1).

￿Focus Lock Knob: Designed to prevent the focuser drawtube from moving when a heavy accessory, such as a camera, is attached to the focuser assembly. For normal observing with an eyepiece and diagonal prism, it is not necessary to use the lock knob.

￿Red Dot Viewfinder and Mounting Bracket: Provides an easier way to initially sight objects than the main telescope eyepiece which has a narrower field of view. Slide the switch on the side of the red dot viewfinder to turn on the device and to change the intensity of the red dot.

￿Red Dot Viewfinder Alignment Screws: Adjust these screws to align the viewfinder. See page 12 for more information.

￿Compass/Bubble Level: Compass will assist you in finding North. Bubble level can be used to level the optical tube when setting the Home Position (included with refractng models only.)

￿Altitude Setting Circle and Lock

A)Altitude Setting Circle: Displays Altitude (vertical) coordinates (E, Fig. Ib).

B) Altitude Lock: Controls the manual vertical movement of the telescope. Turning the Altitude lock counterclockwise unlocks the telescope enabling it to be freely tilted by hand on the vertical axis. Turning the Altitude lock clockwise (to a firm feel only) prevents the telescope from being moved manually and engages the vertical motor drive clutch for Audiostar operation (F, Fig. Ib).

￿Dew Shield: Reduces dew formation on the telescope's primary lens (refractor models only).

￿Dust Cap: Pull to remove the dust cap from the front lens of the telescope.

Note: The dust cap should be replaced and the power turned off to the telescope after each observing session. Verify that any dew that might have collected during the observing session has evaporated before replacing the dust cap.

￿Optical Tube: The main optical component that gathers the light from distant objects and brings this light to a focus for observation with the eyepiece.

￿Cradle Ring Lock Knob: Tighten to a firm feel to hold the optical tube securely in place.

￿Cradle Ring: Holds optical tube in place. Attaches to the mounting arm shaft (16, Fig. 1).

￿Mounting Arm and Shaft: Holds the optical tube assembly. Attaches to the tripod base (23, Fig. 1).

￿Computer Control Panel (Fig. Ic)

A.Handbox (HBX) Port: Plug the Audiostar handbox.

B.LED: The red power indicator light illuminates when power is supplied to the connected handbox and to the telescope’s motor drive.

C.ON Switch: Press to turn the Computer Control Panel and Audiostar ON or OFF.

Note: Always remove the batteries if they are not to be used for a long period of time.

D.Auxiliary (AUX) Port: Provides connection for current and future Meade accessories. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 32.

Looking at or near the Sun will cause irreversable 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 Telescope Features Altitude Setting Circle and LockComputer 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 How to Assemble Your Telescope Getting StartedPacking List Aligning the Red Dot Viewfinder Red Dot ViewfinderNever point the telescope directly at Choosing an EyepieceObserving Observing Using Audiostars Arrow KeysObserving by Moving the Telescope Manually Terrestrial ObservingPlaying the Audio Slew SpeedsObserve the Moon Astronomical ObservingAlt/Az Home Position To Track an Object AutomaticallyMoving Through Audiostar’s Menus Initializing AudiostarEasy Two-Star Align Two-Star Alt/Az Alignment How to Easy Align Your TelescopeOne-Star Alt/Az Alignment Go To SaturnTake a Guided Tour Audiostar Navigation Exercise Basic Audiostar OperationEntering data into Audiostar Adjusting the Speed of a Scrolling MessageNavigating Audiostar To Calculate Sunset timeObject Menu Menus and Menu OptionsEvent Menu Utilities Menu Glossary MenuEnter Setup MenuTime Zone Shift Surf the Web Adding Observing Sites Advanced Audiostar FeaturesTo Add a Site to the user-defined site list To Edit a SiteTo Add a landmark to the database LandmarksTo Select a landmark from the database To perform a Landmark SurveyBrowse IdentifyTo check on the available amount of memory in Audiostar Displayed information ExampleStarNavigator 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 Appendix a Celestial CoordinatesLocating the Celestial Pole Using Audiostar to Find Objects Not in the Database Appendix BTo GO to a user-entered object Observing Satellites Appendix CTraining the Drive Appendix DHow to manually set the time to 1130 p.m How to manually set the date to March 6Appendix E Appendix FAudiostar Glossary Basic AstronomyObjects in Space MoonDeep-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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