Meade ETX-60AT instruction manual Maintenance

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When turning the focus knob, it takes a moment for the image to change:
• The focus knob may need to be reset. Verify that the dust cover is in place at the front of the objective lens cell (5, Fig. 1). Turn the optical tube so that is pointing straight up through the fork arms and lock the vertical lock. Carefully, turn the telescope upside down so that the front of the objective lens cell is resting on a clean, flat surface. Use the pro- vided hex wrench to slightly loosen the focus knob set screw. Make sure the focus knob is flush against the rear cell of the telescope and retighten the focus knob set screw.
The optics within the telescope need time to adjust to the outside ambient temperature to provide the sharpest image. To "cool down" the optics, set the telescope outside for 10 to 15 minutes before observing begins.
For clear viewing of objects, turn the focus knob (8, Fig. 1) slowly since the “in-focus” point of a telescope is precise. Turning the focus knob too quickly may cause the focus point to pass without notice.
If viewing a land object on a warm day, heat waves distort the image. See “TERRESTRIAL OBSERVING,” page 21.
If inside a warm house or building, move outside. Interior air conditions may distort ter- restrial or celestial images, making it difficult, if not impossible, to obtain a sharp focus. For optimal viewing, use the telescope outside in the open air instead of observing through an open or closed window or screen.
Slew speed does not change when the Speed/? key is pressed, or the telescope moves slowly even though the fast slew speed is chosen:
• The battery power may be low. See “HOW TO ASSEMBLE YOUR TELESCOPE,” page 10.
Images through the eyepiece appear unfocused or distorted:
• The magnification used may be too high for the seeing conditions. Back off to a lower power eyepiece. See “TOO MUCH POWER?,” page 11.
Confirm that the flip-mirror control (15, Fig. 1) is in the “up” position (Fig. 2a) if using the eyepiece holder (3, Fig. 1) so that light is directed to the eyepiece (1, Fig. 1). Confirm that the flip-mirror control is in the “down” position (Fig. 2b) if using the #933 Erecting Prism or performing photography with the ETX-60AT or ETX-70AT. See “TELESCOPE FEA- TURES,” page 4 and “PHOTOGRAPHY WITH THE ETX,” page 23.
Unable to see an image through the eyepiece:
• Confirm that the dust cap has been removed from the telescope.
If all physical obstacles are removed and the telescope still does not move properly, turn off the power and unplug Autostar. Plug the Autostar back in and turn the power back on.
If the telescope does not slew after power is applied or if the motor quits or stalls, verify that there are no physical obstructions that would impede telescope movement.
If Autostar does not respond to commands, set the Computer Control Panel power switch to OFF and then back to ON.
NOTE: If the batteries are getting low on charge, there will be a marked difference in the slew speed. The speed indicator lights may also flash and the speed may change. If any of these symptoms occur, turn the power off and replace the batter- ies.
Verify that the batteries are installed correctly and that they have sufficient charge. See “HOW TO ASSEMBLE YOUR TELESCOPE,” page 10.
Verify that the Autostar cord (4, Fig. 3) is firmly connected to the HBX port (10A, Fig. 1).
The power indicator light on the telescope does not come on or there is no response when pressing Autostar Arrow keys:
• Verify that the Computer Control Panel power switch (10C, Fig. 1) is in the ON position.
Troubleshooting
The following suggestions may be helpful with operation of the ETX-60AT or ETX-70AT.

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Contents Meade Instruments Corporation Contents If you wish to observe using Autostar’s databases, go to QUICK-START GuideTelescope Features ETX-60AT and ETX-70AT TelescopeETX Your Personal Window to the Universe Computer Control Panel Flip mirror control in the up positionAutostar Features Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a ButtonAutostar Features Join an Astronomy Club Attend a Star Party Parts Listing How to Assemble Your TelescopeGetting Started Choosing an EyepieceManual Operation of the Telescope Using Autostars Arrow Keys Manual Operation of the Telescope without AutostarMoving Through Autostar’s Menus Initializing AutostarAutostar Operation Autostar Navigation ExerciseEasy Two-Star Alignment Easy Two-Star Alignment ProcedureTo Calculate Sunset time Observing Exercises Using the Guided TourGo To Saturn Complete Autostar Menu Structure Autostar MenusObject Menu Event Menu Glossary Menu Utilities MenuSetup Menu Surf the WebMenu Daylight Saving, Advanced Features One-Star Alt/Az Alignment Two-Star Alt/Az AlignmentSlew Speeds Observing a Satellite Photography with the ETXInstrument across the two slots and turn coun Few tips on photography with the ETX-60AT or ETX-70ATOptional Accessories Astrofinder Software#882 Standard Field Tripod set in Alt/Az Configuration Maintenance and Servicing General MaintenanceStorage and Transport Inspecting the OpticsMaintenance Meade Customer Service ETX-60AT/ETX-70AT SpecificationsAutostar Specifications ETX-60AT/ETX-70AT Specifications contdAutostar Dimensions Polar Alignment Appendix a Equatorial Polar AlignmentCelestial Coordinates Autostar Polar Alignment Easy Polar AlignmentOne-Star Polar Alignment Two-Star Polar AlignmentAppendix B Using Autostar to Enter R.A. and DEC Coordinates To GO to a user-entered objectAppendix C Helpful Charts Latitude Chart for Major Cities of the WorldCity State Latitude City Country LatitudeAppendix D Training the Drive Is centeredAppendix E Initialization Example EnterBasic Astronomy Autostar GlossaryObjects in Space MoonPlanets Deep-Sky ObjectsStar Locator Season Star Name Constellation DecMeade Instruments Corporation

ETX-60AT specifications

The Meade ETX-60AT is a compact, portable telescope designed for amateur astronomers and budding astrophotographers. Known for its ease of use and exceptional optical performance, the ETX-60AT combines innovative technologies with user-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for stargazers of all skill levels.

One of the standout characteristics of the ETX-60AT is its 60mm aperture, which allows for impressive light-gathering capabilities. This telescope is equipped with a high-quality Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design that delivers sharp, clear images with minimal distortion. The multi-coated optics enhance light transmission, ensuring brighter images with better color fidelity, which is essential for planetary and deep-sky observations.

The telescope boasts a lightweight and compact design, making it highly portable for on-the-go astronomy. Weighing only about 4.5 pounds, the ETX-60AT comes with a sturdy, adjustable tripod that provides stable support during observation. The telescope is also equipped with a unique fork mount that includes Meade's AutoStar technology, allowing for automatic tracking of celestial objects. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners, as it simplifies the process of locating and tracking stars and planets.

Meade’s AutoStar system is a highlight of the ETX-60AT, featuring a database with thousands of celestial objects. This intelligent computer control allows users to simply input the desired object, and the telescope will automatically position itself accordingly. The intuitive hand controller enhances the viewing experience by offering guided tours of the night sky, enabling users to discover and appreciate various astronomical wonders, from the moon and planets to distant galaxies and star clusters.

The ETX-60AT also includes a diagonal mirror, which provides comfortable viewing angles and helps in locating objects above the horizon with ease. The telescope comes with a variety of eyepieces, enhancing versatility and giving users options for different magnifications based on their observing needs.

In addition to its impressive optical and technological features, the Meade ETX-60AT is built with durability in mind. The telescope's construction withstands environmental challenges, allowing users to explore the night sky in a range of conditions.

Overall, the Meade ETX-60AT offers an outstanding balance of performance, portability, and user-friendliness, making it a perfect introductory telescope for amateur astronomers. Whether you are a seasoned observer or just starting your journey into astronomy, the ETX-60AT provides a reliable platform for exploring the universe.