Meade ETX-90PE instruction manual QUICK-START Guide

Page 4

QUICK-START GUIDE

This Quick Start Guide demonstrates how to install the batteries and eyepiece, and how to observe using the AutoStar Arrow keys. If you wish to try out AutoStar’s “Go To” capabilities, check out the list of page references at the bottom of the following page.

2

B

A

Remove the ETX® telescope from its packaging and place it on a sturdy surface. Place the ETX on its side and remove the battery compartment cover (A) from the under- side of the drive base. Insert eight (user-supplied) AA-size batteries into the battery compartment (B) oriented as shown in the battery compartment. Replace the cover and return the telescope to an upright position (if you wish to attach the telescope to the deluxe field tripod, see page 12).

C

D

E

H

...and the other end of the coiled cord into the coiled cord port at the bottom of AutoStar handbox (H), as shown above.

IJ

Tighten (to a "firm feel" only, do not overtighten) the vertical lock (I) and the horizontal lock (J). See page 7 and 8 for more infor- mation.

Place the 26mm eyepiece (C) into the eyepiece holder on the telescope and tighten the attachment thumbscrew (D) to a "firm feel" only. See page 7, for more information. Remove the dust cover (E) from the end of the telescope tube.

GF

Make sure that the computer control panel power switch (F) is in the OFF position. Remove the Autostar® handbox and the coiled cord from the packing materials. Plug one end of the cord into the HBX port (G).

F

Flip the Power Switch (F) on the computer control panel to the ON position. A copyright message lights on AutoStar’s LCD display, followed by a warning not to look at the Sun. Press the AutoStar key prompted by the message when you are done reading.

A “Getting Started” message displays. Press ENTER to skip this message.

See pages 9 to 11 for more information about AutoStar’s keys.

4

Image 4
Contents ETX Premier Edition Telescope Series Page Contents QUICK-START Guide Enter Key Scroll Scroll Up Down Telescope Features B and FigAscension and Declination setting circles? See Telescope ControlsSmartfinder SmartFinder? See AligningDefinitions Computer Control Panel see FigAlt/Az, Right Ascension, Autostar Features Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a ButtonAutoStar to the topmost screen Select Item Object ETX Tips About changing slewHow to Assemble Your Telescope and Tripod Parts ListingGetting Started Using SmartFinder Aligning SmartFinderToo Much Power? Choosing an EyepieceObserving Using AutoStar Arrow Keys ObservingObserving by Moving the Telescope Manually Terrestrial ObservingSlew Speeds Astronomical ObservingObserve the Moon To Track an Object AutomaticallyInitializing AutoStar for the First Time How to perform the Automatic Alignment procedureAutomatic Alignment Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking Feature Which One’s the Alignment Star?Using the Guided Tour Go To SaturnAutostar Operation AutostarAutoStar Navigation Exercise To Calculate Sunset timeEntering data into AutoStar Look into the FutureAutostars Menus Select Item ObjectObject Menu Object Menu options includeUse the Object menu to select an object from the database Observing Satellites? SeeEvent Menu Glossary MenuUse the Event menu Use the Glossary menuUtilities Menu TipsSetup Menu Periodic Error Correction? See Tip Adding and editing sites? See ShiftAdvanced Autostar Operation Adding Observing SitesTo Add a Site to the user-defined site list To Edit a SiteObserving Satellites Using AutoStar to Find Objects Not in the DatabaseTo GO to a user-entered object What you will need How to Create Your Own Guided TourTour Modes Comment Line Command LineWriting a Tour Moon Landmarks Downloading ToursIdentify To Add a landmark to the databaseTo Select a landmark from the database To perform a Landmark SurveyDisplayed information Example Advanced Alt/Az AlignmentTwo-Star Alt/Az Alignment and Easy Align One-Star Alt/Az Alignment Smart Drive Training Periodic Error CorrectionPEC Train Menu Option Browse PEC Update Menu OptionPEC Erase Menu Option Photography Photography with a 35mm CameraFew Tips on Photography Photography with a Digital CameraPhotography with Meade’s AutoStar Suite Deep Sky ImagerOptional Accessories #505 Cable Connector Kit With Meade AstroFinder#932 45 Erecting Prism Maintenance Storage and Transport TroubleshootingInspecting the Optics Meade Customer Service Telescope does not track a celestial objectSpecifications ETX-90PE Astro Telescope SpecificationsSpecifications ETX-105PE Astro Telescope Telescope dimensions 43cm x 25cm x 20cm 17 x 10 x Specifications ETX-125PE Astro TelescopeAutoStar Specifications AutoStar DimensionsEquatorial Alignment Celestial CoordinatesLoosen control latch Set latitude Locating Polaris Appendix B Latitude Chart Latitude Chart for Major Cities of the WorldCity State/Prov./Country Latitude City Country LatitudeAppendix C Training the Drive Further StudyAppendix Dchanging the LNT Module Battery To replace the batteryAutoStar Glossary Appendix Ebasic AstronomyMoon Planets Deep-Sky ObjectsPage Meade Limited Warranty

ETX-90PE specifications

The Meade ETX-90PE is a well-regarded telescope that combines portability and performance, making it a popular choice among both amateur astronomers and seasoned stargazers. Its compact design and advanced features make it an ideal instrument for those who seek to explore the night sky with ease.

At the heart of the ETX-90PE is its Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design, which utilizes a spherical primary mirror and a corrector lens to deliver exceptional image quality. With a focal length of 1250mm and a 90mm aperture, it strikes a balance between light-gathering ability and magnification, allowing users to observe celestial objects such as planets, star clusters, and distant galaxies in remarkable detail. The telescope's focal ratio of f/13.9 provides crisp and sharp views, making it particularly well-suited for planetary observation.

One of the standout features of the ETX-90PE is its Electronic Control System (ECS), which allows for easy and intuitive operation. The telescope is equipped with a built-in AutoStar Computerized GoTo mount, enabling users to locate and track over 30,000 celestial objects with just a few simple commands. With automatic alignment features, even beginners can get started quickly, making the wonders of the universe accessible to everyone.

Portability is a key characteristic of the Meade ETX-90PE. Weighing in at a mere 12.5 pounds, it can be easily transported to dark sky locations. Its compact design not only translates to ease of transport but also means it can be stored conveniently when not in use. The included sturdy aluminum tripod provides stable support, even during extended observation sessions.

The ETX-90PE further enhances the user experience with its high-quality accessories. It comes with a set of eyepieces, including a 26mm Super Plössl and a 9.7mm Plössl, allowing for various magnifications to suit different observing preferences. The telescope also features a built-in flip mirror, allowing for easier viewing through both the eyepiece and a camera, making astrophotography more accessible.

Additionally, the ETX-90PE is designed with user comfort in mind. The telescope offers adjustable slow-motion controls for fine-tuning views and an optical finder scope to help locate objects before zooming in. With robust construction, excellent optics, and a range of advanced features, the Meade ETX-90PE stands out as a versatile, high-quality telescope for both casual observers and serious astronomers alike. Its combination of technology and user-friendly functions makes it an enduring favorite for anyone looking to embark on a journey through the cosmos.