Meade ETX-90PE instruction manual Troubleshooting, Storage and Transport, Inspecting the Optics

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Storage and Transport

When the telescope is not in use, store it in a cool, dry place. Do not expose the instru- ment to excessive heat or moisture. It is best to store the telescope in its original box with the vertical and horizontal locks (6 and 9, Fig. 1a and 1b) in the unlocked positions. If shipping the telescope, use the original box and packing material to protect the telescope during shipment.

When transporting the telescope, take care not to bump or drop the instrument; this type of abuse can damage the optical tube and/or the objective lens and knock the optics out of alignment. It is highly recommended to use an optional carry case to transport the telescope (see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 42).

Inspecting the Optics

A few words about the so-called “Flashlight Test:" If a flashlight or other high-intensity light source is pointed down the main telescope tube, the view (depending upon the observer’s line of sight and the angle of the light) may reveal what appear to be scratches, dark or bright spots or uneven coatings, giving the appearance of poor quality optics. These effects are only seen when a high intensity light is transmitted through lenses or reflected off the mirrors and can be seen on any high-quality optical system, including giant research telescopes.

The optical quality of a telescope cannot be judged by the “flashlight” test; the true test of optical quality can only be conducted through careful star testing.

Troubleshooting

The following suggestions may be helpful with operation of the ETX-90PE, ETX-105PE and ETX-125PE.

The power indicator light on the telescope does not come on or there is no response when pressing the AutoStar Arrow keys:

•Verify that the Computer Control panel power switch (A, Fig. 2) is in the ON position.

•Verify that the AutoStar coil cord is firmly connected to the HBX port (C, Fig. 2).

•If using internal power (batteries), verify that the batteries are installed correctly and that they have sufficient charge (see HOW TO ASSEMBLE YOUR TELESCOPE AND TRIPOD, page 12).

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 occurs, turn the power off and replace the batteries.

•If using an external power source, verify that it is properly connected between the 12-volt connector (D, Fig. 3) and either a wall plug (AC source) or a car cigarette lighter (DC source).

•If AutoStar does not respond to commands, move the power switch to OFF and then back to 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 all physical obstacles are removed and the telescope still does not move properly, turn off the power and unplug AutoStar. Plug AutoStar back in and turn the power back on.

Unable to see an image through the eyepiece:

•Confirm that the lens cover has been removed from the telescope.

•Confirm that the flip-mirror control (14, Fig. 1b) is in the “up” position if using the eyepiece holder (4, Fig. 1b) so that light is directed to the eyepiece (1, Fig. 1a). Confirm that the flip-mirror control is in the “down” position if using the #932 Erecting Prism or doing photography with an ETX model (see TELESCOPE FEATURES, page 6 and PHOTOGRAPHY, page 38).

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Contents ETX Premier Edition Telescope Series Page Contents QUICK-START Guide Enter Key Scroll Scroll Up Down B and Fig Telescope FeaturesTelescope Controls Ascension and Declination setting circles? SeeSmartfinder SmartFinder? See AligningComputer Control Panel see Fig DefinitionsAlt/Az, Right Ascension, Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button Autostar FeaturesAutoStar to the topmost screen Select Item Object About changing slew ETX TipsParts Listing How to Assemble Your Telescope and TripodGetting Started Aligning SmartFinder Using SmartFinderChoosing an Eyepiece Too Much Power?Observing Observing Using AutoStar Arrow KeysObserving by Moving the Telescope Manually Terrestrial ObservingAstronomical Observing Slew SpeedsObserve the Moon To Track an Object AutomaticallyHow to perform the Automatic Alignment procedure Initializing AutoStar for the First TimeAutomatic Alignment Which One’s the Alignment Star? Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking FeatureGo To Saturn Using the Guided TourAutostar Autostar OperationAutoStar Navigation Exercise To Calculate Sunset timeLook into the Future Entering data into AutoStarSelect Item Object Autostars MenusObject Menu options include Object MenuUse the Object menu to select an object from the database Observing Satellites? SeeGlossary Menu Event MenuUse the Event menu Use the Glossary menuTips Utilities MenuSetup Menu Periodic Error Correction? See Tip Shift Adding and editing sites? SeeAdding Observing Sites Advanced Autostar OperationTo Add a Site to the user-defined site list To Edit a SiteUsing AutoStar to Find Objects Not in the Database Observing SatellitesTo GO to a user-entered object How to Create Your Own Guided Tour What you will needTour Modes Command Line Comment LineWriting a Tour Moon Downloading Tours LandmarksTo Add a landmark to the database IdentifyTo Select a landmark from the database To perform a Landmark SurveyAdvanced Alt/Az Alignment Displayed information ExampleTwo-Star Alt/Az Alignment and Easy Align Smart Drive Training Periodic Error Correction One-Star Alt/Az AlignmentPEC Train Menu Option PEC Update Menu Option BrowsePEC Erase Menu Option Photography with a 35mm Camera PhotographyPhotography with a Digital Camera Few Tips on PhotographyDeep Sky Imager Photography with Meade’s AutoStar Suite#505 Cable Connector Kit With Meade AstroFinder Optional Accessories#932 45 Erecting Prism Maintenance Troubleshooting Storage and TransportInspecting the Optics Telescope does not track a celestial object Meade Customer ServiceSpecifications Specifications ETX-90PE Astro TelescopeSpecifications ETX-105PE Astro Telescope Specifications ETX-125PE Astro Telescope Telescope dimensions 43cm x 25cm x 20cm 17 x 10 xAutoStar Dimensions AutoStar SpecificationsCelestial Coordinates Equatorial AlignmentLoosen control latch Set latitude Locating Polaris Latitude Chart for Major Cities of the World Appendix B Latitude ChartCity State/Prov./Country Latitude City Country LatitudeFurther Study Appendix C Training the DriveTo replace the battery Appendix Dchanging the LNT Module BatteryAppendix Ebasic Astronomy AutoStar GlossaryMoon Deep-Sky Objects PlanetsPage 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.
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