Meade LX200 R instruction manual Alternate Alt/Az Alignments, Easy Two-Star Alignment

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Important Note:

If you disable the automatic alignment/GPS function and then use the alternate align- ments described in this sec- tion, you will be prompted to enter the Time, Date, and Daylight Savings status.

North

Dec.Level

SettingBase Circle

Fig. 19: Alt/Az Home Position.

Fig. 20: Dec. Setting Circle at 0°.

Alternate Alt/Az Alignments

If you would rather set up your telescope without using automatic alignment, AutoStar

IIoffers alternative alignment methods for both alt/az and equatorial mounting. During the One-Star and Two-Star alt/az alignment procedures, you will (unlike the Automatic and Easy alignment procedures) manually place the telescope in the home position.

The procedures for equatorial (polar) alignment are discussed in APPENDIX A, page 52; the three alternative alt/az alignment methods are discussed below.

Easy (Two-Star) Alignment

In this method, AutoStar II automatically sets the home position, and also automati- cally picks two stars from its libraries for alignment. During the procedure, AutoStar II slews the telescope to a first alignment star. The user is asked to verify that the tele- scope is pointed at the chosen star and then prompted to center the star in the eye- piece. The process is repeated with a second star to complete the alignment.

How to perform the Easy Align Procedure

1.Select Alignment. Select "Align: Easy" from the Setup menu. Press ENTER.

2.Home Position. The telescope automatically sets the following positions: home, level, North, and True North. If so desired, you may turn off the sensors and manually set these positions. See CALIBRATE SENSORS, page 29 for more information.

3 . Star Alignment. AutoStar II chooses two stars to align upon. The telescope slews to the first star for alignment. Should the alignment star not appear in the field of view in the eyepiece, it should be easily recognized: It will be the bright- est star in the area of the sky where the telescope is pointing. Use the Arrow keys to move the telescope until the star is visible and centered in the eyepiece. Press ENTER. Repeat the procedure for the second alignment star.

Note: See WHICH ONE'S THE ALIGNMENT STAR, page 19, for some important tips concerning alignments stars and using your viewfinder.

When the procedure is performed correctly, "Alignment Successful" displays. If AutoStar does not display this message, perform this procedure again. (Keep pressing MODE until "Align: Easy" displays and repeat the procedure.)

LX200R TIPS

Mirror, Mirror...

The LX200R telescopes provide features that allow you to control the primary optical mirror and focus functions for more precise viewing capability.

One control feature is the primary mirror lock (9, Fig. 1). The primary mirror lock helps eliminate mirror flop. Mirror flop can sometimes occur when the optical tube slews to opposite sides of the sky and the primary mirror shifts out of position, causing the loss of focus and pointing precision. To prevent mirror flop: Rotate the primary mirror lock knob toward the "lock" position and adjust the tension to a firm feel.

Another control feature is the zero-shift microfocuser (24, Fig. 1). The microfocuser allows for "jiggle-free" focusing. It also allows you to achieve focus without causing a viewed object to move out of position in the eyepiece.

Some tips to help you make the most out of your microfocuser (see FOCUSING THE EYEPIECE USING THE MICROFOCUSER, page 17, for more detailed instructions):

1.Set the "travel" (extension) of the drawtube of the microfocuser to about halfway.

2.Rotate the mirror lock knob towards the "unlock" position, until it feels loose.

3.Use the coarse focus control (6, Fig. 1) to achieve a rough focus of a bright star.

4.Rotate the mirror lock knob towards the "lock" position and adjust the tension to a firm feel; this action serves to lock in the coarse focus. But make sure that you don't adjust or bump the coarse focus knob once you have tightened tension on the mirror. If you do, reset the coarse focus as described above.

5.Press the AutoStar II Focus key and then use the Up and Down keys to control the microfocuser. If desired, you may change the focus speed.

6.You may need to repeat this procedure when you change eyepieces.

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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 Page Page Contents QUICK-START Guide Important Note AutoStar Telescope FeaturesAscension Declination setting See Optional ACCESSORIES, pages 43, 44,# Computer Control Panel see inset Ascension, DefinitionsShift Microfocuser? Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button Autostar II FeaturesLibrary # of Objects Want to learn more about changing slew LX200R Tips How to Attach the Tripod to the Telescope Assembly Parts ListingGetting Started To install batteries How to Assemble Your TelescopeTip Choosing an Eyepiece Attach Diagonal or accessoriesToo Much Power? Mounting and Adjusting the ViewfinderObserving Observing Using AutoStar IIs Arrow KeysObserving by Moving the Telescope Manually Terrestrial ObservingSlew Speeds Focusing the Eyepiece Using the MicrofocuserTo use the microfocuser Key # SpeedAstronomical Observing Observe the MoonTo Track an Object Automatically Moving Through AutoStar II’s MenusIt is recommended that you do not attempt a GPS fix indoors Which One’s the Alignment Star?Using the Guided Tour Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking FeatureGo To Saturn Detecting True Level Global Positioning SystemFinding True North AutoStar II Navigation Exercise Basic AutostarTo Calculate Sunset time Look into the Future Navigating AutoStarAt or MenusTo slew the telescope to catalog objects Object MenuWant to learn more about Observing Satellites? See Definition Event MenuUtilities Menu Glossary MenuLandmarks? See Mount Feature? See Appendix I Smart Setup MenuTiming is Everything Custom Tracking Rate Adding and editing sites? Setup Menu Daylight SAVING,Hot Button Menus To Add a Site to the user-defined site list Adding Observing SitesTo Edit a Site To GO to a user-entered object Creating User ObjectsLandmarks Observing SatellitesTo Add a landmark to the database TipsTo Select a landmark from the database IdentifyTo perform a Landmark Survey To check on the available amount of memory in AutoStarDisplayed information Example BrowseAlternate Alt/Az Alignments How to perform the Easy Align ProcedureEasy Two-Star Alignment One-Star Alt/Az Alignment Two-Star Alt/Az AlignmentTo Set the Home Position Manually Tip Try a Spiral SearchUpdate Menu Option Periodic Error CorrectionTrain Menu Option Erase Menu OptionFew tips on photography with the LX200R telescopes PhotographyPhotography with Meade’s AutoStar Suite Photography with a Digital CameraImage of M13 captured with the Deep Sky Imager Star ChartsMeade Series 4000 Eyepieces Optional AccessoriesSeries 4000 8 24mm Zoom Eyepiece Illuminated Reticle Eyepiece Collimation MaintenanceDefocused star images. Misaligned 1, 2, Aligned What is Smart Drive? Meade Consumer Solutions ServiceInspecting the Optics Gauging the Movement of the Telescope10 LX200R Specifications Specifications10 f/10 LX200R Specifications 14 f/10 LX200R Specifications 12 f/10 LX200R SpecificationsAutoStar II System Specifications 16 f/10 LX200R SpecificationsAutoStar II Handbox Specifications Equatorial Alignment Setting CirclesCelestial Coordinates Equatorial Wedge Declination Setting CircleLocating Polaris Lining Up with the Celestial PoleLX200R mounted on an equa- torial wedge Precise Polar AlignmentEasy Polar Alignment AutoStar II Polar AlignmentOne-Star Polar Alignment Two-Star Polar AlignmentLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World Appendix B Latitude ChartCity State/Prov./Country Latitude City Country LatitudeWhat you will need Command LineTour Modes Comment LineTitle Writing a TourPick ONE / Pick END Downloading Tours Pick END Auto Slew on / Auto Slew OFFFurther Study Appendix D Training the DriveAppendix E the Moon Menu To observe the Apollo 15 landing site using the Moon optionControl Panel Features 16 LX200R Unique FeaturesCommercial Shipping To Assemble the 16 Super Field Tripod Telescope AssemblyAttaching the 16 Drive Base Mounting the Optical Tube Assembly OTAAttaching the Fork Observing Considerations Attaching the Power and Data Cords14 LX200R Unique Features To attach the microfocuser to the de-rotater Appendix HIntroduction AppendixOperation TrainingPermanently Mounted Scopes UpdateOther Menus Options Save As and Load OffAutoStar II Glossary Basic AstronomyObjects in Space MoonDeep-Sky Objects PlanetsPage Page Meade Limited Warranty

LX200 R specifications

The Meade LX200 R is a renowned telescope that has captivated astronomers and enthusiasts alike with its impressive blend of advanced technology, user-friendly features, and excellent optical performance. Launched as part of Meade's line of enjoyable yet high-performing telescopes, the LX200 R remains a top choice for both amateur stargazers and serious astrophotographers.

At the heart of the LX200 R is its advanced telescope design. It features a robust, 8-inch primary mirror, which provides exceptional light-gathering capability. This larger aperture allows users to observe faint celestial objects, including distant galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, with stunning clarity and detail. The telescope's reflective optics are coated with high-quality, anti-reflective coatings that enhance contrast and minimize light loss, ensuring crisp, clear images even in challenging viewing conditions.

One of the standout features of the LX200 R series is its sophisticated computer-controlled GoTo mount. This feature allows users to locate over 30,000 celestial objects with remarkable precision using a simple one-button operation. The dual-axis motor drives enable smooth tracking of objects across the night sky, making it easier to follow their movements. The mount also includes an integrated GPS system, which automatically adjusts the telescope's location and time settings for accurate alignment without requiring complex manual adjustments.

The LX200 R is configured for both visual observations and astrophotography, accommodating a wide range of accessories like cameras and focal reducers. Its sturdy construction minimizes vibrations, which is crucial for capturing sharp images during extended exposures. Additionally, the telescope's optical tube is designed to be both lightweight and durable, making it convenient for transport and setup in various observing locations.

The ergonomic design of the LX200 R also enhances user experience, featuring a comfortable eyepiece height and an intuitive control panel. The display is user-friendly, allowing even novice astronomers to navigate settings and options quickly. With its combination of high-quality optics, advanced tracking capabilities, and versatile design, the Meade LX200 R continues to be a preferred choice for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the universe with sophistication and ease.
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