Meade Mastering Periodic Error Correction for Precision Astrophotography
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Periodic Error Correction

If you wish to perform high-precision astrophotography, you may wish to "train" your telescope in order to keep objects that you are imaging dead center in the telescope's mirror during the photographic exposure. Periodic error correction (PEC) helps to remove the slight perturbations from center that occur due to the mechanical nature of a telescope. To perform this procedure, you need to use a high-power reticle, such as the 9mm reticle (see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 44). PEC training is available for both drives.

Train Menu Option

If you perform this procedure in alt/az alignment, you can train the telescope in both the R.A. and the Dec. axes; in polar alignment, you need only train the telescope's R.A. axis. If you train the telescope in polar alignment, make sure that "Polar" is selected in the "Telescope: Mount" menu ("Alt/Az" is the default setting).

To perform the procedure on the Dec. axis, pick a bright star in the East or West that is about about 20° above the horizon.

To perform the procedure on the R.A. axis, pick a bright star in the South that has min- imal movement and is about 30° above the horizon (Note: If in the Southern hemi- sphere, pick a star in the North that is about 30° above the horizon).

Important Note: The Train option overwrites any previous PEC data.

1.Select "Train" from the Dec. PEC menu (in the "Setup: Telescope" menu) and press

ENTER.

2.Look through the reticle. Use the Arrow keys to keep the star centered in the reticle cross-hairs. AutoStar II displays a count of the 200 positions of the worm gear. When the count reaches 200, one cycle is complete. A full cycle takes about 8 minutes.

3.Select "Train" from the R.A. PEC menu (in the "Setup: Telescope" menu) and press

ENTER.

4.Look through the reticle. Use the Arrow keys to keep the star centered in the reticle cross-hairs. AutoStar II displays a count of the 200 positions of the worm gear. When the count reaches 600, one cycle is complete. A full cycle takes about 24 minutes.

5.Press MODE to exit.

Update Menu Option

Use the Update option to further refine your training; it is recommended that you update your original training two or three times when first using your telescope. Update does not overwrite the data, but updates the training using information gath- ered from both the last and the current training sessions. Press the MODE key to exit from this option. If you wish to further refine your training, select this menu again and repeat the procedure.

Erase Menu Option

Select this option to erase all PEC training data.

On and Off Menu Options

Select "On" when you want the telescope to use the training information. Select "Off" when you do not want for the telescope to use the training information. Select "On" to enable the Smart Drive.

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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 FeaturesSee Optional ACCESSORIES, pages 43, 44, Ascension Declination setting# Computer Control Panel see inset Definitions Ascension,Shift Microfocuser? Autostar II Features Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a ButtonLibrary # of Objects Want to learn more about changing slew LX200R Tips Parts Listing How to Attach the Tripod to the Telescope AssemblyGetting Started How to Assemble Your Telescope To install batteriesTip Choosing an Eyepiece Attach Diagonal or accessoriesToo Much Power? Mounting and Adjusting the ViewfinderTerrestrial Observing Observing Using AutoStar IIs Arrow KeysObserving Observing by Moving the Telescope ManuallyKey # Speed Focusing the Eyepiece Using the MicrofocuserSlew Speeds To use the microfocuserMoving Through AutoStar II’s Menus Observe the MoonAstronomical Observing To Track an Object AutomaticallyIt is recommended that you do not attempt a GPS fix indoors Which One’s the Alignment Star?Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking Feature Using the Guided TourGo To Saturn Global Positioning System Detecting True LevelFinding True North Basic Autostar AutoStar II Navigation ExerciseTo Calculate Sunset time Look into the Future Navigating AutoStarAt or MenusObject Menu To slew the telescope to catalog objectsWant to learn more about Observing Satellites? See Definition Event MenuGlossary Menu Utilities MenuLandmarks? See Setup Menu Mount Feature? See Appendix I SmartTiming is Everything Custom Tracking Rate Adding and editing sites? Setup Menu Daylight SAVING,Hot Button Menus Adding Observing Sites To Add a Site to the user-defined site listTo Edit a Site To GO to a user-entered object Creating User ObjectsTips Observing SatellitesLandmarks To Add a landmark to the databaseTo check on the available amount of memory in AutoStar IdentifyTo Select a landmark from the database To perform a Landmark SurveyDisplayed information Example BrowseHow to perform the Easy Align Procedure Alternate Alt/Az AlignmentsEasy Two-Star Alignment Tip Try a Spiral Search Two-Star Alt/Az AlignmentOne-Star Alt/Az Alignment To Set the Home Position ManuallyErase Menu Option Periodic Error CorrectionUpdate Menu Option Train 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 Gauging the Movement of the Telescope Meade Consumer Solutions ServiceWhat is Smart Drive? Inspecting the OpticsSpecifications 10 LX200R Specifications10 f/10 LX200R Specifications 14 f/10 LX200R Specifications 12 f/10 LX200R Specifications16 f/10 LX200R Specifications AutoStar II System SpecificationsAutoStar II Handbox Specifications Setting Circles Equatorial AlignmentCelestial Coordinates Equatorial Wedge Declination Setting CircleLocating Polaris Lining Up with the Celestial PoleLX200R mounted on an equa- torial wedge Precise Polar AlignmentTwo-Star Polar Alignment AutoStar II Polar AlignmentEasy Polar Alignment One-Star Polar AlignmentCity Country Latitude Appendix B Latitude ChartLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World City State/Prov./Country LatitudeComment Line Command LineWhat you will need Tour ModesTitle 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 option16 LX200R Unique Features Control Panel FeaturesCommercial Shipping To Assemble the 16 Super Field Tripod Telescope AssemblyMounting the Optical Tube Assembly OTA Attaching the 16 Drive BaseAttaching the Fork Observing Considerations Attaching the Power and Data Cords14 LX200R Unique Features To attach the microfocuser to the de-rotater Appendix HTraining AppendixIntroduction OperationOff UpdatePermanently Mounted Scopes Other Menus Options Save As and LoadMoon Basic AstronomyAutoStar II Glossary Objects in SpaceDeep-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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