Meade LX200 R instruction manual Defocused star images. Misaligned 1, 2, Aligned

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Caution:

It is recommended that you begin collimating by first tightening the colli- mation screws. When you reach a point where you encounter resistance while tightening, then attempt collimation by loosening the screw(s). While loosening, be careful that you do not remove the screw(s) from the secondary mir- ror housing assembly .

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With the star or hot spot centered, de-focus the image. You will notice that the out of focus star image looks like a ring of light surrounding a dark central spot; the dark cen- tral spot is in fact the shadow of the secondary mirror. Turn the focus knob until the ring of light fills about 10% of the eyepiece field-diameter. If the dark central spot is offset in (i.e., not concentric with) the ring of light, your telescope’s optical system is misaligned and requires collimation.

1

2

3

 

Fig. 35a: Defocused star images. Misaligned (1, 2), Aligned (3).

Fig. 35b: Collimation screws.

Follow these steps for collimation of the optical system:

a.The only adjustments possible, or necessary, on the Advanced Ritchey-Chrétien Telescopes LX200R models are from the three screws (Fig. 35b) located at the edge of the outer surface of the secondary mirror housing.

Caution: Do not force the three collimation screws past their normal trav- el and do not loosen them more than two full turns in a counterclockwise direction or the secondary mirror may come loose from its support. You will find that the adjustments are very sensitive, usually requiring only one-half turn or less to produce the desired result.

b.While looking at the defocused star image, notice which direction the darker shadow is offset in the ring of light or notice which part of the ring is the thinnest (1, Fig. 35a). Place your index finger in front of the telescope so that it touches one of the collimation set screws. You will see the shadow of your finger in the ring of light. Move your finger around the edge of the black plastic secondary mir- ror support until you see the shadow of the finger crossing the thinnest part of the ring of light. At this point, look at the front of the telescope where your finger is aiming. It will either be pointing directly at a set screw, or it will be between two set screws aiming at the set screw on the far side of the black plastic secondary mirror support. This is the set screw that you will adjust.

c.Using the AutoStar II's Arrow keys at the slowest slew speed, move the defo- cused image to the edge of the eyepiece field of view (2, Fig. 35a), in the same direction as the darker shadow is offset in the ring of light.

d.Turn the set screw that you found with the pointing exercise while looking in the eyepiece. You will notice that the star image will move across the field. If while turning the defocused star image flies out of the eyepiece field, then you are turn- ing the screw the wrong way. Turn the opposite direction and bring the image back to the center of the field.

e.If the screw you are turning becomes very loose, tighten the other two screws by even amounts. If the screw you are turning gets too tight, unthread the other two by even amounts.

f.When you bring the image to center (3, Fig. 35a), carefully examine the evenness of the ring of light (concentricity). If you find that the dark center is still off in the same direction, continue to make the adjustment in the original turning direction. If it is now off in the opposite direction, you have turned too far and you need to turn in the opposite direction. Always double check the image in the center of the field of the eyepiece.

g.You may find after your initial adjustment that the dark center is off in a new direc- tion (e.g., instead of being off side-to-side it is now off in an up-and-down direc- tion). In this case repeat steps b through f to find the new adjustment screw.

h.Now try a higher power eyepiece (e.g., 9mm or less) and repeat the above tests. Any lack of collimation at this point will require only very slight adjustments of the three set screws. You now have good collimation of the optics.

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 Features# Computer Control Panel see inset See Optional ACCESSORIES, pages 43, 44,Ascension Declination setting Shift Microfocuser? DefinitionsAscension, Library # of Objects Autostar II FeaturesTour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button Want to learn more about changing slew LX200R Tips Getting Started Parts ListingHow to Attach the Tripod to the Telescope Assembly Tip How to Assemble Your TelescopeTo install batteries 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?Go To Saturn Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking FeatureUsing the Guided Tour Finding True North Global Positioning SystemDetecting True Level To Calculate Sunset time Basic AutostarAutoStar II Navigation Exercise Look into the Future Navigating AutoStarAt or MenusWant to learn more about Observing Satellites? See Object MenuTo slew the telescope to catalog objects Definition Event MenuLandmarks? See Glossary MenuUtilities Menu Timing is Everything Setup MenuMount Feature? See Appendix I Smart Custom Tracking Rate Adding and editing sites? Setup Menu Daylight SAVING,Hot Button Menus To Edit a Site Adding Observing SitesTo Add a Site to the user-defined site list 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 BrowseEasy Two-Star Alignment How to perform the Easy Align ProcedureAlternate Alt/Az Alignments 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 Optics10 f/10 LX200R Specifications Specifications10 LX200R Specifications 14 f/10 LX200R Specifications 12 f/10 LX200R SpecificationsAutoStar II Handbox Specifications 16 f/10 LX200R SpecificationsAutoStar II System Specifications Celestial Coordinates Setting CirclesEquatorial Alignment 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 optionCommercial Shipping 16 LX200R Unique FeaturesControl Panel Features To Assemble the 16 Super Field Tripod Telescope AssemblyAttaching the Fork Mounting the Optical Tube Assembly OTAAttaching the 16 Drive Base 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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