Meade LX200 R instruction manual Appendix, Introduction, Operation, Training

Page 70

Want to learn more about Alignment? See pages 18 - 20.

Want to learn more about training your drive? See page 62.

APPENDIX I:

Smart Mount

Introduction

Smart Mount improves the pointing accuracy of your LX200R telescope's "Go to" sytem. Despite careful efforts to calibrate and align telescopes, they may fail to precisely center objects. Smart Mount allows your telescope to learn about, and then correct for, any systematic pointing errors, regardless of the cause.

Because training your mount takes some time, we recommend that it be primarily used on permanently mounted instruments or when imaging requires very accurate pointing. Once Smart Mount training has been performed, the scope will benefit from it so long as you carefully park the telescope at the end of each session and do not modify the mounting.

For portable instruments, we recommend training Smart Mount each time you set up your telescope to insure best results.

We recommend that you use an illuminated reticle during the training procedure. An illuminated reticle allows you to precisely center celestial objects in a telescope’s eyepiece. The more precisely you center objects during Smart Mount training, the more pointing precision your telescope will be able to achieve. If you do not have an illuminated reticle, see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 44 for more information.

Operation

The Smart Mount feature is located in the AutoStar II Setup menu.

In order to use Smart Mount, create a model that allows Smart Mount to improve your telescope's accuracy. This is normally done by training Smart Mount. Once training has been completed, you will save your model. AutoStar II allows you to save several models under different names. This allows you to, for example, save one model for a heavy imaging camera configuration on a permanently aligned scope, and another when you have a lighter load on the mount.

Training

In order to obtain solid, repeatable results, perform the following procedures before you create a model:

•Setup and align your telescope.

•Perform both RA/Az and Dec/Alt drive training calibration.

Once you have calibrated and aligned your telescope, if you wish to start a new model, go to the Smart Mount main menu. Locate and select "Erase" to clear the current model. Next, proceed with the steps below:

Note: If you do not erase the current model, the training session will refine the current model.

•Locate “Train” in the Smart Mount Configuration menu and press enter.

•The telescope will select and slew to several (over 40) stars.

•When requested to do so, carefully center each star and then press ENTER.

If you find that you cannot see a star because there is an obstruction blocking your view:

•Press MODE briefly to skip this star. Another star will be chosen.

To exit the training sequence before it is completed:

•Press and hold MODE for about two seconds and then release it.

When you have completed training:

•Save your model, using a good, descriptive name, using the “Save As” menu. Upon completion of the training, Smart Mount is enabled and remains on until you choose “Off” from the Smart Mount Configuration menu.

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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 Telescope Features AutoStarAscension 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 Attach Diagonal or accessories Choosing an EyepieceMounting and Adjusting the Viewfinder Too Much Power?Observing by Moving the Telescope Manually Observing Using AutoStar IIs Arrow KeysObserving Terrestrial ObservingTo use the microfocuser Focusing the Eyepiece Using the MicrofocuserSlew Speeds Key # SpeedTo Track an Object Automatically Observe the MoonAstronomical Observing Moving Through AutoStar II’s MenusWhich One’s the Alignment Star? It is recommended that you do not attempt a GPS fix indoorsUsing 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 Navigating AutoStar Look into the FutureMenus At orTo slew the telescope to catalog objects Object MenuWant to learn more about Observing Satellites? See Event Menu DefinitionUtilities Menu Glossary MenuLandmarks? See Mount Feature? See Appendix I Smart Setup MenuTiming is Everything Custom Tracking Rate Setup Menu Daylight SAVING, Adding and editing sites?Hot Button Menus To Add a Site to the user-defined site list Adding Observing SitesTo Edit a Site Creating User Objects To GO to a user-entered objectTo Add a landmark to the database Observing SatellitesLandmarks TipsTo perform a Landmark Survey IdentifyTo Select a landmark from the database To check on the available amount of memory in AutoStarBrowse Displayed information ExampleAlternate Alt/Az Alignments How to perform the Easy Align ProcedureEasy Two-Star Alignment To Set the Home Position Manually Two-Star Alt/Az AlignmentOne-Star Alt/Az Alignment Tip Try a Spiral SearchTrain Menu Option Periodic Error CorrectionUpdate Menu Option Erase Menu OptionPhotography Few tips on photography with the LX200R telescopesPhotography with a Digital Camera Photography with Meade’s AutoStar SuiteStar Charts Image of M13 captured with the Deep Sky ImagerOptional Accessories Meade Series 4000 EyepiecesSeries 4000 8 24mm Zoom Eyepiece Illuminated Reticle Eyepiece Maintenance CollimationDefocused star images. Misaligned 1, 2, Aligned Inspecting the Optics Meade Consumer Solutions ServiceWhat is Smart Drive? Gauging the Movement of the Telescope10 LX200R Specifications Specifications10 f/10 LX200R Specifications 12 f/10 LX200R Specifications 14 f/10 LX200R SpecificationsAutoStar II System Specifications 16 f/10 LX200R SpecificationsAutoStar II Handbox Specifications Equatorial Alignment Setting CirclesCelestial Coordinates Declination Setting Circle Equatorial WedgeLining Up with the Celestial Pole Locating PolarisPrecise Polar Alignment LX200R mounted on an equa- torial wedgeOne-Star Polar Alignment AutoStar II Polar AlignmentEasy Polar Alignment Two-Star Polar AlignmentCity State/Prov./Country Latitude Appendix B Latitude ChartLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World City Country LatitudeTour Modes Command LineWhat you will need Comment LineWriting a Tour TitlePick ONE / Pick END Pick END Auto Slew on / Auto Slew OFF Downloading ToursAppendix D Training the Drive Further StudyTo observe the Apollo 15 landing site using the Moon option Appendix E the Moon MenuControl Panel Features 16 LX200R Unique FeaturesCommercial Shipping Telescope Assembly To Assemble the 16 Super Field TripodAttaching the 16 Drive Base Mounting the Optical Tube Assembly OTAAttaching the Fork Attaching the Power and Data Cords Observing Considerations14 LX200R Unique Features Appendix H To attach the microfocuser to the de-rotaterOperation AppendixIntroduction TrainingOther Menus Options Save As and Load UpdatePermanently Mounted Scopes OffObjects in Space Basic AstronomyAutoStar II Glossary MoonPlanets Deep-Sky ObjectsPage 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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