Meade ETX-80AT-TC Autostar Features, Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button

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1LCD Display

2ENTER Key

3MODE Key

4GO TO Key

5Arrow Keys

6Scroll Keys

7Speed/? Key

8Coil Cord

AUTOSTAR FEATURES

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Fig. 5: #494 AutoStar Handbox.

Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button

Control of the ETX-80AT is through the operation of the standard-equipment #494 AutoStar. Nearly all functions of the telescope are accomplished with just a few pushes of AutoStar’s but- tons. Some of the major features of AutoStar are:

•Automatically move the telescope to any of the 1400 objects stored in the database or manually enter the astronomical coordinates of any celestial object.

•Take a guided tour of the best celestial objects to view on any given night of the year.

•Download the latest satellite data and software revisions directly from the Meade website (www.meade.com) and share software with other AutoStar enthusiasts. (Requires option- al #506 AstroFinder™ Software and Cable Connector Kit. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES page 32.)

•Access a glossary of astronomical terms.

•Calculate which eyepiece to use for optimum viewing of a celestial object.

•Mount the telescope in the “Alt/Az” mode (Altitude - Azimuth, or vertical - horizontal) for fully automatic tracking of celestial objects.

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Contents ETX-80AT-TC MEADE.COMPage Contents Setting up the Tripod QUICK-START GuideObserve Telescope Features ETX-80AT Telescope@ 2# ETX Your Personal Window to the Universe Flip mirror control in the up positionComputer Control Panel TripodAutostar Features Tour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a ButtonPage Join an Astronomy Club Attend a Star Party Getting Started Parts ListingTelescope Assembly Setting up the Tripod Connect the AutoStar HandboxChoosing an Eyepiece Manual Operation of the Telescope without AutoStarManual Operation of the Telescope Using AutoStars Arrow Keys Slew SpeedsMoving Through AutoStar’s Menus Observe the MoonTo Track an Object Automatically Initializing AutoStarToo Much Power? Easy Alignment Go To SaturnUsing the Guided Tour Which One’s the Alignment Star?Autostar Menus IngvSa e Daylight pesco TelAutostar Operation AutoStar Navigation ExerciseEntering Numbers and Text into Autostar Adjusting the Speed of a Scrolling MessageNavigating Autostar Object Menu Glossary Menu Event MenuUtilities Menu Setup Menu EnterReverse L/R Reverses Reverse UP/DOWN ReversesMenu Daylight SAVING, Advanced Features One-Star Alt/Az Alignment Two-Star Alt/Az AlignmentObserving a Satellite Digital Photography with the ETX Photography with Meade’s AutoStar SuiteLunar Planetary Imager Optional Accessories Meade Series 4000 Super Plossl EyepiecesStorage and Transport Maintenance and ServicingGeneral Maintenance Inspecting the OpticsTroubleshooting Cannot seem to focus No image appears in the eyepieceAutoStar Specifications Meade Customer ServiceETX-80AT Specifications AutoStar DimensionsAppendix a Using Autostar to Enter R.A. and DEC Coordinates To GO to a user-entered objectPolar Alignment Appendix B Equatorial Polar AlignmentCelestial Coordinates One-Star Polar Alignment Autostar Polar AlignmentEasy Polar Alignment Two-Star Polar AlignmentCity State Latitude Appendix C Helpful ChartsLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World City Country LatitudeAppendix D Training the Drive Further StudyObjects in Space Appendix E Basic AstronomyAutoStar Glossary MoonPlanets Deep-Sky ObjectsPage Meade Limited Warranty

ETX-80AT-TC specifications

The Meade ETX-80AT-TC is a sophisticated yet user-friendly telescope that caters to both novice astronomers and seasoned stargazers. This compact telescope is particularly praised for its portability, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to explore the night sky without the burden of heavy equipment.

One of the standout features of the ETX-80AT-TC is its 80mm aperture, which delivers impressive light-gathering capabilities. This allows users to observe a wide range of celestial objects, from the craters on the Moon to distant galaxies. The telescope’s Achromatic refractor design minimizes chromatic aberration, ensuring sharp and clear images across the field of view.

The Meade ETX-80AT-TC is equipped with the AutoStar computer control system, which enhances the observational experience significantly. This technology allows users to locate and track thousands of celestial objects with ease. With a simple push of a button, the telescope can automatically find and track planets, stars, and deep-sky objects, making it perfect for those who are new to astronomy and may find manual navigation challenging.

Additionally, the telescope features a built-in Solar System tour that animates a journey through the solar system, providing educational insights about the celestial bodies in our neighborhood. It is operated via a user-friendly handheld controller with a numeric keypad and an LCD display, making navigation intuitive even for beginners.

The ETX-80AT-TC also includes a durable and lightweight design, with an integrated tabletop tripod for stable viewing. It can be easily set up and taken down, allowing for spontaneous stargazing adventures. The telescope is compatible with various Meade accessories, including additional eyepieces and filters, which further enhance the observing experience.

In terms of mechanics, the ETX-80AT-TC boasts smooth, slow-motion manual controls for fine adjustments and a flip mirror for easy switching between visual and photographic modes. Whether capturing breathtaking astrophotos or enjoying the stars visually, this telescope delivers versatility and quality.

Overall, the Meade ETX-80AT-TC stands out with its thoughtful combination of features, technology, and portability, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the night sky. Whether you are a budding astronomer or a more experienced enthusiast, this telescope provides ample opportunities for wonder and discovery under the stars.
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