Meade ETX-80AT-TC Troubleshooting, Cannot seem to focus No image appears in the eyepiece

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Troubleshooting

The following suggestions may be helpful with operation of the ETX-80AT.

The power indicator light on the telescope does not come on or there is no response when pressing AutoStar Arrow keys:

•Verify that the Computer Control Panel power switch (C, Fig. 1b) is in the ON position.

•Verify that the AutoStar cord (8, Fig. 5) is firmly connected to the HBX port (A, Fig. 1b).

•Verify that the batteries are installed correctly and that they have sufficient charge. See

TELESCOPE ASSEMBLY, page 13.

Note: If the batteries are getting low on charge, there will be a marked difference in the slew speed. The speed indicator lights may also flash and the speed may change. If any of these symptoms occur, turn the power off and replace the batter- ies.

•If AutoStar does not respond to commands, set the Computer Control Panel power switch to OFF and then back to ON.

•If the telescope does not slew after power is applied or if the motor quits or stalls, verify that there are no physical obstructions that would impede telescope movement.

•If all physical obstacles are removed and the telescope still does not move properly, turn off the power and unplug AutoStar. Plug the AutoStar back in and turn the power back on.

Cannot seem to focus (No image appears in the eyepiece):

•Keep turning the focus knob. Your ETX telescope has a fine focusing mechanism which allows you to focus an image very precisely. However, this means that you may have to rotate the focus knob 20 to 40 complete turns to achieve focus, particularly the first time you use your telescope. After that, fewer turns will be needed.

Still unable to see an image through the eyepiece:

•Confirm that the dust cap has been removed from the telescope.

•Confirm that the flip-mirror control (5, Fig. 1) is in the “up” position (Fig. 4a) if using the eyepiece holder (3, Fig. 1) so that light is directed to the eyepiece (1, Fig. 1). Confirm that the flip-mirror control is in the “down” position (Fig. 4b) if using the #933 Erecting Prism.

Slew speed does not change when the Speed/? key is pressed, or the telescope moves slowly even though the fast slew speed is chosen:

•The battery power may be low. See TELESCOPE ASSEMBLY, page 13.

Images through the eyepiece appear unfocused or distorted:

•The magnification used may be too high for the seeing conditions. Back off to a lower power eyepiece. See TOO MUCH POWER?, page 17.

•If inside a warm house or building, move outside. Interior air conditions may distort terres- trial or celestial images, making it difficult, if not impossible, to obtain a sharp focus. For optimal viewing, use the telescope outside in the open air instead of observing through an open or closed window or screen.

•If viewing a land object on a warm day, heat waves distort the image.

•The optics within the telescope need time to adjust to the outside ambient temperature to provide the sharpest image. To "cool down" the optics, set the telescope outside for 10 to 15 minutes before observing begins.

Telescope moves off a terrestrial object while observing:

•Verify that the vertical and horizontal locks have been tightened to a "firm feel" (13 and 14, Fig. 1).

Telescope pauses when changing slew direction:

•This pause is normal.

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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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