Meade instruction manual Introduction, LX80 Telescope, People at Meade

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INTRODUCTION

The LX80 Telescope

A solid telescope built for a lifetime of service

Congratulations on receiving your new LX80 telescope. You’ll find that this telescope system has all you need to explore the Universe we live in. Designed from the ground up, the Multi-Mount system delivers both precision and versatility.

Only from Meade.

Drawing on 40 years of experience and innovation, Meade Instruments introduces the latest in a long line of advanced astronomical products: the LX80. Thoughtful design and engineering in the creation of this versatile telescope system delivers these exciting features:

LX80 Multi-Mount:The LX80 Multi-Mount operates in three modes, German equatorial, single OTA alt-az and dual OTA alt-az.

Robust Construction: The LX80 is built around a solid aluminum structure, with two large, tapered roller bearings that handle radial and thrust loads on each axis to carry a total instrument payload of 40 pounds in EQ and single OTA alt-az modes and up to 75 pounds in dual OTA mode. Its precision worm gear drives on both axes deliver smooth, accurate motion.

Meade’s proprietary SmartDrive™: Provides periodic error correction that dramatically reduces errors providing performance only available on much more expensive mounts.

AudioStar: The LX80’s computerized GoTo mount is controlled with the amazing AudioStar handbox which includes a vast 30,000 object database. With its Astronomer Inside™ digital audio technology, everyone around the telescope can listen and learn about the 500-plus celestial objects contained in its database, including planets, nebulae, star clusters, the Moon and much more.

LX80 Tripod. With large two inch diameter stainless steel legs, the all new LX80 tripod is rugged and stable. Built-in, fine-tune leg levelers at the top of each leg make doing small leveling adjustments the easiest they’ve ever been.

LX80’s industry-standard saddle: Both the primary and secondary OTA dovetail adapters are industry-standard for maximum compatibility with all of your OTAs.

If you are like us, you can’t wait to get outside under a dark sky to try out your new LX80 telescope. We have provided a Getting Started Guide that will get you up and running in the shortest amount of time possible. After your first experience, please sit down with this manual and read about all the advanced features that are available to you with this telescope system. We are confident that the LX80 will keep you fascinated with the Universe and entertained for many years to come.

Clear Skies,

The people at Meade

Introduction

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Contents LX80 Multi-Mount Telescope System With Astronomer Inside Page Battery Safety Instructions Contents Introduction IntroductionLX80 Telescope People at MeadeLX80 Multi-Mount Telescope FeaturesRobust Aluminum Construction Gears and DrivesIndustry Standard Dovetail Adapter AudioStar Counterweight ShaftControl Panel LX80 Key Features Rear View LX80 Key FeaturesLX80 Key Features C. D. E. F LX80 Tripod Latitude Adjustment Latitude Lock Knob Adjustments for German EQ ModeTelescope Control Panel LX80 Series Your Personal Window to the UniverseVixen-style Dovetail Receiver Place OTA dovetail here Azimuth Lock Knobs DEC Setting Circle DEC Reference PointGetting Started How to Assemble Your TelescopeSpread the tripod legs Attach spreader bar and thread on tension knobTighten three 3 knobs at underside Thread-on counterweight shaftAttach mount to tripod base. Place the mount Tighten DEC lock Insert eyepiece into diagonal Plug AudioStar into HBX connectorSecure diagonal into holder RA Right Ascension Balance Balancing the TelescopeWhile maintaining hold of OTA, loosen the DEC lock Balancing the OTATilting the mount head Aligning the ViewfinderLoosen RA lock right and left sides Observing by Moving the Telescope Manually Choosing an EyepieceMoving Through AudioStar’s Menus Using AudioStar’s GoTo CapabilitiesActivate the Arrow Keys Slew SpeedsEntering Data into AudioStar Playing AudioNavigating AudioStar Observe the MoonAligning the LX80 LX80 Multi-Mount SystemInitializing AudioStar Setting the Alt-Azimuth Home Position Alt-Azimuth ModeFinding True North Alt-Azimuth home positionEasy Two-Star Align Perform the Easy Align ProcedureFinding Magnetic North Go To Saturn Using the Guided TourSetting the Polar Home Position Equatorial ModeEquatorial Mode Tilt the mount head using hex head toolLocating the Celestial Pole How to perform the Easy AlignEasy Align Equatorial home positionGo To Saturn Secondary mount plate Dual OTA ModeDual OTA Alt-Az LX80 Tips Scroll Keys AudioStar HandboxTour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button AudioStar Handbox Slew Speeds Terrestrial Observing Observation Using AudioStar’s Arrow KeysPlaying the Audio To Calculate Sunset time AudioStar OperationAudioStar Navigation Exercise Object Menu AudioStar #497 Menu Tree AudioStar #497 Menu TreeGlossary Menu Event MenuUtilities Menu Winter and Summer Solstice calculates the timeSetup Menu Selected telescope AudioStar Operation To Edit a Site Adding Observing SitesTo Add a Site to the user-defined site list Observing Satellites Using AudioStar to Find Objects Not in the DatabaseTo GoTo a user-entered object To Add a landmark to the database LandmarksTo Select a landmark from the database IdentifyTo perform a Landmark Survey To check on the available amount of memory in AudioStarDisplayed information Example Training the DriveBrowse Advanced alt/az AlignmentTwo-Star alt/az Alignment One-Star alt/az AlignmentFew tips on photography with the LX80 Photography with the LX80Photography with a Digital Camera Some tips for better digital photosPhotography with Meade’s AudioStar Suite Photography with the LX80Optional Accessories Optional Accessories Maintenance MaintenanceStorage and Transport Inspecting the OpticsObject appears in the viewfinder but not in the eyepiece TroubleshootingUnable to see an image through the eyepiece Customer Service Customer ServiceAppendix a DriveObjects in Space Appendix BDeep-Sky Objects Cations Appendix C SpecificationsAppendix D AlignmentPolar Alignment Celestial CoordinatesAudioStar Polar Alignment Precise Polar AlignmentEasy Polar Alignment One-Star Polar AlignmentAppendix D Equatorial Polar Alignment PEC Train Menu Option PEC Update Menu OptionPEC Erase Menu Option PEC On and Off Menu OptionsLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World Latitude ChartAppendix E EuropeAmerica Appendix G Recycling Information Recycling InformationPage Page Page Meade Limited Warranty Limited Warranty

LX80 specifications

The Meade LX80 is a versatile and innovative telescope designed to cater to both novice astronomers and experienced stargazers. Its combination of performance, ease of use, and advanced features makes it a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking to explore the cosmos.

One of the standout characteristics of the LX80 is its extensive GoTo mount system, which allows users to automatically locate and track celestial objects with remarkable precision. This feature is powered by a database containing over 30,000 astronomical objects, providing a broad range of targets for exploration. The telescope's integrated GPS ensures swift alignment with the night sky, simplifying setup and enhancing the observing experience.

The LX80 employs advanced technology with its heavy-duty dual-axis equatorial mount, providing stability and sturdiness. This design is particularly beneficial for astrophotography, as it minimizes vibrations and allows for longer exposure times without blurring. Additionally, the mount is compatible with various optical tubes, enabling users to customize their setup according to their specific interests, whether it’s planetary observation or deep-sky photography.

Another impressive feature of the Meade LX80 is its SmartDrive technology, which continually corrects any tracking errors, ensuring smooth and accurate movement across the night sky. This is especially helpful for capturing high-quality images of celestial bodies. The telescope can also be controlled via a smartphone or tablet using the optional Meade app, which further adds to its user-friendly design.

The LX80's optical performance is equally commendable. Many models come with a high-quality optical tube, offering superb light-gathering capabilities. The telescope's aperture, typically ranging from 6 to 10 inches, makes it well-suited for observing faint deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae, as well as brighter targets such as planets.

In terms of portability, the LX80 is designed to be compact, making it easier to transport to dark-sky locations. The telescope can be quickly set up and dismantled, accommodating astronomers who wish to observe in various settings.

Overall, the Meade LX80 stands out as a dynamic and feature-rich telescope. With its powerful GoTo capabilities, advanced tracking technology, and customizable optics, it offers a well-rounded observational experience. Whether you're peering through the eyepiece for the first time or capturing stunning images of the universe, the LX80 is equipped to meet your astronomical needs.
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