Meade DS-2000 instruction manual Setup Menu

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■Suggest: Autostar calculates and suggests the best eyepiece for viewing, based on the telescope and the object being viewed.

Display Options enables or disables Autostar’s two initial displays. If both displays are dis- abled, Autostar begins with the Date display.

■Sun Warning: Turns the “Sun Warning” message on or off.

■Getting Started: Turns the “Getting Started” message on or off.

Brightness Adj: Adjusts the brightness of the display using the Scroll keys. When complete, press

ENTER.

Contrast Adj: Adjusts the contrast of the display using the Scroll keys. When complete, press

ENTER.

NOTE: This feature is usually only required in very cold weather.

Landmark Survey automatically slews the telescope to all user-defined landmarks with a short pause at each location. Press ENTER to start the survey. While a slew is in progress, press any key to skip that object and go to the next landmark on the list. To observe a landmark for a longer period, press MODE when paused on the object to stop the survey. Press ENTER to restart the survey at the first object on the list. See LANDMARKS, page 24.

Sleep Scope is a power saving option that shuts down Autostar and the telescope without for- getting its alignment. With "Sleep Scope" selected, press ENTER to activate the Sleep func- tion. Autostar goes dark, but the internal clock keeps running. Press any key, except ENTER, to re-activate Autostar and the telescope.

Park Scope is designed for a telescope that is not moved between observing sessions. Align the telescope one time, then use this function to park the telescope. Next time it is powered up, enter the correct date and time – no alignment is required. Pressing ENTER causes the tele- scope to move to its pre-determined Park position. Once parked, the screen prompts to turn off power.

IMPORTANT NOTE: When the "Park Scope" option is chosen and the display prompts you to turn off the telescope's power, Autostar is unable to be returned to operation without turning the power off and then back on.

Setup Menu

The Setup menu’s primary function is to align the telescope (see EASY ALIGN, page 19). However, there are numerous other features available within the Setup menu, including:

Date changes the date used by Autostar. This function is useful to check events in the past or future. For example, set the Date menu for a day three months in the future. Then check the "Select Item: Event" menu for the Sunset time on that date. See EVENT MENU, page 24.

Time changes the time entered into Autostar. Setting the correct time is critical for Autostar to properly calculate locations and events. Time may be set to 24-hour mode (military time) by selecting the "blank" option which follows the "AM" and "PM" options.

Daylight Saving is used to enable or disable Daylight Savings time.

NOTE: Daylight Savings Time may be referred to by different names in various areas of the world. Check local time to verify.

Telescope accesses the several options, including:

■Model: Allows you to select the telescope model connected to Autostar.

■Focal Length: Displays the focal length of the selected telescope.

■Az Ratio and Alt Ratio: The Az (Azimuth) ratio and Alt (Altitude) ratio refers to the gears of the telescope's motors. Do not alter these numbers.

■Az Percent: The Az (Azimuth) Percent allows you to change the azimuth backlash, i.e., the way the Arrow keys move the telescope along the azimuth (horizontal) axis. If you enter a value near 100, the telescope tube responds more quickly (it responds immediately at 100%) as you hold down an Arrow key and also slews (moves) the tube more quickly. If you enter a value near 0, it takes longer for the tube to respond as you hold down an

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Contents Meade Instruments Corporation Refracting Telescope Contents QUICK-START Guide 7bF Inset a Dec. Setting Telescope Features Computer Control Panel Fig. Ic#494 Autostar Handbox Autostar Features DS-2000 TipsSecure the tripod turn the tripod lock knob Packing List How to Assemble Your TelescopeGetting Started Focusing the 5 x 24mm Viewfinder ViewfinderFocusing the 6 x 30mm Viewfinder Aligning the ViewfinderChoosing an Eyepiece Barlow LensObserving by Moving the Telescope Manually Observing Using Autostars Arrow KeysObserving Terrestrial ObservingAstronomical Observing Slew SpeedsObserve the Moon To Track an Object AutomaticallyInitializing Autostar Alt/Az Home PositionMoving Through Autostar’s Menus Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking Feature Easy Two-Star AlignHow to Easy Align Your Telescope Alignment Star?Go To Saturn Two-Star Alt/Az AlignmentOne-Star Alt/Az Alignment Take a Guided TourBasic Autostar Operation Autostar Navigation ExerciseNavigating Autostar Adjusting the Speed of a Scrolling MessageEntering Numbers and Text into Autostar Menus and Menu Options Object MenuEvent Menu Glossary Menu Utilities MenuSetup Menu Page Menu Daylight SAVING, Optional Accessories Caring for Your Telescope CollimationPage Meade Customer Service Specifications DS-2060DS-2114S Locating the Celestial Pole Appendix aCelestial Coordinates To GO to a user-entered object Using Autostar to Find Objects Not in the DatabaseAppendix B Appendix C Observing SatellitesAppendix D Training the DriveAppendix E Electronic Controller DS-2000EC Users OnlySlew Speeds Objects in Space Basic AstronomyAutostar Glossary MoonPlanets Deep-Sky ObjectsPage Meade Instruments Corporation

DS-2000 specifications

The Meade DS-2000 is a versatile and user-friendly telescope that caters to both beginners and seasoned astronomers alike. Known for its exceptional performance and ease of use, the DS-2000 series has become a popular choice among amateur stargazers. This telescope features a robust design coupled with advanced technologies that enhance the overall observing experience.

One of the standout features of the Meade DS-2000 is its sturdy mount, which provides stability during observations. This stability is crucial for clearer and more detailed views of celestial objects, as it minimizes vibrations and shakes that can occur while tracking objects across the night sky. The telescope typically comes with an adjustable aluminum tripod to further enhance stability and can handle varying weights and instruments.

The DS-2000 series utilizes an electronically controlled altazimuth mount, allowing users to easily navigate the sky with its automatic tracking capabilities. This intuitive design ensures that even novice astronomers can locate and follow astronomical objects with minimal effort. The built-in computer control allows users to access a database of thousands of celestial bodies, making it easy to select targets for viewing.

In terms of optics, the Meade DS-2000 features high-quality glass optics with multi-coated lenses. This ensures superior light transmission and contrast, resulting in bright, clear images of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects. The telescope typically offers a range of apertures, making it suitable for various observing preferences and conditions.

Furthermore, the Meade DS-2000 is often equipped with a 9mm or 25mm eyepiece, enabling users to achieve magnifications adequate for observing different types of celestial phenomena. The addition of a built-in red-dot finder makes it easier to aim and locate objects in the night sky.

Portability is another significant characteristic of the DS-2000 series. Its lightweight design allows astronomers to transport it easily to different observing locations, making spontaneous stargazing adventures possible, whether in the backyard or at a dark-sky site.

In summary, the Meade DS-2000 combines solid construction, user-friendly features, and advanced technology, making it an excellent choice for anyone interested in exploring the night sky. With its impressive optics, reliable tracking capabilities, and enhanced portability, the DS-2000 series provides an enjoyable and rewarding astronomical experience.
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