Meade DS-114AT instruction manual

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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 Arrow key and also slews the tube more slowly. Experiment with this option. Try changing the percent value until you get a "feel" for the Arrow keys that is comfortable for you.

Alt Percent: The Alt (Altitude) Percent operates identical to the AZ Percent option (see above), but allows you to change the altitude backlash, i.e., the way the Arrow keys move the telescope when moving along the altitude (vertical) axis.

■Train Drive: Trains the Altitude and Azimuth motors to locate objects with more precision.

If you are experiencing any problems with pointing accuracy, follow the procedure described in TRAINING THE DRIVE, page 16, to insure accurate pointing and tracking.

■Tracking Rate: Changes the speed at which the telescope tracks targets in the sky.

a.Sidereal: The default setting for Autostar; sidereal rate is the standard rate at which stars move from East to West across the sky due to the rotation of the Earth.

b.Lunar: Choose this option to properly track the Moon over long observing sessions.

c.Custom: Allows entry of user-defined tracking rates.

■Reverse L/R: Reverses the functions of the Left and Right Arrow keys (i.e., the Right key moves the telescope to the left).

■Reverse UP/DOWN: Reverses the functions of the Up and Down Arrow keys (i.e., the Up key moves the telescope down).

■Calibrate Motor: If the telescope motors appear to have a problem, use this option to retest the motors before performing a Reset. This option is also used if an Autostar unit is moved between telescopes, to match Autostar to the new telescope. To calibrate the motors, select this option and press ENTER.

■High Precision: If High Precision is turned on, when looking for a faint celestial object (i.e.,

anebula or galaxy), Autostar first slews to a nearby bright star and displays "ENTER to Sync." Center the star in the eyepiece, then press ENTER. At that point the telescope has

ahigh precision alignment to that part of the sky and it then slews to the object that was originally requested.

Targets switches between Astronomical targets and Terrestrial targets. If "Astronomical" is selected, the telescope tracking motor is activated and any object you observe will remain cen- tered in the eyepiece. If "Terrestrial" is selected, the tracking motor is turned off. To learn how to track an object automatically, see page 17.

Site provides access to several options including:

■Select: Displays the currently selected observing site. Use the Scroll keys to cycle through all available sites (see ADD below). Press ENTER when the site you wish to select dis- plays. Use this option when you move to a different geographic location.

■Add: Allows you to add new observing sites to the database (up to six sites may be stored). Scroll through the list of Countries/States. Press ENTER when the site you wish to add dis- plays. Then choose the desired city in the same manner.

■Delete: Deletes a stored site from the database.

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Contents Meade Instruments Corporation Reflecting Telescope Contents Remove the optical tube from the mount QUICK-START GuideRemove the optical tube and tripod from the gift- box Stand the tripod and orient the cradle ringsInsert the eyepiece Adjust tripodAttach and balance the optical tube Sight along the tubeLED Telescope Features Computer Control Panel bAutostar Features #494 Autostar HandboxSlew speeds? Packing List How to Assemble Your TelescopeGetting Started Viewfinder Focusing the ViewfinderSome Notes About the Dual-Motor System Aligning the Viewfinder Choosing an EyepieceBarlow Lens Observing by Moving the Telescope Manually Observing Using Autostars Arrow KeysObserving Terrestrial ObservingAstronomical Observing Slew SpeedsObserve the Moon Tracking an Object AutomaticallyInitializing Autostar Alt/Az Home PositionMoving Through Autostar’s Menus Training the Drive Easy Two-Star Align Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking FeatureHow to Easy Align Your Telescope Two-Star Alt/Az Alignment One-Star Alt/Az AlignmentOne of the most beautiful celes- tial sights, Saturn Basic 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 Observing ConsiderationsGlossary Menu Utilities MenuSetup Menu Surf the WebPage Menu Daylight SAVING, Caring for Your Telescope CollimationPage Specifications DS-114ATOptional Accessories Meade Customer ServiceAppendix a Locating the Celestial PoleUsing Autostar to Find Objects Not in the Database To GO to a user-entered objectAppendix C Observing SatellitesSky & Telescope Planets Objects in SpaceMoon Deep-Sky ObjectsPage Meade Instruments Corporation

DS-114AT specifications

The Meade DS-114AT is a popular entry-level telescope that combines user-friendliness with impressive optical performance, making it an excellent choice for budding astronomers and hobbyists. With its robust design and advanced features, the DS-114AT offers a gateway to the wonders of the cosmos, whether you’re observing the craters of the Moon, the rings of Saturn, or distant star clusters.

One of the standout features of the Meade DS-114AT is its 114 mm (4.5-inch) diameter aperture. This sizable opening allows for greater light-gathering capability, resulting in brighter images and improved visibility of celestial objects. The telescope is equipped with a 900 mm focal length, providing a good balance that allows for both wide-field viewing and detailed observations of planets and lunar features.

The DS-114AT utilizes high-quality optics featuring a parabolic mirror design. This design minimizes spherical aberration, ensuring crisp images of astronomical targets. The telescope is also equipped with a fully coated optical system that enhances light transmission and reduces glare, providing clearer images compared to other telescopes in its class.

Portability is another significant advantage of the Meade DS-114AT. Its lightweight and compact design allows for easy transportation, making it ideal for backyard stargazing or trips to darker skies. The telescope comes with a sturdy yet lightweight altazimuth mount that facilitates smooth movement, allowing users to easily locate and track celestial objects.

The Meade DS-114AT also features a user-friendly electronic control system, including an automated GoTo functionality that aids in navigating the night sky. With a simple push of a button, users can precisely locate thousands of celestial objects, making the telescope accessible for beginners who may not yet be familiar with star maps and constellations.

Additionally, the telescope includes two eyepieces, a 9 mm and a 25 mm, allowing for various magnifications to suit different viewing preferences. The optical finder scope aids in quick alignment, ensuring a hassle-free observing experience.

In summary, the Meade DS-114AT stands out as a versatile, user-friendly telescope that provides excellent optical performance and advanced features. Its combination of a sizable aperture, high-quality optics, portability, and automated features make it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the universe, whether for casual observations or more serious astronomical pursuits. With this telescope, the night sky is truly within reach.
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