Meade DS-114AT Attach and balance the optical tube, Insert the eyepiece, Adjust tripod

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B

C

D

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4.Attach and balance the optical tube.

Turn the optical tube around and replace it into the cra- dle rings. Fasten the cradle rings lock knobs so that they only hold the optical tube loosely; do not tighten the lock knobs yet. Note the optical tube's and the yoke's orientation in photo.

Slide the tube back and forth until you find a position where the tube remains horizontal (i.e., without tipping up or down). Then tighten the cradle rings lock knobs to a firm feel.

5.Insert the eyepiece.

Remove the supplied 25mm eyepiece (B) from its con- tainer and place it into the eyepiece holder. Tighten the thumbscrews (C) to a firm feel only. Remove the dust cover from the end of optical tube assembly. Use the focus knobs (D) to bring objects into focus.

6.Adjust tripod.

Adjust the height of the tripod by lifting the clip on each leg and extending the sliding inner section of each tri- pod leg to the desired length. Then press the clip back against the leg to lock in place.

7.Sight along the tube.

Sight along the side of the telescope's main tube to locate an object and then observe through the eye- piece.

If you wish to attach the viewfinder, see page 10.

If you wish to initialize Autostar, see page 15.

If you wish to align the telescope, see page 17.

If you wish to use Autostar to automatically view objects, see page 19 for some examples.

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Contents Meade Instruments Corporation Reflecting Telescope Contents Remove the optical tube and tripod from the gift- box QUICK-START GuideRemove the optical tube from the mount Stand the tripod and orient the cradle ringsAttach and balance the optical tube Adjust tripodInsert the eyepiece Sight along the tubeLED Computer Control Panel b Telescope Features#494 Autostar Handbox Autostar FeaturesSlew 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 Observing Using Autostars Arrow KeysObserving by Moving the Telescope Manually Terrestrial ObservingObserve the Moon Slew SpeedsAstronomical Observing 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 One-Star Alt/Az Alignment Two-Star Alt/Az AlignmentOne of the most beautiful celes- tial sights, Saturn Autostar Navigation Exercise Basic Autostar OperationNavigating Autostar Adjusting the Speed of a Scrolling MessageEntering Numbers and Text into Autostar Object Menu Menus and Menu OptionsObserving Considerations Event MenuUtilities Menu Glossary MenuSurf the Web Setup MenuPage Menu Daylight SAVING, Collimation Caring for Your TelescopePage DS-114AT SpecificationsMeade Customer Service Optional AccessoriesLocating the Celestial Pole Appendix aTo GO to a user-entered object Using Autostar to Find Objects Not in the DatabaseObserving Satellites Appendix CSky & Telescope Moon Objects in SpacePlanets 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.