Meade DS-2102AT-TC, DS-2090AT-TC specs

AUTOSTAR FEATURES

Nearly all telescope operations are accomplished with just a few pushes of AutoStar’s buttons. Some of the major features of AutoStar are:

N Automatically move the telescope to any of the 30,000 objects stored in the database or manually enter the astronomical coordinates of any celestial object.

N Take a guided tour of the best celestial objects to view on any given night of the year. N Access a glossary of astronomical terms.

N Calculate which eyepiece to use for optimum viewing of a celestial object.

The AutoStar Computer Controller provides control of virtually every telescope operation. AutoStar has soft-touch keys designed to have a positive feel. The LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is backlit with a red LED (Light Emitting Diode) for easy viewing in the dark. The backlit display, key arrangement, and sequential database make AutoStar extremely user friendly.

NOTE: AutoStar does not require batteries; the telescope’s batteries supply power to AutoStar.

B 2-Line LCD Display: This screen displays AutoStar's menus and information about the tel- escope.

• Top line: Lists the primary menu.

• Bottom line: Displays other menus that may be chosen, menu options, tele- scope status or information about a function that is being performed.

c ENTER Key: Press to go to the next menu level or to choose an option in a menu. The ENTER key is similar to the RETURN or ENTER key on a computer.

d MODE Key: Press to return to the previous menu or data level. The top menu level is “Select Item." The MODE key is similar to the ESCAPE key on a computer.

Note: Pressing MODE repeatedly while in the “Select Item” level moves AutoStar to

the topmost screen: “Select Item: Object.”

If MODE is pressed and held for two seconds or more, information about the telescope's status displays. When the status displays, press one of the Scroll keys to dis- play the following information:

• Right Ascension and Declination (astronomical) coordinates

• Altitude (vertical) and Azimuth (horizontal) coordinates

• Local Time and Local Sidereal Time (LST)

• Timer and Alarm Status

• Date

• Site coordinates

• Battery status

Press MODE again to return to the previous menu.

e GO TO Key: After the telescope is aligned, press to slew (move) the telescope to the coor- dinates of the currently selected object. While the telescope is slewing, the operation may be aborted at any time by pressing any key except GO TO. Pressing GO TO again resumes the slew to the object. Also, press during the alignment or GO TO procedures to activate a "spiral search."

f Arrow Keys: The Arrow keys have several functions. Press an Arrow key to slew the tele- scope in a specific direction (up, down, left and right), at any one of nine different speeds. See SLEW SPEEDS, page 16. Use the Arrow keys to move the telescope vertically up and down. The Left Arrow key rotates the telescope horizontally counterclockwise, while the Right Arrow key rotates it clockwise.

DS-2090AT-TC, DS-2102AT-TC specifications

The Meade DS-2102AT-TC and DS-2090AT-TC are two innovative telescopes that cater to avid stargazers and aspiring astronomers alike. Designed with user-friendly features and robust optics, these telescopes offer a stellar viewing experience for both novice and experienced hobbyists.

The DS-2102AT-TC model boasts a 102mm aperture, providing a wider field of view that allows users to observe celestial objects with clarity and precision. This telescope utilizes a refractor design, which minimizes chromatic aberration and enhances image brightness. The combination of high-quality glass optics and a fully coated lens system ensures excellent light transmission, making it ideal for viewing planets, star clusters, and other astronomical phenomena.

One of the standout features of the DS-2102AT-TC is its AutoStar technology. This advanced computer-controlled system provides users with the ability to easily locate and track thousands of celestial objects. With a simple press of a button, the telescope automatically aligns itself to the night sky, allowing for hassle-free observation. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners who may find it challenging to manually locate specific stars or planets.

The DS-2090AT-TC model incorporates a slightly different design, featuring a larger 90mm aperture and a similar refractor configuration. This telescope is also equipped with the AutoStar computer control system, enhancing the user experience by offering guided tours of the night sky. The DS-2090AT-TC excels in delivering bright and detailed views of deep-sky objects, making it a great option for those interested in exploring the wonders of the universe.

Both models are designed for portability, making them easy to transport to various observation sites. The sturdy mount and adjustable tripod provide stability and ease of use, ensuring that users can enjoy extended viewing sessions without fatigue. Additionally, these telescopes come with a variety of eyepieces, allowing for different magnification levels to suit the observer's preference.

In conclusion, the Meade DS-2102AT-TC and DS-2090AT-TC offer a compelling combination of advanced technology, user-friendly features, and high-quality optics. Whether you're a beginner eager to explore the night sky or a seasoned enthusiast seeking detailed celestial observations, these telescopes provide the tools you need to immerse yourself in the wonders of astronomy. With their reliable performance and impressive capabilities, the Meade DS series stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to making astronomy accessible and enjoyable for everyone.