Meade ETX-70AT instruction manual Event Menu

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•Select - To select a Landmark already in the database, choose the "Select" option and scroll through the list. Press ENTER to select a Landmark, then press GO TO and the tel- escope slews to the object.

•Add - To add a Landmark, choose the "Add" option. Enter a name for the Landmark. Locate and center the Landmark, then press ENTER.

Identify is an exciting feature for an observer who wants to scan the night sky and start explor- ing. After the telescope has been properly aligned, use the Autostar Arrow keys to move about in the sky. Then follow this procedure:

IMPORTANT NOTE: Only use the Arrow keys to move the telescope during the Identify procedure. Do not loosen the telescope locks or move the base. Alignment is lost.

1.When a desired object is visible in the eyepiece, keep pressing MODE until the “Select Item: Object” menu is displayed.

2.Scroll through the Object menu options until the “Object: Identify” screen appears.

3.Press ENTER. Autostar searches the database for the identity of the object being observed.

4.If the telescope is not directly on an Autostar database object, the nearest database object is located and displayed on the screen. Press GO TO and the telescope slews to that object.

Event Menu

The Event menu provides access to dates and times of astronomical events. The Event data- base includes:

Sunrise and Sunset calculates the time that the Sun rises or sets on the current date. Find rise and set times for other dates by entering a new date into the “Setup: Date” menu.

Moonrise and Moonset calculates the time that the Moon rises or sets on the current date. Find rise and set times for other dates by entering a new date into the “Setup: Date” menu.

Moon Phases displays the date and time of the next Full, New, 1st Quarter, and 3rd Quarter Moon.

Meteor Showers provides information on upcoming meteor showers, such as the Perseids, the Leonids, etc. Also lists the dates of the showers and when they reach maximum.

NOTE: Meteors are fast moving objects that cover large areas of the sky and are usually best observed with the naked eye.

Solar Eclipse lists upcoming Solar Eclipses, including the date and type (total, annular, or partial) of eclipse, and the location and time of the first and last contacts of the Moon's shadow. Use the Scroll Up and Down keys to display the available data. Remember, never use a telescope to look at the sun! See “WARNING!” page 2.

TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

•Try to pick an observing site away from street and house lights and car headlights. While this is not always possible, the darker the site, the better.

•Give your eyes about ten minutes to adjust to the darkness before observing. Give your eyes a rest from observing every ten or fifteen min- utes to relieve eyestrain.

•Try not to use a standard flashlight. A lot of observers use red LED flashlights or tape red cellophane over their flashlights to use for setup and map reading so they don’t have to continually readjust their eyes to the darkness. Be careful not to shine bright lights if there are other observers in the area. Do not shine a flashlight into the telescope while someone is observing!

•Dress warmly. It gets chilly when you’re sitting for prolonged periods.

•Practice setting up your equipment during the day or in a lighted area to become familiar with it before going to a dark site.

•Use your 25mm eyepiece to view terrestrial objects and wider areas of space, such as open star clusters. Use your 9mm eyepiece when you wish to view something up close, such as craters on the Moon or the rings of Saturn.

•Know your observing site. If you’re going to try out an unfamiliar site, check it out in the daylight for possible obstructions and pitfalls.

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Contents Meade Instruments Corporation Contents QUICK-START Guide If you wish to observe using Autostar’s databases, go toETX-60AT and ETX-70AT Telescope Telescope FeaturesETX Your Personal Window to the Universe Flip mirror control in the up position Computer Control PanelTour the Cosmos with Just the Push of a Button Autostar FeaturesAutostar Features Join an Astronomy Club Attend a Star Party How to Assemble Your Telescope Parts ListingGetting Started Choosing an EyepieceManual Operation of the Telescope without Autostar Manual Operation of the Telescope Using Autostars Arrow KeysInitializing Autostar Moving Through Autostar’s MenusAutostar Navigation Exercise Autostar OperationTo Calculate Sunset time Easy Two-Star Alignment ProcedureEasy Two-Star Alignment Go To Saturn Using the Guided TourObserving Exercises Object Menu Autostar MenusComplete Autostar Menu Structure Event Menu Utilities Menu Glossary MenuSurf the Web Setup MenuMenu Daylight Saving, Advanced Features Slew Speeds Two-Star Alt/Az AlignmentOne-Star Alt/Az Alignment Photography with the ETX Observing a SatelliteFew tips on photography with the ETX-60AT or ETX-70AT Instrument across the two slots and turn counAstrofinder Software Optional Accessories#882 Standard Field Tripod set in Alt/Az Configuration General Maintenance Maintenance and ServicingStorage and Transport Inspecting the OpticsUnable to see an image through the eyepiece TroubleshootingETX-60AT/ETX-70AT Specifications Meade Customer ServiceAutostar Dimensions ETX-60AT/ETX-70AT Specifications contdAutostar Specifications Celestial Coordinates Appendix a Equatorial Polar AlignmentPolar Alignment Easy Polar Alignment Autostar Polar AlignmentOne-Star Polar Alignment Two-Star Polar AlignmentTo GO to a user-entered object Appendix B Using Autostar to Enter R.A. and DEC CoordinatesLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World Appendix C Helpful ChartsCity State Latitude City Country LatitudeFurther Study Appendix D Training the DriveEnter Appendix E Initialization ExampleAutostar Glossary Basic AstronomyObjects in Space MoonDeep-Sky Objects PlanetsSeason Star Name Constellation Dec Star LocatorMeade Instruments Corporation

ETX-70AT specifications

The Meade ETX-70AT is a compact, portable telescope that caters to both amateur astronomers and educational purposes. This telescope is part of the renowned ETX series, known for its innovative features and user-friendly design. With an aperture of 70mm, the ETX-70AT is designed to provide clear, bright images of celestial objects, making it an ideal choice for novice astronomers eager to explore the night sky.

One of the standout features of the ETX-70AT is its Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design. This design combines a Maksutov corrector plate with a compact cassegrain layout, allowing for a shorter tube length while still providing excellent optical performance. As a result, users can easily transport the telescope to various observing locations without compromising on image quality.

The telescope boasts a focal length of 350mm, which offers a wide field of view, allowing observers to comfortably locate and track celestial phenomena. The ETX-70AT comes equipped with a built-in electronic control system known as the Audio Star, featuring a database of over 30,000 celestial objects. This system not only makes it easier for users to locate specific targets but also enhances the overall observing experience by providing informative audio commentary about different astronomical objects.

Another notable characteristic is its lightweight design, weighing in at just around 5 lbs. This portability factor makes it an excellent choice for stargazers who prefer to travel or hike to optimal viewing locations. The telescope is mounted on an adjustable and stable aluminum tripods, providing a solid foundation for viewing.

The Meade ETX-70AT also includes a variety of accessories, including two eyepieces (26mm and 9.7mm), a finder scope to help users aim accurately, and a variety of optional filters to enhance viewing contrast and clarity. Furthermore, the telescope supports direct connection to a computer for astrophotography, enabling enthusiasts to capture their astronomical observations digitally.

In summary, the Meade ETX-70AT is an exceptional entry-level telescope that combines portability, advanced technology, and ease of use. With its powerful optics, automated features, and impressive accessory offerings, it serves as an excellent tool for any individual or educational institution looking to delve into the wonders of astronomy.
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