Meade ETX-70AT instruction manual Observing a Satellite, Photography with the ETX

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Observing a Satellite

NOTE: Satellite observing is an exciting challenge. Most satellites are in low orbit, traveling at approximately 17,500 mph. They move quickly across the sky and are visible only for a few minutes, requiring Autostar to slew the telescope rapidly. Best viewing is near Sunrise or Sunset when the sky is still dark. Viewing in the middle of the night can be problematic because the satellite may pass overhead, but not be visible as it is in the Earth's shadow.

1.Choose a satellite from the Select menu, then press ENTER. Autostar scans its database to find if that satellite is expected to pass overhead within the next 6 hours.

2.If a satellite is expected, use the Scroll keys to access a list of information about the pass, including acquisition time, location, etc.

3.At the end of the list is “Alarm.” Press ENTER and Autostar automatically sets the alarm to sound several minutes before the scheduled appearance. You may return to regular obser- vations until the alarm goes off.

4.When the alarm goes off, return to the Satellite menu and press a Scroll key until the desired satellite is on the top line of the display.

5.Press GO TO. Autostar slews the telescope to where the satellite should appear. The motor drive stops and a countdown starts.

NOTE: If the scheduled appearance position of the satellite is obstructed (i.e., by a building, tree, or hill), press ENTER and Autostar starts to move the telescope along the expected satellite track. When the track clears the obstruction, press ENTER again to pause the telescope, then continue with this procedure.

6.With about 20 seconds left on the countdown timer, start watching through the eyepiece for the satellite to enter the field of view.

7.When the satellite enters the field of view, press ENTER. The telescope starts to track with the satellite.

8.Use the Arrow keys to center the object in the eyepiece to view the object. Satellite orbits change and new satellites (including the Space Shuttle) are launched. Visit the Meade website (www.meade.com) approximately once a month to get updated information and instructions on how to download this data to Autostar. If orbital parameters are more than one month old, the satellite pass may not happen at the time predicted by Autostar. To download new satellite data into Autostar memory requires the optional Astrofinder Software and Cable Connector Kit. See “OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES,” page 25.

Photography with the ETX

Photography through the ETX-60AT or ETX-70AT requires the addition of the optional #64ST T–Adapter. See “OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES,” page 25. With the #64ST T-Adapter attached to the telescope (Fig. 17), through-the-telescope photography is possible with any 35mm camera body with a removable lens. In this way, the telescope effectively becomes the lens of the camera.

For through-the-telescope photography, turn the flip-mirror control (15, Fig. 1) to the “down” position, allowing light to pass straight through the telescope and out the photo port (16, Fig. 1). With the flip-mirror control in the “down” position and the photo port’s dust cover removed, the front lens of the telescope can be seen when looking through the photo port. The #64ST T- Adapter (1, Fig. 17) threads on to the photo port, followed by a T-Mount (2, Fig. 17) for the par- ticular brand of 35mm camera being used, followed by the camera body (3, Fig. 17).

To frame an object in the viewfinder of the 35mm camera body, use a small jeweler’s screw- driver to slightly loosen three adjustment screws (4, Fig. 17) around the outer knurled ring of the T-Mount. Rotate the camera body to achieve proper framing of the object; then re-tighten the adjustment screws.

Advanced Features 23

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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 Choosing an Eyepiece Parts ListingHow to Assemble Your Telescope Getting StartedManual 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 Inspecting the Optics Maintenance and ServicingGeneral Maintenance Storage and TransportUnable 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 Two-Star Polar Alignment Autostar Polar AlignmentEasy Polar Alignment One-Star Polar AlignmentTo GO to a user-entered object Appendix B Using Autostar to Enter R.A. and DEC CoordinatesCity Country Latitude Appendix C Helpful ChartsLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World City State LatitudeFurther Study Appendix D Training the DriveEnter Appendix E Initialization ExampleMoon Basic AstronomyAutostar Glossary Objects in SpaceDeep-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.