Meade ETX-70AT instruction manual ETX Your Personal Window to the Universe

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Except for the lens diameter, the Meade ETX-60AT and the ETX-70AT are identical; all procedures and descriptions in this manual apply to both telescopes.

CAUTION:

Using products other than standard Meade accessories may cause damage to the telescope’s internal electronics and may void the Meade warranty.

ETX: Your Personal Window to the Universe

The Meade ETX-60AT and the ETX-70AT are extremely versatile, high-resolution telescopes with features similar to those once available only with larger and more specialized imaging sys- tems. With pushbutton controls, automatic tracking of celestial objects, and software down- loading capability, an ETX telescope may be all the telescope ever required by many terrestri- al and astronomical observers.

Your ETX telescope reveals nature in an ever-expanding level of detail. Observe the feather structure of an eagle from 50 yards or study the rings of the planet Saturn from a distance of 800 million miles. Focus beyond the Solar System and observe majestic nebulae, ancient star clusters, remote galaxies, and even stars recently discovered to have planets orbiting about them. Meade ETX telescopes are instruments fully capable of growing with your interest and are ideal for both the casual observer and serious astronomer alike.

1Eyepiece - Place the MA 25mm eyepiece into the 90° Eyepiece Holder (3, Fig. 1) and tighten in place with thumbscrew (2, Fig.1).

2Eyepiece Holder Thumbscrew - Tightens the eyepiece in place. Tighten to a "firm feel" only.

390° Eyepiece Holder - Holds the eyepiece upright for easy viewing.

4Optical Tube - The main optical component that gathers the light from distant objects and brings this light to a focus for examination with the eyepiece.

5Movable Objective Lens Cell - This component contains the telescope’s lenses. The focus knob (8, Fig. 1) moves the cell for precise image focus.

6Vertical Lock - Controls the manual vertical movement of the telescope. Turning the ver- tical lock counterclockwise unlocks the telescope enabling it to be freely rotated by hand about the vertical axis. Turning the vertical lock clockwise (to a "firm feel" only) prevents the telescope from being moved manually, but engages the vertical motor drive for Autostar operation.

NOTE: The vertical lock knob (6, Fig. 1) is a knurled knob located on the fork arm to the right of the focus knob (8, Fig. 1). Mounted beneath the knob is a circular scale with no numbers. Do not confuse this scale with the Dec setting circle (17, Fig. 1) on the opposite fork arm which has a numbered scale used to locate astronomical objects.

CAUTION: When loosening the vertical lock, be sure to support the objective lens cell (5, Fig. 1). The weight of the objective lens could cause the tube to swing down- ward suddenly and damage the telescope.

7Fork Arms - Hold the optical tube in place.

8Focus Knob - Moves the telescope’s objective lens (5, Fig. 1) in a finely-controlled motion to achieve precise image focus. The ETX-60AT and ETX-70AT telescopes can be focused on objects from a distance of about 17 ft. to infinity. Rotate the focus knob clockwise to focus on distant objects, and counterclockwise to focus on nearby objects.

9Horizontal Lock - Controls the manual horizontal rotation of the telescope. Turning the horizontal lock counterclockwise unlocks the telescope, enabling it to be freely rotated by hand about the horizontal axis. Turning the horizontal lock clockwise prevents the tele- scope from being rotated manually, but engages the horizontal motor drive for Autostar operation.

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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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