Meade 4500 Introducing the Meade Model, This Manual, Standard Equipment, Unpacking and Assembly

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Threaded Hole
Leg Lock Knob
Sliding Inner Leg

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A. Introducing the Meade Model 4500

The Model 4500 is an easy-to-operate, high performance 4.5" (114mm) reflecting telescope, intended for astronomical observing. Equipped with a deluxe equatorial mount and aluminum tripod, the telescope’s motion is continuously adjustable for tracking celestial objects. Your telescope comes to you ready for adventure; it will be your companion in a universe of planets, galaxies, and stars. Please note that the Model 4500 is a Newtonian reflecting telescope optimized for astronomical observing performance, and is not intended for terrestrial observing.

1. This Manual

These instructions detail the set-up, operation, specifications, and optional accessories of your Meade Model 4500. In order that you may achieve maximum enjoyment of the instrument, we urge that you take a few minutes to read all of this manual before making first observations through the telescope. As you read this manual, the technical terms associated with telescopes will be made clear.

2. Standard Equipment

•Complete optical tube assembly with a 4.5" (114mm) diameter primary mirror, viewfinder mounting bolts with mounting nuts and 1.25" rack-and-pinion focuser. Mirror focal length = 910mm; f/8.

•Equatorial mount with pre-attached heavy duty, continuously adjustable, aluminum tripod and leg braces.

•Accessories: MA25mm (36x) eyepiece (1.25"O.D.)

Cradle rings with lock knobs

6 x 30 viewfinder and bracket Counterweight with counterweight shaft Flexible cable controls for both telescope axes Accessory shelf with mounting knob

B. Unpacking and Assembly

Your Meade Model 4500 comes to you packaged almost entirely pre-assembled. You will find upon opening the giftbox that there are two compartments within that contain the optical tube assembly and the tripod with equatorial mount. The accessories described above will be located within compartments custom-cut into the styrofoam block inserts. (References herein— e.g. (6)—are to Fig.1 unless otherwise specified.)

•Remove and identify the telescope’s Standard Equipment listed in Section A.2., above.

•The three tripod lock knobs (43) have been removed from the bottom section of each tripod leg to insure safe arrival of the tripod assembly. To install, thread in each tripod lock knob into the threaded hole located at the right side of each of the three gray colored castings (see illustration below) at the bottom of each tripod leg. Tighten the tripod lock knob only to a “firm feel” to avoid damage to the tripod caused by overtightening.

•Spread the tripod legs (1) to full extension so that the leg braces (42) are taut (should one of the tripod leg braces slip out of the center triangle fastener, merely reposition the brace and slide it back into position). Adjust the tripod with the attached equatorial mount (2) to

the desired height by loosening the tripod lock knobs and extend the sliding inner section of each tripod leg; then tighten each knob.

• Remove the mounting knob (41) from the round accessory shelf (40). Place the accessory shelf on top of the center triangle leg brace fastener of the tripod (1) so that the threaded stud protruding from the bottom of the shelf (40) passes through the hole in the center. Then replace and tighten the accessory shelf mounting knob (41).

•Attach the flexible cable controls (3) and (4). These cable controls

are secured in place with a firm tightening of the thumbscrew located at the end of each cable.

•Holding the counterweight (5) firmly in one hand, slip the counterweight onto the counterweight shaft (6). Attach the counterweight (5) and counterweight shaft (6), by supporting the unlocked (7) counterweight firmly in one hand, while threading the counterweight shaft into the base of the Declination axis of the telescope’s equatorial mount with the other (see Fig. 1). Once firmly attached, slide the counterweight to the midpoint on the counterweight shaft and secure it in place with the lock knob (7) of the counter- weight. Note: If the counterweight ever slips, the secured threaded safety washer/knob (8) will not let the weight slide entirely off the counterweight shaft. Be certain that this safety washer/knob is always in place.

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Contents Model 4500 4.5 Equatorial Reflecting Telescope Meade Limited Warranty Table of Contents Key to Fig Meade Model 4500 4.5 Equatorial Reflecting Telescope This Manual Unpacking and AssemblyIntroducing the Meade Model Standard EquipmentBalancing the Telescope Alignment of the ViewfinderUnderstanding Celestial Movements and Coordinates Celestial SphereUsing the Telescope Lining Up with the Celestial PolePage Using Setting Circles Calculating PowerCollimation Alignment of the Optics Maintenance CleaningMount and Tripod Adjustments Correct collimationDiagonal Assembly Primary mirror adjustments Spider vane adjustmentsDiagonal holder adjustments Star testing the collimationSpecifications Model Optional AccessoriesMeade Instruments Corporation

4500 specifications

The Meade 4500 is a notable telescope in the world of amateur astronomy, designed to make stargazing accessible and rewarding for both novice and experienced observers. This telescope belongs to the category of Newtonian reflectors, known for their simple design, impressive optics, and affordability. At its core, the Meade 4500 features a 4.5-inch (114 mm) aperture, which enables users to capture bright images of celestial objects and a variety of deep-sky phenomena.

One of the main features of the Meade 4500 is its advanced optics system. The primary mirror is parabolic, ensuring optimal light collection efficiency and delivering crisp images free from spherical aberration. The telescope's focal length is 900 mm, providing a versatile viewing experience with a moderate focal ratio that balances wide-field and high-magnification observations. Coupled with a 1.25-inch focuser, the telescope accommodates a range of eyepieces, allowing users to customize magnification for various celestial targets.

The Meade 4500 is equipped with a sturdy and stable mount, crucial for precise tracking and steady views. The telescope employs an adjustable, manual altitude-azimuth mount, which provides smooth movement in both vertical and horizontal directions. This mount is particularly beneficial when observing planets, the Moon, or any other celestial object that demands meticulous positioning. The lightweight design of the telescope further enhances portability, making it easy to transport for observations in different locations.

Another key characteristic of the Meade 4500 is its user-friendly setup. The telescope usually comes with an instructional manual, guiding users through the assembly and initial alignment process. The setup typically requires only basic tools, allowing beginner astronomers to quickly get started. Additionally, Meade often provides a selection of accessories with the telescope, such as star charts or a red dot finder, which enhances the overall experience.

In terms of technology, the Meade 4500 embodies the principles of optical design and ergonomics. The telescope’s structure allows for easy tracking of celestial movements, and its reflectivity ensures bright views of both bright planets and distant star clusters. Whether you're examining the rings of Saturn or exploring the lunar surface's fine details, the Meade 4500 stands out as an excellent gateway into the universe, combining optical performance with user-oriented features perfect for every stargazing enthusiast.
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