Meade 4504 Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking Feature, Moving Through Starfinder’s Menus

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Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking Feature

In this example, Starfinder's Arrow keys are used to find a star, and then Starfinder's tracking capability automatically keeps the star centered in your telescope's eyepiece.

1.If you have just completed Lesson 5, Starfinder's display now reads "Align: One Star." Go to Step 2.

If you have not used Starfinder yet or have just plugged it into the HBX port, perform the procedure described in "ACTIVATE THE ARROW KEYS," page 14. Then go to Step 2 of this procedure.

If you have been using Starfinder to perform other functions and the display does not read "Align: One Star," follow these steps:

a.Press MODE (3, Fig. 13) repeatedly until "Select Item: Object" displays.

b.Press the Scroll Up key (6, Fig. 13) once. "Select Item: Setup" displays.

c.Press ENTER (2, Fig. 13). "Setup: Align" displays. Go to Step 3.

2.Press MODE (3, Fig. 13). "Setup: Align" displays.

3.Press the Scroll Down key repeatedly until "Setup: Targets" displays. Press ENTER (2, Fig. 13).

4."Targets: Terrestrial" displays. Press one of the Scroll keys once (6 or 7, Fig. 13).

"Targets: Astronomical" now displays.

5.If you have not already done so, Polar align your telescope as described on page 15.

6.Use the Arrow keys (5, Fig. 13) to locate a bright star in the night sky. Use the viewfinder to help line up on the star. You may choose any unobstructed, bright star for the purposes of this example. Use Starfinder's Arrow keys to center the star in the eyepiece. Once the star is centered, press ENTER to select "Astronomical." The telescope's tracking motors then engage. It may take the tracking motors several seconds to begin tracking. When they do, it may be necessary to once again center the star in the eyepiece. The tracking motors will then keep the star you have chosen in the center of the eyepiece.

7.Press and hold the ENTER key for a few seconds and then release to stop tracking. You may repeat the procedure, if so desired, to locate another star or object using the Arrow keys. Then press ENTER to re-engage the tracking motors.

LESSON 7: Using Starfinder's GO TO Capabilities

This lesson describes how to make observations using various Starfinder features and menus. But before you can use Starfinder's GO TO capabilities, you must first:

•Learn how Starfinder's keys move through the menus

•Initialize Starfinder

•Train the drive

•Polar align the telescope, if you have not already done so (see Lesson 6)

•Select "Align: One Star" from Starfinder's menus

Moving Through Starfinder’s Menus

Starfinder's menus are organized for quick and easy navigation.

•Press ENTER to go deeper into Starfinder menu levels.

•Press MODE to move back toward the top menu level.

•Press the Scroll keys to move up and down through the options available for each level.

•Press the Arrow keys to enter characters and digits.

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Contents Meade Instruments Corporation How This Manual is Organized Table of Contents 1416 Lesson 1 Unpacking and Assembly Telescope AssemblyMotor Assembly AccessoriesKey to Figures 2a, 2b, and 2c 2325 How to Assemble Your Telescope Sure that this safety washer/knob always remains in placeInsert eyepiece into the focuser assembly Lesson 2 Balancing the Telescope Lesson 3 Aligning the ViewfinderLesson 4 Observing by Moving the Telescope Manually Correctly positioned leverMotor drive system assembly Key to FigureMotor Drive System and Starfinder Handbox Installation Lesson 5 Observing Using Starfinders Arrow KeysObserve the World Around You Activate the Arrow Keys Slew SpeedsLesson 6 Tracking Objects Observe the MoonTo Polar Align the Telescope Lesson 7 Using Starfinders GO to Capabilities Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking FeatureMoving Through Starfinder’s Menus Initializing Starfinder Location Irvine Training the Drive Align Your Telescope Using Starfinder Check MountWhich One’s the Alignment Star? Using the Guided TourGo To Saturn Some Observation Tips Part TWO Starfinder Controls and Menus Starfinder ControlsPage Page How Starfinders Menus Work Starfinder Navigation ExerciseTo Calculate Sunset time Complete Starfinder menu structureObject Menu Starfinder MenusObject Menu Options Event Menu Glossary MenuUtilities Menu Setup Menu Time Zone Shift Mount and Tripod Adjustments CleaningPart 3 Caring for Your Telescope Spider vane adjustments Diagonal holder adjustmentsCollimation Alignment of the Optics Correct collimationPrimary mirror adjustments Correct collimationStar testing the collimation ABCStarfinder Dimensions Appendix a Calculating Eyepiece Power Insert Barlow into focuser assemblyTerrestrial Viewing Astronomical ObservingPolar Alignment Understanding Celestial Movements and CoordinatesLining Up with the Celestial Pole Celestial sphereUsing Setting Circles Two-Star Polar AlignmentAppendix C Using Starfinder to Enter Celestial Coordinates To GO to a user-entered objectAppendix D Helpful Charts Latitude Chart for Major Cities of the WorldAppendix E Basic Astronomy Starfinder GlossaryObjects in Space MoonPlanets Deep-Sky ObjectsRoadmap to the Stars Star LocatorMeade Limited Warranty Meade Instruments Corporation

4504 specifications

The Meade 4504 is a notable member of Meade Instruments’ extensive line of telescopes, designed for both beginners and experienced astronomers. This telescope is known for its user-friendly features and impressive optical performance, making it an excellent choice for stargazers keen on exploring the night sky.

One of the key features of the Meade 4504 is its 4.5-inch aperture, a critical factor that determines the amount of light the telescope can gather. This larger aperture allows users to observe fainter celestial objects, from nebulae to distant galaxies, with clarity and detail. The telescope is equipped with a Newtonian reflector design, which utilizes a primary mirror to collect light and a secondary mirror to direct it to the eyepiece. This design effectively eliminates chromatic aberration, offering sharp and crisp images.

The Meade 4504 also boasts a mount that is robust yet user-friendly. It typically comes with an Altazimuth mount, which allows for smooth movement both vertically and horizontally. This makes it easier to track celestial objects as they move across the sky. The mount's stability is crucial during high-magnification viewing, as it minimizes vibrations and provides a steady image.

A standout feature of the Meade 4504 is its ease of assembly and operation. Designed with beginners in mind, it usually includes a straightforward setup guide that allows users to get their telescope ready for use quickly. Additionally, the telescope often comes with a finderscope, which helps in locating objects in the night sky, a crucial tool for novice astronomers still learning to navigate the cosmos.

In terms of accessories, the Meade 4504 often includes a variety of eyepieces, allowing users to switch magnifications for different viewing experiences. These eyepieces enhance the versatility of the telescope, catering to varied interests, whether it's observing planets within our solar system or examining the details of various star clusters.

Overall, the Meade 4504 represents a balance of quality, convenience, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to embark on a journey of astronomical discovery. It effectively brings the universe closer to home, allowing enthusiasts to explore the wonders of space with ease. Whether you are a first-time observer or someone with a passion for celestial exploration, the Meade 4504 offers a remarkable gateway to the night sky.
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