Collimation Alignment of the Optics

Fig. 23: Diagonal assembly.

Collimation (Alignment) of the Optics

Fig. 24: Primary mirror cell.

Your telescope is optically aligned at the factory prior to shipment. It is unlikely that you will need to align, or collimate, the optics after receipt of the instrument. However, if the telescope received unusually rough handling in shipment, it is possible that the optics must be re-aligned for best optical performance. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the following collimation procedure, so that you will recognize a properly collimated instrument and can adjust the collimation yourself, if necessary.

Correct collimation

The properly collimated (aligned) mirror system in the Meade 4504 Telescope assures the sharpest images possible. This occurs when the primary mirror and diagonal mir- ror are tilted so that the focused image (Fig. 22) falls directly through the center of the focuser drawtube. These mirror tilt adjustments are made with the diagonal assembly (Fig. 22) and the primary mirror cell (Fig. 22), and will be discussed later.

To inspect the view of the mirror collimation, look down the focuser drawtube with the eyepiece removed. The edge of the focuser drawtube will frame the reflections of the primary mirror with the 3 mirror clips (2, Fig. 25), the diagonal mirror (3, Fig. 25), the spider vanes (4, Fig. 25), and your eye (5, Fig. 25). Properly aligned, all of these reflections will appear concentric (i.e. centered) as illustrated in Fig. 25. Any deviation from the concentric reflections will require adjustments to the diagonal assembly (Fig. 23), and/or the primary mirror cell (Fig. 24).

Spider vane adjustments

If the diagonal mirror (1, Fig. 26) is left or right of center within the drawtube (2, Fig. 26), loosen the spider vane adjustment/lock knobs (1, Fig. 23) located on the outside surface of the main tube and slide the entire diagonal assembly up or down the tube along the slotted holes, until the diagonal mirror is centered in the drawtube. If the diagonal mirror (1, Fig. 26) is above or below of center within the drawtube, thread in one of the spider vane adjustment/ lock knobs while unthreading the other. Only make adjustments to two knobs at a time until the diagonal mirror is in the drawtube. When the spider vane is correctly positioned, it will look like Fig. 27 (the diagonal mirror is misaligned).

Diagonal holder adjustments

If the diagonal mirror (1, Fig. 27) is centered in the drawtube (2, Fig. 27), but the pri- mary mirror is only partially visible in the reflection (3, Fig. 27), the three Phillips-head diagonal tilt screws (2, Fig. 23) must be unthreaded slightly to the point of where you can rotate the diagonal holder (3, Fig. 23) from side-to-side by grasping the diagonal holder with your hand and rotating until you see the primary mirror become as cen- tered in the reflection of the diagonal mirror as possible. Once you are at the best posi- tion, thread in the three Phillips-head diagonal tilt screws to lock the rotational posi- tion. Then, if necessary, make adjustments to these three Phillips-head screws to

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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.