Meade 4504 instruction manual Primary mirror adjustments, Correct collimation

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refine the tilt-angle of the diagonal mirror until the entire primary mirror can be seen centered within the diagonal mirror reflection. When the diagonal mirror is correctly aligned, it will look like Fig. 28 (the primary mirror is shown out of alignment).

Primary mirror adjustments

If the diagonal mirror (1, Fig. 28) and the reflection of the primary mirror (2, Fig. 28) appear centered within the drawtube (3, Fig. 28), but the reflection of your eye and the reflection of the diagonal mirror (4, Fig. 28) appear off-center, you will need to adjust the primary mirror tilt Phillips-head screws of the primary mirror cell (3, Fig. 24). These primary tilt screws are located behind the primary mirror, at the lower end of the main tube (Fig. 22). To adjust the primary mirror tilt screws, first unscrew several turns the three hex-head primary mirror cell locking screws (2, Fig. 24) that are next to each pri- mary mirror tilt Phillips-head screw. Then by trial-and-error, turn the primary mirror tilt Phillips-head screws (3, Fig. 24) until you develop a feel for which way to turn each screw to center the reflection of your eye. Once centered, as in Fig. 25, turn the three hex-head primary mirror cell locking screws (2, Fig. 24) to relock the tilt-angle adjust- ment.

2

1

 

 

2

2

4

3

1

 

 

 

 

5

 

Fig. 25: Correct collimation.

 

Fig. 26: Spider vane misalignment.

1

3

1

 

 

 

2

 

 

3

 

 

4

2

 

 

Fig. 27: Diagonal mirror misalignment.

Fig. 28: Primary mirror misalignment.

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Contents Meade Instruments Corporation How This Manual is Organized Table of Contents 1416 Accessories Lesson 1 Unpacking and AssemblyTelescope Assembly Motor AssemblyKey to Figures 2a, 2b, and 2c 2325 Sure that this safety washer/knob always remains in place How to Assemble Your TelescopeInsert eyepiece into the focuser assembly Lesson 3 Aligning the Viewfinder Lesson 2 Balancing the TelescopeCorrectly positioned lever Lesson 4 Observing by Moving the Telescope ManuallyKey to Figure Motor drive system assemblyObserve the World Around You Lesson 5 Observing Using Starfinders Arrow KeysMotor Drive System and Starfinder Handbox Installation Slew Speeds Activate the Arrow KeysTo Polar Align the Telescope Observe the MoonLesson 6 Tracking Objects Moving Through Starfinder’s Menus Observe a Star using the Automatic Tracking FeatureLesson 7 Using Starfinders GO to Capabilities Initializing Starfinder Location Irvine Training the Drive Check Mount Align Your Telescope Using StarfinderGo To Saturn Using the Guided TourWhich One’s the Alignment Star? Some Observation Tips Starfinder Controls Part TWO Starfinder Controls and MenusPage Page Starfinder Navigation Exercise How Starfinders Menus WorkComplete Starfinder menu structure To Calculate Sunset timeObject Menu Options Starfinder MenusObject Menu Glossary Menu Event MenuUtilities Menu Setup Menu Time Zone Shift Part 3 Caring for Your Telescope CleaningMount and Tripod Adjustments Correct collimation Spider vane adjustmentsDiagonal holder adjustments Collimation Alignment of the OpticsCorrect collimation Primary mirror adjustmentsABC Star testing the collimationStarfinder Dimensions Insert Barlow into focuser assembly Appendix a Calculating Eyepiece PowerUnderstanding Celestial Movements and Coordinates Terrestrial ViewingAstronomical Observing Polar AlignmentCelestial sphere Lining Up with the Celestial PoleTwo-Star Polar Alignment Using Setting CirclesTo GO to a user-entered object Appendix C Using Starfinder to Enter Celestial CoordinatesLatitude Chart for Major Cities of the World Appendix D Helpful ChartsMoon Appendix E Basic AstronomyStarfinder Glossary Objects in SpaceDeep-Sky Objects PlanetsStar Locator Roadmap to the StarsMeade 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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