Meade 12.5 instruction manual Telescope

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Specifications and Features: Meade Starfinder

Dobsonian Telescopes

TELESCOPE:

 

Starfinder

Starfinder

Starfinder

Starfinder

 

 

Dobsonian 6

Dobsonian 8

Dobsonian 10

Dobsonian 12.5

 

 

 

 

 

Optical Design

Newtonian Reflector

Newtonian Reflector

Newtonian Reflector

Newtonian Reflector

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diameter/Clear Aperture

 

152mm (6")

203mm (8")

254mm (10")

318mm (12.5")

 

 

 

 

 

Primary &

Grade-A Pyrex® glass,

Grade-A Pyrex® glass,

Grade-A Pyrex® glass,

Grade-A Pyrex® glass,

Secondary Mirrors

 

fine annealed

fine annealed

fine annealed

fine annealed

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secondary Mirror Support

 

4-vane; steel

4-vane; steel

4-vane; steel

4-vane; steel

 

 

 

 

 

 

Focal Length

 

1220mm

1220mm

1140mm

1525mm

 

 

 

 

 

 

Focal Ratio

 

f/8

f/6

f/4.5

f/4.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resolving Power (arc secs.)

 

0.74

0.56

0.45

0.36

 

 

 

 

 

 

Limiting Visual Magnitude

 

13.5

14.0

14.5

15.0

 

 

 

 

 

Limiting Photographic Magnitude

16.0

16.5

17.0

17.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

Image Scale

 

1.18°/inch

1.18°/inch

1.26°/inch

0.95°/inch

 

 

 

 

 

Maximum Practical Visual Power

400X

500X

600X

600X

 

 

 

 

 

 

35mm Angular Film Coverage

 

1.11° x 1.58°

1.11° x 1.58°

1.19° x 1.70°

0.89° x 1.27°

Optical Tube

7.6" dia. x 48" long-

 

spiral-wound Sonotube

9.6" dia. x 48" long- spiral-wound Sonotube

12.7" dia. x 45" long

15.1" x 58" long

spiral-wound Sonotube

spiral-wound Sonotube

Secondary Mirror Minor Axis

1.18"

1.83"

2.37"

2.60"

 

 

 

 

 

Secondary Mirror Obstruction

3.9%

3.6%

5.6%

4.3%

 

 

 

 

 

Dobsonian Mounting

 

 

 

 

Base Diameter

13.75"

17.1"

22.2"

26.75"

Mount Dimensions (approx.) 12" square x 19" high

16" square x 17" high

21" square x 20" high

25" square x 22 " high

Materials-- ----------------All models: thermally-fused Melamine® with industrial particle board core.---------------

 

Bearings: Altitude

Nylon

Nylon

Nylon

Nylon

Azimuth

Teflon

Teflon

Teflon

Teflon

 

 

 

 

 

Net Weights: Optical Tube

20 lbs.

26 lbs.

30 lbs.

55 lbs.

Mounting

14 lbs.

18 lbs.

32 lbs.

41 lbs.

 

 

 

 

 

Shipping Weight (approx.)

38 lbs.

49 lbs.

68 lbs.

106 lbs

 

 

 

 

 

Image 10
Contents Meade Instruments Corporation Meade Starfinder Dobsonian Telescope Contents Introduction Parts Listing and AssemblyAssembling the Mount Viewfinder Balancing the TelescopeCollimation of the Optical System Spider Vane Adjustments Correct CollimationStar Testing the Collimation Secondary Mirror AdjustmentsPrimary Mirror Adjustments Tips on Using a Dobsonian TelescopeObserving Guidelines Optional AccessoriesSeeing Conditions Care of Optics and Main TubeMeade Customer Service Telescope Meade Limited Warranty Ver

12.5 specifications

The Meade 12.5-inch telescope is a testament to cutting-edge optical technology, designed for both amateur astronomers and serious astrophotographers. Its robust build and impressive specifications make it a popular choice among stargazers looking to explore the finer details of celestial objects.

One of the main features of the Meade 12.5 is its large aperture of 12.5 inches, or 318 millimeters. This sizable opening allows for a significant amount of light to enter the telescope, resulting in bright and clear images of distant galaxies, nebulae, and clusters. The vast light-gathering capability is particularly advantageous when observing faint objects, providing enhanced detail not achievable with smaller apertures.

The Meade 12.5 utilizes advanced optics, often incorporating premium-grade glass elements. This ensures minimal optical aberrations, resulting in sharp, high-contrast images. Many models also feature a parabolic primary mirror, which optimizes focus across the entire field of view, making it ideal for high-resolution observations.

In terms of technology, many Meade 12.5 telescopes come equipped with computerized mount systems. These mounts utilize GoTo technology, enabling users to easily locate and track celestial objects. With a database containing thousands of celestial bodies, users can simply input the desired object, and the telescope will automatically reposition itself for optimal viewing. This automation makes it easier for beginner and intermediate users to navigate the night sky.

Another notable characteristic of the Meade 12.5 is its sturdy construction. The telescope's design typically includes an aluminum or steel optical tube, providing stability and durability during observations. This is crucial for maintaining alignment and ensuring that the optical components remain secure, reducing vibrations that could hinder image quality.

Additionally, many models feature cooling fans that help to regulate the temperature of the primary mirror. This is particularly important for astrophotography, as temperature fluctuations can lead to distortions in the images captured. The cooling system ensures that the telescope reaches thermal equilibrium more quickly, allowing for clearer, more stable observations.

Overall, the Meade 12.5-inch telescope stands out due to its excellent optics, advanced technology, and robust design. Whether for deep-sky viewing or astrophotography, it offers a highly capable platform that caters to the diverse needs of astronomers. Its combination of features makes it a worthy investment for anyone serious about exploring the wonders of the universe.