Meade 12.5 instruction manual Meade Customer Service

Page 9

Eyepiece

6" f/8

8" f/6

10" f/4.5

12.5" f/4.8

 

Power

Power

Power

Power

SP 6.4mm

191X

191X

178X

238X

SP 9.7mm

126X

126X

118X

157X

SP 12.4mm

98X

98X

92X

123X

SP 15mm

81X

81X

76X

102X

SP 20mm

61X

61X

57X

76X

SP 26mm

47X

47X

44X

59X

SP 32mm

38X

38X

36X

48X

SP 40mm

31X

31X

*

*

SWA 13.8mm

88X

88X

83X

111X

SWA 18mm

68X

68X

63X

85X

SWA 24.5mm

50X

50X

47X

62X

SWA 32mm

38X

38X

36X

48X

SWA 40mm

31X

31X

*

*

UWA 4.7mm

260X**

260X**

243X

324X**

UWA 6.7mm

182X

182X

170X

228X

UWA 8.8mm

139X

139X

130X

173X

UWA 14mm

87X

87X

81X

109X

*Not recommended for 10" and 12.5" models.

**Should be used only under extremely steady atmospheric conditions.

Meade Super Plössl and Super Wide Angle Eyepieces are ideal for general-purpose astronomical or terrestrial observing. The typical Starfinder Dobsonian user may wish to add 2 or 3 of these eyepieces to his or her telescope. An introductory selection might include the SP9.7mm and SP15mm. The more advanced observer will perhaps select the SP 9.7mm, SP 12.4mm, and SWA 18mm. The Super Wide Angle Eyepiece series yields extremely wide fields of view, perfect for the examination of star fields, diffuse nebulae, or for terrestrial applications. Under very steady seeing conditions Meade UWA 4.7mm and 6.7mm eyepieces present the widest fields of view obtainable at high powers and are excellent eyepieces for the Moon and planets.

Filters: Thirteen color filters are available for significantly increased contrast and resolution of detail on the Moon and planets. For example, the #80A (blue) filter effectively enhances the reddish- colored detail on the surface of

Jupiter. These filters thread into the barrels of all standard 1.25" O.D. eyepieces and may also be used for eyepiece projection photography.

Illuminated Reticle Eyepiece: Permits easy visibility of guiding crosslines even against the darkest skies. The standard #702A double-crossline, phosphorescent- enhanced reticle allows for variable illumination from faint to very bright.

Magellan I: The Magellan I accessory will permit you to add a powerful pointing tool to your Starfinder Dobsonian telescope. Encoders supplied with this product for the R.A. and Dec. axis can be easily installed in factory machined mounting features. Once installed, the Magellan I will allow the electronic selection and pointing of the telescope at a large number of catalogued objects in the sky.

#140 2x Barlow Lens: The Barlow Lens, or Telenegative Amplifier, is a convenient accessory used to increase the effective magnification of any given eyepiece. The Barlow Lens is inserted into the focuser and accepts all standard 1.25" O.D. eyepieces.

- 9 -

Viewfinders: In addition to the standard-equipment 5x24mm viewfinder supplied with all Starfinder telescopes, the higher power/larger aperture 6x30 and 8x50mm viewfinder are available to substitute or retrofit.

MEADE CUSTOMER SERVICE

If you have a question concerning your Meade Starfinder Dobsonian telescope, call Meade Instruments/Customer Service Department at (949) 451-1450, or fax at (949) 451- 1460. Customer Service hours are 8:30AM - 4:00PM, Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. In the unlikely event that your Dobsonian telescope requires factory servicing or repairs, write or call the Meade Customer Service Department first, before returning the telescope to the factory, giving full particulars as to the nature of the problem, as well as your name, address, and daytime telephone number. The great majority of Starfinder servicing issues can be resolved by telephone, avoiding return of the telescope to the factory.

Image 9
Contents Meade Instruments Corporation Meade Starfinder Dobsonian Telescope Contents Parts Listing and Assembly IntroductionAssembling the Mount Balancing the Telescope ViewfinderCollimation of the Optical System Correct Collimation Spider Vane AdjustmentsPrimary Mirror Adjustments Secondary Mirror AdjustmentsStar Testing the Collimation Tips on Using a Dobsonian TelescopeSeeing Conditions Optional AccessoriesObserving Guidelines 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.