Meade114EQAR 3/28/07 9:52 AM Page 16

and outside air. Also, it is a good idea to allow your telescope to reach the

14 ambient (surrounding) outside temperature before starting an

observing session.

When to observe: Planets and other objects viewed low on the horizon often lack sharp-ness—the same object, when observed higher in the sky, will appear sharper and have greater contrast. Try reducing power (change your eyepiece) if your image is fuzzy or shimmers. Keep in mind that a bright, clear, but smaller image is more interesting than a larger, dimmer,

fuzzy one. Using too high a power eyepiece is one of the most common mistakes made by new astronomers.

Dress Warm: Even on summer nights, the air can feel cool or cold as the night wears on. It is important to dress warm or to have a sweater, jacket, gloves, etc., nearby.

Know your observing site: If possible, know the location where you will be observing. Pay attention to holes in the ground and other obstacles. Is it a location where wild animals, such as skunks, snakes, etc., may appear? Are there viewing obstructions such as tall trees, street lights, headlights and so forth? The best locations are dark locations, the darker the better. Deep space objects are easiest to see under dark skies. But it is still possible to observe even in a city.

Surf the Web and visit your local library:

The internet contains a huge amount of astronomical information, both for children and adults. Check out astronomy books from your library. Look for star charts—these are available on a monthly basis in Astronomy and Sky and Telescope magazines.

HAVE A GOOD TIME,

ASTRONOMY IS FUN!

SPECIFICATIONS

Optical tube focal length . . 900mm

Primary mirror diameter . 114mm (4.5")

Focal ratio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . f/8

Mounting type. . . . . . . . . . . Equatorial

What do the specifications mean?

Optical tube focal length is simply a measurement of the length of the optical

JOIN AN ASTRONOMY CLUB, ATTEND A STAR PARTY

One of the best ways to increase your knowledge of astronomy is to join an astronomy club. Check your local newspaper, school, library, or telescope dealer/ store to find out if there’s a club in your area.

Many groups also hold regularly scheduled Star Parties at which you can check out and observe with many different telescopes and other pieces of astronomical equipment. Magazines such as Sky and Telescope and Astronomy print schedules for many popular Star Parties around the United States and Canada.

Looking at or near the Sun will cause irreversable damage to your eye. Do not point this telescope at or near the Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving.

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Meade 114EQ-AR instruction manual Specifications, Join AN Astronomy CLUB, Attend a Star Party
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114EQ-AR specifications

The Meade 114EQ-AR is a remarkable telescope designed to cater to both beginner and intermediate astronomers who are eager to explore the wonders of the night sky. With its combination of an impressive optical system and user-friendly features, the 114EQ-AR offers a powerful yet accessible platform for stargazing.

One of the standout features of the Meade 114EQ-AR is its 114mm aperture, which allows for enhanced light-gathering capability. This means that observers can enjoy clear and bright images of celestial objects, including the Moon, planets, and various deep-sky phenomena. The telescope is mounted on an equatorial mount, which simplifies tracking celestial objects as they move across the sky, making it ideal for astrophotography and detailed observation.

The 114EQ-AR boasts a focal length of 1000mm, providing a versatile range of magnification options. This focal length, combined with high-quality optics, results in sharp and high-contrast images. The telescope is equipped with a 1.25-inch focuser, providing compatibility with a variety of eyepieces and accessories to enhance the viewing experience.

In terms of construction, the Meade 114EQ-AR features a sturdy and durable design, which ensures stability during observations. Its lightweight yet robust construction makes it easily portable, allowing enthusiasts to transport it to various observational sites effortlessly. The telescope also includes an adjustable tripod that can be set up quickly, ensuring that users spend more time enjoying the sky rather than fumbling with equipment.

Another notable aspect of the Meade 114EQ-AR is its included software and resources. The telescope is often packaged with a comprehensive star guide and astronomy software, helping users to locate and identify celestial objects more easily. This combination of educational tools and quality optics makes the 114EQ-AR an excellent choice for those looking to deepen their understanding of astronomy.

Overall, the Meade 114EQ-AR is a feature-rich telescope that combines quality optics, sturdy construction, and user-friendly functionality. Whether you're interested in observing distant galaxies or simply want to enjoy a close-up view of the Moon, the 114EQ-AR offers a window to the universe that is both exciting and accessible.
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