– 4 –

Key to Fig. 1

1. Tripod legs

23.

Dec. lock

2.

Equatorial mount

24.

6 x 30 viewfinder

3.

R.A. flexible cable control

25.

Telescope front dust cover

4.

Dec. flexible cable control

26.

Viewfinder bracket thumbscrews

5.

Counterweight

27.

R.A. setting circle

6.

Counterweight shaft

28.

Dec. setting circle

7.

Counterweight lock

29.

Latitude dial

8.

Safety washer/thumbscrew

30.

Azimuth lock

9.

Latitude lock

31.

Focus knobs

10.

Polar axis

32.

Polar shaft acorn cap nut

11. Latitude adjustment knob

33.

Azimuth base

12.

Optical tube assembly

34.

Azimuth shaft bolt

13.

Optical tube saddle plate

35.

R.A. worm block assembly

14.

Cradle rings

36.

Dec. worm block assembly

15.

Cradle ring lock knobs

37.

Cradle ring attachment knobs

16.

Viewfinder bracket mounting bolts

38.

Tripod leg Phillips-head fastener screws

17.

Focuser

39.

Tripod-to-mount attachment points

18.

Focuser thumbscrew

40.

Accessory shelf

19.

Eyepiece

41.

Accessory shelf central mounting knob

20.

Viewfinder bracket

42.

Tripod leg brace supports

21.

Declination axis

43.

Tripod leg lock knobs

22.

R.A. lock

 

 

Page 4
Image 4
Meade 4500 instruction manual Key to Fig

4500 specifications

The Meade 4500 is a notable telescope in the world of amateur astronomy, designed to make stargazing accessible and rewarding for both novice and experienced observers. This telescope belongs to the category of Newtonian reflectors, known for their simple design, impressive optics, and affordability. At its core, the Meade 4500 features a 4.5-inch (114 mm) aperture, which enables users to capture bright images of celestial objects and a variety of deep-sky phenomena.

One of the main features of the Meade 4500 is its advanced optics system. The primary mirror is parabolic, ensuring optimal light collection efficiency and delivering crisp images free from spherical aberration. The telescope's focal length is 900 mm, providing a versatile viewing experience with a moderate focal ratio that balances wide-field and high-magnification observations. Coupled with a 1.25-inch focuser, the telescope accommodates a range of eyepieces, allowing users to customize magnification for various celestial targets.

The Meade 4500 is equipped with a sturdy and stable mount, crucial for precise tracking and steady views. The telescope employs an adjustable, manual altitude-azimuth mount, which provides smooth movement in both vertical and horizontal directions. This mount is particularly beneficial when observing planets, the Moon, or any other celestial object that demands meticulous positioning. The lightweight design of the telescope further enhances portability, making it easy to transport for observations in different locations.

Another key characteristic of the Meade 4500 is its user-friendly setup. The telescope usually comes with an instructional manual, guiding users through the assembly and initial alignment process. The setup typically requires only basic tools, allowing beginner astronomers to quickly get started. Additionally, Meade often provides a selection of accessories with the telescope, such as star charts or a red dot finder, which enhances the overall experience.

In terms of technology, the Meade 4500 embodies the principles of optical design and ergonomics. The telescope’s structure allows for easy tracking of celestial movements, and its reflectivity ensures bright views of both bright planets and distant star clusters. Whether you're examining the rings of Saturn or exploring the lunar surface's fine details, the Meade 4500 stands out as an excellent gateway into the universe, combining optical performance with user-oriented features perfect for every stargazing enthusiast.