PART TWO: Starfinder Controls and Menus

This section describes how Starfinder operates, including:

•Starfinder's controls

•How to move through Starfinder's menus

•Alignment setups

•Starfinder's Menus

Control of the 4504 is through the operation of the standard-equipment Starfinder handbox (Fig. 17). Nearly all functions of the telescope are accomplished with just a few pushes of Starfinder’s buttons. Some of the major features of Starfinder are:

•Automatically move the telescope to any of the more than 1400 objects stored in its database, or manually enter coordinates of any celestial object.

•Take a guided tour of the best celestial objects to view on any given night of the year.

•Access a glossary of astronomical terms.

•Calculate which eyepiece to use for optimal viewing of a celestial object.

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Starfinder provides control of virtually every telescope function within a compact hand- box. Starfinder has soft-touch keys designed to have a positive feel. The LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is backlit with a red LED (Light Emitting Diode) for easy viewing

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in the dark. The backlit display, key arrangement, and sequential database make Starfinder extremely user-friendly.

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Fig. 17: Starfinder controls.

NOTE: Starfinder does not require batteries; the telescope’s battery pack supplies power to Starfinder.

Starfinder Controls

12-Line LCD Display: Provides an interface between Starfinder and the telescope.

Top line: lists the primary category or menu item.

Bottom line: contains a menu option or information about an object or subject, depending on which function is being performed.

2ENTER Key: Accesses, in a sequential manner, the next menu or data level in the Starfinder database (see “HOW STARFINDER’S MENUS WORK,” page 26).

NOTE: If ENTER is pressed for two seconds or more and then released, Starfinder emits a beep and “ENTER to Sync” is displayed. "ENTER to Sync" is relevant only after the telescope has been aligned and is pointing at an object. If the "ENTER to Sync" feature is accessed by mistake, press MODE to return to the previous screen. See “HIGH PRECISION,” page 32 for more details about this feature.

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Meade 4504 instruction manual Part TWO Starfinder Controls and Menus
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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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