3MODE Key: Returns to the previous menu or data level in the Starfinder database until the top level, “Select Item," is reached. The MODE key is similar to the ESCAPE key on a computer.

NOTE: Pressing MODE while in the Select Item level moves Starfinder to

the topmost screen: "Select Item: Object."

NOTE: If MODE is pressed and held for two seconds or more, the following information is then available using the Scroll keys (6 and 7, Fig. 17):

•Right Ascension and Declination coordinates

•Altitude and Azimuth coordinates

•Local Time and Local Sidereal Time (LST)

•Timer and Alarm Status

Press MODE again to return to the previous menu.

4GO TO Key: Slews the telescope to the coordinates of the currently selected object. While the telescope is slewing, the operation may be aborted at any time by pressing any key except GO TO. Pressing GO TO again resumes the slew to the object.

The GO TO key also allows you to perform a "spiral search." A spiral search is useful when the telescope slews to an object, but that object is not visible in the eyepiece after the telescope finishes it search. (This sometimes occurs during an alignment procedure. See "ALIGN YOUR TELESCOPE USING STARFINDER," page 20.) Press GO TO when the slew is finished and the telescope starts slewing in a spiral pattern at a very slow speed around the search area. Look through the eyepiece and when the object does become visible, press MODE to stop the spiral search. Then use the Arrow keys to center the object.

5Arrow Keys: Slew the telescope in a specific direction (up, down, left, and right), at any one of seven different speeds (speed selection is explained in “SLEW SPEEDS,” page 14). The following functions are also available with the Arrow keys:

•Data Entry: Use the Up and Down Arrow keys to Scroll through the letters of the alphabet and numerical digits. The Down Arrow key starts with the letter "A" and the Up Arrow key starts with the digit "9." Use the Left and Right Arrow keys to move the blinking cursor left and right across the LCD display.

•Polar Alignment: Use the Left and Right Arrow keys to move the telescope. The Left Arrow key rotates the telescope counterclockwise on the Right Ascension axis, while the Right Arrow key rotates it clockwise.

67 Scroll Keys: Access database options within a selected menu. The menu is displayed on the first line of the screen. Options within the menu are displayed, one at a time, on the second line. Press the Scroll keys to move through the options. Press and hold a Scroll key to move quickly through the options.

The Scroll keys also scroll through the letters of the alphabet and numerical digits.

NOTE: The Scroll Down key and the Down Arrow key move forward through the alphabet & digits (A to Z, 0-9) and the Scroll Up key and the Up Arrow key move backward (Z to A, 9-0).

Press and hold the Up Arrow key to speed up the rate at which a message scrolls across the display. Press and hold the Down Arrow key to slow down the scrolling speed. When the display is scrolling at a speed that is comfortable for reading, release the Scroll key.

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Meade 4504 instruction manual
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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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