Park Scope is designed for a telescope that is not moved between observing ses- sions. Align the telescope one time, then use this function to park the telescope. Next time it is powered up, enter the correct date and time – and no alignment is required. Pressing ENTER causes the telescope to move to its pre-determined Park position. Once parked, the screen prompts you to turn off the power (i.e., unplugging the bat- tery pack).

IMPORTANT NOTE: When the Park Scope option is chosen and the display prompts to turn off the telescope power, Starfinder is unable to be returned to operation without unplugging the battery pack and then plugging it back in.

Setup Menu

The Setup menu’s primary function is to align the telescope (see "ALIGN YOUR TELE- SCOPE USING STARFINDER," page 20). However, there are numerous other fea- tures available within Setup. These options include:

Date changes the date used by Starfinder. This function is useful to check events in the past or future. Example: set the Date for a day three months in the future and then check the" Select Item: Event" menu for the Sunset time or Moon phase on that date. See “EVENT MENU,” page 29.

Time changes the time entered into Starfinder. Setting the correct time is critical for Starfinder to properly calculate locations and events.

Daylight Saving is used to set the status of Daylight Savings time.

NOTE: Daylight Savings Time may be referred to by a different name in various areas of the world. Check local time to verify.

Telescope accesses the following options:

•Focal Length: Displays the focal length of the selected telescope.

•Az Ratio and Alt Ratio: The Az (Azimuth or horizontal) ratio and Alt (Altitude or vertical) ratio refers to the gears installed in the telescope motors. Do not alter these numbers.

•Train Drive: Trains the motors to locate objects with more precision.

NOTE: If you are experiencing any problems with pointing accuracy, follow the procedure described in “TRAINING THE DRIVE,” page 19, to insure accurate pointing and tracking.

Tracking Rate: Changes the speed at which the telescope tracks targets in the sky.

a.Sidereal: The default setting for Starfinder; sidereal rate is the standard rate at which stars move from East to West across the sky due to the rotation of the Earth.

b.Lunar: Choose this option to properly track the Moon over long observing sessions.

c.Custom: Allows entry of user-defined tracking rates.

•Reverse L/R: Reverses the functions of the Left and Right Arrow keys (i.e., the Right key moves the telescope to the left).

•Reverse UP/DOWN: Reverses the functions of the Up and Down Arrow keys (i.e., the Up key moves the telescope down).

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Meade 4504 instruction manual Setup Menu
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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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