3.Secondary mirror-holder adjustments: If the secondary mirror (1, Fig. 31) is centered in the focuser drawtube (2, Fig. 31), but the primary mirror is only partially visible in the reflection (3, Fig. 31), the three “+” (Phillips head) secondary mirror-tilt screws (2, Fig. 27) should be slight- ly unthreaded to the point where the secondary mirror-holder (3, Fig. 27) can rotate about its axis parallel to the main tube. Grasp the secondary mirror-holder (avoid touching the mirror sur- face!) with your hand and rotate it until, looking through the drawtube, you can see the primary mirror centered as well as possible in the reflection of the secondary mirror. With the rotation of the secondary mirror-holder at this best-possible position, thread in the three Phillips head screws (2, Fig. 27) to lock the rotational position. Then, if necessary, make adjustments to these three Phillips head screws to refine the tilt-angle of the secondary mirror, until the entire primary mirror can be seen centered within the secondary mirror’s reflection. With the second- ary mirror thus aligned the image through the drawtube appears as in Fig. 32.

4.Primary mirror adjustments: If the secondary mirror (1, Fig. 32) and the reflection of the pri- mary mirror (2, Fig. 32) appear centered within the drawtube (3, Fig. 32), but the reflection of your eye and the reflection of the secondary mirror (4, Fig. 32) appear off-center, then the pri- mary mirror tilt requires adjusting, using the Phillips head screws of the primary mirror cell (3, Fig. 28). These primary mirror-tilt screws are located behind the primary mirror, at the lower end of the main tube. See Fig. 28. Before adjusting the primary mirror-tilt screws, first unscrew by several turns (use either a hex wrench or pliers) the three hex-head primary mirror lock screws (2, Fig. 25) which are also located on the rear surface of the primary mirror cell and which alter- nate around the cell’s circumference with the three Phillips head screws. Then by trial and error turn the primary mirror Phillips head tilt screws (3, Fig. 28) until you develop a feel for which way to turn each screw to center the reflection of your eye in the drawtube. (An assistant is helpful in this operation.) With your eye centered as shown in Fig. 29, turn the three hex head primary mirror lock screws (2, Fig. 28) to re-lock the tilt-angle of the primary mirror.

The telescope’s optical system is now aligned, or collimated. This collimation should be re- checked from time to time, with small adjustments (per steps 1, 2, and/or 3, above) effected as required to keep the optics well-aligned.

Specifications

DS-114AT

Optical design

Reflector

Clear aperture

114mm

Focal length

910mm

Focal ratio

f/8

Resolving power

1.0 arc secs

Max power

325X

Mounting

Single-arm, motorized Alt-Az

Alignment

Altazimuth

Slew Speeds

1x sidereal to 5.5°/sec in 9 increments

Tripod

Aluminum, full-length; adjustable w/accessory tray

Optical Tube Dimensions

5.5" x 34"

Batteries (user-supplied)

10 x AA

Autostar

Processor

68HC11, 8MHz

Flash Memory

512KB, reloadable

Keypad

10 key alphanumeric

Display

2 line, 16 character LCD

Backlight

Red LED

RS-232

Optional

Coil Cord

24"

Database

more than 1400 objects

Length

5.60" (14.2cm)

Width (LCD end)

3.08" (78cm)

Width (Connector end)

2.10" (53.5cm)

Depth

0.93" (23.5cm)

Autostar net weight

0.35 lbs (0.169kg)

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Meade DS-114AT instruction manual Specifications
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DS-114AT specifications

The Meade DS-114AT is a popular entry-level telescope that combines user-friendliness with impressive optical performance, making it an excellent choice for budding astronomers and hobbyists. With its robust design and advanced features, the DS-114AT offers a gateway to the wonders of the cosmos, whether you’re observing the craters of the Moon, the rings of Saturn, or distant star clusters.

One of the standout features of the Meade DS-114AT is its 114 mm (4.5-inch) diameter aperture. This sizable opening allows for greater light-gathering capability, resulting in brighter images and improved visibility of celestial objects. The telescope is equipped with a 900 mm focal length, providing a good balance that allows for both wide-field viewing and detailed observations of planets and lunar features.

The DS-114AT utilizes high-quality optics featuring a parabolic mirror design. This design minimizes spherical aberration, ensuring crisp images of astronomical targets. The telescope is also equipped with a fully coated optical system that enhances light transmission and reduces glare, providing clearer images compared to other telescopes in its class.

Portability is another significant advantage of the Meade DS-114AT. Its lightweight and compact design allows for easy transportation, making it ideal for backyard stargazing or trips to darker skies. The telescope comes with a sturdy yet lightweight altazimuth mount that facilitates smooth movement, allowing users to easily locate and track celestial objects.

The Meade DS-114AT also features a user-friendly electronic control system, including an automated GoTo functionality that aids in navigating the night sky. With a simple push of a button, users can precisely locate thousands of celestial objects, making the telescope accessible for beginners who may not yet be familiar with star maps and constellations.

Additionally, the telescope includes two eyepieces, a 9 mm and a 25 mm, allowing for various magnifications to suit different viewing preferences. The optical finder scope aids in quick alignment, ensuring a hassle-free observing experience.

In summary, the Meade DS-114AT stands out as a versatile, user-friendly telescope that provides excellent optical performance and advanced features. Its combination of a sizable aperture, high-quality optics, portability, and automated features make it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the universe, whether for casual observations or more serious astronomical pursuits. With this telescope, the night sky is truly within reach.
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