NOTE: DS-2000EC users, see APPENDIX E, page 39, for informa- tion about your sup- plied Electronic Controller. Autostar information does not apply.

DS-2000EC users may obtain the #494 Autostar handbox as an optional accesso- ry. See page 40 for more information.

AUTOSTAR FEATURES

Control of the DS-2000AT Series Telescopes is through the operation of the #494 Autostar handbox. Nearly all functions of the telescope are accomplished with just a few pushes of Autostar’s buttons. Some of the major features of Autostar are:

Automatically move the telescope to any of the 1400 objects stored in the database or manually enter the astronomical 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 optimum viewing of a celestial object.

The Autostar Computer Controller provides control of virtually every telescope function within a compact handbox. Autostar 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 in the dark. The backlit display, key arrangement, and sequential database make Autostar extremely user friendly.

NOTE: Autostar does not require batteries; the telescope’s batteries supply power to Autostar.

2-Line LCD Display - Provides an interface between Autostar 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.

ENTER Key - Accesses, in a sequential manner, the next menu or data level in the Autostar database. See MOVING THROUGH AUTOSTAR'S MENUS, page 17 and MENUS AND MENU OPTIONS, page 23.

NOTE: If ENTER is pressed for two seconds or more and then released, Autostar

emits a beep and “ENTER to Sync”

 

is displayed. "ENTER to Sync" is rel-

 

evant only after the telescope has

DS-2000 TIPS

been aligned and is pointing at an

 

object. If the "ENTER to Sync" fea-

Join an Astronomy Club

ture is accessed by mistake, press

MODE to return to the previous

Attend a Star Party

screen. See HIGH PRECISION, page

A fun way to learn more about astronomy is to

27, for more details about this fea-

join an astronomy club. Check your local news-

ture.

paper, school, library, or telescope dealer to find

 

MODE Key - Returns to the previous

out if there’s a club in your area.

At club meetings, you will meet other astronomy

menu or data level in the Autostar data-

base until the top level, “Select Item," is

enthusiasts with whom you will be able to share

reached. The MODE key is similar to

your discoveries. Clubs are an excellent way to

the ESCAPE key on a computer.

learn more about observing the sky, to find out

NOTE: Pressing MODE while in the

where the best observing sites are, and to com-

pare notes about telescopes, eyepieces, filters,

“Select Item” level moves Autostar to

tripods, and so forth.

the topmost screen: “Select Item:

Often, club members are excellent astrophotog-

Object.”

raphers. Not only will you be able to see exam-

NOTE: If MODE is pressed and held

ples of their art, but you may even be able to

pick up some “tricks of the trade” to try out on

for two seconds or more, the follow-

your DS-2000 telescope.

ing information is then available

Many groups also hold regularly scheduled Star

using the Scroll keys (6 and 7, Fig.

Parties at which you can check out and observe

2):

with many different telescopes and other pieces

 

• Right Ascension and Declination

of astronomical equipment. Magazines such as

(astronomical) coordinates (see

Sky & Telescope and Astronomy print schedules

 

APPENDIX A, page 35.)

for many popular Star Parties around the United States and Canada.

9

Page 9
Image 9
Meade instruction manual Autostar Features, DS-2000 Tips

DS-2000 specifications

The Meade DS-2000 is a versatile and user-friendly telescope that caters to both beginners and seasoned astronomers alike. Known for its exceptional performance and ease of use, the DS-2000 series has become a popular choice among amateur stargazers. This telescope features a robust design coupled with advanced technologies that enhance the overall observing experience.

One of the standout features of the Meade DS-2000 is its sturdy mount, which provides stability during observations. This stability is crucial for clearer and more detailed views of celestial objects, as it minimizes vibrations and shakes that can occur while tracking objects across the night sky. The telescope typically comes with an adjustable aluminum tripod to further enhance stability and can handle varying weights and instruments.

The DS-2000 series utilizes an electronically controlled altazimuth mount, allowing users to easily navigate the sky with its automatic tracking capabilities. This intuitive design ensures that even novice astronomers can locate and follow astronomical objects with minimal effort. The built-in computer control allows users to access a database of thousands of celestial bodies, making it easy to select targets for viewing.

In terms of optics, the Meade DS-2000 features high-quality glass optics with multi-coated lenses. This ensures superior light transmission and contrast, resulting in bright, clear images of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects. The telescope typically offers a range of apertures, making it suitable for various observing preferences and conditions.

Furthermore, the Meade DS-2000 is often equipped with a 9mm or 25mm eyepiece, enabling users to achieve magnifications adequate for observing different types of celestial phenomena. The addition of a built-in red-dot finder makes it easier to aim and locate objects in the night sky.

Portability is another significant characteristic of the DS-2000 series. Its lightweight design allows astronomers to transport it easily to different observing locations, making spontaneous stargazing adventures possible, whether in the backyard or at a dark-sky site.

In summary, the Meade DS-2000 combines solid construction, user-friendly features, and advanced technology, making it an excellent choice for anyone interested in exploring the night sky. With its impressive optics, reliable tracking capabilities, and enhanced portability, the DS-2000 series provides an enjoyable and rewarding astronomical experience.