Fig. 18: One of the most beautiful celestial sights, Saturn.

Two other methods of alignment are available to the observer: Two-Star and One-Star. These methods are included in case the observer prefers to pick out his or her own alignment stars.

Two-Star Alt/Az Alignment

Two-Star Alignment requires some knowledge of the night sky. Two-Star Alignment is identical to Easy: Align (see EASY (TWO-STAR) ALIGN, page 18), except Autostar displays a database of bright stars and two stars are chosen by the observer from this database for alignment. It is recommended that you choose stars with which you are familiar from this database when first trying out this method or the One-Star Alignment method.

One-Star Alt/Az Alignment

One-Star Alignment also requires some knowledge of the night sky. One-Star Alignment is identical to Easy: Align (see EASY (TWO-STAR) ALIGN, page 18), except Autostar displays a database of bright stars and one star is chosen by the observer from this database for alignment.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The accuracy of One-Star Alt/Az Alignment, unlike the Two- Star Alignment procedures, depends on how well the observer levels the telescope and how close to North the telescope is pointed when setting the Home Position (Fig. 16). Because the Two-Star Alignment methods use two stars to align upon, they are more precise than One-Star Alignment.

Go To Saturn

After performing the Easy Align procedure, the motor drive begins operating and the telescope is aligned for a night of viewing. Objects in the eyepiece should maintain their position even though the Earth is rotating beneath the stars.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Once aligned, only use GO TO or the Arrow keys to move the telescope. Do not loosen the telescope locks (9 and 16, Fig. 1a), or move the base manually, or alignment will be lost.

This exercise shows how to select a celestial object (Saturn) for viewing from Autostar’s database.

NOTE: Saturn is not visible all the time and you may need to choose another object from Autostar's Object database; however, the procedure, as described below, remains the same; just choose a different object in step #3.

1 After the telescope is aligned, “Select Item: Object” displays. Press ENTER.

2.“Object: Solar System” displays. Press ENTER.

3.“Solar System: Mercury” displays. Keep pressing the Scroll Down key until “Solar System: Saturn” displays.

4.Press ENTER. “Calculating” displays. Then “Saturn” and a set of coordinates displays. Note that Saturn’s (and other planets’) coordinates change throughout the year.

5.Press GO TO. “Saturn: Slewing...” displays and the telescope slews until it finds Saturn. You may need to use the Arrow keys to center Saturn precisely in the eyepiece. Autostar then automatically moves the telescope so that it "tracks" Saturn (or whatever other object you may have chosen); i.e., Saturn remains centered in the eyepiece.

Take a Guided Tour

This example demonstrates using “Tonight’s Best” Guided Tour.

1.After observing Saturn, press MODE twice so that “Select Item: Object” displays again.

2.Press the Scroll Down key twice. “Select Item: Guided Tour” displays.

3.Press ENTER. “Guided Tour: Tonight’s Best” displays. Press ENTER.

NOTE: If you wish to try out other Guided Tours, press the Scroll Down key to scroll through other tour choices. When the tour you wish to select displays, press

ENTER.

4.“Tonight’s Best: Searching...” displays. After calculating, “Tonight’s Best: Jupiter” displays.

NOTE: Different objects may be displayed on a tour list on any given night.

Press ENTER to display information about the object. Press GO TO to move the telescope to the object.

5.Press MODE to return to the Tour list. Press the Scroll keys to scroll through the list. Press ENTER when you find the next object you wish to observe.

6.Press and hold down MODE for two seconds to exit the Guided Tour menu.

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Meade DSX Series instruction manual Two-Star Alt/Az Alignment, One-Star Alt/Az Alignment, Go To Saturn, Take a Guided Tour
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DSX Series specifications

The Meade DSX Series telescopes are designed to offer enthusiasts and newcomers an engaging astronomical experience. Combining user-friendly features with advanced technology, this series makes stargazing both accessible and enjoyable.

One of the standout characteristics of the DSX Series is its portable design. Lightweight and compact, these telescopes can be easily transported to various observation sites. This mobility is essential for amateur astronomers who wish to explore the night sky away from light pollution. The telescopes can be set up quickly, making them a great option for impromptu stargazing sessions.

The DSX Series features a computerized mount, integrating the latest GoTo technology. With this advanced system, users can effortlessly locate and track celestial objects. Simply input a desired target, and the telescope's automated system will move to point directly at it. This feature significantly enhances the stargazing experience, eliminating the often tedious task of manually finding stars, planets, and other phenomena.

The optical quality of the Meade DSX telescopes is another key highlight. Sporting high-quality glass optics, they deliver clear and bright images of celestial objects. The series includes various models designed for different levels of observation, from the casual stargazer to those interested in deep-sky observation. Each model provides excellent light-gathering capabilities, allowing users to see beyond the obvious, uncovering the beauty of distant galaxies, nebulas, and star clusters.

In addition to its impressive optical system, the DSX Series also features a straightforward intuitive control panel. This user-centered design assists beginners in navigating settings and options with ease. Moreover, the included software helps data recording and object identification, further enriching the learning experience.

Finally, Meade's commitment to durability and quality ensures that the DSX Series is built to last. With robust materials and thoughtful engineering, these telescopes can withstand outdoor conditions, providing reliable functionality for years to come.

In summary, the Meade DSX Series stands out with its portable design, advanced GoTo technology, high-quality optics, user-friendly controls, and durable construction, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the universe. Whether you are an experienced astronomer or just starting your celestial journey, the DSX Series offers an outstanding platform for exploration and discovery.
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