Writing a Tour

Using the list of commands listed above, a custom tour can be created. Placing the word AUTO SELECT before any of the command lines activates Automatic Mode and, when selected, Autostar automatically searches and finds the designated object.

The following is a list of command lines, complete with keywords and necessary strings:

TITLE

Title must be the first keyword in your tour after any comment lines and must be 15 characters or less. Autostar displays this title when "Guided Tour" is selected from the menus.

For example: TITLE "A Star's Life" TEXT "title string" "description string"

This command allows you to display a text title and description. USER ra dec "title string" "description string"

This command line allows you to access a specific object with your own description. Enter USER, then the RA and DEC of a desired object, and its title and description. Use the format described in the Command Line section.

The following commands specify objects that are already in the Autostar database. If these commands follow the command AUTO SELECT, the object's title displays on line 1 and its description scrolls across line 2.

Do not add a description string after the following command lines; these commands access objects with existing description in the Autostar database.

NGC xxxx

Enter NGC followed by the desired New General Catalog number and Autostar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: NGC 4256

IC xxxx

Enter IC followed by the desired Index Catalog number and Autostar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: IC 1217

SAO xxxxxx

Enter SAO followed by the desired SAO number and Autostar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: SAO 30200

Messier xxx

Enter MESSIER followed by the desired Messier number and Autostar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: M 101

CALDWELL xxx

Enter CALDWELL followed by the Caldwell number and Autostar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: CALDWELL 17

PLANET "name"

Enter PLANET and then the name of the desired planet in quotes. Autostar provides the user with a description of the selected planet from its database. For example: PLANET "Pluto"

MOON

This command accesses information about the Moon from the Autostar database.

SATELLITE "name"

Enter SATELLITE and then the name of the desired satellite in quotes. Autostar displays information about the satellite from its database. For example: SATELLITE: "Intl Space Stn"

ASTEROID "name"

Enter ASTEROID and then the name of the desired asteroid in quotes. Autostar displays information about the asteroid from its database. For example: ASTEROID: "Ceres"

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Meade DSX Series instruction manual Writing a Tour, Title
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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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