QUICK-START GUIDE

1

AB

1.Take the ETX from its packaging and place it on a sturdy surface. Remove the cover from the bat- tery compartment (20, Fig. 1, page 4) located on top of the drive base and carefully lift the 9v con- nector and the battery holder from the compart- ment. Insert six AA-size batteries into the battery holder, oriented as shown on the battery holder. Connect the 9v connector plug (A) to the connec- tor (B) on the battery holder. Return the battery holder to the battery compartment. Replace the cover. See page 10 for more information.

2

A

2.Make sure that the computer control panel power switch is in the OFF position. Remove Autostar (18, Fig. 1) from the packing materials and plug it into the HBX port (A).

3

A

3.Flip the Power Switch (A) on the computer control panel to the ON position. The copyright message lights on Autostar’s LCD display.

Slew Speed:

4A

Slow

.

.B

.

Medium

.C

.

.

Fast

D

4.Press the Speed/? key (C) to accept the Sun warning. Keep pressing the ENTER key (A) until "Country/State" appears on the display. (Ignore the prompts requesting "Date" and "Time" for now

– these functions will be explained later). Use the Scroll keys (D) to cycle through the lists of Country/States, Cities, and Telescope Models. Press ENTER (A) when the correct information for each prompt displays. The display then reads "Setup: Align." See page 11 for more information.

You can now use the Arrow keys (B) to slew (move) the telescope up, down, right, or left. To change the telescope’s slew speed, briefly press the Speed/? key (C). Each press decreases the slew speed down one level, and then will cycle back to the fastest speed.

5

B

A

C

5.Tighten (to a "firm feel" only, do not overtighten) the vertical and horizontal locks (6, 9, Fig. 1). See page

5 for more information. Remove the dust cover from the end of the telescope tube. Place the MA 25mm eyepiece (A) into the eyepiece holder on the telescope and tighten the attachment thumb- screw (B) to a "firm feel" only. Make sure that the flip-mirror control (C) is in the “up” position. See page 6, for more information.

6

6.Sight along the side of the telescope’s main tube to locate an object. Practice using the Autostar’s Arrow keys to center an object in the telescope’s field of view. Use the telescope’s focus knob (8, Fig. 1) to bring the object into focus.

If you wish to observe using Autostar’s databases, go to:

Page 14 to learn how to perform an Easy Two-Star Alignment; Page 15 for some practice observing exercises;

Page 16 to learn about Autostar’s menus and databases.

Quick Start Guide 3

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Meade ETX-60AT instruction manual QUICK-START Guide, If you wish to observe using Autostar’s databases, go to
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ETX-60AT specifications

The Meade ETX-60AT is a compact, portable telescope designed for amateur astronomers and budding astrophotographers. Known for its ease of use and exceptional optical performance, the ETX-60AT combines innovative technologies with user-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for stargazers of all skill levels.

One of the standout characteristics of the ETX-60AT is its 60mm aperture, which allows for impressive light-gathering capabilities. This telescope is equipped with a high-quality Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design that delivers sharp, clear images with minimal distortion. The multi-coated optics enhance light transmission, ensuring brighter images with better color fidelity, which is essential for planetary and deep-sky observations.

The telescope boasts a lightweight and compact design, making it highly portable for on-the-go astronomy. Weighing only about 4.5 pounds, the ETX-60AT comes with a sturdy, adjustable tripod that provides stable support during observation. The telescope is also equipped with a unique fork mount that includes Meade's AutoStar technology, allowing for automatic tracking of celestial objects. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners, as it simplifies the process of locating and tracking stars and planets.

Meade’s AutoStar system is a highlight of the ETX-60AT, featuring a database with thousands of celestial objects. This intelligent computer control allows users to simply input the desired object, and the telescope will automatically position itself accordingly. The intuitive hand controller enhances the viewing experience by offering guided tours of the night sky, enabling users to discover and appreciate various astronomical wonders, from the moon and planets to distant galaxies and star clusters.

The ETX-60AT also includes a diagonal mirror, which provides comfortable viewing angles and helps in locating objects above the horizon with ease. The telescope comes with a variety of eyepieces, enhancing versatility and giving users options for different magnifications based on their observing needs.

In addition to its impressive optical and technological features, the Meade ETX-60AT is built with durability in mind. The telescope's construction withstands environmental challenges, allowing users to explore the night sky in a range of conditions.

Overall, the Meade ETX-60AT offers an outstanding balance of performance, portability, and user-friendliness, making it a perfect introductory telescope for amateur astronomers. Whether you are a seasoned observer or just starting your journey into astronomy, the ETX-60AT provides a reliable platform for exploring the universe.
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