APPENDIX E: INITIALIZATION EXAMPLE

Initialization is a procedure that ensures that Autostar operates correctly. When you first use Autostar, it doesn't yet know where the observation location site is or the time or date of the observation session.

During the procedure, information, such as the current time and date, observation location, and telescope model, is entered into Autostar. Autostar uses this information to precisely calculate the location of celestial objects (such as stars and planets) and how to move your telescope correctly for various operations.

The diagram below depicts an example of the Autostar initialization procedure. The following are the parameters that are used in the example:

Date:

March 26, 2001

 

 

Time:

12:47 AM

 

 

Location:

Irvine, California

 

 

(00) Meade (1.0)

 

 

A U T O S T A R

 

 

 

 

ENTER

ENTER

Initializing. . .

 

 

 

 

Enter Time:

Country/State

WARNING

 

00:00:00PM

AFGHANISTAN

 

1 (1X)

Multiple

LOOKING AT . . .

 

Presses

 

 

(1X)

SPEED

 

?

 

 

Country/State

 

 

 

Getting Started

2 (2X)

CALIFORNIA

 

 

For a Detailed...

(1X)

ENTER

 

 

 

ENTER

4 (4X)

Nearest City

 

 

 

 

 

Enter Date:

 

ALAMEDA NAS

 

 

01-Jan-2000

7 (7X)

Multiple

 

2 (2X)

Presses

 

 

Nearest City

 

 

AM (default)

 

(1X)

IRVINE

 

 

 

6 (5X)

Enter Time:

ENTER

 

12:47:00AM

 

 

 

 

 

(1X)

ENTER

Telescope Model

 

Mar (2X)

 

> ETX-60 or ETX-70

 

Daylight Savings

ENTER

 

 

 

2000 (4X)

>NO

 

 

2001 (1X)

 

Setup

 

 

Align

 

 

 

Enter Date:

 

 

 

26-Mar-2001

 

 

Fig. 31: Example of the Initialization Procedure.

36 Appendix E

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Image 36
Meade ETX-60AT instruction manual Appendix E Initialization Example, Enter

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.