1!
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g Want to learn more

about changing slew

speeds? See page 16.

Also, use the Arrow keys to scroll through numbers 0 through 9 and the alphabet. The Down Arrow key begins with the letter "A;" the Up Arrow key begins with digit "9."

Additionally, use the Arrow keys to to move the cursor across the display: Use the Right or Left Arrow key to move the cursor from one number to the next in the dis- play.

f Arrow Keys: The Arrow keys have several functions. Press an Arrow key to slew the telescope in a specific direction (up, down, left and right), at any one of nine different speeds. See SLEW SPEEDS, page 16. Use the Arrow keys to move the telescope vertically up and down. The Left Arrow key rotates the telescope horizontally counterclockwise, while the Right Arrow key rotates it clockwise.

g Number Keys: Press to input digits 0 to 9. To change the speed at which the telescope moves (known as the “slew” speed) press a NUMBER KEY from 1 through 9. 1 is the slowest speed and 9 is the fastest.

h Scroll Keys: Press to access options within a selected menu. The menu is displayed on the first line of the screen. Options in the menu are displayed, one at a time, on the second line. Press the Scroll keys to move through the options. Press and hold a Scroll key to move quickly through the options.

The Scroll keys also control the speed of text scrolling on the AutoStar display. When text is scrolling, press and hold the Up Scroll key for a faster display speed and the Down Scroll key for a slower display speed.

i ? Key: Press to access the "Help" file. "Help" provides on-screen information on how to accomplish whatever task is currently active.

Press the ? key and then follow the prompts on the display to access details of AutoStar functions in the Help feature. The Help system is essentially an on-screen instruction manual.

If you have a question about an AutoStar operation, e.g., INITIALIZATION, ALIGN- MENT, etc., press the ? key and follow the directions that scroll on the second line. When satisfied with the Help provided, press MODE to return to the original screen and continue with the chosen procedure.

j RS232 Port: Plug in optional cable to download the latest satellite data and software revisions directly from the Meade website (www.meade.com). You can also share software with other AutoStar enthusiasts or control your telescope remotely from your PC. (Requires optional #505 AstroFinder™ Software and Cable Connector Kit. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 42.)

1) Coil Cord Port/Coil Cord: Plug one end of the supplied AutoStar coil cord into this port located at the bottom of the handbox and the other end into the HBX port of the Computer Control Panel.

Light/0 Key: Press to turn on Utility light (12, Fig. 4).

Utility Light: Use this built-in red light to illuminate star charts and accessories without disturbing your eye's adaptation to darkness. Press "0" to turn the light on and off.

ETX TIPS

Star Charts

Even with the AutoStar's large 30,000 object library, star charts and planispheres are still useful for a variety of reasons. In particular, they are a great aid in planning a night of celestial viewing.

A wide variety of star charts are available in books, in magazines, on the inter- net and on CD Roms. Meade offers AutoStar Suiteand other star locator software. Contact your Meade dealer or Meade's Customer Service department for more information.

Astronomy and Sky and Telescope magazines print star charts each month for up-to-the-minute maps of the heavens.

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Meade ETX-90PE instruction manual ETX Tips, About changing slew

ETX-90PE specifications

The Meade ETX-90PE is a well-regarded telescope that combines portability and performance, making it a popular choice among both amateur astronomers and seasoned stargazers. Its compact design and advanced features make it an ideal instrument for those who seek to explore the night sky with ease.

At the heart of the ETX-90PE is its Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design, which utilizes a spherical primary mirror and a corrector lens to deliver exceptional image quality. With a focal length of 1250mm and a 90mm aperture, it strikes a balance between light-gathering ability and magnification, allowing users to observe celestial objects such as planets, star clusters, and distant galaxies in remarkable detail. The telescope's focal ratio of f/13.9 provides crisp and sharp views, making it particularly well-suited for planetary observation.

One of the standout features of the ETX-90PE is its Electronic Control System (ECS), which allows for easy and intuitive operation. The telescope is equipped with a built-in AutoStar Computerized GoTo mount, enabling users to locate and track over 30,000 celestial objects with just a few simple commands. With automatic alignment features, even beginners can get started quickly, making the wonders of the universe accessible to everyone.

Portability is a key characteristic of the Meade ETX-90PE. Weighing in at a mere 12.5 pounds, it can be easily transported to dark sky locations. Its compact design not only translates to ease of transport but also means it can be stored conveniently when not in use. The included sturdy aluminum tripod provides stable support, even during extended observation sessions.

The ETX-90PE further enhances the user experience with its high-quality accessories. It comes with a set of eyepieces, including a 26mm Super Plössl and a 9.7mm Plössl, allowing for various magnifications to suit different observing preferences. The telescope also features a built-in flip mirror, allowing for easier viewing through both the eyepiece and a camera, making astrophotography more accessible.

Additionally, the ETX-90PE is designed with user comfort in mind. The telescope offers adjustable slow-motion controls for fine-tuning views and an optical finder scope to help locate objects before zooming in. With robust construction, excellent optics, and a range of advanced features, the Meade ETX-90PE stands out as a versatile, high-quality telescope for both casual observers and serious astronomers alike. Its combination of technology and user-friendly functions makes it an enduring favorite for anyone looking to embark on a journey through the cosmos.