5

6

L

M

ON

Fig. 10: Loosen control latch .

7

8

9

Fig. 11: High latitude leg mounting hole and corresponding attachment knob.

8

Fig. 12: Attach telescope to tripod.

J

Fig. 13: Level tilt-plate.

L

Fig. 14: Handbox HBX port.

Fig. 15: Insert eyepiece.

Fig. 16: Tighten vertical

Fig. 17: Tighten horizontal

 

lock.

lock.

4.Place the 26mm eyepiece (12, Fig. 15) into the eyepiece holder on the telescope and tighten the attachment thumbscrew (13, Fig. 15) to a "firm feel" only. Make sure that the flip-mirror control (14, Fig. 15) is in the “up” position, as shown in the above photo. See page 14, for more information. Remove the dust cover (15, Fig. 15) from the end of the telescope tube.

5.Make sure that the computer control panel power switch (A, Fig. 2) is in the OFF position. Remove the AutoStar handbox and the coiled cord from the packing materials. Plug one end of the cord into the HBX port (C, Fig. 2)and the other end of the coiled cord into the coiled cord port at the bottom of AutoStar handbox, as shown above.

6.Tighten (to a "firm feel" only, do not overtighten) the vertical lock (Fig. 6) and the hor- izontal lock (Fig. 9).

Using SmartFinder

As with most astronomical telescopes, an eyepieces presents a narrow field of view to the observer. As a result it is sometimes difficult to locate objects just using your eyepiece. The SmartFinder has a projected red dot that helps you to locate objects as you move your telescope.

To turn on SmartFinder’s red dot (continuous, without blinking):

1.Press and hold MODE for two seconds. R.A and Dec. coordinates display.

2.Keep pressing the Scroll Down key until “Finder Set: Set” displays.

3.Press ENTER. “Finder Set: Intensity” displays.

4.Press the Scroll Down key. “Finder: Blink On” displays.

5.Press ENTER. A time value, in seconds, displays. For example, “00.5” may display. “00.5” is the amount of time, in seconds, that the red dot will blink “on.” (For this example, you may select or enter any value except “00.0.”) Press

ENTER.

6.Press the Scroll Down key. “Finder: Blink Off” displays.

7.Press ENTER. Use the Number keys to enter “00.0” or press the Scroll Down key until “00.0” displays. “00.0” is the amount of time in seconds that the red dot will remain “off.” This value, along with the value you chose in the “Finder: Blink On” menu, allows the red dot to remain on without blinking. “00.0” means there is no “off” time, so the dot will remain on continuously, without blinking.

8.Use these menus to set other blink rates. For example, If you select “00.1” in the Blink Off menu, and “00.2” in the Blink On menu, the red dot will blink on for .2 seconds and then blink off for .1 second, and then repeat the cycle until you change the values again.

9.Press and hold MODE to exit this function.

Aligning SmartFinder

In order for the SmartFinder to be useful, it must first be aligned with the main tele- scope, so that both the SmartFinder and the main telescope are pointing at precisely the same location. To align the SmartFinder:

1.Point the main telescope at some well-defined distant (perhaps a mile away) land object, such as a telephone pole or sign. Center the object, as precisely as 13

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Image 13
Meade ETX-90PE instruction manual Using SmartFinder, Aligning SmartFinder

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.