LX200R TIPS

APPENDIX D: TRAINING THE DRIVE

Train the telescope motors using AutoStar II. Perform this procedure if you are experiencing any pointing accuracy problems. Fig. 41 depicts the complete Drive Training procedure.

Note: Use a terrestrial object, such as a telephone pole or lamp post, to train the drive. Complete this exer- cise once every 3 to 6 months to maintain the highest level of telescope pointing accuracy.

Further Study....

This manual gives only the briefest introduction to astron- omy. If you are interested in pursuing further studies in astronomy, a few topics are suggested below that are worth reading up on. Try looking up some of these in the optional AutoStar II glossary.

Also included below is a small sampling of books, maga- zines, and organizations that you might find helpful.

Topics

1. How is a star born? How does a solar system form?

2. How is the distance to a star measured? What is a light year? What is red shift and blue shift?

3. How are the craters on our Moon formed? Is there water under the surface of the Moon?

4. What is a black hole? A neutron star? A quark star? A gamma burster? An Einstein lens?

5. What are stars made of? Why are stars different col- ors? How is the elemental composition of a star determined? What is an Lyman Alpha forest?

6. What is the difference between a Type 1 and a Type II supernova?

7. What is the importance of studying the composition of comets? Where do comets come from?

8. How old is our Sun? Will our Sun evolve into a plan- etary nebula or go supernova?

9. What is the Inflationary Big Bang? What is dark mat- ter? What are MACHO's?

10. How are extrasolar planets discovered? What is an accretion (or protoplanetary) disk?

11. What are the differences between elliptical, spiral, and irregular galaxies? Can globular clusters be older than the universe itself?

Books

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

The Guide to Amateur Astronomy by Jack Newton

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and Philip Teece

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

The Sky: A User’s Guide by David Levy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

Turn Left at Orion by Guy Consolmagno & Dan Davis

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.

Astrophotography for the Amateur by Michael

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Covington

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Magazines

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

Sky & Telescope

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

49 Bay St., Cambridge, MA 02138

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

Astronomy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Box 1612, Waukesha, WI 53187

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Organizations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

Astronomical League

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Executive Secretary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5675 Real del Norte, Las Cruces, NM 88012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

The Astronomical Society of the Pacific

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

390 Ashton Ave., San Francisco, CA 94112

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

The Planetary Society

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

65 North Catalina Ave, Pasadena., CA 91106

Figure 45: Training the Drive Procedure.

 

 

 

 

 

 

And watch Jack Horkheimer, Star Gazer, on your local

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PBS station.

- 62 -

Looking at or near the Sun will cause irreversible damage to your eye. Do not point this telescope

 

at or near the Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving.

Page 62
Image 62
Meade LX200 R instruction manual Appendix D Training the Drive, Further Study

LX200 R specifications

The Meade LX200 R is a renowned telescope that has captivated astronomers and enthusiasts alike with its impressive blend of advanced technology, user-friendly features, and excellent optical performance. Launched as part of Meade's line of enjoyable yet high-performing telescopes, the LX200 R remains a top choice for both amateur stargazers and serious astrophotographers.

At the heart of the LX200 R is its advanced telescope design. It features a robust, 8-inch primary mirror, which provides exceptional light-gathering capability. This larger aperture allows users to observe faint celestial objects, including distant galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, with stunning clarity and detail. The telescope's reflective optics are coated with high-quality, anti-reflective coatings that enhance contrast and minimize light loss, ensuring crisp, clear images even in challenging viewing conditions.

One of the standout features of the LX200 R series is its sophisticated computer-controlled GoTo mount. This feature allows users to locate over 30,000 celestial objects with remarkable precision using a simple one-button operation. The dual-axis motor drives enable smooth tracking of objects across the night sky, making it easier to follow their movements. The mount also includes an integrated GPS system, which automatically adjusts the telescope's location and time settings for accurate alignment without requiring complex manual adjustments.

The LX200 R is configured for both visual observations and astrophotography, accommodating a wide range of accessories like cameras and focal reducers. Its sturdy construction minimizes vibrations, which is crucial for capturing sharp images during extended exposures. Additionally, the telescope's optical tube is designed to be both lightweight and durable, making it convenient for transport and setup in various observing locations.

The ergonomic design of the LX200 R also enhances user experience, featuring a comfortable eyepiece height and an intuitive control panel. The display is user-friendly, allowing even novice astronomers to navigate settings and options quickly. With its combination of high-quality optics, advanced tracking capabilities, and versatile design, the Meade LX200 R continues to be a preferred choice for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the universe with sophistication and ease.