Using AudioStar’s GoTo Capabilities, Slew Speeds

Getting Started

and DEC locks.

•Once centered, an object can be focused by turning one of the knobs of the focusing mechanism (Page 8, Fig 1, 11). Notice that when observing astronomical objects, the ﬁeld of view begins to slowly drift across the eyepiece ﬁeld. This motion is caused by the rotation of the Earth on its axis. Objects appear to move through the ﬁeld more rapidly at higher powers. See TRACKING OBJECTS, Page 23, for detailed information on how you can counteract the drift in the ﬁeld of view.

Using AudioStar’s GoTo Capabilities

Before you can use AudioStar’s GoTo capabilities, you must ﬁrst:

•Learn how AudioStar’s keys move through the menus

•Initialize AudioStar

•Place the telescope in either the alt-azimuth or Polar home position. If you have not already done so (see Setting the Polar Home Position, Page 28 or Page 25 for the Alt-Azimuth Home position)

•Perform a quick alignment on the night sky using AudioStar’s alignment routine.

Moving Through AudioStar’s Menus

The AudioStar database is organized in levels for quick and easy navigation.

•Press ENTER to go deeper into AudioStar’s menu levels.

•Press MODE to move back toward the top menu level.

•Press the Scroll keys to move up and down through the options available for each level.

•Press the Arrow keys to enter characters, digits and to move the cursor across the display. The Arrow keys are also used to move the telescope in each direction.

•Press the Number keys to enter digits

•Press the Help (?) key (Page 33, Fig 39, 8) to access on-line help.

Activate the Arrow Keys

AudioStar’s arrow keys allow you to slew (move)

the telescope up, down, right, or left. The following procedure describes how to activate AudioStar’s Arrow keys:

1.After the batteries are installed and AudioStar’s cord is plugged into the HBX port of computer control panel (Page 10, Fig 3, D), a copyright message displays on the AudioStar LCD display (Page 33, Fig 39, 1).

2.If you are using the LX80 for the ﬁrst time, it will prompt you to select the desired language. Select English by pressing the enter key. You can use the hand controller to move the telescope in each direction and change the slew speeds.

Slew Speeds

AudioStar has nine slew speeds that move the optical tube at rates that are directly proportional to the sidereal rate and have been calculated to accomplish speciﬁc functions. Press a Number key (Page 33, Fig 39, 6) to change the slew speed, which is shown for about two seconds on AudioStar’s display.

The nine available speeds are:

Number Key 1 =				Guide (0.25 arc-min/sec
				or 0.004°/sec)
Number Key 2 =		2x	=	2x sidereal (0.5 arc-min/sec
				or 0.008°/sec)
Number Key 3 =		8x	=	8x sidereal (2 arc-min/sec or
				0.033°/sec)
Number Key 4 =		16x =		16x sidereal (4 arc-min/sec
				or 0.067°/sec)
Number Key 5 =		64x =		64x sidereal (16 arc-min
				sec or 0.27°/sec)
Number Key 6	=	128x =		30arc-min/sec or 0.5°/sec
Number Key 7	=	1.5° =		90arc-min/sec or 1.5°/sec
Number Key 8	=	3° =		180arc-min/sec or 3°/sec
Number Key 9	=	Max =		270arc-min/sec or 4.5°/sec

Speeds 1, 2 or 3: Best used for ﬁne centering of an object in the ﬁeld of view of a higher power eyepiece, such as a 12mm or a 9mm eyepiece.

Speeds 4, 5 or 6: Enables centering an object in the ﬁeld of a low-to-moderate power eyepiece, such as the standard 26mm.

LX80 specifications

The Meade LX80 is a versatile and innovative telescope designed to cater to both novice astronomers and experienced stargazers. Its combination of performance, ease of use, and advanced features makes it a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking to explore the cosmos.

One of the standout characteristics of the LX80 is its extensive GoTo mount system, which allows users to automatically locate and track celestial objects with remarkable precision. This feature is powered by a database containing over 30,000 astronomical objects, providing a broad range of targets for exploration. The telescope's integrated GPS ensures swift alignment with the night sky, simplifying setup and enhancing the observing experience.

The LX80 employs advanced technology with its heavy-duty dual-axis equatorial mount, providing stability and sturdiness. This design is particularly beneficial for astrophotography, as it minimizes vibrations and allows for longer exposure times without blurring. Additionally, the mount is compatible with various optical tubes, enabling users to customize their setup according to their specific interests, whether it’s planetary observation or deep-sky photography.

Another impressive feature of the Meade LX80 is its SmartDrive technology, which continually corrects any tracking errors, ensuring smooth and accurate movement across the night sky. This is especially helpful for capturing high-quality images of celestial bodies. The telescope can also be controlled via a smartphone or tablet using the optional Meade app, which further adds to its user-friendly design.

The LX80's optical performance is equally commendable. Many models come with a high-quality optical tube, offering superb light-gathering capabilities. The telescope's aperture, typically ranging from 6 to 10 inches, makes it well-suited for observing faint deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae, as well as brighter targets such as planets.

In terms of portability, the LX80 is designed to be compact, making it easier to transport to dark-sky locations. The telescope can be quickly set up and dismantled, accommodating astronomers who wish to observe in various settings.

Overall, the Meade LX80 stands out as a dynamic and feature-rich telescope. With its powerful GoTo capabilities, advanced tracking technology, and customizable optics, it offers a well-rounded observational experience. Whether you're peering through the eyepiece for the first time or capturing stunning images of the universe, the LX80 is equipped to meet your astronomical needs.

Meade LX80 Using AudioStar’s GoTo Capabilities, Moving Through AudioStar’s Menus, Slew Speeds

Models: LX80