The LX80 Multi-Mount System

Note: Different objects may be displayed on a tour list on any given night.

Press ENTER to display information about the object. Press GoTo to move the telescope to the object.

5.Press MODE to return to the Tour list. Press the Scroll keys to scroll through the list. Press ENTER when you find the next object you wish to observe.

6.Press and hold down MODE for two seconds to leave the Guided Tour menu.

Equatorial Mode

Once the LX80 is fully assembled and AudioStar

Fig 33: Equatorial Mode

initialized (See Page 24 for Initializing AudioStar), you will need to set the telescope into the polar home position, and perform an alignment on the night sky in order for the LX80 to successfully locate and track celestial objects. Performing the “Easy Alignment” routine is the ideal way to get started.

Setting the Polar Home Position

1.Notice that there is an “N” mark printed on the front of the base near the Azimuth lock (Page 11, Fig 5, 36). Lift the whole telescope assembly so that this arrow points to “True” north (or South in the Southern Hemisphere). Locate Polaris, the North Star, if necessary, to use as an accurate reference for due North (or Sigma Octantis in the Southern Hemisphere). See Locating THE CELESTIAL POLE, Page 62.

2.Level the mount, if necessary, by adjusting the length of the three tripod legs. Use the bubble level built-in to the base to assist you (Page 10, Fig 4, 32). The fine leg levelers

Fig 34: Align “EQ” with “AZ/EQ” mark. Set OTA at “0” mark

at the top of each tripod leg will allow you to make small adjustments to the tripod level (Page 11, Fig 6, 47).

2.Loosen the DEC Lock (Page 8, Fig 1, 30) so that the OTA rotates freely. Rotate the OTA to so that “0” degree mark on the DEC axis lines up with the reference arrow that is cast into the mount (Fig. 34). Retighten the DEC lock.

3.Release the RA lock (Page 8, Fig 1, 29) and rotate the telescope so that the “EQ” mark and the “AZ/ EQ” mark are aligned (Fig. 34). Retighten the RA lock.

4.If you have not already done so, determine the

Fig 35: Tilt the mount head using hex head tool

latitude of your observing location. See APPENDIX

E:LATITUDE CHART, Page 65, for a list of latitudes of major cities around the world.

5.Set the latitude: Setting the latitude is easier if it is set before you attach the optical tube to the assembly. Locate the latitude dial (Page 9, Fig 2, 28); note that there is a triangular pointer above the dial located on the mount. The latitude pointer

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Meade LX80 instruction manual Equatorial Mode, Setting the Polar Home Position, Align EQ with AZ/EQ mark. Set OTA at 0 mark
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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.
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