AudioStar Operation

selected telescope.

•Az Ratio and Alt Ratio: The Az (Azimuth) ratio and Alt (Altitude) ratio refers to the gears of the telescope’s motors. Do not alter these numbers.

•Az Percent: The Az (Azimuth) Percent allows you to change the azimuth backlash, i.e., the way the arrow keys move the telescope along the azimuth (horizontal) axis. If you enter a value near 100, the telescope tube responds more quickly (it responds immediately at 100%) as you hold down an arrow key and also slews (moves) the tube more quickly. If you enter a value near 0, it takes longer for the tube to respond as you hold down an arrow key and also slews the tube more slowly. Experiment with this option. Try changing the percent value until you get a “feel” for the arrow keys that is comfortable for you.

•Alt Percent: The Alt (Altitude) Percent operates identical to the Az Percent option (see above), but allows you to change the altitude backlash, i.e., the way the arrow keys move the telescope when moving along the altitude (vertical) axis.

•Train Drive: Trains the Altitude and Azimuth motors to locate objects with more precision.

If you are experiencing any problems with pointing accuracy, follow the procedure described in APPENDIX A: TRAINING THE DRIVE, Page 57, to insure accurate pointing and tracking.

•Tracking Rate: Changes the speed at which the telescope tracks targets in the sky.

a.Sidereal: The default setting for AudioStar; sidereal rate is the standard rate at which stars move from East to West across the sky due to the rotation of the Earth.

b.Lunar: Choose this option to properly track the Moon over long observing sessions.

c.Custom: Allows entry of user-defined tracking rates.

•Reverse L/R reverses the functions of the Left and Right Arrow keys (i.e., the Right key moves the telescope to the left).

•Reverse UP/DOWN reverses the functions of the Up and Down Arrow keys (i.e., the Up key moves the telescope down).

•Quiet Slew sets the maximum slew rate to 1.5° for quieter operation.

•Max Elevation allows you to enter a value in degrees that sets a limit as to how far the optical tube can swing upward during a programmed slew. (Note that it does not prevent you from performing a manual slew past this limit.) This is useful when you have a camera or other peripheral attached to the telescope—you can prevent it from striking the telescope base.

•Min AOS (Acquisition of Signal) allows you enter a value in degrees. This value represents the altitude at which your telescope begins to slew when acquiring a satellite track. This is useful when you are observing satellites, but a tall tree or building is obstructing the telescope. For example, you might begin to track the satellite at 15° altitude, instead of 5°. See Observing Satellites, Page 45, for more information about satellites.

•Calibrate Motor if the telescope motors appear to have a problem, use this option to retest the motors before performing a Reset. This option is also used if an AudioStar unit is moved between telescopes, to match AudioStar to the new telescope. To calibrate the motors, select this option and press ENTER.

•High Precision if turned on, when looking for a faint celestial object (i.e., a nebula or galaxy), AudioStar first slews to a nearby bright star and displays “ENTER to Sync”. Center the star in the eyepiece, then press ENTER. At that point the telescope has a high precision alignment to that part of the sky and it then slews to the object that was originally requested.

Targets switches between Astronomical targets and Terrestrial targets. If “Astronomical” is selected, the telescope tracking motor is activated and any object you observe will remain centered in the eyepiece. If “Terrestrial” is selected, the tracking motor is turned off.

Site provides access to several options including:

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Meade LX80 instruction manual Selected telescope
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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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