Using AudioStar to Find Objects Not in the Database

In this procedure, you will enter coordinates of celestial objects that do not appear in any of the AudioStar database lists. You will enter the object’s name and RA and DEC coordinates (required information). You may also enter the object’s magnitude and size (optional information).

Although AudioStar contains an extensive database of celestial objects (stars, nebulae, planets, etc.) that you can observe, you may eventually want to view objects that are not part of the database. AudioStar provides a feature that allows you to enter an object’s RA and DEC coordinates in the “User: Objects” option of the Object menu and allows automatic slewing of the telescope to the user-entered coordinates.

In order to use this menu option, you first need to look up the RA and DEC coordinates of the object or objects you wish to observe. Check out your local library, internet, or bookstore for astronomy books, CD ROMs, or magazines (such as Sky & Telescope or Astronomy), to find coordinates of celestial objects. The objects/coordinates you enter become part of your own permanent database, called “User Objects”.

To enter coordinates of an object into the “User: Objects” option of the Object menu:

1.Make sure AudioStar has been initialized and the telescope has been aligned.

2.After the telescope is aligned, “Select Item: Object” displays. (If necessary, use the scroll keys to scroll through the menus, as previously described, to find this option.) Press ENTER.

3.“Object: Solar System” displays. Keep pressing

the Scroll Up key until “Object: User Object” displays and press ENTER.

4.“User Object: Select” displays. Press the scroll

down key once. “User Object: Add” displays. Press ENTER.

5.“Name” displays on the top line and a blinking cursor on the second line. Use the arrow keys, as previously described, to enter the name of the object you wish to add to the database. When you are finished, press ENTER.

6.“Right Asc.: 00.00.0” displays. Use the number

keys to enter the digits for the Right Ascension coordinate of your object. When you are finished, press ENTER.

7.“Declination:+00°.00’”displays.UsetheNumber keys to enter the digits for the Declination coordinate of your object. If necessary, use the scroll keys to change “+” to “-”. When you are finished, press ENTER.

8.AudioStar then prompts you to enter the size of the object. This step is optional. Use the number keys to enter the size (in arcminutes), if so desired, and press ENTER to go to the next display. If you do not wish to enter this information, simply press ENTER.

9.AudioStar then prompts you to enter the magnitude of the object. This step is also optional. Use the number keys to enter this information, if so desired, and press ENTER to go to the next display. “User Object: Add” displays again.

To GoTo a user-entered object:

In this procedure, you will choose an object from the User Object list and GoTo the object.

1.With “User Object: Add” displayed, press the

Scroll Up key once. “User Object: Select” displays. Press ENTER.

2.Use the scroll keys (if necessary) to scroll to the desired object. Press ENTER.

3.The name of the object and the Right Ascension and Declination coordinates display.

4.Press GoTo and the telescope slews to the object.

Observing Satellites

In this procedure, you will prepare your telescope to observe a satellite pass.

1.Navigate to the “Object: Satellite” menu option and press ENTER.

2.Use the scroll keys to scroll through the list of satellites.

3.Select a satellite from list and press ENTER.

4.“Calculating...” and then “Tracking...” displays. If the satellite is going to make a pass, “Located” displays.

AudioStar Operation

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Meade LX80 Using AudioStar to Find Objects Not in the Database, To GoTo a user-entered object, Observing Satellites
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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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