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Meade LX80 instruction manual Advanced alt/az Alignment, Browse, Two-Star alt/az Alignment

Models: LX80

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18.The telescope slews and “Press V until it is centered” displays. Press the Down Arrow key until the target is centered again. Then press ENTER. “Train Drive: Alt/DEC Train” displays again. You have now completed this procedure. Press the MODE key several times until the display reads “Select Item: Object”.

Advanced alt/az Alignment

If you would rather choose your own alignment stars from the AudioStar database during the alt/az alignment procedure, AudioStar offers two methods described below.

Two-Star alt/az Alignment

Two-Star Alignment requires some knowledge of the night sky. AudioStar provides a database of bright stars and two stars from this database are chosen by the observer for alignment.

A detailed step-by-step description can be found in the “Easy” alignment description on page 26

One-Star alt/az Alignment

One-Star Alignment requires some knowledge of the night sky. AudioStar provides a database of bright stars. One-Star Alignment is identical to Two-Star alt/az: Alignment (see “Two-Star ETX/AZ Alignment,” above), except only one star from this database is chosen by the observer for alignment.

IMPORTANT NOTE : The accuracy of One- Star alt/az Alignment, unlike the Two-Star and Easy (alt/az) Alignment procedures, depends on how well the observer levels the telescope and how close to North the telescope is pointed when setting the home position (Page 29, Fig. 36). Because the other methods use two stars to align upon, they are more precise than One- Star Alignment.

Browse

This menu allows you to search the database for objects with certain parameters, much like a search engine. “Edit Parameters” lets you set various parameters for the search, and “Start Search” activates the search. A typical search might be performed as follows:

1.Select “Browse” from the Object menu. Press ENTER. “Browse: Start Search” displays.

2.Press one of the scroll keys and “Browse: Edit Parameters” displays. Press Enter.

3.“Edit Parameters: Largest (mins)” displays. “Mins” stands for arc-minutes

LX80 TIPS

Too Much Power?

Can you ever have too much power? If the type of power you’re referring to is eyepiece magnification, yes, you can! The most common mistake of the beginning observer is to “overpower” a telescope by using high magnifications which the telescope’s aperture and atmospheric conditions cannot reasonably support. Keep in mind that a smaller, but bright and well-resolved image is far superior to one that is larger, but dim and poorly resolved (see Figs. 44a and 44b below). Powers above 400X should be employed only under the steadiest atmospheric conditions.

Most observers should have three or four additional eyepieces to achieve the full range of reasonable magnifications possible with the LX80 telescopes. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, Page 52.

Figs. 44a & 44b: Jupiter; examples of the right amount of magnification and too much magnification.

AudioStar Operation

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Meade LX80 instruction manual Advanced alt/az Alignment, Browse, Two-Star alt/az Alignment, One-Star alt/az Alignment
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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.