Writing a Tour

Using the list of commands listed above, a custom tour can be created. Placing the word AUTO SELECT before any of the command lines activates Automatic Mode and, when selected, AutoStar automatically searches and finds the designated object.

The following is a list of command lines, complete with keywords and necessary strings:

TITLE

Title must be the first keyword in your tour after any comment lines and must be 15 characters or less. AutoStar displays this title when "Guided Tour" is selected from the menus.

For example: TITLE "A Star's Life"

TEXT "title string" "description string"

This command allows you to display a text title and description.

USER ra dec "title string" "description string"

This command line allows you to access a specific object with your own description. Enter USER, then the RA and DEC of a desired object, and its title and description. Use the format described in the Command Line section.

The following commands specify objects that are already in the AutoStar database. If these commands follow the command AUTO SELECT, the object's title displays on line 1 and its description scrolls across line 2.

Do not add a description string after the following command lines; these commands access objects with existing description in the AutoStar database.

NGC xxxx

Enter NGC followed by the desired New General Catalog number and AutoStar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: NGC 4256

IC xxxx

Enter IC followed by the desired Index Catalog number and AutoStar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: IC 1217

SAO xxxxxx

Enter SAO followed by the desired SAO number and AutoStar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: SAO 30200

Messier xxx

Enter MESSIER followed by the desired Messier number and AutoStar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: M 101

CALDWELL xxx

Enter CALDWELL followed by the Caldwell number and AutoStar provides the user with a description of the object from its database. For example: CALDWELL 17

PLANET "name"

Enter PLANET and then the name of the desired planet in quotes. AutoStar provides the user with a description of the selected planet from its database. For example: PLANET "Pluto"

MOON

This command accesses information about the Moon from the AutoStar database.

SATELLITE "name"

Enter SATELLITE and then the name of the desired satellite in quotes. AutoStar displays information about the satellite from its database. For example: SATELLITE: "Intl Space Stn"

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Meade LX90GPS instruction manual Writing a Tour, Title

LX90GPS specifications

The Meade LX90GPS is a premium telescope that offers both amateur and seasoned astronomers a powerful and user-friendly platform for exploring the night sky. This telescope blends advanced technology with robust design, making it one of the preferred choices for stargazers around the globe.

One of the standout features of the LX90GPS is its Advanced Coma-Free (ACF) optics. This design minimizes spherical aberration and eliminates off-axis coma, ensuring sharp, high-contrast images across the entire field of view. Coupled with a large aperture of 8, 10, or 12 inches, users can enjoy stunning views of celestial objects including planets, galaxies, and nebulae.

The telescope is equipped with a fully automated GoTo system that simplifies the hunting of celestial objects. The built-in GPS makes for effortless location setting, locking onto satellites and positioning the telescope accurately. Once set up, users can access a database containing over 30,000 celestial objects, allowing for easy navigation and exploration.

In addition to its exceptional optics and GoTo capabilities, the LX90GPS features Smart Mount technology. This innovative system incorporates adjustments based on real-time sky data, ensuring that the telescope remains aligned with celestial bodies as they move across the night sky. The LX90GPS also includes a unique Auto-Alignment feature, where a simple two-star alignment procedure helps calibrate the telescope quickly and easily.

The design of the LX90GPS is user-centric, combining functionality with comfort. The telescope comes with an easy-to-operate control panel and a large, multi-line LCD screen that displays critical information. Users can easily manage various functions and settings without fumbling through complex menus.

Additional features include the option for removable optical tubes, allowing for easy upgrades or repairs. The telescope is compatible with a variety of Meade accessories, including focal reducers and filter sets, enhancing its versatility for different observing conditions.

In conclusion, the Meade LX90GPS stands out for its remarkable optics, user-friendly technology, and impressive range of features. Whether you’re gazing at the Moon, tracking planets, or delving into deep-sky observations, the LX90GPS provides a fulfilling astronomical experience that inspires exploration and delight in the universe.