Note: Autostar only prompts you to enter Country (or State) and City as described in steps 3, 4, and 5, the first time it is activated. These prompts do not appear again, unless you reset Autostar (see RESET, page 31).

However, if you need to re-enter this information (e.g., you change your geographic location), you can change the location information by using the Site option of the Setup menu. See ADDING OBSERVING SITES, page 32, for detailed informa- tion.

supplied with your telescope. When the object is centered and focused in the eye- piece, switch to a higher power eyepiece to enlarge the image as much as practi- cal for prevailing viewing conditions. For information about other eyepieces avail- able for your telescope, see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 37.

Once centered, an object can be focused by turning one of the knobs of the focusing mechanism (8, Fig. 1b). Notice that when observing astronomical objects, the field of view begins to slowly drift across the eyepiece field. This motion is caused by the rotation of the Earth on its axis. Objects appear to move through the field more rapidly at higher powers. See TRACKING OBJECTS, page 17, for detailed information on how you can counteract the drift in the field of view.

Activate the Arrow Keys (Autostar Models Only)

Autostar's Arrow keys allow you to slew (move) the telescope up, down, right, or left. The following procedure describes how to activate Autostar's Arrow keys:

1.After the batteries are installed and Autostar's cord is plugged into the HBX port of computer control panel (A, Fig 1e), a copyright message lights on the Autostar LCD display (1, Fig. 2).

2.A message warning not to look at the Sun scrolls across the display. Press the key prompted by Autostar to acknowledge that the Sun warning has been read and understood.

3.Press ENTER (2, Fig. 2) repeatedly until "Country/State" appears on the display. (Ignore the prompts requesting Date and Time. See INITIALIZING AUTOSTAR, page 19, for more information).

4.Use the Scroll keys (7, Fig. 2) to cycle through the database of countries, states, and provinces. Press ENTER when the correct location displays.

5.Autostar then prompts you to enter the nearest city (listed alphabetically) to the observing site. Use the Scroll keys to cycle through the database of cities. Press ENTER when the correct city appears on the display.

6.Autostar then prompts you to enter the model number of your telescope. Use the Scroll keys to cycle through the list of telescope models. Press ENTER when the correct model appears on the display.

7.The display then reads "Align: Easy." You now can use Autostar's Arrow keys to move the telescope to observe.

Note: If you go past the "Align: Easy" (or any other menu display you wish to select), press MODE to return to the previous display(s).

8.Press the Arrow keys (5, Fig. 2) to move the telescope up, down, right, or left. You can move the telescope at different speeds.

Slew Speeds (Autostar Models Only)

Autostar has nine slew speeds that move the optical tube at rates that are directly pro- portional to the sidereal rate and have been calculated to accomplish specific func- tions. Press a Number key (6, Fig. 2) to change the slew speed, which is shown for about two seconds on Autostar’s display.

The nine available speeds are:

Number Key 1

=

 

 

Guide (0.25 arc-min/sec or 0.004°/sec)

Number Key 2

=

2x

=

2

x sidereal (0.5 arc-min/sec or 0.008°/sec)

Number Key 3

=

8x

=

8

x sidereal (2 arc-min/sec or 0.033°/sec)

Number Key 4

=

16x

=

16

x sidereal (4 arc-min/sec or 0.067°/sec)

Number Key 5

=

64x

=

64

x sidereal (16 arc-min/sec or 0.27°/sec)

Number Key 6

=

128x

=

30

arc-min/sec or 0.5°/sec

Number Key 7

=

1.5°

=

90

arc-min/sec or 1.5°/sec

Number Key 8

=

=

180

arc-min/sec or 3°/sec

Number Key 9

=

Max

=

270

arc-min/sec or 4.5°/sec

16

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Image 16
Meade LXD75 instruction manual Activate the Arrow Keys Autostar Models Only, Slew Speeds Autostar Models Only

LXD75 specifications

The Meade LXD75 series represents a remarkable range of telescopes designed for both amateur astronomers and advanced users seeking high-quality performance at an affordable price. Known for its robust construction and innovative technology, the LXD75 aims to provide a user-friendly experience while catering to the demands of stargazers looking for sophistication in their equipment.

One of the main features of the LXD75 is its advanced German equatorial mount, which provides exceptional stability and tracking accuracy. This mount is equipped with dual-axis servo motors facilitating smooth movements, making it easy to locate and follow celestial objects. The LXD75 also includes a built-in autostar system featuring a database of over 30,000 celestial objects, allowing users to effortlessly navigate the night sky with a push of a button.

The LXD75 series includes several models, each with different optical configurations to suit the preferences of various users. The telescopes come with either an achromatic refractor or Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design, providing clear and bright images. The Schmidt-Cassegrain models offer a compact design with a fast focal ratio, making them excellent for both astrophotography and visual observation.

In terms of build, the Meade LXD75 features high-quality optics with multi-coated lenses, reducing glare and enhancing light transmission. This results in sharper and brighter images, making it easier to observe delicate details on planets, the moon, and deep-sky objects. The telescope tubes are crafted from durable materials, ensuring longevity and resilience against the elements.

Another characteristic worth noting is the ease of setup and operation. The LXD75 mount comes equipped with adjustable legs and can be easily assembled, requiring minimal tools. The intuitive control system also features a user-friendly interface, allowing both novices and experienced astronomers to operate the telescope with confidence.

For astrophotography enthusiasts, the LXD75 provides excellent support, with a wide range of accessories available to enhance imaging capabilities. The mount can accommodate various cameras, providing flexibility for capturing stunning astronomical photographs.

In summary, the Meade LXD75 series delivers a robust combination of features, technologies, and characteristics designed to meet the needs of both amateur and advanced astronomers. With its reliable mount, quality optics, and ease of use, the LXD75 ensures that stargazers can enjoy the wonders of the universe with clarity and precision.