Want to learn more about using the Date menu? See the LXD75 TIPS box, page 24.

Want to learn more about Training the Drive? See the LXD75 TIPS box, page 20.

Date changes the date used by Autostar. This function is useful to check events in the past or future. For example, set the Date menu for a day three months in the future. Then check the "Select Item: Event" menu for the Sunset time on that date. See EVENT MENU, page 27.

Time changes the time entered into Autostar. Setting the correct time is critical for Autostar to properly calculate locations and events. Time may be set to 24-hour mode (military time) by selecting the "blank" option (i.e., no option is displayed) which fol- lows the "AM" and "PM" options.

Daylight Saving is used to enable or disable Daylight Savings time.

Note: Daylight Savings Time may be referred to by different names in vari- ous areas of the world. Check local time to verify.

Telescope accesses several options, including:

Telescope Model: Allows you to select the telescope model connected to Autostar.

Focal Length: Displays the focal length of the selected telescope.

Az/R.A. Ratio and Alt/Dec. Ratio: The Az (Azimuth) or the R.A. (Right Ascension) ratio and Alt (Altitude) or Dec. (Declination) ratio refers to the gears of the telescope's motors. Do not alter these numbers.

Az/R.A. Percent: This option allows you to change the AZ (azimuth) or R.A. (right ascension) backlash, i.e., the way the Arrow keys move the telescope along the azimuth or R.A. axes. 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/Dec. Percent: The option operates identical to the Az/R.A. Percent option (see above), but allows you to change the altitude or declination backlash, i.e., the way the telescope responds to the Arrow keys when moving along the altitude or declination axes.

Train Drive: Trains the Altitude/Declination and Azimuth/R.A. motors to locate objects with more precision.

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

LXD75 TIPS

Observing Considerations

Try to pick an observing site away from street and house lights and car head- lights. While this is not always possible, the darker the site, the better.

Give your eyes about ten minutes to adjust to the darkness before observing. Give your eyes a rest from observing every ten or fifteen minutes to relieve eyestrain.

Try not to use a standard flashlight. Experienced observers use red LED flash- lights, the red utility light on the Autostar handbox, or tape red cellophane over their flashlights to use for setup and map reading so they don’t have to con- tinually readjust their eyes to the darkness. Be careful not to shine bright lights if there are other observers in the area. Do not shine a flashlight into the tele- scope while someone is observing!

Dress warmly. It gets chilly when you’re sitting for prolonged periods.

Practice setting up your equipment during the day or in a lighted area to become familiar with it before going to a dark site.

Use your 26mm eyepiece to view terrestrial objects and wider areas of space, such as open star clusters. Use an optional 9mm eyepiece when you wish to view something up close, such as craters on the Moon or the rings of Saturn.

Know your observing site. If you’re going to try out an unfamiliar site, check it out in the daylight for possible obstructions and pitfalls.

29

Page 29
Image 29
Meade LXD75 instruction manual Observing Considerations

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.