3.Slide the MH 25mm eyepiece (1) into diagonal mirror (13).

44. Tighten the diagonal mirror thumbscrew to hold the eyepiece

securely.

BALANCING THE OPTICAL TUBE

The telescope is designed with a bracket that will allow the user to balance the optical tube. This may be needed when heavier eyepieces or accessories are used.

1.Loosen the optical tube locks [11] so the tube will slide in the mounting bracket.

2.Balance the tube by sliding it back and forth in the bracket until you find a position where the tube remains horizontal (i.e., without tipping up or down).

3.Retighten the optical tube lock knobs to a firm feel (SEE FIG. 4).

Note: If the horizontal and/or vertical movement of the optical tube seems to be too loose or too tight, you can adjust the amount of tension in the movement of the tube to suit your own preferences. See ADJUSTING THE

HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL TENSION OF THE OPTICAL TUBE, page 13.

Fig. 4

ALIGN THE RED DOT VIEWFINDER

Perform the first part of this procedure during the daytime and the last step at night.

1.Point the telescope at an easy-to-find land object such as the top of a telephone pole or a distant mountain or tower. Look through the eyepiece in the diagonal mirror and turn the focuser knob (23) until the image is sharply focused. Center the object precisely in the eyepiece’s field of view.

2.Turn on the red dot viewfinder using the switch on the side of the finder.

3.Without moving the telescope, look through the red dot viewfinder. Turn one or more of the viewfinder’s alignment screws

(3) until the red dot is precisely over the same object as you centered in the eyepiece.

4.Check this alignment at night on a celestial object, such as the Moon or a bright star, and use the viewfinder’s alignment screws to make any necessary refinements.

TO MOVE THE TELESCOPE

Your telescope is altazimuth mounted. Altazimuth is just a complicated way of saying that your telescope moves up and down and from side to side. Other telescopes may be mounted in

Looking at or near the Sun will cause irreversible damage to your eye. Do not point this telescope at or near the Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving.

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Meade NG70-SM instruction manual Balancing the Optical Tube, Align the RED DOT Viewfinder, To Move the Telescope
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NG70-SM specifications

The Meade NG70-SM is an excellent entry-level telescope designed for both novice astronomers and hobbyists. This telescope combines quality optics with user-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the night sky.

One of the standout features of the NG70-SM is its 70mm aperture. This aperture size strikes a perfect balance between portability and light-gathering power. The telescope allows users to observe celestial objects in great detail, providing a clear view of the Moon, planets, and even some deep-sky objects like star clusters and nebulae. The optics of the NG70-SM are fully coated to enhance light transmission, ensuring bright and sharp images.

The telescope is equipped with a sturdy mount that offers smooth and precise movements, which is essential for tracking celestial objects across the sky. The mount features both altitude and azimuth adjustments, allowing users to easily find and follow objects. Additionally, the NG70-SM comes with a stable tripod, providing a solid base during observation sessions.

Another notable characteristic of this telescope is its simplicity in setup and use. The NG70-SM is designed with beginners in mind, making it easy to set up without needing complex tools or extensive knowledge of astronomy. The telescope includes a simple manual that guides users through initial assembly, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The Meade NG70-SM also features a 1.25-inch focuser, which is compatible with various eyepieces and accessories, enabling users to customize their viewing experience. The telescope typically comes with a couple of eyepieces, offering different magnifications to suit different astronomical targets. The addition of a red dot finder enhances aiming accuracy, allowing users to quickly locate objects in the sky.

Portability is another advantage of the NG70-SM, as it is lightweight and easy to transport. Whether going to a dark site for better stargazing or attending an astronomy club event, the telescope can be easily carried, making it a convenient option for those who wish to explore new environments.

In conclusion, the Meade NG70-SM combines quality optics, user-friendly features, and portability, making it an excellent choice for those beginning their journey into astronomy. Its combination of a 70mm aperture, a stable mount, and ease of use provides an immersive experience that inspires curiosity and a love for the cosmos.
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