1.After observing Saturn, press MODE twice so that "Select Item: Object" displays again.

2.Press UP/DOWN until "Select Item: Guided Tour" displays.

3.Press ENTER. "Guided Tour: Tonight’s Best" displays. Press ENTER.

NOTE: If you wish to try out other Guided Tours, press UP/DOWN to scroll through other tour choices. When the tour you wish to select dis- plays, press ENTER.

4."Tonight’s Best: Searching..." displays. After calculating, "Tonight’s Best: Jupiter" displays.

NOTE: Different objects may be displayed on a tour list on any given night.

Use the method described in the last section, GO TO SATURN, to find Jupiter or any other object displayed on the Guided Tour list. After selecting an item from the list by pressing ENTER, press UP/DOWN to display information about the object.

5.Press MODE to return to the Tour list. Press UP/DOWN to scroll through the list. Press ENTER when you find the next object you wish to observe.

6.Use MODE to leave the Guided Tour menu.

TIPS for Beginners

Observing Considerations

Try to pick an observing site away from street and house lights and car headlights. 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 flashlights or tape red cellophane over their flashlights to use for setup and map reading so they don’t have to continually 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 telescope while someone is observing!

Dress warmly. It gets chilly when you’re sitting for prolonged periods, even on warm nights.

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 a 25mm or 26mm eyepiece to view terrestrial objects and wider areas of space, such as open star clusters. Use optional higher power eyepieces, such as a 12.5mm eyepiece (see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 19, for more details), when you wish to view something up close, such as craters on the Moon or the rings of Saturn.

Surf the Web

One of the most exciting resources for astronomy is the internet. The internet is full of web- sites with new images, discoveries, and the latest astronomical information. You can find websites for almost any topic relating to astronomy on the internet. Check out Meade’s website for the latest product and technical information. You’ll find our website at:

http://www.meade.com/

Here are some other sites you might find interesting:

Sky & Telescope:

http://www.Sky and Telescope.com

Astronomy: http://www.astronomy.com

Astronomy Picture of the Day: http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.goc/apod

Heavens Above (satellite observing information): http://www.heavens-above.com

Photographic Atlas of the Moon: http://www.lpi.ursa.edu/research/lunar_orbiter

Hubble Space Telescope Public Pictures http://oposite.stsci.edu/pubinfo/pictures.html

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Meade NGC-Series, NG-Series instruction manual Tips for Beginners Observing Considerations, Surf the Web

NGC-Series, NG-Series specifications

The Meade NG-Series and NGC-Series telescopes represent a significant advancement in amateur astronomy, catering to both novice stargazers and experienced astronomers. Meade Instruments, renowned for its innovative designs and quality optics, has equipped these series with features and technologies that enhance the observing experience.

The NG-Series, or Next Generation Series, is designed with user-friendliness in mind. One of the standout features is its advanced AutoStar computer control system, which allows users to locate and track celestial objects effortlessly. With a database containing thousands of celestial objects, users can explore the night sky with precision. The GoTo functionality automates the alignment process, minimizing setup time and maximizing observation time.

A key characteristic of the NG-Series is its optical performance. These telescopes utilize high-quality glass optics with multi-coated lenses that provide maximum light transmission. This results in stunning clarity and detail when viewing celestial bodies such as planets, star clusters, and galaxies.

The NGC-Series, or Next Generation Catadioptric Series, takes this performance a step further by incorporating a unique design that combines both refractor and reflector technologies. This hybrid structure allows for a compact design while offering superior light-gathering capabilities. The NGC telescopes are particularly favored for astrophotography, as they produce sharp images with minimal distortion.

Portability is another significant trait shared by both series. Telescopes in the NG-Series and NGC-Series are lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for both backyard observing and more remote stargazing locations. The sturdy, adjustable mounts ensure stability during observations, and many models come equipped with a built-in carry handle.

Additionally, both series incorporate user-friendly interfaces, enabling easy navigation and control, even for those who are new to astronomy. This accessibility helps cultivate the next generation of astronomers, fostering a greater appreciation for the wonders of the universe.

In summary, the Meade NG-Series and NGC-Series telescopes blend innovative technology, optical excellence, and user-centric design, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore the night sky. With features that cater to both beginners and seasoned astronomers, these telescopes promise memorable celestial adventures.