Select Item:

Object

Solar System

Mercury

Etc.

Moon

Asteroids

Comets

Constellations

Andromeda

Etc.

Deep Sky

Named Object

Galaxies

Nebulae

Planetary Neb.

Etc.

Star

Named

SAO Catalog

Double

Etc.

User Objects

Select

Add

Delete

Edit

Landmarks

Select

Add

Delete

Identify

Select Item:

Event

Sunrise

Sunset

Moonrise

Moonset Moon Phases

Next Full Moon Next New Moon Next 1st Qtr Next 3rd Qtr

Meteor Showers Quadrantids Lyrids

Eta Aquarids

Delta Aquarids Perseids Orionids Taurids Leonids Geminids Ursids

Solar Eclipses

Lunar Eclipses Min. of Algol Autumn Equinox Vernal Equinox Winter Solstice Summer Solstice

Select Item:

Guided Tour

Tour Objects

Tonight's Best

How Far is Far

A Star's Life

Messier Marathon

Select Item:

Glossary

A...

Accretion Disk

Etc.

B...

C...

D...

E...

F...

G...

H...

I...

J...

K...

L...

M...

N...

O...

P...

Q...

R...

S...

T...

U...

V...

W...

X...

Y...

Z...

Select Item:

Utilities

Timer

Set

Start & Stop

Alarm

Set

On & Off

Eyepiece Calc.

Field of View

Magnification

Suggest

Brightness Adj.

Contrast Adj.

Select Item:

Setup

Easy Align

Date

Time

Daylight Saving

Site

Select

Add

Delete

Edit

Download

Statistics

Reset

Fig. 12: The NGC Menu structure.

IMPORTANT NOTE: No matter how many levels of menus are traveled, each press of the MODE key moves up a level, until the top level, "Select Item," is reached. Once in the Select Item level, press MODE to return to the topmost level, "Select Item: Object."

MENUS

How to move through menu options (NGC Models Only):

It is helpful to understand that menu selections are set in a loop. This means that press- ing the DOWN button scrolls down through all the available options within a given cat- egory, then returns to the first option. Pressing the UP key scroll up through the options in the opposite order. Note that this capability is a quick way to get to an option that is near the bottom of the list. The following example demonstrates this capability.

To navigate to the "Select Item: Setup" menu option when the "Select Item: Object" menu is displayed:

1.Press DOWN five times or UP once.

When the desired option is displayed on the second line, press the ENTER key to choose that option and move down one menu level.

Press the MODE key to leave a level; e.g., the wrong menu option is chosen.

How to Calculate Sunset time (NGC Models Only):

This example demonstrates how to move through a typical menu and calculate Sunset time. This is an excellent exercise to try out as you can calculate the time when it is going to get dark—and when you can start observing.

1.Press MODE several times, until "Select Item: Object" is displayed.

2.Press UP/DOWN until the "Event" option displays in the "Select Item" menu.

3.Press ENTER to choose the "Event" option and move down a level. "Event: Sunrise" is displayed.

4.Press UP/DOWN to display the "Sunset" option in the Event menu.

5.Press ENTER to choose the "Sunset" option and move down another level.

6.Sunset time displays; calculations are based on the current date, time, and loca- tion.

7.Press MODE once to start moving back up through the menu levels. The first level up is the Event menu.

8.Press MODE again to move up another level. This is the top level, "Select Item."

9.Press MODE again to return to the starting point of "Select Item: Object."

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Meade NG-Series Menus, How to move through menu options NGC Models Only, How to Calculate Sunset time NGC Models Only

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.