IMPORTANT NOTE:

To use the Select and Add features of the Landmark menu, the telescope must be physically locat- ed in the same place it was located when the landmark list was created.

Also, the optical tube must be point- ed at and centered on the first object in the Landmark list.

Object Menu

Almost all observing is performed using the Object menu category. (NOTE: Exceptions include Guided Tour and Landmark Survey.) See GO TO SATURN, page 13, for an example of observing using the Object menu. Also see USING THE GUIDED TOUR, page 13.

The Object Menu includes:

Solar System is a list of the eight planets (Earth is not included) in order out from the Sun, followed by the Moon, asteroids, and comets.

Constellation is a list of all 88 Northern and Southern Hemisphere constellations. When this option is chosen and a constellation name displays (e.g., "Constellations: Aquarius"), press ENTER to select the constellation. You can use UP/DOWN to dis- play lines of information about that constellation on the second line of the display.

Press ENTER when the name of a constellation is displayed to display the name of the brightest star in the constellation. Use UP/DOWN to cycle through the list of important stars in the constellation (these are generally the stars that make up the shape of the constellation), from brightest to dimmest. When the desired star is dis- played, press ENTER to select it. You may now use UP/DOWN to scroll through lines of information about the selected star, such as the star's celestial coordinates, bright- ness, and so forth. The last line of information displays as a scrolling message. As the message scrolls, you can press UP or DOWN to increase or decrease the scrolling speed.

If you press ENTER when information about the star displays, the displacement num- bers then display, which tell you how to move the optical tube to locate the star. See GO TO SATURN, page 13, for more information about using displacement numbers to locate an object. Use MODE to exit this menu.

Deep Sky is a list of objects outside our Solar System such as nebulae, star clusters, galaxies, and quasars.

Star is a list of stars listed in different categories such as named, double, variable, or nearby.

User Objects allows the user to create his or her own list of celestial objects that are not currently in any other list. See APPENDIX A, page 22, for more information.

Landmarks stores the location of terrestrial points of interest in the permanent user-cre- ated list in the control panel database.

•Select: To select a Landmark already in the database, choose the "Select" option and use UP/DOWN to scroll through the list. Press ENTER to select a Landmark. See LANDMARKS, page 24, for a detailed procedure.

•Add: To add a Landmark, choose the "Add" option. Enter a name for the Landmark. Locate and center the Landmark, then press ENTER. Note that you must be aligned with other landmarks for this feature to work properly. See LAND- MARKS, page 24, for a detailed procedure.

Identify is an exciting feature for an observer who wants to scan the night sky and start exploring. Use this feature after the telescope has been properly aligned. Then follow this procedure:

1.When a desired object is visible in the eyepiece, keep pressing MODE until the "Select Item: Object" menu is displayed. Then press ENTER.

2.Use UP/DOWN to scroll through the Object menu options until the "Object: Identify" screen appears.

3.Press ENTER. The computer control panel searches its lists for the identity of the object being observed.

4.If the object is not in the computer's control panel database, the nearest object in the database is located and displayed on the screen, along with the object's celestial coordinates. Press ENTER and the displacement numbers for the object display. Use the displacement numbers to go to the object, as described in GO TO SATURN, page 13.

Event Menu

The Event menu allows you to display the dates and times of astronomical events. The Event feature includes:

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Meade NGC-Series, NG-Series instruction manual Object Menu, Event Menu
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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.
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