Time Zone

Shift

Atlantic

-4 Hours

Eastern

-5 Hours

Central

-6 Hours

Mountain

-7 Hours

Pacific

-8 Hours

Hawaii

-10 Hours

 

 

Table 1: Time Zone Shift.

Eyepiece Calc calculates information about an eyepiece for your telescope.

Field of View: Scroll through a list of available eyepieces. When an eyepiece is selected, the field of view is calculated.

Magnification: Scroll through a list of available eyepieces. When an eyepiece is selected, the magnification is calculated.

Suggest: Suggests the best eyepiece for viewing, based on the telescope and the object being viewed.

Brightness Adj: Adjusts the brightness of the display using UP/DOWN. When com- plete, press ENTER.

Contrast Adj: Adjusts the contrast of the display using UP/DOWN. When complete, press ENTER.

NOTE: This feature is only required in very cold weather.

Setup Menu

The Setup menu’s primary function is to align the telescope (see page 12). However, there are numerous other features available within the Setup menu, including:

Date changes the date used by the computer control panel. 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 16.

Time changes the time entered into the computer control panel. Setting the correct time is critical for the computer control panel to properly calculate locations and events. Time may be set to 24-hour mode (military time) by selecting the "blank" option which follows 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 var- ious areas of the world. Check local time to verify.

Site provides access to several options including:

Select: Displays the currently selected observing site and and also allows you to select other sites you have entered into a user-defined list (see ADD below). Use UP/DOWN to scroll through all available sites in this database. Press ENTER when the site you wish to select displays. Use this option when you move to a dif- ferent geographic location.

Add: Allows you to add new observing sites to the database (up to six sites may be stored). Scroll through the list of Countries/States. Press ENTER when the site you wish to add displays. Then choose the desired city in the same manner.

Delete: Deletes a stored site from the list.

Edit: Edits a selected site, including: the name, latitude, longitude, and time zone. Time Zone refers to the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) time zone shift. Users West of Greenwich, England use "-" hours, East of Greenwich use "+" hours. For the United States, look up the time zone shift in Table 1.

NOTE: This menu compensates for Daylight Savings time, if that option

has been enabled. See SETUP MENU: DAYLIGHT SAVING, above.

Download transfers information from a personal computer or the Meade website. In order to download information, the optional #506 AstroFinder Software and Cable Connector is necessary. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 19 for more infor- mation.

Statistics provides basic statistical data about your system, including:

Characters Free: Shows how much room is available in the user-defined object memory.

Version: Shows the current version of the software.

Reset completely resets the computer control panel. You need to initialize the com- puter control panel after a Reset before proceeding with observations. See INITIALIZ- ING THE CONTROL PANEL, page 11.

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Meade NGC-Series, NG-Series instruction manual Has been enabled. See Setup Menu Daylight SAVING, above

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.