The Autostar II system provides control of virtually every telescope function. The Autostar II handbox has soft-touch keys designed to have a positive feel. The LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is backlit with red LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) for easy view- ing in the dark. The backlit display, key arrangement, and sequential menu structure make Autostar II extremely user friendly.

B 2-Line LCD Display: This screen displays Autostar II's menus and information about the telescope.

•Top line: Lists the primary menu.

•Bottom line: Displays other menus that may be chosen, menu options, telescope status, or information about a function that is being per- formed.

c ENTER Key: Press to go to the next menu level or to choose an option in a menu. The ENTER key is similar to the RETURN or ENTER key on a computer.

d MODE Key: Press to return to the previous menu or data level. The top menu level is “Select Item." The MODE key is similar to the ESCAPE key on a comput- er.

Note: Pressing MODE repeatedly while in the “Select Item” level moves

Autostar II to the topmost screen: “Select Item: Object.”

Note: If MODE is pressed and held for two seconds or more, information about the telescope's status displays. When the status displays, press the Scroll keys (7, Fig. 2) to display the following information:

•Right Ascension and Declination (astronomical) coordinates

•Altitude (vertical) and Azimuth (horizontal) coordinates

•Local Time and Local Sidereal Time (LST)

•Timer and Alarm Status

•Date

•Site coordinates

•Battery status

Press MODE again to return to the previous menu.

e GO TO Key: Press to slew (move) the telescope to the coordinates of the cur- rently selected object. While the telescope is slewing, the operation may be abort- ed at any time by pressing any key except GO TO. Pressing GO TO again resumes the slew to the object. Also, press during the alignment or GO TO pro- cedures to activate a "spiral search."

f Arrow Keys: The Arrow keys have several functions. Press an Arrow key to slew the telescope in a specific direction (up, down, left, and right), at any one of nine different speeds. See SLEW SPEEDS, page 26. Use the Up and Down Arrow keys to move the telescope vertically up and down. The Left Arrow key rotates the tele- scope horizontally counterclockwise, while the Right Arrow key rotates it clockwise (unless reversed for Southern Hemisphere use).

Also, use the Arrow keys to scroll through numbers 0 through 9 and the alphabet. The Down Arrow key begins with the letter "A;" the Up Arrow key begins with digit "9."

Additionally, use the Arrow keys to move the cursor across the display: Use the Right or Left Arrow key (5, Fig. 2) to move the cursor from one number to the next in the display.

g Number Keys: Press to input digits 0 to 9. Each Number key also has a specif- ic function, which is printed on each key (these are commonly known as "hot but- tons"—see page 40):

1 SPEED: Changes the slew speeds. To operate, press Speed and then a Number key (1 is the slowest speed, 9 is highest speed).

2 CALD (Caldwell): Press to display the Caldwell catalog on the Autostar II handbox.

3 M (Messier): Press to display the Messier catalog library.

12

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 RCX400 instruction manual Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving
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RCX400 specifications

The Meade RCX400 is a highly regarded telescope in the field of amateur astronomy, designed specifically to provide an unparalleled observing experience. Launched by Meade Instruments, this telescope leverages advanced technology to deliver clarity, precision, and ease of use.

At the heart of the RCX400 is its unique Ritchey-Chrétien optical design, which minimizes optical aberrations and provides exceptionally crisp images. This design is favored among professional astronomers and provides users with the ability to capture stunning celestial details. The telescope comes in various aperture sizes, including 10 inch and 12 inch models, allowing users to choose a configuration that best meets their observational needs.

One of the standout features of the Meade RCX400 is its Advanced Coma-Free (ACF) optics. This technology ensures that the telescope produces sharp images across a wide field of view, making it easier to observe extended objects such as nebulae and galaxies. The ACF system includes a specialized corrector plate that eliminates coma, resulting in pinpoint stars even at the edge of the field.

Another significant advancement in the RCX400 is its Autostar II system, which provides a user-friendly interface for navigating the night sky. This computer-controlled system boasts a database of over 145,000 celestial objects, enabling users to locate and track objects with ease. The Autostar II also features a built-in GPS system, allowing for automatic site location and time adjustments, further simplifying the setup process.

The RCX400 is equipped with an innovative focusing mechanism known as the “Smart Focuser.” This precise focusing system allows for fine-tuning of the telescope's focus electronically, eliminating the need for manual adjustments that could result in misalignment. Users can achieve optimal focus effortlessly, enhancing the overall observation experience.

In terms of construction, the telescope features a sturdy aluminum mount that provides stability during use. The integrated GoTo mount makes aligning the telescope simple, allowing users to easily point towards celestial objects with high accuracy. The RCX400 is also compatible with various accessories such as cameras and eyepieces, enhancing its versatility for astrophotography and visual observation.

Overall, the Meade RCX400 combines cutting-edge technology with robust features, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced astronomers. Its user-friendly design, combined with high-quality optics, ensures that users can enjoy impressive views of the universe with relative ease. Whether for visual exploration or astrophotography, the RCX400 stands out as a formidable tool for stargazing enthusiasts.
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