Focusing the Telescope

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Fig. 40d: Viewfinder adjustment screws (12); spring loaded screw (13)

Fig. 40e: Align the viewfinder on a distant object, such as a light or telephone pole.

Important Note:

Press MODE at any time to exit Focus modes.

All focusing is performed digitally, using AutoStar II’s Focus key (number key 4). The Focus key functions as a toggle key:

JPress the Focus key the first time to focus the telescope eyepiece and to control the speed at which you focus.

JPress the Focus key again to set and adjust up to nine focus presets.

To change the focus speed:

1.Press the Focus key once. “Focuser: Fast (or the current speed)” displays for two seconds. Use one of the Scroll keys to scroll through the list of 5 available focus speeds: Fast, Medium, Slow, Fine, S. Fine. Scroll through the list until the speed you desire displays. Choose a focus speed with which you feel comfortable.

To focus the telescope eyepiece:

1.Press the Focus key once. “Focuser: Fast (or the current speed)” displays. After

two seconds, “Focuser: Position = XX” displays. “XX” stands for a number value in decimal millimeters.

2.Point the telescope at a distant object. Look in the eyepiece and use the Arrow keys until the image in the eyepiece is in sharp focus.

3.Press MODE to leave Focus menu.

Presets:

Nine preset focus positions are available, and they operate much like presets on a car radio—everyone can have their own favorite station, or in this case, their own person- alized focus. You can set one preset to take into account your own eyesight, one for your observing partner (who may wear glasses), one for your camera’s focus, and so forth.

Three preset menus are available. Use the Define Preset menu to assign a preset, use the GoTo Preset menu to select a preset you have previously assigned, and use Sync On Preset menu if you do not park your telescope (this menu will reset all your focus presets after you turn off and turn on your scope again ).

To define a preset:

1.Point the telescope at a distant object, press FOCUS and use the Up and Down Arrow keys to focus the telescope until the object is sharply focused as previous- ly explained.

2.Press the Focus key again (FOCUS toggles between the Focus menu and the Preset menu). “Focuser Preset: Go To” displays. Use a Scroll key and scroll down the list of options until “Focuser Preset: Define Preset” displays. Press ENTER.

3.A list of presets displays. If no preset is currently assigned, “1- Unnamed” displays (followed by 2- Unnamed, up to 9 - Unnamed).

4.Use the up and down Scroll keys to scroll through the alphabet and the right and left Arrow keys to move to cursor right or left across the display.

5.When you have finished typing in a name and focusing the telescope, press ENTER. That number preset is now defined. You can enter 9 names. For exam- ple, you may enter “Joe,” “Jill,” “Deep Sky Imager” and so forth.

6.To select one of these presets, you will use the “Focuser Preset: Go To” menu.

Focusing Telescopes Equipped with a Microfocuser

To focus telescopes other than an RCX with one of Meade's microfocusers (e.g., LX200 GPS 16"), perform the following procedure. Make sure you have the microfo- cuser attached to the telescope and plugged into the Focuser port on the saddle plate:

Press the Number Key 4 and Autostar displays "Saddle Focus: Speed Fast."

Use the Up/Down keys to scroll through the four microfocuser speeds (fast, medium, slow, fine).

Use the Up and Down arrow keys to move the focus in or out.

Focusing both RCX focusers and Telescopes Equipped with Microfocusers If you are using both an RCX and a telescope with a microfocuser (as a guiding

Looking at or near the Sun will cause irreversible damage to your eye. Do not point this telescope at or near the

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Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving.

 

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Meade RCX400 instruction manual Focusing the Telescope

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.