Display

MODE ENTER

Arrow keys

Scroll

Scroll

Up

Down

Fig. 45: Some of the features of the Autostar II handbox.

4.Press the Scroll Down key once to display the "Sunset" option in the Event menu.

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

6.Autostar II calculates the Sunset time based on the current date, time, and loca- tion. Autostar II then displays the results of the calculation.

7.Press MODE once to start moving back up through the Autostar II 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."

Example of Locating a menu

As you typically will be using menus after you initialize and align your telescope, this example will assume you have just completed aligning your scope. AutoStar II displays “Select Item: Object” after the alignment procedure; this will be our starting point. In this example, we will locate the “Owner Info” option. See Fig. 45 for the location of the Autostar II keys used in this example.

1.“Select Item: Object” displays.

2.As the Owner Info option is in the Setup menu, you will have to use one of the Scroll keys to navigate through the list of menus. Press the Scroll Down Key. “Select Item: Event” dis- plays

3.Keep pressing the Scroll Down key. Notice that all the menus display as you press the key: Guided Tour, Glossary, Utilities, Setup. Stop when “Select Item: Setup” displays. If you press the Scroll Down key one more time, “Select Item: Object” will display again. This is because the list of menus or options cycles through each choice over and over again when you press one of the Scroll keys.

4.With “Select Item: Setup” displayed, press ENTER. Pressing ENTER selects the menu or option currently displayed.

5.“Setup: Align” displays.

6.Press the Scroll Down key again. “Select Item: Telescope” displays. Press ENTER. Autostar II will now display all the choices that are available with the Telescope menu.

7.Continue to press the Scroll Down key until “Setup: Owner Info” displays.

8.Press ENTER. “Owner Info: Name” displays. Press ENTER again. “Name” displays, with the second line blank. On this line you may enter your first and last name into Autostar II’s mem- ory.

9.Press the Up or Down Arrow key. Notice that a letter of the alphabet displays. Continue to press one of the Arrow keys until the first letter of your name displays.

10.Use the Right Arrow key to move to the next position so you can choose the second letter of your name. Continue to use the Arrow keys to enter your full name.

11.Press ENTER when you are finished. Your name is now entered into AutoStar II’s memory.

12.“Owner Info: Name” displays again (if you wish, you can press the Scroll Down key—“Owner

Info: Address” will display and you can enter your address if you wish).

13.Press MODE and “Setup: Owner Info” displays. Press MODE again. “Select Item: Setup” displays. MODE allows you to backup and exit through the menu structure.

Navigating Autostar II

Tip:

When multiple choices are available within a menu option, the current option is usually dis- played first and highlight- ed by a right pointing arrow (>).

Autostar II's menus are organized for quick and easy navigation:

JPress ENTER to go deeper into Autostar II's menu levels.

JPress MODE to move back toward the top menu level.

JPress Number key "1" to engage the Speed mode, and then press Number keys 1 through 9 to change speeds.

JPress Number key "4" to access the Focus menus.

JPress Number key "7" to access the Reticle menu.

JPress the Scroll keys to move up and down through the options or lists.

JPress the Arrow keys to move the cursor across the display.

JPress the Help (?) key to access on-line help.

32

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.

Page 32
Image 32
Meade RCX400 instruction manual Example of Locating a menu, Navigating Autostar

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.