Fig. 50: Series 4000 8 - 24mm Zoom Eyepiece.

Fig. 51: #905 Variable Polarizer and #1A Skylight Filter.

Fig. 52: Illuminated Reticle Eyepiece.

Fig. 53: #62 T-Adapter.

Series 4000 Nebular Filters: A modern boon to the city-dwelling deep-space observer, the interference nebular filter effectively cancels out the effects of most urban light pollution, while leaving the light of deep-space nebular emissions virtual- ly unattenuated. Meade Series 4000 Nebular Filters utilize the very latest in coating technology, and are available with threaded cells for eyepieces or for attachment to the rear cells of Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain models.

Variable Tele-Extender:For eyepiece-projection photography of the Moon and the planets, a Tele-Extender is required. The Variable Tele-Extenderthreads onto the telescope's eyepiece-holder, into which is inserted an eyepiece of typically about 26mm focal length; the 35mm camera body couples to the tele-extender by means of a T-Mount. The Meade Variable Tele-Extenderpermits a range of projection images.

#928 45° Erect-Image Diagonal Prism: Diagonal mirrors and prisms result in images that are correctly oriented up-and-down but reversed left-for-right. For terrestrial observing a fully correctly oriented telescopic image is desirable; the #928 Diagonal Prism accomplishes this image correction and places the eyepiece at a convenient 45° viewing angle. The #928 is for use with the 1.25" Eyepiece-Holder.

Series 4000 Plössl 9mm Illuminated Reticle Eyepiece: The most advanced com- mercially-available illuminated reticle eyepiece, the Series 4000 Plössl 9mm model, powered by an internal battery, includes micrometric x-y positioning controls which greatly facilitate locking onto the guide star: Turn the finely-threaded controls and place the reticle’s crossline pattern precisely at the desired position in the field. The sharp, high-power imaging of the 4-element,multi-coated Plössl optical system is complemented by a rubber eyecup (foldable for eyeglass wearers) that shuts out dis- tracting stray light from the observer’s eye. The upper (lens) section of the eyepiece rotates on a fine thread for precise diopter adjustment to the user’s eye. Reticle pat- tern is a double crossline with two concentric circles.

#62 T-Adapter:The T-Adapter is the basic means of prime-focus photography through all Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain models. Thread the T-Adapter on to the rear cell of your telescope, followed by a T-Mount for your 35mm camera, and the camera body is rigidly coupled to the telescope.

#777 Off-Axis Guider: The Off-Axis Guider provides a means during long-exposure astrophotography for the photographer to monitor the tracking of the telescope to assure that the telescope remains precisely positioned on the object being pho- tographed. Like the T-Adapter, the Off-Axis Guider couples the camera body to the telescope but it also causes a small amount of the guidestar’s incoming light to be diverted at a right angle, where the star’s position can be examined for tracking errors with an illuminated reticle eyepiece; position corrections can then be effected using Autostar II.

Piggyback Brackets (not available for 20" model): Piggyback photography is one of the most popular and easiest ways to get started in astrophotography. Attach your 35mm camera, with its own 35mm-to-250mm lens, atop your RCX400 in equatorial mode, and guiding the camera through the main telescope, wide-field photos of the Milky Way of remarkable detail and clarity can be taken.

Dew Shields (not available for 20" model): In moist climates, water particles sus- pended in the atmosphere may condense on the front surface of the telescope's cor- recting plate. This dew formation may be inhibited to a significant extent by the addi- tion of a dew shield, essentially an extension tube attaching to the front-cell of the tel- escope.

#905 Variable Polarizer (1.25"): #1A Skylight Filter: The #905 system includes 2 Polarizer filters mounted in a specially-machined cell, for glare-reduction in observ- ing the Moon. Rotate the thumbscrew at the side of the unit to achieve light trans- mission between 5% and 25% of its original value. The #905 inserts into the diago- nal mirror of the telescope, followed by an eyepiece. The #1A Skylight Filter threads onto the rear cells of all Meade RCX models and effectively seals the interior of the telescope from dust. All other rear cell accessories may then be threaded to the #1A

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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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Image 48
Meade RCX400 instruction manual Series 4000 8 24mm Zoom Eyepiece

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.