APPENDIX B: THE MOON

The Moon option of the Object menu allows you to observe the moon in a way never possible before. You will be able locate many specific features of the lunar surface, including hundreds of craters, mare, valleys, and mountains. One special feature allows you to view all six Apollo landing sites. While you won't be able to see details such as any of the lunar landers or lunar excursion modules left behind by the astro- nauts (the best earth-based telescopes can only resolve features of about a half-mile across), you'll be able pinpoint the landing sites and study the terrain surrounding these sites.

When Autostar II syncs to a lunar feature, the telescope switches to Selenographic coordinates, i.e., lunar latitude and longitude.

To observe the Apollo 15 landing site using the Moon option:

1.Initialize and align the telescope system as previously described.

2.Press "5" on the Autostar II keypad. "Solar System: Mercury" displays.

3.Press a Scroll key until "Solar System: Moon" displays. Press ENTER.

4."Moon: Overview" displays. Press GO TO. The telescope slews to the Moon.

5.With "Moon: Overview" on Autostar II's display, use the Scroll keys to browse

through the menus options. Five categories of features are available: Landing Sites, Craters, Mountains, Mare and Lakes, and Valleys and Rills.

6.Select a distinct lunar crater with which you are familiar, such as Copernicus or Kepler, from the Craters option and press ENTER.

7.Then press GO TO to slew to that feature. Center the feature in the eyepiece and hold down ENTER for more than two seconds to ENTER TO SYNC. The telescope is now synced to Selenographic coordinates.

8.Press MODE twice to return to the features list. Press a Scroll key until "Moon: Landing Sites" displays.

9.Press ENTER. "Landing Sites: Apollo 11" displays.

10.Press a Scroll key until "Landing Sites: Apollo 15" displays.

11.Press GO TO. The telescope slews to the Apollo 15 site.

12.Press MODE to return to the previous menu option. Continue to press MODE to exit this menu.

Use this method to find other lunar features and points of interest. When you have selected a feature, press the "?" key or use the Scroll keys to display detailed infor- mation about the feature. Press MODE to return to the menu options.

Kepler

Copernicus

Tycho

Figure 56: Some easily recognized lunar craters.

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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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Meade RCX400 instruction manual Appendix B the Moon, To observe the Apollo 15 landing site using the Moon option
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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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