In this procedure, you will center an object you wish to have identified by Autostar II in the telescope eyepiece and use the "Identify" menu to find out information about the object or the nearest object to it in the Autostar II database.

1.Center the object you wish to have identified in the telescope's eyepiece.

2.Navigate to the "Object: Identify" option and press ENTER.

3."Searching..." displays. When Autostar II finishes calculating, the name of the closest object displays.

4.Press a Scroll key to display information about this object. Autostar II displays some or all of the following information about the object with each press of a Scroll key:

Displayed information:

Example:

Catalog or common name of object

Messier 107, NGC6171, Orion Nebula, etc

Type of object

Globular Cluster, Nebula, Black Hole, etc.

Right Ascension

16:32:4

Declination

13°03'

Constellation

Virgo, Orion, etc.

Magnitude

3

Size

2'

Scrolling message

"This Globular Cluster is 10,000 light years

 

away...."

Browse

This menu allows you to search the libraries for objects with certain parameters, much like a search engine. "Edit Parameters" lets you set various parameters for the search, and "Start Search" activates the search. A typical search might be performed as fol- lows:

1.Select "Browse" from the Object menu. Press ENTER. "Browse: Start Search" displays.

2.Press one of the Scroll Keys and "Browse: Edit Parameters" displays. Press

ENTER.

3."Edit Parameters: Largest (mins)" displays. "Mins" stands for arc-minutes. Press

ENTER.

4."Largest (mins)" and a value displays. Using the Number keys, enter a size in arc- minutes. Autostar II will search for objects up to this size and no larger. Press

ENTER.

5."Edit Parameters: Largest (mins)" displays again. Press the Scroll Down key. "Edit

Parameters: Smallest (mins)" displays. Enter the value for the smallest size of an object that Autostar II will search for in the database. Continue with "Brightest," Faintest," and "Minimum Elevation," using the procedure described in steps 3 and 4.

6.After "Minimum Elevation," "Object Type" displays. Press ENTER." "+Black Hole" displays. If you do not wish to have "Black Holes" in your search, press ENTER and the "+" changes to a "–." Press the Scroll Down key to scroll to the next item. "+Diffuse Nebula" displays. Continue to scroll through the list and press ENTER if you wish to change the "+" to a "–" or vice-versa.

7.After you have scrolled to the last item on the "Object Type" list, press MODE twice and the Scroll Down key once. "Browse: Start Search" displays. Press ENTER. "Start Search: Next" displays. Press ENTER. Autostar II searches the database and displays the first object that matches the search parameters you have entered. Use the scroll keys to display information about the object. Press MODE and "Start Search: Next" displays again. Press ENTER and the next item matching the parameters displays. Repeat this procedure to display all the objects. Press GO TO to slew telescope to a displayed object.

8.Press MODE repeatedly to leave this menu.

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Meade RCX400TM instruction manual Browse, Displayed information Example

RCX400TM specifications

The Meade RCX400TM is a sophisticated telescope designed for serious astronomers and astrophotographers seeking exceptional performance and innovative features. Combining advanced optics with user-friendly technology, the RCX400TM stands out as a powerful tool for both amateur and experienced stargazers.

At the heart of the RCX400TM is its revolutionary Ritchey-Chrétien optical design. This design minimizes optical aberrations, resulting in sharp, high-contrast images across the field of view. The telescope features a large aperture, typically around 10 inches, which allows for the observation of faint celestial objects, including distant galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae. The high-quality optics ensure that users can capture stunning details and nuances of their targets.

One of the standout characteristics of the RCX400TM is its advanced AutoAlign technology. This feature simplifies the setup process by automatically aligning the telescope to the night sky, enabling users to start observing in a matter of minutes. This is particularly beneficial for beginners or those who prefer a hassle-free experience when setting up for observations.

Additionally, the telescope is equipped with the Meade Smart Drive system, which enhances tracking accuracy and allows for long exposure astrophotography without the worry of trailing or blurring. This system compensates for periodic errors and undergoes continuous monitoring, ensuring that the telescope maintains precise alignment while tracking celestial objects.

The RCX400TM also incorporates an intuitive user interface with a large, easy-to-read LCD display. This interface allows users to access a comprehensive database of celestial objects, making it simple to locate and observe a wide range of astronomical phenomena. With its compatibility with various Meade accessories, such as cameras and filters, the RCX400TM provides flexibility for users looking to expand their astrophotography capabilities.

Durability is another significant aspect of the RCX400TM. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand various outdoor conditions, making it suitable for both backyard observations and expeditions to remote dark sites.

In summary, the Meade RCX400TM is designed for those who demand high-performance optics, advanced technology, and ease of use. With features like the Ritchey-Chrétien optical design, AutoAlign technology, and the Smart Drive system, it offers a remarkable viewing experience that brings the wonders of the universe closer to all who gaze through its eyepiece. Whether for casual observation or serious astrophotography, the RCX400TM is poised to satisfy the needs of astronomy enthusiasts worldwide.