Tip:

If the "ENTER to Sync" feature is accessed by mistake, press MODE to return to the previous screen.

E Want to learn more about using the GO TO function? See page 21.

Want to learn how to perform a spiral search? See page 21.

Definitions:

"Slew" means to move the telescope's optical tube to a selected object.

Fig. 3: Spread out the tripod legs. (See next page.)

Thread shaft through the mounting base

Braces Spreader

Bar

Tension

Knob

T-Handle

Fig. 4: Thread T-handle shaft into base. (See next page.)

Note: If ENTER is pressed for two seconds or more and then released, Autostar emits a beep and “ENTER to Sync” is displayed. "ENTER to Sync" may be used only after your telescope has been aligned and is pointing at an object. See page 30 for more details.

3MODE Key: Press to return to the previous menu level. The top menu level is “Select Item." The MODE key is similar to the ESCAPE key on a computer.

Note: Pressing MODE repeatedly while in the “Select Item” level moves

Autostar to the topmost screen: “Select Item: Object.”

Note: If MODE is pressed and held for two seconds or more, information about the telescope's status displays. When the status displays, press the Scroll keys (7, Fig. 2) to display the following information and more:

Right Ascension and Declination (astronomical) coordinates

Altitude (vertical) and Azimuth (horizontal) coordinates

Local Time and Local Sidereal Time (LST)

Timer and Alarm Status

Press MODE again to return to the previous menu.

E GO TO Key: Press to slew (move) the telescope to the coordinates of the cur- rently selected object. While the telescope is slewing, the operation may be aborted at any time by pressing any key except GO TO. Pressing GO TO again resumes the slew to the object. Also, press GO TO after a slew is completed to activate a "spiral search."

F Arrow Keys: Press to slew the telescope in a specific direction (up, down, left, and right), at any one of nine different speeds. See SLEW SPEEDS, page 16.

G Number Keys: Press to input digits 0 to 9. When data is not being entered, the Number keys can be used to change the slew speed. To operate, just press a number key (1 is the slowest speed, 9 is the highest speed). Press the Number key "0" to turn on and off the red utility light on the top of the handbox.

H Scroll Keys: Press to access options within a selected menu. The menu is dis- played on the first line of the screen. Options in that menu are displayed, one at a time, on the second line. Press the Scroll keys to move through the options. Press and hold a Scroll key to move quickly through the options.

I ? Key: Press to access the "Help" function. Help provides on-screen information on how to accomplish whatever task is currently active.

Hold down the ? key and then follow the prompts on the display to access details of Autostar functions in the Help feature. The Help system is essentially an on- screen instruction manual.

If you have a question about an Autostar operation, e.g., INITIALIZATION, ALIGNMENT, etc., hold down the ? key and follow the directions that scroll on the second line. When satisfied with the Help provided, press MODE to return to the original screen and continue with the chosen procedure.

J Coil Cord Port: Plug one end of the Autostar coil cord (see 1)) into this port located at the bottom of the Autostar handbox and the other end into the HBX port of the computer control panel (A, Fig. 1e).

1) Coil Cord: Plug one end of the Autostar coil cord into the HBX port (A, Fig. 1e) of the computer control panel of the telescope and the other end into the Autostar coil cord port (See J).

1! RS232 Port: Plug in RS232 connections for downloading and connecting to com- puter. Useful for downloading the latest satellite data and software revisions directly from the Meade website (www.meade.com) Requires optional #505 AstroFinder™ Software and Cable Connector Kit. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 38.

1@ Utility Light: Use this built-in red light to illuminate star charts and accessories without disturbing your eye's adaptation to darkness. Press "0" to turn the light on and off.

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Meade Telescope, LXD 75 instruction manual Tip

Telescope, LXD 75 specifications

The Meade LXD 75 is an advanced telescope mount designed for both amateur and professional astronomers looking to explore the wonders of the night sky. Known for its precision and ease of use, the LXD 75 offers several features and technologies that make it a standout choice for astrophotography and visual observation alike.

At the heart of the Meade LXD 75 is its robust equatorial mount, which provides stable tracking of celestial objects. This mount is both lightweight and durable, allowing for easy transport to observing sites. The equatorial design is especially beneficial for astrophotography, as it compensates for the Earth's rotation, enabling longer exposure times without the trailing effects commonly associated with less sophisticated mounts.

One of the most notable features of the LXD 75 is its dual-axis tracking system. This system allows users to electronically control the telescope's movements along both the right ascension and declination axes. The built-in Data Sky control panel is user-friendly, offering intuitive access to a wealth of astronomical data, including over 30,000 celestial objects. This makes locating and tracking objects in the sky simpler and more efficient.

The LXD 75 also supports a variety of telescope configurations, accommodating optical tubes up to 10 inches in diameter. This versatility makes it suitable for a range of viewing preferences, from planetary observations to deep-sky astrophotography. The mount's heavy-duty construction ensures it can handle the weight of larger telescopes while maintaining stability.

In terms of technology, the Meade LXD 75 is equipped with AutoStar computer technology. This innovative feature enables automatic location and tracking of celestial bodies using a simple pointing and clicking interface. Users can also create custom observing lists, making it easier to plan and execute dedicated viewing sessions.

Additionally, the LXD 75 boasts robust connectivity options, including the ability to integrate with a wide range of imaging software and accessories, making it a great choice for those interested in advanced astrophotography techniques. The mount's compatibility with Meade's own range of cameras and filters further enhances its potential for capturing stunning images of the universe.

In conclusion, the Meade LXD 75 is a well-rounded telescope mount that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features. Its equatorial design, dual-axis tracking, and AutoStar system make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced astronomers. Whether for visual observation or astrophotography, the LXD 75 offers the performance and versatility to enhance any stargazing experience.