a.Autostar prompts you to enter the Country or State (listed alphabetically) of the observing site. Use the Scroll keys to cycle through the database of countries, states, and provinces. Press ENTER when the correct location displays.

b.Autostar then prompts you to enter the nearest city (listed alphabetically) to the observing site. Use the Scroll keys to cycle through the database of cities. Press ENTER when the correct city appears on screen.

9.Autostar then prompts you to enter the model number of your telescope. Use the Scroll keys to cycle through the list of telescope models. Press ENTER when the correct model appears on the display.

Note: Autostar only prompts you to enter Country/State and City and model number the first time it is activated. These prompts do not appear again, unless you reset Autostar (see RESET, page 31). However, if you need to enter this information (e.g., you change your geographic location), you can do so by using the Site option of the Setup menu. See ADDING OBSERVING SITES, page 32, for detailed information.

10.System Initialization is complete and the display reads "Align: Easy." After per- forming the Initialization procedure, you MUST train your drive.

Training the Drive (Autostar Models Only)

Next, train the drive using Autostar. Perform this procedure the first time you use Autostar with your telescope, after a Reset, or if you are experiencing any pointing accuracy problems. Training the drive gives your telescope a higher degree of point- ing accuracy.

Note: Use a terrestrial object, such as a telephone pole or lamp post, to train the drive. It is best to perform this procedure during the daytime.

1.If you have just performed INITIALIZING AUTOSTAR, go to step 2.

If you have not yet initialized Autostar, go to page 19 and follow the procedure described in INITIALIZING AUTOSTAR.Then go to step 2 of this procedure.

2.Keep pressing MODE until "Select Item: Object" displays.

3.Press the Scroll Up key once. "Select: Item: Setup" displays.

4.Press ENTER to access the Setup menu. "Setup: Align" displays.

5.Keep pressing the Scroll Up key until "Setup: Telescope" displays.

6.Press ENTER to access the Telescope menu. "Telescope: Focal Length" dis- plays.

7.Keep pressing the Scroll Down key until "Telescope: Train Drive" displays.

8.Press ENTER to choose the Train Drive option. "Train Drive: Az/RA Train" dis- plays.

9.Press ENTER to begin Az/R.A. (Right Ascension) training.

10."Drive Setup: For this...." begins to scroll across the display. This is a reminder to point your telescope at a terrestrial object. Loosen the R.A. and Dec. locks (17 and 33, Fig. 1d) and point the telescope at an object. Then re-tighten the locks. Press ENTER when the telescope is pointing at the desired terrestrial object.

11."Center reference object" displays. Center your target object using the Arrow keys. When centered, press ENTER.

12.The telescope slews and "Press > until it is centered" displays. Press the Right Arrow key until the target is centered again. Then press ENTER.

Note: If you pass the object when pressing the Arrow key, you cannot slew the telescope back in the other direction. Press MODE until "Train Drive: Az/RA Train" displays and begin the procedure over again.

13.The telescope slews and "Press < until it is centered" displays. Press the Left Arrow key until the target is centered again. Then press ENTER.

14."Train Drive: Az/RA Train" displays again. Press the Scroll Down key and "Train

Drive: Alt/Dec Train" displays. Press ENTER to begin Alt/Dec. (Declination) training.

20

Page 19 Page 21
Page 20
Image 20
Meade Telescope, LXD 75 instruction manual Training the Drive Autostar Models Only
Page 19 Page 21

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.
Top Page Image Contents