Meade LX600 User Manual
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
,
10", 12" and 14" Advanced Coma-Free™ f/8 LX600™ with StarLock™
® The name “Meade,” “AutoStar,”“StarLock” and the Meade logo are trademarks registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Offi ce and in principal countries
throughout the world. Deep Sky Imager,” “LX600,” and “Tonight’s Best” are trademarks of Meade Instruments Corp.
Protected by U.S. Patent: US 6,392,799 and other Patents Pending.
© 2013 Meade Instruments Corp.
Battery Safety Instructions
WARNING!
Never use a Meade® LX600 Telescope
to look at the Sun
Looking at or near the Sun will cause instant
and irreversible damage to your eye.
Eye damage is often painless, so there is no
warning to the observer that damage has
occurred until it is too late. Do not point the
telescope at or near the Sun. Do not look
through the telescope or Finder Scope as it
is moving. Children should always have adult
supervision while observing.
TRAVEL SCREW
!
• Always purchase the
correct size and grade of
battery most suitable for
the intended use.
• Always replace the whole
set of batteries at one
time, taking care not to
mix old and new ones,
or batteries of different
types.
• Clean the battery contacts
and also those of the
device prior to battery
installation.
• Ensure the batteries are
installed correctly with
regard to polarity (+ and -).
• Remove batteries from
equipment which is not to
be used for an extended
period of time.
The LX600 f/8 ACF optical tube assembly (OTA) is
shipped from the factory with the focusing mechanism
protected by a travel screw. This screw secures the
primary mirror in a fi xed position during travel thereby
protecting the focusing mechanism from shock
damage. This screw is on the back cell of the OTA, near
the focus knob, and is identifi ed by a dab of red paint.
This screw must be removed before attempting to focus
the OTA. Failure in removal can result in damage to the
focusing mechanism. Retain this screw for future use
as it is suggested that mirror be locked down anytime
the OTA is shipped.
Move the primary mirror to the travel position by
rotating the focus knob counter clockwise until its
travel limit is reached. Reattach the travel screw and
tighten until fi rm. Do not over tighten.
• Remove used batteries
promptly.
• Never attempt to recharge
primary batteries as this
may cause leakage, fi re, or
explosion.
• Never short-circuit
batteries as this may lead
to high temperatures,
leakage, or explosion.
• Never heat batteries in
order to revive them.
• Remember to switch off
devices after use.
• Keep batteries out of the
reach of children; small
batteries may be ingested.
• Seek medical advice
immediately if a battery
has been swallowed.
CONTENTS
Introduction
The LX600 Telescope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Quick Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
LX600 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
AutoStar II Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Getting Started
Parts Listing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
How To Assemble Your Telescope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Choosing An Eyepiece. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Observing
Observing Using AutoStar II’s Arrow Keys . . . . . . . . . . .20
Slew Speeds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Astronomical Observing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
To Track An Object Automatically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Moving Through AutoStar II’s Menus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Automatic Alignment for Alt-Az Mounted Telescopes . . 21
One-star Polar Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Syncing Your Eyepiece or Camera Using StarLock. . . . . 23
Observe a Star Using the Automatic Feature . . . . . . . . . 24
Calibrate Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
StarLock Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Focusers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Cameras . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
GoTo Saturn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Using the Guided Tour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
AutoStar II Operation
The AutoStar II Handbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
AutoStar Navigation Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Example of Locating a Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
AutoStar II Menu Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Navigating AutoStar II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Object Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Event Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Glossary Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Utilities Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Setup Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
“Hot Button” Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
StarLock Periodic Error Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Advanced Autostar II Features
Adding Observing Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Creating User Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Observing Satellites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Landmarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Identify . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Browse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Alternate Alt-Az Alignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Easy Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Two-Star Alt-Az Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
One-Star Alt-Az Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Polar Drift Alignment (Northern Hemisphere). . . . . . . . . 43
StarLock Automatic Rate Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Periodic Error Correction (PEC Training) . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
StarLock Assisted PEC Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Update Menu Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Erase Menu Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
On and Off Menu Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Collimation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Inspecting the Optics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Gauging the Movement of the Telescope. . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Meade Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Specifi cations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Appendix A
Training the Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Appendix B
StarLock Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Appendix C
Automatic Rate Calibration (ARC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Appendix D
Split Fork Arms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Appendix E
Equatorial (Polar) Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Appendix F
X-Wedge Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Appendix G
Latitude Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Appendix H
Manual Drift Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Appendix I
The Moon Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Appendix J
Advanced Coma-Free Optical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Recycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Meade Warranty
One Year Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover
INTRODUCTION
The LX600 Telescope
Advanced Technology for the Astro Imager and Visual Observer
Congratulations on receiving your new LX600 telescope. You’ll fi nd that this telescope system has all you need to explore the Universe
we live in.
Drawing on over 40 years of experience and innovation, Meade Instruments introduces the latest in a long line of advanced astronomical
products: the LX600. Using revolutionary new technology, every aspect of this amazing telescope system has been designed to deliver
the new standard in astrophotographic and visual performance:
• StarLock™ full-time automatic integrated guider assists with ultra-precise polar alignment, fi nds and centers targets
and then automatically locks onto a fi eld star as faint as 11th magnitude for down to one arcsecond guiding. No separate
computer, no guide star selection, no user focus. Just set up your camera and image.
• Fast f/8 Advanced Coma-Free (ACF) optical systems on the 10", 12" and 14" OTAs. These optics produce wider, fl atter
fi elds with no coma for pinpoint stars out to the edge of larger imaging sensors or extreme wide angle eyepieces.
• Internal Crayford-style primary mirror focusing system with a dual speed 7:1 focus control, which eliminates image shift
and mirror fl op. Precise focus is a snap.
• Optional X-Wedge is made from machined aluminum and stainless steel for 30% more stability. Confi gures the LX600
telescope in the Polar mode which is essential for long exposure astro phototgraphy
If you are like us, you can’t wait to get outside under a dark sky to use your new LX600 telescope. We have provided a Getting Started
Guide that will get you up and running in the shortest amount of time possible. After your fi rst experience, please sit down with this
manual and read about all the advanced features that are available to you with this telescope system. We are confi dent that the LX600
will keep you fascinated with the Universe and entertained for many years to come.
Clear Skies,
Introduction
The People at Meade
5
QUICK START
It is recommended that you attach the LX600 ACF telescope to the
supplied tripod for observing. Perform the telescope and AutoStar
II setup indoors in the light so that you become familiar with the
parts and operation before moving the telescope outside into the
dark for observing.
Quick Start
B
C
D
G
H
I
E
vertically, with the tripod feet down and with the tripod still fully
collapsed. Grasp two of the tripod legs and, with the full weight
of the tripod on the third leg, gently pull the legs apart to a fully
open position (Fig. B).
The spreader bar (Fig. A, 4) has been removed for shipment.
Slide the spreader bar onto the threaded rod on top of the spacer
that is already on the threaded rod. Position the spreader bar with
the fl at side facing upward (Fig. C).
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
B Tripod Head
C Threaded Rod
D T-handle
Tension Knob
E Spreader
Figure A. Fully assembled tripod.
The Field Tripod is supplied as a completely assembled unit,
except for the spreader bar (Fig. A, 4). For visual observations and
short exposure astro-imaging, the drive base of the telescope’s
fork mount is attached directly to the fi eld tripod. The telescope
in this way is mounted in an “Altazimuth” (“Altitude-Azimuth” or
“vertical-horizontal”) format.
CAUTION: “Firm feel” tightening is suffi cient; over-tightening
may strip the threads or damage the tripod and results in no
additional strength.
F
F Leg Lock Knobs
G Extension Strut
H Tension Hub
I Retaining clip
(not visible)
B How to Attach the Tripod to the Telescope Assembly. (See
Appendix F for attaching the tripod to X-Wedge. ) After removing
the Giant Field Tripod from its shipping carton, stand the tripod
Spacer
Figure C. Slide the spreader onto the threaded rod.
Slide the threaded rod back through the tripod head from
underneath. Push the retaining clip onto the threaded rod in the
depressed ring on the threaded rod (Fig. D).
Figure D. Push the retaining clip onto the threaded rod.
Move the spreader bar so that the three arms of the spreader bar
are lined up with the three tripod legs. Place the entire telescope
onto the top of the tripod head, and thread the rod into the central
threaded hole in the bottom of the drive base of the telescope.
Note: that the LX600 features split fork arms; you can now
break down the telescope into easier to mount parts (see page
55 for details). Tighten the T-handle tension knob (Fig. A, 3);
fi rm tightening of the tension knob is suffi cient to result in rigid
positioning of the tripod legs. It is not necessary to use extreme
force in tightening this knob.
6
To vary the tripod height, loosen the six leg lock knobs and slide
the three inner tripod leg sections out to the desired height.
Retighten the lock knobs to a fi rm feel (Fig. E).
Figure B. Extend the tripod legs out.
Lock knobs
On/Off switch
HBX port
Qucik Start
Figure E. Loosen the leg lock knobs, extend the lower portion of
the leg and tighten the knobs (turn to a fi rm fi t).
To collapse the tripod (after removing the telescope), rotate
the spreader bar 60° from its assembled position, so that one
spreader bar arm is located between each adjacent pair of
tripod legs. At the base of the tripod is a three-vane extension
strut system, with a circular hub at its center (Fig. A, 7). Grasp
the tripod head (Fig. A, 1) with one hand and, with the other
hand, pull directly “up” on the central hub of the extension strut
system. This operation will cause the tripod legs to move inward
to a collapsed position.
CAUTION: If the tripod does not seem to extend or collapse
easily, do not force the tripod legs in or out. By following
the instructions above, the tripod will function properly,
but if you are unclear on the proper procedure, forcing the
tripod into an incorrect position may damage the extension
strut system.
C Remove the covers of the battery compartments located
on the fork arms (one on each fork arm) and carefully lift the
battery holders from their compartments, being mindful of the
connector wires. Insert four (user-supplied) C-cell batteries into
each battery holder, oriented as shown on the diagram on the
battery holder. Return the battery holders to their respective
compartments. Replace the covers when you are done.
Figure G. The LX600 control panel).
E Remove the travel screw on the rear OTA Use the provided
hex key to remove the travel screw (the position of the travel
screw will vary by OTA model) (Fig. H). DO NOT OPERATE THE
FOCUS KNOB BEFORE REMOVING THE SCREW or you will
damage your telescope. Place the provided black plastic cap in
the hole left by the travel screw. Retain the travel screw for use in
future shipments.
Travel screw
Figure H. Remove the travel screw before operating the focuser.
Return the travel screw before shipping the telescope.
F Attach the 1.25" Diagonal Remove the dust cap from the
rear cell of the telescope. Thread the eyepiece holder into the
rear cell thread. Slide the diagonal prism into the eyepiece holder
and lock in place by turning the thumbscrew to a fi rm feel.
Place the Super Plössl 26mm eyepiece into the diagonal prism
and tighten the attachment thumbscrew to a fi rm feel only.
Battery
compartment
Figure F. The battery compartments are located on inside of
each of the fork arms.
D Press the computer control panel power switch to OFF, if
necessary. Remove the AutoStar II handbox and the AutoStar II
coil cord from the packing materials. Plug one end into the HBX
port of the telescope’s computer control panel (Fig. G) and plug
the other end into the coil cord port on the AutoStar II handbox.
G Attach the Microfocuser (Optional Accessory) Remove
Eyepiece
Thumbscrews
Diagonal prism
Rear cell port
7
the dust cap from the rear cell port (A) of the telescope (Note:
Re
Telescope not shown for clarity). Thread the microfocuser adapter
(B) into the rear cell port thread. Slide the microfocuser (C) over
the microfocuser adapter and tighten the three hex screws on the
microfocuser (K) using the provided hex keys.
Quick Start
OR
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
Figure I. Attaching the optional microfocuser.
1.25" Diagonal Prism Users: If using the 1.25"
diagonal prism (G), slide the 1.25" adapter (D)
into the microfocuser. Line up the thumbscrew
into the groove in the microfocuser. Slide the
1.25" diagonal prism into the adapter (D). Tighten
the adapter thumbscrew (H) to a fi rm feel only.
Tighten the microfocuser thumbscrews (I) to a
fi r m f e e l o n l y .
2.0" Diagonal Mirror Users: If using the optional
2.0" diagonal mirror, slide the mirror directly into
the microfocuser (C). Tighten the microfocuser
thumbscrews (I) to a fi rm feel only.
Dovetail bracket
Retaining bolts
훽훾훿
I Attach the StarLock cable. The StarLock cable has a
small connector on one end and a larger connector on the other
end. Plug the smaller connector into the“StarLock Telescope
Connection” port on the StarLock unit and the larger connector
into the “StarLock” port located on the fork arm.
Fork arm jumper
cable — other
end is obscured
Fork arm jumper
J Connect the two (2) jumper cables that bridge the OTA
and the telescope base. These jumpers are non-directional
and identical on each fork arm. Secure the connectors to the
receptacle by tightening the knobs on both sides of the plug.
Finger tight, do not over tighten.
1) Remove the dust covers from the ends of the telescope tube
and the narrow and wide angle tubes of the StarLock.
1! Mount and align the viewfi nder. To assemble and align the
viewfi nder perform the following during the daytime:
1. Assemble the viewfi nder by attaching all included
thumbscrews onto the viewfi nder bracket and
insert the 8X50 viewfi nder into the bracket.
Tighten the thumbscrews to a fi rm feel only so
the 8x50 optical tube is roughly centered in the
middle of the bracket.
8
H Attach the StarLock assembly. Loosen the two retaining
bolts on the StarLock dovetail bracket with the provided hex key.
Slide the StarLock unit fully into the saddle plate. Tighten the
retaining bolts to a fi rm feel only.
2 . Slide the viewfi nder bracket into its mounting
assembly on the OTA. To secure the viewfi nder
to the mounting assembly, tighten the two
thumbscrews to a fi rm feel only. Remove the
viewfi nder dust cover.
3. Loosen the RA and DEC clutches. Point the
telescope at some well-defi ned and stationary
land object at least 200 yards distant, such as
BC
RA lock
DEC lock
Figure J. The RA and DEC locks.
the top of a telephone pole or street sign. Center
the object in the telescope eyepiece. Re-tighten
the RA and DEC clutches.
4. With the object centered in the telescope
eyepiece, look through the viewfi nder and loosen
or tighten, as appropriate, one or more of the
viewfi nder collimation screws until the viewfi nder
crosshairs are precisely centered on the object
you previously centered in the telescope
eyepiece. Twist the rear section near the eyecup
clockwise or counter-clockwise to bring the
object into clear focus.
Depending on the optional accessories you attach,
additional weights may need to be purchased.
1# Tighten, to a fi rm feel only, the RA and DEC locks.
1$ Press the Power Switch on the computer control panel to
the ON position. The copyright message lights on AutoStar II’s
LCD display.
1% “Press 0 to Align or Mode for Menu” displays. You can
use the Arrow keys to slew (move) the telescope up, down, right,
or left. To change the telescope’s slew speed, press the Speed
key and then the Number keys. “9” is the fastest speed and “1”
is the slowest speed. See page 20 for more details, or you can
Press “0” to begin Automatic Alignment. See page 21 for more
information.
Quick Start
5. Check this alignment on a celestial object, such
as the Moon or a bright star, and make any
necessary refi nements.
1@ Balance the OTA. Rotate the OTA so that it is parallel to the
ground plane. Locate the counterweight (Fig. K, 3) and loosen
its locking hex screw just enough so that the counterweight can
B Counter weight rail
C Counterweight
hex screw
D Counterweight
Figure K. OTA counterweight assembly.
slide easily along the counterweight rail. While maintaining a hold
on the OTA, lightly loosen the DEC Lock (Fig.J, 2) so that the OTA
rotates freely. With your free hand move the counterweight until
the OTA balances; favoring neither front nor back. Tighten the
counter weight hex screw to secure.
Note that the counterweight provides adjustment to balance
the OTA equipped with the standard factory accessories.
9
LX600 FEATURES
)
B
C
3(
D
LX600 Features
E
F
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
G
H
I
J
(Not shown)
own
3!
2$
1(
1*
(Not shown)
1&
1^
1$
1)
1!
(Not shown)
1@
B Eyepiece
C Eyepiece thumbscrew
D 1.25" diagonal prism
E Diagonal prism thumbscrew
F Rear cell port
G Two-speed focus knob
H Fork arms
I Battery compartments
j Travel screw
훽
훾
1#
훿
1) RA slow-motion control
1! RA setting circle
1@ RA lock
1# Computer Control Panel (see page 12 for more information)
1$ Autostar II holder
1% Fork handles
1^ DEC slow-motion control
1& DEC lock
1* Dust cover
10
Figure 1(a): LX600 Key Features - Right View; Control panel (inset)
2(
2)
2!
2@
2%
1%
3^
3)
2#
LX600 Features
2^
2&
2*
3&
3(
3%
1( Optical tube (see page 10)
2) DEC setting circle
2! Viewfi nder collimation screws
2@ 8 x 50 viewfi nder
2# GPS receiver
2$ Tube adapters (see page 10)
2% Counterweight(s)
2^ Counterweight hex screw
2& Counterweight rail
Figure 1(b): LX600 Key Features - Left View
2* AutoStar II handbox
2( StarLock assembly
3) StarLock dovetail bracket
3! StarLock retaining bolts (see page
10)
3@ Threaded rod
3# Spreader bar
3$ T-handle tension knob
3% X-Wedge (see Appendix F)
3*
3@
3#
3$
3^ Fork Arm Jumper Cables
3& Fork Arm Connecting Plates
3* Connecting Plate Bolts (4 per fork
arm)
3( StarLock Cable
11
LX600 FEATURES
The Meade LX600 ACF models are extremely versatile, highperformance telescopes for imaging and visual use. With
pushbutton controls, precision GPS alignment, true-level and
North electronic sensors, StarLock automatic guiding and ultraprecise pointing, automatic tracking of celestial objects, and a
library of 145,000+ objects in the AutoStar II database, the LX600
ACF models offer unmatched state-of-the-art performance.
Observe or image the rings of the planet Saturn from a distance
of 800 million miles or focus beyond the Solar System on ancient
LX600 Features
star clusters, remote galaxies, and stars recently discovered to
have planets orbiting about them. Meade LX600 ACF telescopes
are capable of growing with your interest and can meet the
requirements of the most demanding advanced observer.
Caution: Using products other than standard Meade
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
accessories may cause damage to the telescope’s internal
electronics and may void the Meade warranty.
B Eyepiece: Place the Series 4000 26mm Plössl eyepiece into
the 90° diagonal prism (Pg. 10, Fig. 1, 1) and tighten in place with
the eyepiece thumbscrew (Fig. 1, 2). The eyepiece magnifi es the
image collected in the optical tube.
C Eyepiece Thumbscrew: Tightens the eyepiece (Fig. 1, 2) in
place. Tighten to a fi rm feel only.
D 1. 25" Diagonal Prism: Provides a more comfortable right
angle viewing position.
E Diagonal Prism Thumbscrew: Tightens the diagonal prism
in place. Tighten to a fi rm feel only.
F Rear Cell Port: The diagonal prism slides into this port.
G Two-speed Focus Knob: 2-Speed Crayford-style focusing
system moves the telescope’s primary mirror in a fi nely-controlled
motion to achieve precise image focus. LX600 telescopes can be
focused on objects from a distance of about 100 ft to infi nity.
Rotate the focus knob clockwise to focus on distant object.
H Fork Arms: This heavy-duty mount holds the optical tube
securely in place.
I Battery Compartments: Insert four user-supplied C-cell
batteries into each compartment (one compartment on each fork
arm; eight batteries total).
J Tr avel Sc rew: Locks down the primary mirror during
transportation.
1) Right Ascension (RA) Slow-Motion Control: When not
using AutoStar electronic control, make fi ne adjustments in the
Right Ascension, i.e. the horizontal axis, by turning this control
with the RA lock in the unlocked position. Set the RA lock to a
“partially locked” position to create a comfortable drag for the
RA slow-motion control.
Caution: Do not operate the RA or DEC slow-motion controls
with the locks in the fully locked position, as such operation
may result in damage to the internal gear system and also
cause you to lose alignment.
1! Right Ascension (RA) Setting Circle: See Appendix E,
page 57, for detailed information.
1@ Right Ascension (RA) Lock: Controls the manual horizontal
rotation of the telescope. Turning the RA lock counterclockwise
unlocks the telescope, enabling it to be freely rotated by hand
about the horizontal axis. Turning the RA lock clockwise locks the
telescope, prevents the telescope from being rotated manually,
and engages the horizontal motor drive for AutoStar II operation.
1# Computer Control Panel (see Pg. 10, Fig. 1 inset):
A. ON/OFF Switch: Turns the computer control
panel and AutoStar II ON or OFF. The red power
indicator LED next to the switch illuminates when
power is supplied to the AutoStar II handbox,
the optional microfocuser and to the telescope’s
motor drives (the LED can be turned off in the
Panel Light menu; see page 32).
B. 12vDC Power Connector: Provides a connection
so that the telescope assembly may be powered
from a standard 115/240v AC home outlet using
the optional Universal Power Adapter (product#
07584) or the optional 12v DC #607 Cigarette
Lighter Adapter (product# 07043). See Optional
Accessories, page 44.
C. Focus Port: (An additional focus port is located
on the fork arm). Plug the optional microfocuser
into this port. Control the microfocuser through
the AutoStar II menus. See Hot Button Menus,
page 36.
D. Reticle Port: Plug the optional reticle eyepiece
cable into this port. Control the reticle through
the AutoStar II menus. See Hot Button Menus
page 36. Also see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES,
page 44.
Note: See the instruction sheets that are
included with the focuser and the reticle for
more details.
E. 12vDC Output: (An additional 12vDC power
output is located on the fork arm) Use the 12vDC
output to power telescope accessories.
F. Handbox (HBX) Port: Plug the AutoStar II coil
cord into this port.
G. RS232 Port: Provides a connection with a PC
12
and for current and future Meade accessories.
Your PC can control your LX600 ACF telescope
using the supplied AutoStar Suite software for
custom applications. Go to the Meade website
(www.meade.com) to download the latest serial
commands and device pinouts.
H. Auxillary Autoguider Port: If you wish to use
an add-on autoguider in place of the integrated
StarLock, plug the autoguider cable into this
port. See the instruction sheet that came with
your autoguider for more information.
1$ Tiltable AutoStar II Holder: Attach to fork handles (see 1%
below) or X-Wedge. Holds your handbox in a convenient location.
1% Fork Handles: Use to lift optical tube assembly or to rotate
the telescope when attached to the tripod.
Important After the telescope is aligned do not use the RA or
DEC manual slow motion controls or alignment will be lost
and the telescope will need to be realigned.
1^ Declination (DEC) Slow-Motion Control: Make fi ne
adjustments in declination (altitude) by turning this control. In
order for this control to operate properly, power must be off.
1& DEC Lock: Controls the manual vertical movement of the
telescope. Turning the DEC lock counterclockwise unlocks the
telescope, enabling it to be freely rotated by hand about the
vertical axis. Turning the DEC lock clockwise (to a fi rm feel only)
prevents the telescope from being moved manually, but engages
the vertical motor drive for AutoStar II operation.
Caution: When loosening the DEC lock, be sure to support
the optical tube (Fig. 1, 19). The weight of the tube could
cause the tube to swing through the fork arms suddenly.
1* Dust Cover: Gently pry the dust cover from the front lens of
the telescope.
Note: The dust cover should be replaced after each observing
session and the power turned off to the telescope. Verify
that any dew that might have collected during the observing
session has evaporated prior to replacing the dust cover.
1( Optical Tube: The main optical component that gathers
the light from distant objects and brings this light to a focus for
examination through the eyepiece.
2) Declination (DEC) Setting Circle: See Appendix E, page
57, for detailed information.
2! Viewfi nder Collimation Screws: Use these six screws to
adjust the alignment of the viewfi nder.
2@ 8 x 50mm Viewfi nder: A low-power, wide-fi eld sighting
scope with crosshairs that enables easy centering of objects in
the telescope eyepiece.
2# GPS Receiver: Receives information transmitted from
Global Positioning System satellites. See page 24 for more
information.
2$ Tube Adapters: The optical and mechanical axes of the
LX600 telescope have been carefully aligned at the factory to
ensure accurate object pointing. Do not loosen or remove the
optical tube assembly from the tube adapters. The resulting
misalignment of the axes will result in inaccurate pointing of the
telescope in the GO TO mode.
2% StarLock Counterweight(s): Precisely counter balance the
StarLock assembly and optional accessories by moving this
weight.
2^ StarLock Counterweight Hex Screws: Tighten to secure
the counterweight in place.
2& StarLock Counterweight Rail: Slide the StarLock
counterweight along this rail to achieve optimum balance.
2* AutoStar II Handbox: The LX600 user interface. Use the
Handbox to command the LX600 to automatically slew to any
object in the night sky. See pages 27 thru 36 for a description of
features.
2( StarLock Assembly: Integrated autoguiding unit made
up of the StarLock narrowfi eld OTA and sensor, used for highprecision guiding, and the StarLock widefi eld OTA and sensor,
used in alignment and ultra-precise pointing.
3) StarLock Dovetail Adapter: Attaches StarLock to the
telescope mount.
3! StarLock Retaining Bolts: Secures the StarLock assembly
to the dovetail adapter.
3@ Tripod Threaded Rod: Secures the LX600 mount to the
tripod.
3# Tripod Spreader Bar: Holds the LX600 mount and tripod legs
in place.
3$ Tripod T-handle Tension Knob: Use to apply tension to the
tripod spreader bar.
3% X-Wedge: See Appendix F for details.
3^ Fork Arm Jumper Connector: Bridges the break between
OTA and Telescope base.
3& Fork Arm Connecting Plate: Mates OTA to base for easier
assembly. Four connecting screws per side(See Appendix D).
3* Connecting Plate Bolt: Used to secure the OTA to Telescope
base. Four (4) connecting screws per side.
LX600 Features
13
AUTOSTAR II FEATURES
Library Number of Objects
1!
B
New General Catalog (NGC) ........................ 7,840
Index Catalog (IC) ........................................ 5,386
Messier Catalog (M) ........................................110
Caldwell Catalog ............................................ 109
C
D
AutoStar II Features
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
F
G
H
Figure 2: The AutoStar II handbox
Tour the Cosmos with Just the
Push of a Button
Control of the LX600 ACF telescope models is through the
operation of the standard AutoStar II system. Nearly all functions
of the telescope are accomplished with just a few pushes of
AutoStar II’s buttons.
Because the AutoStar II system uses fl ash (rewritable) memory,
your system will be able to grow when new features and
enhancements become available. Download the latest satellite
data, star and object catalogs, tours, serial commands list and
software revisions, directly from the Meade website (www.
meade.com). To learn about downloading updates see Page 35.
Requires the optional #507 Cable Connector Kit (product# 07047.
See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 44).
Some of the major features of the AutoStar II system are:
■ Automatically move the telescope to any of the
more than 145,000 objects stored in the object
library, including:
E
I
J
1)
Named Objects .............................................. 227
Herschel Catalog ........................................... 400
Abell Catalog of Galaxy Clusters ................. 2,712
Arp Catalog of Irregular Galaxies ...................645
Uppsala Galaxy Catalog ............................12,940
Morphological Catalog of Galaxies ............12,939
General Catalog of Variable Stars .............28,484
SAO ........................................................... 17,191
Hipparcos Star Cat alog ..............................17,325
■ Take a guided tour of the best celestial objects to
view on any given night of the year.
■ Control your LX600 ACF with your PC using an
RS232 interface.
■ Align your telescope automatically using GPS
(Global Positioning System), Level North sensors
and StarLock.
■ Access a glossary of astronomical terms.
■ Mount the telescope in the “Alt-az” mode
(altitude-azimuth, or vertical-horizontal), or
polar mode with the optional X-Wedge, for fully
automatic tracking, GoTo pointing and guiding on
celestial objects.
The AutoStar II system provides control of virtually every
telescope function. The AutoStar II handbox has soft-touch keys
designed to have a positive feel. The LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
is backlit with red LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) for easy viewing
in the dark. The backlit display, key arrangement, and sequential
menu structure make AutoStar II extremely user friendly.
B 2-Line LCD Display: This screen displays AutoStar II’s menus
and information about the telescope.
• Top lin e: Lists the primary menu.
• Bottom line: Displays other menus that
may be chosen, menu options, telescope
status, or information about a function that
is being performed.
14
c ENTER Key: Press to go to the next menu level or to choose
an option in a menu. The ENTER key is similar to the RETURN
or ENTER key on a computer. See NAVIGATING AUTOSTAR II,
page 30 and AutoStar II Menu Tree, page 29.
d MODE Key: Press to return to the previous menu or data 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 II 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 (Fig. 2, 7) to
display the following information:
• Right Ascension and Declination
(astronomical) coordinates
• Altitude (vertical) and Azimuth
(horizontal) coordinates
• Local Time and Local Sidereal Time (LST)
• Timer and Alarm Status
• Date
• Site coordinates
Additionally, use the Arrow keys to to move the cursor across the
display: Use the Right or Left Arrow key (Fig. 2, 5) to move the
cursor from one number to the next in the display.
g Number Keys: Press to input digits 0 to 9. Each Number key
also has a specifi c function, which is printed on each key (these
are commonly known as “hot buttons”—see page 36):
1 SPEED: Changes the slew speeds. To operate,
press Speed and then a Number key (1 is the
slowest speed, 9 is highest speed). To learn
about changing slew speed see Page 20.
2 CALD (Caldwell): Press to display the Caldwell
catalog on the AutoStar II handbox.
3 M (Messier): Press to display the Messier
catalog library.
4 Focus: Press to display the Focus Control menu.
5 SS: Press to display the Solar System library.
6 STAR: Press to display the Star library.
7 RET (Reticle): Press to display the StarLock
Control menu. To learn about the StarLock menu
see Page 32.
8 IC: Press to display the Index Catalog library.
9 NGC (New General Catalog): Press to display
the NGC catalog library.
AutoStar II Features
• Battery 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 currently 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 during the alignment or GO TO procedures
to activate a “spiral search”. To learn more about the GO TO
function and performing a spiral search see Page 23.
f Arrow Keys: The Arrow keys have several functions. Press
an Arrow key to slew the telescope in a specifi c direction (up,
down, left, and right), at any one of nine different speeds. See
Slew Speeds, page 20. Use the Up and Down Arrow keys to
move the telescope vertically up and down. The Left Arrow
key rotates the telescope horizontally counterclockwise, while
the Right Arrow key rotates it clockwise (unless reversed for
Southern Hemisphere use).
Also, use the Arrow keys to scroll through numbers 0 through 9
and the alphabet. The Down Arrow key begins with the letter “A”,
the Up Arrow key begins with digit “9”.
0 LIGHT: Press to turn on and off the red utility
light on the top of the hand-box.
h Scroll Keys: Press to access options within a selected menu.
The menu is displayed on the fi rst line of the screen. Options in
the 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.
The Scroll keys also control the speed of text scrolling on the
AutoStar II display. When text is scrolling, press and hold the Up
Scroll key for a faster display speed and the Down Scroll key for
a slower display speed.
i ? Key: Press to access the “Help” fi le. “Help” provides
on-screen information on how to accomplish whatever task is
currently active.
Press the ? key and then follow the prompts on the display to
access details of AutoStar II functions in the Help feature. The
Help system is essentially an on-screen instruction manual.
If you have a question about an AutoStar II operation, e.g.,
INITIALIZATION, ALIGNMENT, etc., press the ? key and follow
15
the directions that scroll on the second line. When satisfi ed with
the Help provided, press MODE to return to the original screen
and continue with the chosen procedure.
Tip: When an astronomical term appears in [brackets], press
ENTER for a defi nition or more detailed information. Press
MODE to return to the scrolling AutoStar II Help display.
If a celestial object’s name appears in brackets (and your
telescope is aligned), press ENTER and then GO TO to slew
the telescope to the object.
j Coil Cord Port: Plug one end of the AutoStar II coil cord (Pg.
14, Fig. 2, 10) into this port located at the bottom of the AutoStar
AutoStar II Features
II handbox.
1) Coil Cord: Plug one end of the AutoStar II coil cord into the
HBX port (Pg 10, Fig 1 inset, F) of the computer control panel of
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
the telescope and the other end into the AutoStar II coil cord port.
See #9 above.
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.
16
GETTING STARTED
Parts Listing
Getting the telescope ready for fi rst light requires only a few
minutes. When fi rst opening the packing box, note carefully the
following parts:
■ LX600 ACF telescope with fork mount system
■ AutoStar II handbox and interface coil cord;
handbox holder
■ 8 x 50mm viewfi nder assembly
■ Eyepiece holder and 1.25" diagonal prism
■ Series 4000 26mm Super Plössl eyepiece
■ OTA Counterweight(s)
■ DEC Jumper cables (2)
■ Anti-vibration pads (3)
■ 507 Connecting Cable
■ Variable height Giant Field Tripod and mounting
base, threaded rod with T-handle tension knob,
spacer cone and c-clip, and spreader bar
■ Set of hex keys
■ StarLock unit with cable
■ Instructional Manual and Software DVD.
How to Assemble Your Telescope
Assembly of the LX600 ACF telescope requires eight C-cell (usersupplied) batteries or the optional Universal AC Power Adapter
(product# 07584) connected to a standard 115v home outlet or
to an optional #607 Cigarette Lighter Adapter (see OPTIONAL
ACCESSORIES, page 44). Plug an adapter into the 12vDC In port
of the computer control panel (Fig. 1, 13B).
Note that the LX600 features split fork arms allowing you the
option of breaking the telescope down into to two, easier to
maneuver units. See Appendix D, Page 55 for details.
1. Position the telescope: Start by turning the
DEC lock (Pg. 10, Fig. 1, 17) counterclockwise
to unlock the the optical tube (Fig. 1, 19). Next,
move the optical tube through the fork arms to
the position depicted in Fig. 1 and turn the DEC
lock clockwise to a fi rm feel to relock the position
of the optical tube.
2. Install batteries: Remove the battery
compartment covers (Fig. 1, 8) and carefully
remove the battery holders, being mindful of
the connector wires. Insert four user-supplied
C-cell batteries into each battery holder, oriented
as shown on the diagram on the battery slots
inside the battery holder. Return the battery
holders to their respective compartments and
replace the covers.)
3. Plug in the AutoStar II handbox: Be certain
that the power switch on the computer control
panel (Fig. 1, 13A) is in the OFF position. Plug
the coil cord of the AutoStar II handbox into the
HBX port (Fig. 1, 13F).
Note: The AutoStar II handbox does not
require batteries. The telescope supplies
its power.
4. Remove the dust cap from the rear cell of the
telescope. Thread the eyepiece holder into the
rear cell thread. Slide the diagonal prism into the
eyepiece holder and lock in place by turning the
thumbscrew to a fi rm feel.
5. Insert eyepiece: Remove the Series 4000
26mm Super Plössl eyepiece (Fig. 1, 1) from its
container and place it in the diagonal prism (Fig.
1, 3). Tighten the eyepiece holder thumbscrew
(Fig. 1, 2) to a fi rm feel only.
6. Remove the travel screw. The LX600 is
shipped with a travel screw in place to protect
the primary mirror during shipping. Use the
provided hex key to remove the screw. Replace
the screw with the provided plastic cap. DO NOT
ADJUST THE FOCUS KNOB BEFORE REMOVING
THE TRAVEL SCREW OR DAMAGE TO YOUR
TELESCOPE WILL OCCUR.
7. Remove dust cover: Remove the dust cover
(Fig. 1, 18) from the optical tube assembly (Fig.
1, 19) by gently prying it off.
8. Attach the handbox holder: Remove the
handbox holder from the plastic bag. If
necessary, loosen the lock knob (Fig. 3a, A) and
place the clamp (Fig. 3a, B) about one of the fork
arm handles (Fig. 1, 15). Tighten the lock knob
to a fi rm feel. Slide the AutoStar II handbox into
the holder (Fig. 3a, C). You may also snap the
훽
훾
훿
Figure 3a: Handbox holder: (A) Lock knob; (B) Clamp; (C) Holder.
Fig. 3b: Handbox holder attached to fork arm handle.
Getting Started
17
handbox into the holder: Slide one side of the
handbox into the holder and then fi rmly press
the other side of the handbox into the holder until
it snaps in place. Adjust the tilt of of the holder
by loosening the lock knob and then moving the
holder clamp to the desired angle. Retighten the
lock knob.
receiver
Collimation screwsGPS
Viewfi nder
eyepiece
Getting Started
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
9. Mounting and Adjusting the Viewfi nder. To
align the viewfi nder, perform steps A through
E below during the daytime; perform step F at
night.
A. Slide the track on the bottom of the
viewfi nder into the slot in the viewfi nder
mounting assembly. To secure the viewfi nder
to the mounting assembly, tighten the two
thumbscrews (Fig. 9) to a fi rm feel only.
B. If you have not already done so, insert the
Mounting slot
Track
Thumbscrews
Viewfi nder base
locking screws
Fig. 5. Viewfi nder collimation screws and eyepiece
5) until the viewfi nder crosshairs are precisely
centered on the object you previously centered in
the telescope eyepiece.
F. Check this alignment on a celestial object,
such as the Moon or a bright star, and make
any necessary refi nements, using the method
outlined in steps C through E.
10. Mounting the StarLock unit. Mount the
StarLock unit by sliding it into the StarLock
dovetail adapter on the top of the OTA. The
unit slides into the adapter from back to front.
Dovetail bracket
Retaining bolts
18
Fig. 4. Viewfi nder assembly
26mm eyepiece into the diagonal prism.
C. Unlock the RA (Pg. 10, Fig. 1, 12) and DEC
(Fig. 1, 17) locks so that the telescope moves
freely on both axes.
D. Point the telescope at some well-defi ned and
stationary land object at least 200 yards distant,
such as the top of a telephone pole or street sign.
Center the object in the telescope eyepiece. Retighten the RA and DEC locks.
E. Look through the viewfi nder eyepiece (Fig.
5) and loosen or tighten, as appropriate, one or
more of the viewfi nder collimation screws (Fig.
Mount StarLock
Once positioned, secure the unit by tightening
the thumbscrews until they are snug. Do not
overtighten. Remove both dustcovers from the
lenses of the StarLock.
11. Attach the StarLock cable. The StarLock
cable has two distinct connections, a four-pin
and a six-pin. Make sure that you plug the
four-pin end into the “StarLock Telescope
Connection” port on the back of the StarLock
unit, and the six-pin into the “StarLock” port
on the fork arm.
11. Attach the DEC jumper cable. LX600 features
split fork arms. In order to make electric
connection between the two portions you must
install the jumper cables on the left and right
sides. .
Choosing an Eyepiece
A telescope’s eyepiece magnifi es the image formed by the
telescope’s main optics. Each eyepiece has a focal length,
expressed in millimeters, or “mm”.
The smaller the focal length, the
higher the magnifi cation. For
example: An eyepiece with a
focal length of 9mm has a higher
magnifi cation than an eyepiece
with a focal length of 26mm.
Too Much Power?
Can you ever have too much power? If the
type of power you’re referring to is eyepiece
magnifi cation, yes, you can! The most
common mistake of the beginning observer
is to “overpower” a telescope by using high
magnifi cations which the telescope’s aperture
and atmospheric conditions cannot reasonably
support. Keep in mind that a smaller, but bright
and well-resolved image is far superior to one
that is larger, but dim and poorly resolved.
Powers above 400X should be employed only
under the steadiest atmospheric conditions.
Getting Started
Your telescope comes supplied
with a 26mm Plössl eyepiece
which gives a wide, comfortable
fi eld of view with high
image resolution.
Low power eyepieces offer a wide fi eld of view, bright, highcontrast images, and eye relief during long observing sessions.
To fi nd an object with a telescope, always start with a lower
power eyepiece such as the 26mm Plössl. When the object is
located and centered in the eyepiece, you may wish to switch to a
higher power eyepiece to enlarge the image as much as practical
for prevailing seeing conditions. For information about optional
eyepieces for the your telescope, see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES,
page 44.
The power, or magnifi cation of a telescope is determined by the
focal length of the telescope and the focal length of the eyepiece
being used (an eyepiece’s focal length is printed on the side of
the eyepiece). To calculate eyepiece power, divide the telescope’s
focal length by the eyepiece’s focal length.
For example: A 26mm eyepiece is supplied with LX600 ACF
models. The focal length of the 14" f/8 LX600 ACF is 2845mm
(see Specifi cations, pages 49 and 50).
Series 4000 26mm Super
Plössl eyepiece
Jupiter; examples of the right amount of magnifi cation
(left) and too much magnifi cation (right).
AutoStar II can calculate the best eyepiece for
you to use. Try out the “Eyepiece Calc” feature in
the Utilities menu.
Most observers should have three or four
additional eyepieces to achieve the full range
of reasonable magnifi cations possible with
the LX600 ACF telescopes. See OPTIONAL
ACCESSORIES, page 44.
available for the LX600 ACF telescopes, see OPTIONAL
ACCESSORIES, page 44.
Note: Seeing conditions vary widely from night-to-night and
site-to-site. Turbulence in the air, even on an apparently
clear night, can distort images. If an image appears fuzzy
and ill-defi ned, back off to a lower power eyepiece for a
more well-resolved image (see above example of Jupiter).
Eyepiece Power = Telescope focal length ÷ Eyepiece focal length
Eyepiece Power = 2845mm ÷ 26mm
Eyepiece Power = 109
The eyepiece power, or magnifi cation is therefore 10 9x.
Note: For a list of magnifi cation ratings of the eyepieces
19
OBSERVIING
Observing Using AutoStar II’s
Arrow Keys
You may observe land and astronomical objects using
AutoStar II’s Arrow keys to move the telescope.
1. Tighten the RA and DEC locks (Fig. 1, 12
Observing
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
and 17).
2. Verify that AutoStar II is properly connected to
your telescope. See Quick Start, page 6.
3. Flip the telescope power switch to the ON
position.
The AutoStar II screen is activated and a
copyright message displays briefl y, followed
by a short beep. Then AutoStar II takes a few
moments to start up the system.
4. After the Autostar II has fi nished startup, "Press
Mode for Menu or 0 to Align displays". Press
Mode.
5. Press the Mode key several times until Setup
Item: Object displays.
6. The Arrow keys are now activated. Press the
Arrow keys (Pg. 14, Fig. 2, 5) to slew (move) the
telescope up, down, right, or left.
7. Press the Speed key (Number key “1”) and
then a Number key (Fig. 2, 6) to change the
telescope’s slew speed (“1” is the slowest speed,
“9” is highest speed).
8. Use the viewfi nder (Fig. 1 , 22) to locate an
object and practice using the AutoStar II’s Arrow
keys to center the object in the telescope’s fi eld
of view.
The nine available speeds are:
Number Key 1= 1x = Guide Rate, programmable
Number Key 2= 2x = 2 x sidereal (0.5 arc-min/sec
or 0.008°/sec)
Number Key 3= 8x = 8 x sidereal (2 arc-min/sec
or 0.033°/sec)
Number Key 4= 16x = 16 x sidereal (4 arc-min/sec
or 0.067°/sec)
Number Key 5= 64x = 64 x sidereal (16 arc-min/sec
or 0.27°/sec)
Number Key 6= 128x = 30 arc-min/sec or 0.5°/sec
Number Key 7= 1.5° = 90 arc-min/sec or 1.5°/sec
Number Key 8= 3° = 180 arc-min/sec or 3°/sec
Number Key 9= Max = 480 arc-min/sec or 8°/sec)
Speeds 1, 2, or 3: Best used for fi ne centering of an object in
the fi eld of view of a higher power eyepiece, such as a 12mm or
a 9mm eyepiece.
Speeds 4, 5, or 6: Enable centering of an object in the fi eld of
a low-to-moderate power eyepiece, such as the standard Super
Plössl 26mm.
Speeds 7 or 8: Best used for rough centering of an object in the
viewfi nder.
Speed 9: Moves the telescope quickly from one point in the sky
to another.
Astronomical Observing
Used as an astronomical instrument, your telescope has many
optical and electromechanical capabilities. It is in astronomical
applications where the high level of optical performance is readily
visible. The range of observable astronomical objects is limited
only by the observer’s motivation.
20
Warning: Do not look through the telescope’s
eyepiece or viewfi nder while it is rapidly
moving. Children should always have adult
supervision while observing.
Slew Speeds
AutoStar II has nine slew speeds that move the optical tube at
rates that are directly proportional to the sidereal rate and have
been calculated to accomplish specifi c functions. Press the
Speed key (Number key “1”) and then press a Number key to
change the slew speed, which is shown for about two seconds
on AutoStar II’s display.
To Track an Object Automatically
As the Earth rotates beneath the night sky, the stars appear to
move from East to West. The speed at which the stars move is
called the sidereal rate. You can setup your telescope to move at
the sidereal rate so that it automatically tracks (follows) the stars
and other objects in the night sky. If the telescope is not tracking
an astronomical object, the object will drift out of the eyepiece
fi eld of view. The tracking function automatically keeps an object
centered in the telescope’s eyepiece.
To automatically track objects, you need to learn how the AutoStar II
keypad operates in order to move through its menus. You will need
to initialize and align your telescope.
Moving Through AutoStar II’s Menus
The AutoStar II database is organized in levels for quick and
easy navigation.
■ Press ENTER (Pg. 10, Fig. 2, 2) to go deeper into
AutoStar II’s menu levels.
■ Press MODE (Fig. 2, 3) to move back toward the
top menu level.
■ Press the Scroll keys (Fig. 2, 7) to move up and
down through the options available for each level.
■ Press the Arrow keys (Fig. 2, 5) to enter
characters and digits. The Arrow keys are also
used to move the telescope.
■ Use the Number keys (Fig. 2, 6) to enter digits.
Automatic Alignment for Alt-Az
Mounted Telescopes
AutoStar II offers four methods of altazimuth (alt-az) alignment;
this section describes how to initialize and align your telescope
using Automatic Alignment. (For a description of the other altaz alignment methods, see page 41. For information about
equatorial (polar) alignment, see the next section, Appendix D
and Appendix E).
To prepare your telescope for Automatic Alignment:
1. Tighten the RA and DEC locks (Pg. 10, Fig. 1, 12
and 17).
2. Verify that AutoStar II is properly connected to
your telescope. See How To Assemble Your
Telescope, page 17.
3. Flip the telescope power switch to the
ON position.
When you slide the On/Off switch to “On” on your
telescope’s computer control panel, a version
screen briefl y appears, followed by “Welcome
to AutoStar”.
4. “Press 0 to align or Mode for Menu” displays.
Press “0” to begin Automatic Alignment. (If you
wish to choose a manual alignment method,
keep pressing Mode to go through the menus to
fi nd other alignments.)
Note: AutoStar II initializes the Smart Drive if
it has been turned “On,” has been previously
selected, PEC training has been performed and
you have “parked” the telescope. If you have
parked it, AutoStar II will remember its position
on the worm gear. If you do not park the scope
and turn it off, it will not remember its position.
See Parking the Telescope, page 32 and PEC
Training, page 43.
5. “Automatic Alignment” displays. The system
now performs the following routines (press any
AutoStar II key to abort Automatic Alignment) :
Caution: As the telescope performs the
following operations, it will swing and rotate.
Keep a safe distance from the telescope. The
telescope now fi nds the level and tilt position
of the telescope, and also detects where
true North is. It may not actually level or tilt
the telescope or point to North — it is just
detecting these positions. This may take a
minute or two.
a. Finds the home position. Moves the
telescope to fi nd the “home” position. When the
home position is found, the system knows the
limiting positions of the telescope and can avoid
tangling cables and over-rotating the telescope.
b. Detects “level” position of the telescope;
fi nds tilt and tip. To detect level, AutoStar II
must calculate “level” at three compass points.
See Detecting True Level on page 24.
AutoStar II also determines the positioning (i.e.,
tilt and tip) of the optical tube.
c. Finds North. Locates magnetic North, then
calculates true North. See Detecting True
North, page 24.
d. Attempts a “GPS Fix”. The GPS receiver
attempts to acquire and sync up with signals
from the GPS satellite system. “Getting GPS Fix”
displays. See The Global Positioning System
on page 24.
After performing these operations, AutoStar II
now knows:
■ The telescope’s limiting positions
■ Where level is for the telescope
■ The location of true North
■ The observing site’s location
■ The date and time
Observing
21
Note: Press any key to abort the GPS fi x. You
will then be prompted to enter the time, date and
location.
Important Note: It is recommended that you do not attempt a
GPS fi x indoors. It is also recommended that you CALIBRATE
SENSORS the fi rst time your telescope takes a GPS fi x. See
Observing
page 33 for more information.
e. Once the level, tilt and North are detected,
the telescope will “Go To” two alignment
stars. The telescope will go to these stars in
order to orient itself to the sky. Once it has done
this, it will be able to point to any of the more
than 145,000 stars in its database.
“Automatic Alignment: Selecting Star” and
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
“Slewing” display. Finally, when it is close to
the alignment star “Center Brightest Star: Press
ENTER” displays. Use the Arrow keys to center
the alignment star in the eyepiece. The alignment
star will be the brightest star in that area of the
sky (and hence, “brightest star”). When the
alignment star is centered, press ENTER. This
also defi nes the telescope’s optical center on the
StarLock sensor.
1, 12 and 17), or move the base manually, or alignment will
be lost.
Important Note: The Daylight Saving menu enables or
disables the Daylight Savings Time setting: Remember to
turn this setting off or on the two days a year when Daylight
Saving changes. See TIMING IS EVERYTHING, page 35.
Polar Mode
Pointing
at Polaris
North
Note: If you press the “?” key while “Ctr Brightest
Star” displays, the name of the alignment
star that AutoStar has chosen will display. For
example, “Arcturus: Press ENTER” may display.
Note: If you have an obstruction, such as a tree
or a building blocking your view of the alignment
star, or if you have any doubts at all about the star
that has been chosen, no problem. Just press the
Scroll Down key and AutoStar will fi nd another
star to align upon.
6. The telescope now slews to the second
alignment star. “Automatic Alignment: Selecting
Star” and “Slewing” display. When it is close to
the second alignment star “Center Brightest Star:
Press ENTER” displays. Use the Arrow keys to
center the alignment star in the eyepiece.
7. “Alignment successful” displays. If “Alignment
Unsuccessful” displays, perform the procedure
over again.
Important Note: Once the telescope is aligned, only use the
Arrow keys to move the telescope. Once the telescope has
been aligned, do not loosen the telescope locks (Pg. 10, Fig.
The LX600 in proper orientation for
one-star polar alignment
Up until this point we have described the operation of the LX600
in the Alt-Azmuth mode. The LX600 telescope was designed
to be operated in the Polar mode using Meade’s X-Wedge.
This precision machined, rigid equatorial wedge is designed to
securely mount between the giant fi eld tripod and the LX600
telescope and provides a steady platform ideally suited for long
term astro photography.
Instructions to attach the X-Wedge and mount the LX600
telescope can be found in Appendix F: X-Wedge Installation
(Page 62-66).
The alignment procedure for an X-Wedge mounted LX600 differs
from Alt-Azmuth mode telescope. Meade offers you several
polar alignments to choose from, but generally “One-Star Polar
Alignment” described below is preferred method.
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