BULLETIN 100

TELESCOPES
Explore the Universe with the Worlds Most Respected and Best Selling Telescope Brand

DSSERIES

Includes AutoStar Computer Controller

StarNavigator Software

Meade DS-2130ATS
130mm (5.1") Altazimuth Reflector
LARGE APERTURE GO TO TELESCOPE Reflectors have long been a favorite with amateur astronomers. The large 130mm diameter mirror of the Meade DS-2130ATS provides 469% brighter images and a tremendous increase in fine detail, compared to common 60mm telescopes. The standard equipment #494 AutoStar Computer Control System permits automatic object location and tracking of more than 1400 objects in the AutoStar database at the touch of a button. See fainter and more distant objects in far greater detail. Several thousand star clusters, galaxies and nebulae are within range of this telescope. This model is highly recommended for astronomical applications; however, due to its image orientation it is not recommended for land viewing. Includes two premium 4-element Super Plssl eyepieces.
SPECIFICATIONS Meade Model DS-2130ATS (P/N: 20132) Supplied complete with aluminized and multi-coated primary mirror (D = 130mm, F = 1000mm, f/7.7) Motorized tracking mount (requires eight user-supplied AA-size batteries) #494 AutoStar Computer Control System Meade PC-compatible astronomical software Full-length adjustable aluminum tripod with accessory shelf 6 x 30mm viewfinder; two premium eyepieces (1.25"): SP 9.7mm, and SP 26mm Operating instructions Giftbox.

114EQ-AST

EQSERIES

114EQ-A

Meade 1 14EQ-AST and Meade 1 14EQ-A
114mm (4.5") Equatorial Reflectors
LARGE APERTURE MANUAL TELESCOPES Because the earth rotates once on its axis every 24 hours, celestial objects move rapidly through the telescopic field, particularly at higher powers. The equatorial mount of both the Meade 114EQ-AST and 114EQ-A greatly facilitates object tracking, simply by manually turning one or both of the control cables. The large 114mm-diameter mirror of these models gathers 361% more light than 60mm telescopes. Fainter, more distant objects can be seen in far greater detail. The beginning amateur who intends to use a manual telescope on a regular basis will find the equatorial mount to be a valuable investment.
SPECIFICATIONS Meade Model 114EQ-A (P/N: 04055) Deluxe model supplied complete with overcoated primary mirror and aluminum optical tube assembly, (D=114mm, F=910mm, f/8) Rack-and-pinion focuser (1.25") Equatorial mount with unique covered worm-gear slow-motion control Setting circles Deluxe latitude control with scale Two eyepieces (1.25"): MA9mm (101X) and MA25mm (36X) 5 x 24mm viewfinder Adjustable aluminum tripod with shelf Planetarium software for the PC Operating instructions Giftbox. SPECIFICATIONS Meade Model 114EQ-AST (P/N: 04056) Basic model includes the same diameter mirror as above, but includes a special relay lens which shortens the tube length and yields a 1000mm focal length (f/8.8). Includes a somewhat smaller mount and tripod than the model above. The exact same accessories are present in both models.

Meade DS-2080AT

80mm (3.1") Altazimuth Refractor

HIGH-PERFORMANCE GO TO TELESCOPE Feel like a professional astronomer your first night under the stars. Revolutionary AutoStar computer technology allows you to navigate the heavens effortlessly at the touch of few buttons. Just enter the object you desire in the AutoStar display, press GO TO, and AutoStar places the object in the telescopic field of view, and tracks it automatically! Provides pristine, ultra high-contrast images of Saturns awesome rings, the cloud belts of Jupiter, and the essential structure of deep space objects. AutoStar has over 1400 fascinating celestial objects in its database. Features built-in internal tracking motors, gears and cords. The single-tine fork mount design and quick release tripod with accessory tray offers a sleek contemporary appearance. Includes two premium 4-element Super Plssl eyepieces.
SPECIFICATIONS Meade Model DS-2080AT (P/N: 20084) Supplied complete with coated objective lens (D = 80mm, F = 800mm, f/10) Motorized altazimuth mount (requires eight user-supplied AA-size batteries) #494 AutoStar Computer Control System with 1400-object database Meade PC-compatible astronomical software Adjustable aluminum tripod with accessory shelf 5 x 24mm viewfinder Diagonal mirror (1.25") Two premium eyepieces (1.25"): SP 9.7mm and SP 26mm Operating instructions Giftbox.

Meade 80EQ-A

80mm (3.1") Equatorial Refractor
HIGH-PERFORMANCE MANUAL TELESCOPE This large aperture 80mm diameter telescope with deluxe equatorial mount provides contrast-rich, high-resolution images of Saturn, Jupiter, the Moon and many deep-space objects, as well as landmarks and nature. The Meade 80EQ-A permits more advanced study than smaller telescopes and enables observation of the Cassini Division in Saturns rings. Jupiters surface now takes on added detail as the cloud belt begins to show their essential structure, and transits of the planets satellites across the planetary disk may now be seen. In deep-space, open star clusters, such as the Pleiades (M45) in Taurus, display hundreds of stars in one telescopic field of view. Includes two 3-element 1.25" eyepieces, deluxe equatorial mount with covered worm-gears that facilitate slow-motion tracking control of fast moving sky objects, heavy-duty aluminum tripod, and much more.

SPECIFICATIONS Meade Model 80EQ-A (P/N: 04051) Supplied complete with coated achromatic objective lens made of grade-A crown and flint glass Diagonal mirror Deluxe equatorial mount with slow-motion controls Deluxe latitude adjuster Adjustable aluminum tripod Two 3-element eyepieces (MA9mm, MA25mm) 6 x 30 viewfinder Software for the PC Operating instructions Giftbox.

NGSERIES

NGC-70

Meade NG-70 / NGC-70

Advanced 70mm (2.8") Refractor
NEW GENERATION TELESCOPES: ADVANCED MANUAL MOUNT WITH COMPUTER CAPABILITY Meade engineers have thoroughly updated the traditional entry-level telescope to a new standard for the 21st Century. These New Generation telescopes incorporate advanced industrial design yielding a striking, ultra modern appearance. Large, precision bearing surfaces provide smooth manual motions in both altitude and azimuth. An advanced computerized model (NGC) offers all the feature enhancements of the previously described NG model, plus includes the significant performance advantage of a built-in computer finding system with manual slowmotions controls. Both models include two premium 4-element Super Plssl eyepieces.
SPECIFICATIONS Meade Model NGC-70 Refracting Telescope (P/N: 20211) Supplied complete with multi-coated, achromatic objective lens (D=70mm, F=700mm, f/11.7) Built-in, self-guided GO TO computer control system offering 1400-object database (requires one 9 Volt user-supplied battery) Altazimuth mount with slowmotion controls PC-compatible astronomical software Adjustable aluminum tripod with accessory shelf 5 x 24mm viewfinder Diagonal mirror Two eyepieces (1.25"): SP 26mm and SP 9.7mm Operating instructions Giftbox. SPECIFICATIONS Meade Model NG-70 Refracting Telescope (P/N: 20210) Identical in all specifications to Model NGC-70 above, but without computer control system.

AZSERIES

Meade 70AZ-A
70mm (2.8") Altazimuth Refractor
A QUALITY TELESCOPE AT A GREAT PRICE The Meade 70AZ-A is a high performance 70mm refractor ideally suited to the beginning astronomer or terrestrial observer: the rings of Saturn, four satellites of Jupiter, and hundreds of Moon craters are only the beginning of what can be observed through this telescope. The Meade 70AZ-A includes an altazimuth mount with a slow motion control in vertical. The coated, achromatic (color-corrected) objective lens yields sharp, clear images for viewing both astronomical and terrestrial subjects. The Meade 70AZ-A includes two 3-element 1.25" barreldiameter eyepieces (MA9mm, MA25mm), adjustable aluminum tripod, and planetarium software for the PC with 10,000-object database.

SPECIFICATIONS Meade Model 70AZ-A (P/N: 04041) Supplied complete with coated objective lens assembly (D=70mm, F= 700mm, f/10) Rackand-pinion focuser Altazimuth yoke type mount with vertical slowmotion control Two eyepieces (1.25"): MA9mm (78X) and MA25mm (28X) 5 x 24mm viewfinder Diagonal mirror Adjustable aluminum tripod with shelf Planetarium software for the PC Operating instructions Giftbox.

60AZ-T

70AZ-T
Meade 60AZ-T, Meade 70AZ-T
Short Tube 60mm (2.4") and 70mm (2.8") Table Top Altazimuth Refractors
Whether used as casual telescopes for astronomy or as highresolution spotting scopes for land viewing, these short tube telescopes deliver powerful performance in a small package. These instruments provide bright, richest-field performance for observing wide-field astronomical objects like galaxies and nebula from dark skies, or use the provided Barlow lens for viewing close-up detail of the Moon, planets, or nature from your own backyard. Compact and portablethese scopes travel easily and store in a small space. Both models includes a quality 2-element, coated achromatic objective lens and two 3-element eyepieces.
SPECIFICATIONS Meade 70AZ-T (P/N: 04058) Supplied complete with coated achromatic lens (D=70mm, F=350mm, f/5) Table top mount with dual slow motion controls Two 1.25" eyepieces: (MA9mm, MA17.5mm) 2x Barlow lens 5 x 24 viewfinder Soft carry case Instructions. SPECIFICATIONS Meade 60AZ-T (P/N: 04062) Supplied complete with achromatic lens (D=60mm, F=350, f/5.8) Table top tripod with pan-handled control Two 1.25" eyepieces: (K9mm, K17.5mm) 2x Barlow lens Soft carry case Instructions.

SERIES

#882 Field Tripod

Standard Equipment

Meade ETX-70AT

Compact GO TO Refractor

INCLUDES AUTOSTAR COMPUTER AND FIELD TRIPOD Locate and explore planets, asteroids, comets, nebulae, star clusters, galaxies, and hundreds of other deep-space objects, all at the push of a few buttons. For the novice astronomer or casual observer, the ETX-70AT opens up the skies to reveal an amazing level of detail. Use the standard-equipment #494 AutoStar controller to automatically locate over 1400 celestial objects. Enter the object you wish to observe on to the AutoStar display, press GO TO, and the telescope moves automatically to place the object in the field of view and then tracks it. Compact, multi-coated 70mm refractive optical system of Grade-A crown and flint glass with 350mm focal length yields razor-sharp images. Supplied with 3-element MA25mm and MA9mm eyepieces. Includes flip-mirror system, built-in tracking motors, and electronic control panel.
SPECIFICATIONS ETX-70AT Astro Telescope (P/N: 0705-04-10) Includes a precision ground refractive lens with optical coatings (D = 70mm, F = 350mm, f/5) Fork mount with built-in tracking motors 9-speed #494 AutoStar computer controller with 1400-object database Internal battery compartment accepting six (user-supplied) AA-size batteries MA9mm (39X) and MA25mm (14X) eyepieces #882 Standard Field Tripod Operating instructions.

ETX-125AT

ETX-105AT

ETX-90AT

Meade ETX-90AT, ETX-105AT, ETX-125AT
Advanced GO TO Telescopes
#884 Deluxe Field Tripod Included
INCLUDES ADVANCED #497 AUTOSTAR COMPUTER CONTROLLER AND #884 DELUXE FIELD TRIPOD Revolutionary Meade ETX-90AT, ETX-105AT and ETX-125AT telescopes go with you anywhere at a moments notice, and present the finest optical images, bar none, ever made available in ultraportable telescopes. Use the standardequipment #497 AutoStar Computer Controller for automatic location and tracking of over 30,000 celestial objects at the push of a button. ETX optics are so high in contrast, image brightness, and resolution that they consistently outperform many instruments of larger aperture. (See ETX brochure for more information.)
SPECIFICATIONS ETX-90AT, ETX-105AT, ETX-125AT Astro Telescopes MaksutovCassegrain optical tube assembly (D = 90mm, F = 1250mm, f/13.8) or (D = 105mm, F = 1470mm, f/14) or (D = 127mm, F = 1900mm, f/15) with EMC super multi-coatings Internal flip-mirror system for straight-through or 90 observing position Fork mount with electric slow-motion controls, setting circles and locks on both axes; electronic control panel 9-speed dual-axis motor drive system with #497 AutoStar Computer Controller Internal compartment for eight (user-supplied) AA-size batteries 8 x 21mm erect-image viewfinder (ETX-90AT) 8 x 25mm right-angle viewfinder (ETX-105AT and ETX125AT) Series 4000 Super Plssl 26mm eyepiece (1.25") #884 Deluxe Field Tripod Operating instructions.
All ETX Premier Telescopes include AutoStar

ETX-125PE

ETX-105PE

PREMIER

ETX-90PE
Meade ETX-90PE, ETX-105PE, ETX-125PE Astro Telescopes
Premier Edition Telescopes with LNT and SmartFinder Advanced Technology
JUST BECAUSE A STAR MAY BE MILLIONS OF YEARS OLD DOESNT MEAN IT SHOULD TAKE YOU THAT LONG TO FIND IT
Until now, the stargazers two biggest challenges to enjoying the night sky have been aligning their telescope and finding objects. Meades new ETX Premier Edition eliminates these two challenges and makes astronomy as easy as pushing a buttonright out of the box. Want to see a hard-to-find deep space galaxy? Simply push a button. The same goes for planets, stars, nebulae and more. Just pick an object you want to observe, press a button, and then AutoStar will automatically point your telescope. All you need is a clear night, a dark sky and a little curiosity. Whether you already know the sky by heart, or are just beginning your journey of discovery, your Meade ETX Premier Edition will take you where you want to go. Astronomy has never been so fun and rewarding. Its diffraction-limited optics are so crisp in contrast, brightness and image resolution that they consistently out-perform telescopes of larger aperture. All ETX telescopes feature BK-7 glass and oversized Pyrex primary mirrors. The Meade #884 Field Tripod is included with each ETX-Premier telescope.

All ETX Premier telescopes feature:

ASTRONOMY

Adventures in Astronomy
From the comfort of your own backyard, you can explore hundreds of galaxies, gas clouds (nebulae), and star clusters, as well the Moon, planets, and comets with a Meade telescope. The powerful light-gathering capability of a Meade telescope can transform simple points of light into objects of incredible detail. You will be enriched with the experience of seeing first-hand some of natures most awesome spectacles.

What You Can See

With any of the Meade telescopes presented in this brochure, you can observe the following celestial objects, and a great many more, sharply and clearly: the magnificent ring system of Saturn; the distinctive cloud belt structure of Jupiter and four of its largest moons; hundreds of craters and mountain ranges on Earths Moon and deep-space objects including the Andromeda Galaxy, the Hercules globular star cluster, and the diffuse Orion Nebula. Meade Models 70AZ-A, NG-70, NGC-70, ETX-70AT, 80EQ-A, NG-70, NGC-70, DS-2080AT and ETX Maksutov-Cassegrain models ETX-90, 105 and 125 can also be used for high-resolution terrestrial observation from reading a license plate a half-mile away to studying the delicate detail of a birds feather. The additional light-gathering capability of the larger aperture Meade 114EQ-AST, 114EQ-A, DS-2130ATS, ETX-90, ETX-105 and ETX-125 are especially advantageous for deep-space phenomena. Several thousand star clusters, galaxies and nebulae are within range of these instruments.
COMPUTERIZED OBJECTLOCATION AND TRACKING

What About Power?

To calculate power, divide the focal length of the telescope (e.g., 700mm for Model NG-70) by the focal length of the eyepiece (e.g., 25mm). Lower power eyepieces (e.g., 25mm) offer wide fields of view for observing deep-space and terrestrial objects. Higher power eyepieces (e.g., 9mm) offer greater magnification and are useful for observing surface detail on the Moon and planets.
The Importance of Computerized Tracking and Object-Location
Observing an astronomical object involves following a constantly moving target. Every object in the sky moves in the same manner as our Sun, rising in the East and setting in the West. This apparent celestial movement is caused by the rotation of the Earth. Computerized Tracking: To the unaided eye an object like the Moon appears to move slowly across the sky, but will, in fact, move surprisingly quickly through the field of view of a telescope. The AutoStar Computer Control System directs the telescope to automatically follow fastmoving celestial objects. Automatic object-location: A novice astronomer often spends a disproportionate amount of time learning the sky and searching for subjects to view. AutoStar technology obliterates this learning curve. Meades revolutionary AutoStar Computer Control System facilitates automatic object-location and tracking of over 1400 objects.

Refracting Telescopes, like the Meade Model NGC-70, use a large objective lens as their primary lightcollecting element. Meade refractors include achromatic (2-element) objective lenses in order to reduce false color that results when light passes through a lens. Reflecting Telescopes use a concave primary mirror to collect light and form an image. In the Newtonian type of reflector telescope, the Meade Model DS2130ATS, light is reflected by a small, flat secondary mirror to the side of the main tube for observation of the image. This is a large telescope 14 for a comparatively low price.

Types of Telescopes

All telescopes fall into one of three optical classes.
Catadioptric (Mirror-Lens) Telescopes like the ETX-90 employ both mirrors and lenses, resulting in optical configurations that achieve remarkable image quality and resolution in extremely short, highly portable optical tubes.
Series 5000 5-Element Plssl
Series 4000 QX Wide Angle Eyepieces

EYEPIECES

Series 4000 Super Plssl
Meade Series 4000 and Series 5000 Eyepieces
The Finest in Premium Telescope Eyepieces
Series 4000 Super Plssl Eyepieces feature a great all-purpose eyepiece design: 4-element, fully multi-coated optics, wide 52 apparent field of view. Features long eye relief, with soft eyeguards.
Product Number Focal Length Barrel Size Product Number Focal Length Barrel Size
07170-02 07171-02 07172-02 07173-02

6.4mm 9.7mm 12.4mm 15mm

1.25" 1.25" 1.25" 1.25"
07174-02 07175-02 07176-02 07177-02

20mm 26mm 32mm 40mm

Series 4000 QX Eyepieces offer extra-wide 70 field of view.
Product Number Focal Length 15mm 20mm Barrel Size 1.25" 1.25"
Series 5000 5-Element Plssl Eyepieces represent a milestone in design and engineering. The five- and six-element designs feature tack sharp optical performance and 60 apparent field-of-view. Take a look through the new Meade Series 5000 Plssls and rediscover your favorite celestial objects.
Product Number 07654 Focal Length 5.5mm 9mm 14mm 20mm 26mm Barrel Size 1.25" 1.25" 1.25" 1.25" 1.25"
Series 5000 Super Wide Angle Eyepieces boast a 68 apparent fieldof-view and image resolution that is razor sharp from edge-to-edge, rich in detail and contrast with virtually no chromatic aberration. Series 5000 Ultra Wide Angle Eyepieces, representing the ultimate in technology, deliver extremely high resolution, contrast and fullfield sharpness over an astounding 82 apparent field-of-view to achieve the highest level of optical performance.

CaptureView 8X22 VGA

CaptureView 8X30 1.3MP Flashback
Meade CaptureView 8x22 VGA, 8x30 1.3MP
Binoculars that take pictures
WHAT A GREAT IDEA! Say goodbye to the phrase You should have been there. Whether its a mountain goat leaping a gorge, a recordbreaking home run, or a rafting trip through the rapids of the Colorado River, now you can view the action up close and capture it as digital images or video clips. Use the exclusive Flashback feature to save the last 5, 10, 15 or 20 seconds of any recording, then view an instant replay of what you recorded. Pick up a CaptureView for the boater, bird watcher, sports fan or outdoor enthusiast in your life. (See CaptureView Brochure for more information.)

SPECIFICATIONS: CV-1 CV-2 Power. 8x. 8x Objective Lens Diameter. 22mm. 30mm Field of View. 382 ft. 367 ft. at 1000 yards at 1000 yards Prism Type. Folding roof. Folding roof Close Focus (Binocular). 16 ft. 16 ft. Waterproof. No. No Flashback. No. Yes Weight. 12.8 oz. 17.2 oz. Memory (Camera). 16MB SDRAM. 16MB SDRAM Image Capacity (Camera). 400@VGA. 12@1.3MP Video. 200 sec. @QVGA. 30 sec. @QVGA
DIGITAL CAMERA BINOCULARS
CaptureView 8X30 2.0MP Flashback / WATERPROOF
CaptureView 8X42 2.0MP Flashback
Meade CaptureView 8x30 2.0MP Waterproof, 8x42 2.0MP
Capture the image you see in the binocularperfectly!
CAPTUREVIEW CV-1 8X22 VGA / CV-2 8x30 1.3MP Great for e-mailing up-close highlights of the big game, vacation or concert to family and friends. 16MB built-in memory. Compact, portable, easy to use. CAPTUREVIEW CV-4 8x30 2.0MP / CV-5 8X42 2.0MP A fantastic, bright, high-resolution 8-power binocular combined with a state-of-the-art digital camera. Full color flip-up LCD preview screen. 2.0 MP resolution. SD slot for additional memory. Flashback Video Instant Replay feature captures the last 10 seconds of live action. So you never miss the action. (See CaptureView Brochure for more information.)
SPECIFICATIONS: CV-4 CV-5 Power. 8x. 8x Objective Lens Diameter. 30mm. 42mm Field of View. 367 ft. 376 ft. at 1000 yards at 1000 yards Prism Type. Folding roof. Folding roof Close Focus (Binocular). 16 ft. 16 ft. Waterproof. Yes. No Flashback. Yes. Yes Weight. 19.4 oz. 24.9 oz. Memory (Camera). 16MB SDRAM. 16MB SDRAM 16MB Flash 16MB Flash Image Capacity (Camera). 40@2MP. 40@2MP Video. 90 sec. @QVGA. 90 sec. @QVGA

ASTROBINOCULARS

Meade 9X63

Astronomy Binoculars

Whether the object youre observing is light years away or an eagle perched in a tall tree, Meades 9x63 roof prism Astro binocular provides sharp, bright, high resolution images. Giant 63mm achromatic objective lenses provide powerful light-gathering ability. Long eye relief provides hours of comfortable viewing without eye strain.
The binocular is rubber armored for a comfortable and sure grip. Features precision, fluid-motion central focusing. Supplied complete with a soft carry case and neck strap.
Meade offers a complete line of general purpose binoculars for travel, spectator sports, concerts, and more to meet every need and pocketbook. For the complete line of Meade binoculars see the Meade Binocular Catalog or visit: www.meade.com/binoculars.

SPECIFICATIONS: Power. 9x Objective Lens Diameter. 63mm Field of View. 305 ft. at 1000 yards Prism Type. Full size roof prism Close Focus. 16.4 ft. Eye Relief. 21.5mm Exit Pupil. 7mm Weight. 44.1 oz. Dimensions. 6.25" x 10.5" x 2.8"

Other Night Vision

Meade NightView
Revolutionary Digital Night Vision
NIGHTVISION THATS FUN AND EASY TO USE! The Meade NightView monocular is a new digital compact night scope that will change the way you view the world after dark. NightView is built on state-of-the-art digital imaging technology which yields a crisp, detail-rich, full field-of-view image in all low-light conditions. Its what you expect night vision to be! Its fun and easy-to-use. It includes a video-out port that can be quickly connected to a video monitor or camcorder for surveillance purposes. Its perfect for boaters, nature hobbyists, campers, hikers, astronomers, and night vision enthusiasts. Buy it today, and open your eyes to a whole new world after dark.

Includes:

e n F ilt e r

R e d F ilt e r

u t r a l F ilt e r

ce C o nt

is e Nig ht V

h Lig ht to t

SPECIFICATIONS NightView Objective lens 1.5x, 12mm f/1.2 2x digital zoom Field-of-view 38 Image resolution 525x420 pixels Viewer resolution 400 x 225 pixels Eyepiece contrast filters: red, green and neutral density AC adapter Video-out port Tripod adaptable.

MEADE.COM

MEADE INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION
6001 Oak Canyon Irvine, California 92618 USA (949) 451-1450 www.meade.com
Copyright 2004/2005 Meade Instruments Corporation. All rights reserved. Pyrex is a registered trademark of Corning Inc. 40-04078. B100-05

INSTRUCTION MANUAL Meade114 EQ-ASB 4.5" Equatorial Reflecting Telescope
Meade Instruments Corporation
WARNING! NEVER USE A MEADE 114 EQ-ASB
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 OR ITS VIEWFINDER AT OR NEAR THE SUN. DO NOT LOOK THROUGH THE TELESCOPE OR ITS VIEWFINDER AS IT IS MOVING. CHILDREN SHOULD ALWAYS HAVE ADULT SUPERVISION WHILE OBSERVING.

Meade Limited Warranty

Every Meade telescope, spotting scope, and binocular is warranted by Meade Instruments Corp. (MIC) to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of ONE YEAR from date of original retail purchase in the U.S.A. MIC will repair or replace the product, or part thereof, found upon inspection by MIC to be defective, provided the defective part or product is returned to MIC, freight prepaid, with proof of purchase. This warranty applies to the original purchaser only and is non-transferable. Meade products purchased outside North America are not included in this warranty, but are covered under separate warranties issued by Meade International Distributors. RGA Number Required: Prior to the return of any product or part, a Return Goods Authorization (RGA) number must be obtained by writing to MIC or calling 949-451-1450. Each returned part or product must include a written statement detailing the nature of the claimed defect, as well as the owners name, address, phone number, and a copy of the original sales invoice. This warranty is not valid in cases where the product has been abused or mishandled, where unauthorized repairs have been attempted or performed, or where depreciation of the product is due to normal wear-and tear. MIC specifically disclaims special, indirect, or consequential damages or lost profit, which may result from a breach of this warranty. Any implied warranties which cannot be disclaimed are hereby limited to a term of one year from the date of purchase by the original retail purchaser. This warranty gives you specific rights. You may have other rights which vary from state to state. MIC reserves the right to change product specifications or to discontinue products without prior notice. This warranty supersedes all previous Meade product warranties.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction. 6 This Manual. 6 Standard Equipment. 6 Unpacking and Assembly. 6 Balancing the Telescope. 7 Alignment of the Viewfinder. 7 Understanding Celestial Movements and Coordinates. 8 Lining Up with the Celestial Pole. 9 Using the Telescope. 9 Using Setting Circles. 11 Calculating Power. 11 Maintenance. 12 Cleaning. 12 Mount and Tripod Adjustments. 12 Collimation. 12 a. Correct Collimation. 12 b. Diagonal Holder Adjustments. 12 c. Primary Mirror Adjustments. 13 d. Star Testing the Collimation. 13 Specifications. 15 Optional Accessories. 15
Key to Fig. 1 1. Tripod legs 2. Equatorial mount 3. R.A. flexible cable control 4. Dec. flexible cable control 5. Counterweight 6. Counterweight shaft 7. Counterweight lock 8. Safety washer/thumbscrew 9. Latitude lock (reverse side, see inset) 10. Polar axis 11. Latitude adjustment knob 12. Optical tube assembly 13. Optical tube saddle plate 14. Cradle rings 15. Cradle ring lock knobs 16. Viewfinder bracket mounting bolts 17. Focuser 18. Focuser thumbscrew 19. Eyepiece 20. Viewfinder bracket 21. Declination axis 22. R.A. lock (reverse side, see inset) 23. Dec. lock 24. 5 x 24 viewfinder 25. Telescope front dust cover 26. Viewfinder bracket thumbscrews 27. R.A. setting circle 28. Dec. setting circle 29. Latitude dial 30. Azimuth lock 31. Focus knobs 32. Optional motor drive gear (option not available with this model) 33. Azimuth base 34. Viewfinder focuser 35. Azimuth circle 36. Cradle ring attachment lock knob 37. Cradle ring attachment 38. Tripod leg Phillips-head fastener screws 39. Tripod-to-mount wingnuts 40. Accessory shelf 41. Eyepiece holder slots 42. Tripod leg brace supports 43. Tripod leg lock knobs 44. Optional motor clutch 45. Optional motor mount shaft (option not available with this model)

Reverse side

Fig. 1a: Model 114 EQB-1: Viewfinder assembly.

Reverse Side

Fig. 1b: Model 114 EQ-ASB: Focuser.
Fig. 1c: Model 114 EQ-ASB: Equatorial mount.
Fig. 1e: Model 114 EQ-ASB: Optical tube assembly.
Fig. 1d: Model 114 EQ-ASB: Tripod and tray.

INTRODUCTION

The Meade 114 EQ-ASB is an easy-to-operate, high performance 4.5" (114mm) reflecting telescope, intended for astronomical observing. Equipped with a deluxe equatorial mount and aluminum tripod, the telescopes motion is continuously adjustable for tracking celestial objects. Your telescope comes to you ready for adventure; it will be your companion in a universe of planets, galaxies, and stars. Please note that the Meade 114 EQ-ASB is a Newtonian reflecting telescope optimized for astronomical observing performance, and is not intended for terrestrial observing.

This Manual

These instructions detail the set-up, operation, specifications, and optional accessories of your Jupiter 114 EQ-ASB. In order that you may achieve maximum enjoyment of the instrument, we urge that you take a few minutes to read all of this manual before making first observations through the telescope.

Standard Equipment

Complete optical tube assembly with a 4.5" (114mm) diameter primary mirror, viewfinder mounting bolts with mounting nuts and rack-and-pinion focuser. Mirror focal length = 1000mm; f/8.8 Equatorial mount with pre-attached heavy duty, continuously adjustable, aluminum tripod and leg braces. Accessories: MA25mm eyepiece (1.25" O.D.), MH9mm eyepiece (1.25" O.D.), 2x Barlow lens Cradle rings with lock knobs 5 x 24 viewfinder and bracket Counterweight with counterweight shaft Flexible cable controls for both telescope axes Accessory tray CD-Rom with Astronomy Software

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

Your Meade 114 EQ-ASB comes to you packaged almost entirely pre-assembled. (References in this sectione.g. (6)are to Fig.1a - 1e unless otherwise specified.) Remove and identify the telescopes Standard Equipment listed above. The three tripod lock knobs (43) have been removed from the bottom section of each tripod leg to insure safe arrival of the tripod assembly. To install, thread in each tripod lock knob into the threaded hole located at the right side of each of the three castings (see Fig. 1f) at the bottom of each tripod leg. Tighten the tripod lock knob only to a firm feel to avoid damage to the tripod caused by overtightening.
Trou taraud Threaded Hole
Leg Lockde blocage Bouton Knob
Spread the tripod legs (1) to full extension so that the leg braces Partie Inner Leg Sliding intrieure coulissante (42) are taut (should one of the tripod leg braces slip out of the center triangle fastener, merely reposition the brace and slide it Fig. 1f: Tripod lock knob assembly. back into position). Adjust the tripod with the attached equatorial mount (2) to the desired height by loosening the tripod lock knobs and extend the sliding inner section of each tripod leg; then tighten each knob. Attach the flexible cable controls (3) and (4). These cable controls are secured in place with a firm tightening of the thumbscrew located at the end of each cable. Holding the counterweight (5) firmly in one hand, slip the counterweight onto the counterweight shaft (6). Attach the counterweight (5) and counterweight shaft (6), by supporting the unlocked (7) counterweight firmly in one hand, while threading the counterweight shaft into the base of the Declination axis of the telescopes equatorial mount with the other (see Fig. 1). Once firmly attached, slide the counterweight to the midpoint on the counterweight shaft and secure it in place with the lock knob (7) of the counterweight. Note: If the counterweight ever slips, the secured threaded safety washer/knob (8) will not let the weight slide entirely off the counterweight shaft. Be certain that this safety washer/knob is always in place. Release the latitude lock (9) of the equatorial mount, and tilt the polar axis (10) of the telescope to roughly a 45 angle by turning the latitude adjustment knob (11). With the polar axis thus tilted, firmly re-tighten the latitude lock.

7 Remove the viewfinder bracket mounting nuts from the viewfinder bracket mounting bolts (16) that protrude from the optical tube (12), near the focuser (17). Place the viewfinder brackets mounting holes (located at the base of the bracket) over the mounting bolts, so that the bracket is oriented as shown in Fig. 1. Replace the viewfinder bracket mounting nuts, and tighten to a firm feel. Then center the viewfinder in both bracket rings by backing off the three thumbscrews (26) on each bracket ring. Orient the viewfinder so its front objective lens is pointing in the same direction as the open end (front) of the optical tube (25). Position the cradle ring attachment (37) onto the optical tube saddle plate (13), with the mid-point lying roughly in the center of the saddle plate. Tighten the cradle ring lock knob (36) to a firm feel when the cradle ring attachment is positioned in the telescopes saddle (13). If the cradle ring assmbly did not come already attached to the optical tube assembly (12), loosen the lock knobs (15) of the cradle rings (14) and open the cradle rings. Place the optical tube assembly roughly in the center of the cradle rings and close the rings over the tube. Then tighten the cradle ring lock knobs (15) to a firm feel; do not overtighten these knobs. Please note that you may want to change the rotational position of the optical tube to gain a more comfortable observing position of the focuser (17). This adjustment may be performed several times in one observing session, as desired. Insert the 25mm eyepiece (19) into the focuser, and tighten the focuser thumbscrew (18) to secure the eyepiece.
The telescope is now fully assembled. Before it can be properly used, however, the telescope must be balanced and the viewfinder aligned.

Balancing the Telescope

In order for the telescope to move smoothly on its mechanical axes, it must first be balanced about the 2 telescope axes: the polar axis (10, Fig. 1c) and the Declination axis (21, Fig. 1c). All motions of the polar aligned telescope (more on this later) take place by moving about these two axes, separately or simultaneously. To obtain a fine balance of the telescope, follow the method below: Loosen the R.A. lock (22, Fig. 1c) and rotate the telescope so that the counterweight shaft (6, Fig. 1c) is parallel to the ground (horizontal). Slide the counterweight along the counterweight shaft until the telescope remains in one position without tending to drift down in either direction. Then tighten the counterweight lock knob (7, Fig. 1c), locking the counterweight in position. Lock the R.A. lock (22, Fig. 1c), and unlock the Declination lock (23, Fig. 1c). The telescope will now turn freely about the Declination axis. Loosen the cradle ring lock knobs (15, Fig. 1e) so that the main tube in the cradle rings slides easily up-or-down in the cradle rings. Move the main tube in the cradle rings until it is balanced rotationally about the Declination axis. Re-lock the knobs (15, Fig. 1e).

The telescope is now properly balanced on both axes.
Alignment of the Viewfinder
The wide field of view provided by the 5 x 24mm viewfinder permits easy object sighting prior to observation in the higher-power main telescope. The 5 x 24 Viewfinder (24, Fig. 1a) and viewfinder bracket (20, Fig. 1a) attaches to the telescope tube assembly as described above (see Fig. 1a). In order for the viewfinder to be functional, however, it must be aligned to the main telescope, so that both the viewfinder and main telescope point at the same position in the sky. With this simple alignment performed, finding objects is greatly facilitated, since you will first locate an object in the wide-field viewfinder, then you will look in the eyepiece of the main telescope for a detailed view. To align the viewfinder follow these steps: Remove the telescope front dust cover (25, Fig. 1e), and the dust covers of the viewfinder. Place the low- power (25mm) eyepiece into the focuser of the main telescope. Unlock the R.A. lock (22, Fig. 1c) and the Dec. lock (23, Fig. 1c) so that the telescope turns freely on both axes. Then point the main telescope at some well-defined land object (e.g. the top of a telephone pole) at least 200 yards distant, and re-lock the R.A and Dec. axes. Turn the flexible cable controls, (3, Fig. 1e) and (4, Fig. 1e), to center the object in the telescopic field. With the front of the viewfinder already centered in the front bracket ring, look through the viewfinder and loosen or tighten, as appropriate, one or more of the rear viewfinder bracket ring thumbscrews (26, Fig. 1a) until the viewfinders crosshairs are likewise centered on the object previously centered in the main telescope.
8 Check this alignment on a celestial object, such as a bright star or the Moon, and make any refinements necessary, using the method outlined above.
With this alignment performed, objects first located in the wide-field viewfinder will also be centered in the main telescopes field of view. (Note: The viewfinder presents an image which is upside-down.)
UNDERSTANDING CELESTIAL MOVEMENTS AND COORDINATES
Understanding where to locate celestial objects, and how those objects move across the sky is fundamental to enjoying the hobby of astronomy. Most amateur astronomers adopt the simple practice of star-hopping to locate celestial objects by using star charts or astronomical software which identify bright stars and star patterns (constellations) that serve as road maps and landmarks in the sky. These visual reference points guide amateur astronomers in their search for astronomical objects. And while starhopping is the preferred technique, a discussion of using setting circles for locating objects is desirable since your telescope is provided with this feature. However, be advised, compared to star-hopping, object location by use of setting circles requires a greater investment in time and patience to achieve a more precise alignment of the telescopes polar axis to the celestial pole. For this reason, in part, star-hopping is popular because it is the faster, easier way to become initiated in the hobby. Understanding how astronomical objects move: Due to the Earths rotation, celestial bodies appear to move from East to West in a curved path through the skies. The path they follow is known as their line of Right Ascension (R.A.). The angle of this path they follow is known as their line of Declination (Dec.). A celestial coordinate system was created that maps an imaginary sphere surrounding the Earth upon which all stars appear to be placed. This mapping system is similar to the system of latitude and longitude on Earth surface maps. In mapping the surface of the Earth, lines of longitude are drawn between the North and South Poles and lines of latitude are drawn in an East-West direction, parallel to the Earths equator. Similarly, imaginary lines have been drawn to form a latitude and longitude grid for the celestial sphere. These lines are known as Right Ascension and Declination. The celestial map also contains two poles and an equator just like a map of the Earth. The poles of this coordinate system are defined as those two points where the Earths North and South poles (i.e., the Earth's axis), if extended to infinity, would cross the celestial sphere. Thus, the North Celestial Pole (see Fig. 3) is that point in the sky where an extension of the North Pole intersects the celestial sphere. The North Star, Polaris, is located very near the North Celestial Pole. The celestial equator is a projection of the Earths equator onto the celestial sphere. So just as an object's position on the Earths surface can be located by its latitude and longitude, celestial objects may also be located using Right Ascension and Declination. For example: You could locate Los Angeles, California, by its latitude (+34) and longitude (118). Similarly, you could locate the Ring Nebula (also known as M57) by its Right Ascension (18hr) and its Declination (+33). I Right Ascension (R.A.): This celestial version of longitude is measured in units of hours (hr), minutes (min), and seconds (sec) on a 24-hour "clock" (similar to how Earth's time zones are determined by longitude lines). The "zero" line was arbitrarily chosen to pass through the constellation Pegasus, a sort of cosmic Greenwich meridian. R.A. coordinates range from 0hr 0min +90 Dec. +90 Dc. North Celestial Pole Ple nord cleste 0sec to 23hr 59min 59sec. There are Star (Vicinity of Polaris) Etoile 24 primary lines of R.A., located at 15-degree intervals along the celestial equator. Objects located further and further East of the zero R.A. grid line (0hr 0min 0sec) carry Rotation de la Terre higher R.A. coordinates. Celestial Declination (Dec.): This celestial Equateur cleste Ascension droite Equator version of latitude is measured in degrees, arc-minutes, and arcseconds (e.g., 15 27' 33"). Dec. South Celestial locations North of the celestial Ple cleste Sud. Dc.-90 Dc. -90 Dec. Pole equator are indicated with a plus (+) sign (e.g., the Dec. of the North celestial pole is +90). Dec. locations Fig. 2: Celestial Sphere.

ison clina D

9 South of the celestial equator are indicated with a minus () sign (e.g., the Dec. of the South celestial pole is 90). Any point on the celestial equator (such as the the constellations of Orion, Virgo, and Aquarius) is said to have a Declination of zero, shown as 0 0' 0." With all celestial objects therefore capable of being specified in position by their celestial coordinates of Right Ascension and Declination, the task of finding objects (in particular, faint objects) in the telescope is vastly simplified. The setting circles, R.A (27, Fig. 1c) and Dec. (28, Fig. 1c) of the Polaris 114 EQ-ASB telescope may be dialed, in effect, to read the object coordinates and the object found without resorting to visual location techniques. However, these setting circles may be used to advantage only if the telescope is first properly aligned with the North Celestial Pole.
LINING UP WITH THE CELESTIAL POLE
Objects in the sky appear to revolve around the celestial pole. (Actually, celestial objects are essentially fixed, and their apparent motion is caused by the Earths axial rotation). During any 24 hour period, stars make one complete revolution about the pole, making concentric circles with the pole at the center. By lining up the telescopes polar axis with the North Celestial Pole (or for observers located in Earths Southern Hemisphere with the South Celestial Pole), astronomical objects may be followed, or tracked, by moving the telescope about one axis, the polar axis. If the telescope is reasonably well aligned with the pole, therefore, very little use of the telescopes Declination flexible cable control is necessary and virtually all of the required telescope tracking will be in Right Ascension. (If the telescope were perfectly aligned with the pole, no Declination tracking of stellar objects would be required). For the purposes of casual visual telescopic observations, lining up the telescopes polar axis to within a degree or two of the pole is more than sufficient: with this level of pointing accuracy, the telescope can track accurately by slowly turning the telescopes R.A. flexible cable control and keep objects in the telescopic field of view for perhaps 20 to 30 minutes. To line up the Meade 114 EQ-ASB with the pole, follow this procedure: 1. Release the Azimuth lock (30, Fig. 1c) of the Azimuth base (33, Fig. 1c), so that the entire telescopewith-mounting may be rotated in a horizontal direction. Rotate the telescope until the polar axis (10, Fig. 1c) points due North. Locate Polaris, the North Star (see Fig. 3), as an accurate reference for due North. 2. Level the mount, if necessary, by adjusting the heights of the three tripod legs. Set the Dec dial to 90. 3. Determine the latitude of your observing location by checking a road map or atlas. Release the latitude lock (9, Fig. 1c) and tilt the telescope mount with the latitude adjustment knob (11, Fig. 1) so that the pointer indicates the correct latitude of your viewing location on the latitude scale (29, Fig. 1c). Re-tighten the latitude lock (9, Fig. 1c).

Little Dipper Petite Ourse

Polaris Polaire

Big Dipper Grande Ourse Fig. 3: Locating Polaris.

Cassiopeia Cassiope

4. Without moving the telescope on the Right Ascension and Declination axes, loosen the azimuth and latitude locks (9 and 30, Fig. 1c) and adjust the telescope until Polaris is centered in the telescope eyepiece. If steps 1 - 3 above were performed with reasonable accuracy, your telescope is now sufficiently well-aligned to the North Celestial Pole for visual observations. Once the mount has been polar-aligned as described above, the latitude angle need not be adjusted again, unless you move to a different geographical location (i.e. a different latitude). The only polar alignment procedure that need be done each time you use the telescope is to point the polar axis due North, as described in step 1 above.

USING THE TELESCOPE

With the telescope assembled, balanced and polar aligned as described above, you are ready to begin observations. Decide on an easy-to-find object such as the Moon, if it is visible, or a bright star to become accustomed to the functions and operations of the telescope. For the best results during observations, follow the suggestions below:
10 To center an object in the main telescope, loosen the telescopes R.A. lock (22, Fig. 1c) and Dec. lock (23, Fig. 1c). The telescope can now turn freely on its axes. Use the aligned viewfinder to first sight-in on the object you wish to observe; with the object centered on the viewfinders crosshairs, re-tighten the R.A. and Dec. locks. If you have purchased an assortment of eyepieces (see Section G on Calculating Power and Section J on Optional Accessories for higher and lower powers with the telescope), always start an observation with a low power eyepiece (e.g., the 25mm eyepiece); get the object well-centered in the field of view and sharply focused. Then try the next step up in magnification. If the image starts to become fuzzy as you work into higher magnifications, then back down to a lower power; the atmospheric steadiness is not sufficient to support high powers at the time you are observing. Keep in mind that a bright, clearly resolved but smaller image will show far more detail than a dimmer, poorly resolved larger image. The 25mm eyepiece included with the Meade 114 EQ-ASB presents a wide field of view, ideal for general astronomical observing of star fields, clusters of stars, nebulae, and galaxies; it is also probably the best eyepiece to use in the initial finding and centering of any object. Once centered, the object can be focused by turning one of the knobs of the focusing mechanism (31, Fig. 1b). You will notice that the astronomical object in the field of view will begin to slowly move across the eyepiece field. This motion is caused by the rotation of the Earth on its axis, as described in Section C, although the planets and stars, are, for practical purposes, fixed in their positions in the sky. The platform on which the telescope is sitting ( the Earth) rotates once every 24 hours under these objects. To keep astronomical objects centered in the field of the polar aligned telescope, simply turn the R.A. flexible cable control (3, Fig. 1e). These objects will appear to move through the field more rapidly at higher powers. Note that the Declination flexible cable control (4, Fig. 1e) is used only for centering purposes, and not for tracking. Avoid touching the eyepiece while observing through the telescope. Vibrations resulting from such contact will cause the image to move. Likewise, avoid observing sites where ground-based vibrations may resonate the tripod. Viewing from the upper floors of a building may also introduce image movement. You should allow a few minutes to allow your eyes to become dark adapted before attempting any serious astronomical observations. Use a red filtered flashlight to protect your night vision when reading star maps or inspecting the components of the telescope. Avoid setting up the telescope inside a room and observing through an open window (or worse yet, a closed window). Images viewed in such a manner may appear blurred or distorted due to temperature differences between inside and outside air. Also, it is a good idea to allow your telescope a chance to reach the ambient (surrounding) outside temperature before starting an observing session. Avoid viewing objects low on the horizonobjects will appear better resolved with far greater contrast when viewed higher in the sky. Also, if images appear to shimmer in the eyepiecereduce power until the image steadies. This condition is caused by air turbulence in the upper atmosphere. We repeat the warning stated at the outset of this manual: Never point the telescope directly at or near the Sun at any time! Observing the Sun, even for the smallest fraction of a second, will result in instant and irreversible eye damage, as well as physical damage to the telescope itself. The Meade 114 EQ-ASB may be used for a lifetime of rewarding astronomical observing, but basic to your enjoyment of the telescope is a good understanding of the instrument. Read the above instructions carefully until you understand all of the telescopes parts and functions. One or two observing sessions will serve to clarify these points forever in your mind. The number of fascinating objects visible through your Jupiter reflector is limited only by your own motivation. Astronomical software, such as Polariss AstroSearch, or a good star atlas, will assist you in locating many interesting celestial objects. These objects include: Cloud belts across the surface of the planet Jupiter. The 4 major satellites of Jupiter, visible in rotation about the planet, with the satellite positions changing each night. Saturn and its famous ring system, as well as several satellites of Saturn, much fainter than the major satellites of Jupiter.

11 The Moon: A veritable treasury of craters, mountain ranges and fault lines. The best contrast for viewing the Moon is during its crescent phase. The contrast during the full Moon phase is low due to the angle of illumination. Deep-Space: Nebulae, galaxies, multiple star systems, star clustershundreds of such objects are visible through the Meade 114 EQ-ASB.

USING SETTING CIRCLES

Setting circles of the polar aligned equatorial mount can facilitate the location of faint celestial objects not easily found by direct visual observation. To use the setting circles, follow this procedure: Use a star chart or star atlas, and look up the celestial coordinates, Right Ascension and Declination (R.A. and Dec.), of an easy-to-find bright star that is within the general vicinity of the faint object you wish to locate. Center the determined bright star in the telescopes field of view. Manually turn the R.A. setting circle (27, Fig. 1c) to read the R.A. of the object now in the telescopes eyepiece. The setting circles are now calibrated (the Dec. setting circle (28, Fig. 1c) is factory calibrated). To locate a nearby faint object using the setting circles determine the faint objects celestial coordinates from a star chart, and move the telescope in R.A. and Declination until the setting circles read the R.A. and Dec. of the object you are attempting to locate. If the above procedure has been carefully performed, the faint object will now be in the field of a low power eyepiece. The R.A. Setting Circle must be manually re-calibrated on the current Right Ascension of a star every time the telescope is set up, and reset to the centered objects R.A. coordinate before moving to a new R.A. coordinate setting. The R.A. Setting Circle has two sets of numbers, the inner set is for Southern hemisphere use while the outer set of numbers (the set closest to the R.A. gear), is for use by observers located North of the Earths equator (e.g., in North America).

CALCULATING POWER

The power, or magnification of the telescope depends on two optical characteristics: the focal length of the main telescope and the focal length of the eyepiece used during a particular observation. For example, the focal length of the Meade 114 EQ-ASB telescope is fixed at 1000mm. To calculate the power in use with a particular eyepiece, divide the focal length of the eyepiece into the focal length of the main telescope. For example, using the 25mm eyepiece supplied with the Meade 114 EQ-ASB, the power is calculated as follows:
Power = 1000mm 25mm = 40X
The supplied 2X Barlow lens doubles the power of each eyepiece. Insert the 2X Barlow lens into the the eyepiece holder (17, Fig. 1b), followed by the eyepiece, and secure by tightening the respective thumbscrews. For example, the 25mm (40X) eyepiece, when used with the 2X Barlow Lens, yields 80X. The 9mm (= 111X) eyepiece, when used with the 2X Barlow Lens, yields 222X. Meade Instruments manufactures several types of eyepiece designs that are available for your telescope. The type of eyepiece (MAor MH) has no bearing on magnifying power but does affect such optical characteristics as field of view, flatness of field, eye relief and color correction. The maximum practical magnification is determined by the nature of the object being observed and, most importantly, by the prevailing atmospheric conditions. Under very steady atmospheric seeing, the Meade 114 EQ-ASB may be used at powers up to about 225x on astronomical objects. Generally, however, lower powers of perhaps 75x to 175x will present the best images consistent with high image resolution. When unsteady air conditions prevail (as witnessed by rapid twinkling of the stars), extremely high-power eyepieces result in poor magnification, where the object detail observed is actually reduced by the excessive power.

MAINTENANCE Cleaning

As with any quality instrument, lens or mirror surfaces should be cleaned as infrequently as possible. Front surface aluminized mirrors, in particular, should be cleaned only when absolutely necessary. In all cases avoid touching any mirror surface. A little dust on the surface of a mirror or lens causes negligible loss of performance and should not be considered reason to clean the surface. When lens or mirror cleaning does become necessary, use a camels hair brush or compressed air gently to remove dust. If the telescopes dust cover is replaced after each observing session, cleaning of the optics will rarely be required.
Mount and Tripod Adjustments
Every Meade 114 EQ-ASB equatorial mount and tripod is factory inspected for proper fit and function prior to shipment. The tripod legs have wingnuts (39, Fig. 1c), and Phillips-head screws (38, Fig. 1c) that may have backed off. They may be tightened to a firm feel for a more sturdy performance of the telescope.
Collimation (Alignment) of the Optics
All Meade 114 EQ-ASB telescopes are optically aligned at the factory prior to shipment. It is unlikely that you will need to align, or collimate, the optics after receipt of the instrument. However, if the telescope received unusually rough handling in shipment, it is possible that the optics must be re aligned for best optical performance. In any case this alignment procedure is simple, and requires only a few minutes the very first time the telescope is used. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the following collimation procedure, so that you will recognize a properly collimated instrument and can adjust the collimation yourself, if necessary.

a. Correct collimation

The properly collimated (aligned) mirror system in the Meade 114 EQ-ASB assures the sharpest images possible. This occurs when the primary mirror and diagonal mirror are tilted so that the focused image (see Fig. 4) falls directly through the center of the focuser drawtube (17, Fig. 1b). These mirror tilt adjustments are made with the diagonal assembly (Fig. 5) and the primary mirror cell (Fig. 6), and will be discussed later. To inspect the view of the mirror collimation, look down the focuser drawtube with the eyepiece removed. The edge of the focuser drawtube (1, Fig. 7), will frame the reflections of the primary mirror with the 3 mirror clips (2, Fig. 7), the diagonal mirror (3, Fig. 7) , the spider vanes (4, Fig. 7), and your eye (5, Fig. 7). Properly aligned, all of these reflections will appear concentric (i.e., centered) as illustrated in Fig. 7. Any deviation from the concentric reflections will require adjustments to the diagonal assembly (Fig. 5), and/or the primary mirror cell (Fig. 6).

b. Diagonal holder adjustments
If the diagonal mirror (1, Fig. 8) is centered in the drawtube (2, Fig. 8), but the primary mirror is only partially visible in the reflection (3, Fig. 8), the 3 Phillips-head diagonal tilt screws (1, Fig. 5). Note: To adjust these screws you must first remove an adhesive backing) must be unthreaded slightly to the point of where you can tilt the diagonal holder (3, Fig. 5) from side-to-side by grasping the diagonal holder with your hand and tilt until you see the primary mirror become as centered in the reflection of the diagonal mirror as possible. Once you are at the best position, thread in the 3 Phillips-head diagonal tilt screws to lock the rotational
Diagonal Monture Assembly Diagonale
Miroir Diagonal Diagonal Mirror
PrimaryPrimaire Miroir Mirror
Focused Image Image Focalise
Vis D'inclinaison Promary Mirror-Tilt Screws du Miroir Primaire
Fig. 4: The Newtonian Reflecting Telescope.
13 position. Then, if necessary, make adjustments to these 3 Phillips-head screws to refine the tilt-angle of the diagonal mirror until the entire primary mirror can be seen centered within the diagonal mirror reflection. When the diagonal mirror is correctly aligned, it will look like Fig. 9. (Note: the primary mirror is shown out of alignment.)

Remove adhesive backing

c. Primary mirror adjustments
If the diagonal mirror (1, Fig. 9) and the reflection of the primary mirror (2, Fig. 9) appear centered within the drawtube (3, Fig. 9), but the reflection of your eye and the reflection of the diagonal mirror (4, Fig. 9) appear off- Fig. 5: Diagonal Assembly. center, you will need to adjust the primary mirror tilt Phillips-head screws of the primary mirror cell (3, Fig. 6). These primary tilt screws are located behind the primary mirror, at the lower end of the main tube. See Fig. 4. To adjust the primary mirror tilt screws, first unscrew several turns, the 3 hex-head primary mirror cell locking screws (2, Fig.6) that are next to each primary mirror tilt Phillipshead screw. Then by trial-and-error, turn the primary mirror tilt Phillips-head screws (3, Fig. 6) until you develop a feel for which way to turn each screw to center the reflection of your eye. Once centered, as in Fig. 7, turn the 3 hex-head primary mirror cell locking screws (2, Fig. 6) to relock the tilt-angle adjustment.
d. Star testing the collimation
With the collimation performed, you will want to test the accuracy of the alignment on a star. Use the 25mm eyepiece and point the telescope at a moderately bright (second or third magnitude) star, then center the star image in the telescopes field-of-view. With the star centered follow the method below: Bring the star image slowly out of focus until one or more rings are visible around the central disc. If the collimation was performed correctly, the central star disk and rings will be concentric circles, with a dark spot dead center within the out-of-focus star disk (this is the shadow of the secondary mirror), as shown in Fig. 10C. (An improperly aligned telescope will reveal elongated circles (Fig. 10A), with an off-center dark shadow.) If the out-of-focus star disk appears elongated (Fig. 10A), you will need to adjust the primary mirror Phillips-head tilt screws of the primary mirror cell (3, Fig. 6). To adjust the primary mirror tilt screws (3, Fig. 6), first unscrew several turns the 3 hex-head primary mirror cell locking screws (2, Fig. 6), to allow free turning movement of the tilt knobs. Using the flexible cable controls (3 and 4, Fig. 1e), move the telescope until the star image is at the edge of the field-of-view in the eyepiece, as in Fig. 10B. As you make adjustments to the primary mirror tilt screws (3, Fig. 6), you will notice that the out-offocus star disk image will move across the eyepiece field. Choose one of the 3 primary mirror tilt screws and slightly move the shadow to the center of the disk. Then slightly move the telescope using the flexible cable controls to center the star disk image in the center of the eyepiece. If any further adjustments are necessary, repeat this process as many times as needed until the outof-focus star disk appears as in Fig. 10C, when the star disk image is in the center of the eyepiece field. With the star testing of the collimation complete, tighten the 3 hex-head primary mirror locking screws (2, Fig. 6).

Fig. 6: Primary Mirror Cell.
Fig. 7: Correct Collimation.
Fig. 8: Diagonal Mirror Misalignment.
Fig. 9: Primary Mirror Misalignment.

Fig. 10: Collimation.

SPECIFICATIONS
Primary (main) mirror focal length:.1000mm Primary mirror diameter:.4.5" (114mm) Focal ratio:.f/8 Mounting:.German equatorial

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

See your Meade 114 EQ-ASB dealer for further details on any of these accessories. Additional Eyepieces (1.25"): Meade offers a wide line of eyepieces for enhanced astronomical and/or terrestrial viewing, including: MA 40mm (1.25"): Offers the most dramatic, wide field of view for observing deep-space objects. This is also the eyepiece most recommended for viewing of objects on land (23x). Basic Camera Adapter (1.25 O.D.): Permits direct attachment of 35mm SLR cameras to the telescope. (Requires T-Mount for your specific brand of camera). Suitable for lunar disk and land photography.

ADVANCED

PRODUCTS

DIVISION

Worlds Leading Manufacturer of Astronomical Telescopes for the Serious Amateur
6001 Oak Canyon, Irvine, California 92618 I (949) 451-1450 FAX: (949) 451-1460 I www.meade.com

04057-00 ver 4/04