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Instruction Manual
ETX Premier Edition Telescope Series

AutoStar LNT SmartFinder

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CONTENTS

WARNING!

Never use a Meade ETX PE 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 as it is moving. Children should always have adult supervision while observing.
Caution: Use care to install batteries in the orientation indicated by illustration in the battery slots of the battery compartment. Follow battery manufacturer's precautions. Do not install batteries backwards or mix new and used batteries. Do not mix battery types. If these precautions are not followed, batteries may explode, catch fire or leak. Improperly installed batteries void your Meade warranty.
If you are anxious to use your telescope for the first time, read the QUICK-START GUIDE on pages 4 and 5.
The name "Meade," ETX, AutoStar and the Meade logo are trademarks registered with the U.S. Patent Office and in principal countries throughout the world. LNT [Level North Technology], SmartFinder, Deep Sky Imager, LPI, and Tonights Best are trademarks of Meade Instruments Corporation.
Patents: US 6,304,376 US 6,392,799 US 6,563,636 D 422,610 Patent Pending 2009 Meade Instruments Corporation.
Quick-Start Guide... 4 Telescope Features.. 6 AutoStar Features... 9 Getting Started..12 Parts Listing..12 How to Assemble Your Telescope & Tripod.12 Using SmartFinder, Aligning SmartFinder.13 Choosing an Eyepiece...14 Observing...15 Observing by Moving the Telescope Manually.15 Terrestrial Observing..15 Observing Using AutoStar's Arrow Keys.15 Slew Speeds..16 Astronomical Observing, Observe the Moon.16 To Track an Object Automatically..16 Moving Through AutoStars Menus..16 Automatic Alignment..17 Using the Guided Tour, Go To Saturn,.18 Observe a Star Using Automatic Tracking..19 Initializing AutoStar...19 Basic AutoStar Operation...20 AutoStar Navigation Exercise..20 Entering Data, Moving Through AutoStars Menus.21 AutoStar Menus..22 Menu Tree...22 Objects Menu..23 Event Menu, Glossary Menu.24 Utilities Menu..25 Setup Menu..26 Advanced AutoStar Operation..29 Adding Observing Sites..29 Finding Objects Not in the Database.30 Observing Satellites..30 Create Your Own Guided Tour..31 Landmarks...34 Identify...35 Advanced Alt/Az Alignment Methods.36 Smart Drive Training (PEC)..37 Browse...38 Photography...39 Photography with AutoStar Suite..41 Optional Accessories..42 Maintenance...44 Troubleshooting..45 Specifications...47 Appendix A: Equatorial (Polar) Alignment..50 Equatorial Alignment, Celestial Coordinates.50 Polar Mounting with #884 Deluxe Field Tripod.50 Equatorial Mounting Procedure..51 To Track a Star When Polar Mounted..51 Polar Alignment Modes, Locating Celestial Pole.52 Setting Circles...53 Appendix B: Latitude Chart..54 Appendix C: Training the Drive..55 Appendix D: Changing the LNT Module Battery.56 Appendix E: Basic Astronomy..57

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QUICK-START GUIDE
This Quick Start Guide demonstrates how to install the batteries and eyepiece, and how to observe using the AutoStar Arrow keys. If you wish to try out AutoStars Go To capabilities, check out the list of page references at the bottom of the following page
Remove the ETX telescope from its packaging and place it on a sturdy surface. Place the ETX on its side and remove the battery compartment cover (A) from the underside of the drive base. Insert eight (user-supplied) AA-size batteries into the battery compartment (B) oriented as shown in the battery compartment. Replace the cover and return the telescope to an upright position (if you wish to attach the telescope to the deluxe field tripod, see page 12).
.and the other end of the coiled cord into the coiled cord port at the bottom of AutoStar handbox (H), as shown above.
Place the 26mm eyepiece (C) into the eyepiece holder on the telescope and tighten the attachment thumbscrew (D, not visible in photo) to a "firm feel" only. See page 7, for more information. Remove the dust cover (E) from the end of the telescope tube.
Tighten (to a "firm feel" only, do not overtighten) the vertical lock (I) and the horizontal lock (J). See page 7 and 8 for more information.
Flip the Power Switch (F) on the computer control panel to the ON position. A version screen briefly appears, followed by "Welcome to AutoStar."
The screen displays "Press 0 to align or press Mode for Menu."
Make sure that the computer control panel power switch (F) is in the OFF position. Remove the AutoStar handbox and the coiled cord from the packing materials. Plug one end of the cord into the HBX port (G).

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Arrow Keys: The Arrow keys have several functions. Press an Arrow key to slew the telescope in a specific direction (up, down, left and right), at any one of nine different speeds. See SLEW SPEEDS, page 16. Use the 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. 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."

g Want to learn more

about changing slew speeds? See page 16.
Additionally, use the Arrow keys to to move the cursor across the display: Use the Right or Left Arrow key to move the cursor from one number to the next in the display.
Number Keys: Press to input digits 0 to 9. To change the speed at which the telescope moves (known as the slew speed) press a NUMBER KEY from 1 through 9. 1 is the slowest speed and 9 is the fastest. Scroll Keys: Press to access options within a selected menu. The menu is displayed on the first 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 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.
? Key: Press to access the "Help" file. "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 functions in the Help feature. The Help system is essentially an on-screen instruction manual. If you have a question about an AutoStar operation, e.g., INITIALIZATION, ALIGNMENT, etc., press the ? key and follow the directions that scroll on the second line. When satisfied with the Help provided, press MODE to return to the original screen and continue with the chosen procedure. RS232 Port: Plug in optional cable to download the latest satellite data and software revisions directly from the Meade website (www.meade.com). You can also share software with other AutoStar enthusiasts or control your telescope remotely from your PC. (Requires optional #505 AstroFinder Software and Cable Connector Kit. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 42.) this port located at the bottom of the handbox and the other end into the HBX port of the Computer Control Panel.
1) Coil Cord Port/Coil Cord: Plug one end of the supplied AutoStar coil cord into 1! 1@
Light/0 Key: Press to turn on Utility light (12, Fig. 4). 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.

Fig. 19: Meade Super Plssl eyepieces.
Ti p: If you plan on viewing using higher magnification eyepieces, first locate, center and focus the object using a low-power eyepiece (e.g., 26mm eyepiece). Then remove the lowpower eyepiece and replace it with a higherpower eyepiece; the object should still be centered in the field of view. Objects are much easier to locate and center at lower powers; higher powers are employed simply by changing eyepieces.
The eyepiece power or magnification is therefore 73X and 146X with the Barlow. Most observers should have 3 or 4 eyepieces plus the #126 2X Barlow to achieve the full range of reasonable magnifications possible with ETX models.

ETX TIPS

Too Much Power?
Can you ever have too much power? If the type of power youre referring to is eyepiece magnification, yes, you can! The most common mistake of the beginning observer is to overpower a telescope by using high magnifications which the telescope 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 (see Figs. 20a and 20b). Powers above 300X should be employed only under the steadiest atmospheric conditions.
Fig. 20a & 20b: Jupiter: Examples
of the right amount of magnification and too much magnification.
AutoStar 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 magnifications possible with the ETX telescopes. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 42.

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OBSERVING
Observing by Moving the Telescope Manually
If you wish to observe a distant land object, such as a mountain top or a bird, you can observe by merely pointing the telescope and looking through the eyepiece. 1. Loosen the telescopes horizontal lock (9, Fig. 1a) and vertical lock (6, Fig. 1b). 2. Move your telescope to observe distant street signs, mountains, trees and other structures. Use the SmartFinder to help sight-in on an object. 3. Center the object with SmartFinders red dot and then in the telescope eyepiece. When the object is centered in your eyepiece, remember to re-tighten the horizontal and vertical locks. 4. Practice focusing objects using the focus knob (8, Fig. 1b). 5. Once you get a feel for how your telescope moves and focuses, try to view something more challenging, like a bird or a distant moving train. You can also observe stars and objects in the night sky using this method, but note that objects begin to slowly drift across the eyepiece field. This motion is caused by the rotation of the Earth. As you become familiar with the AutoStar handbox operation, you can counteract the drift using the automatic tracking feature (see TO TRACK AN OBJECT AUTOMATICALLY, page 16) or by using AutoStar's GO TO capabilities (see GO TO SATURN, page 18).

Important Note: AutoStar requests the Country/State, City and Telescope Model information only the first time AutoStar is activated. Subsequently, AutoStar uses the location and model number you have chosen.
If you wish to change this information, use the "Telescope Model" and "Site" options in the Setup menu. See pages 27 and 29 for more information.
You can now use the ARROW KEYS to slew (move) the telescope up, down, right or left. Practice using the ARROW KEYS to center objects in the eyepiece.To change the speed at which the telescope moves (known as the slew speed), press a NUMBER KEY from 1 through 9. 1 is the slowest speed and 9 is the fastest.

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Slew Speeds
AutoStar 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 specific functions. Press the Number key to change the slew speed. The nine available speeds are: Number Key 1 = 1x = 1 x sidereal (0.25 arc-min/sec or 0.004/sec) 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 = 1.0 = 60 arc-min/sec or 1.0/sec Number Key 8 = 1.5 = 90 arc-min/sec or 1.5/sec Number Key 9 = Max = approx. 4.5/sec Speeds 1, 2 or 3: Best used for fine centering of an object in the field of view of a higher power eyepiece, such as a 9mm eyepiece. Speeds 4, 5 or 6: Enable centering of an object in the field of a low-to-moderate power eyepiece, such as a 26mm. Speeds 7 or 8: Best used for rough centering of an object in the SmartFinder. Speed 9: Moves the telescope quickly from one point in the sky to another.
Note: Throughout this manual, you will notice the term "alt/az." Alt/az is frequently used to refer to altitude (vertical) and azimuth (horizontal). Alt/az is just one of many methods used by amateur astronomers to help locate stars in the night sky.
Another method of alignment is called Equatorial (also known as Polar). To learn more about equatorial alignment, see page 50.

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 observers motivation.

Observe the Moon

Point your telescope at the Moon (note that the Moon is not visible every night) and practice using the Arrow keys and the slew speeds to view different features. The Moon contains many interesting features, including craters, mountain ranges and fault lines. The best time to view the Moon is during its crescent or half phase. Sunlight strikes the Moon at an angle during these periods and adds a depth to the view. No shadows are seen during a full Moon, making the overly bright surface appear flat and rather uninteresting. Try using a neutral density Moon filter when observing the Moon. Not only does it cut down the Moon's bright glare, but it also enhances contrast, providing a more dramatic image.

You can easily create your own Guided Tour using the optional Meades AutoStar Suite software. See
PHOTOGRAPHY WITH MEADES AUTOSTAR SUITE, page 41 for more

Go To Saturn

After performing the Automatic Alignment procedure, the motor drive begins operating and the telescope is aligned for a night of viewing. Objects in the eyepiece will maintain their position even though the Earth is rotating beneath the stars. This exercise demonstrates how to select a celestial object, the planet Saturn, for viewing from AutoStars database.

information.

ETX TIPS Which Ones the Alignment Star?
If youre not familiar with objects in the night sky, how can you be sure if the star in your eyepiece is really the alignment star? The rule of thumb is that an alignment star is usually the brightest star in that area of the sky. If you perform a GO TO to an alignment star and you're not sure if you have located the alignment star or it isn't in the eyepiece, look through your smartfinder. When you view an alignment star in the SmartFinder, it stands out dramatically from the rest of the stars in that portion of the sky. The SmartFinder will help you locate a star more quickly than the eyepiece. Using AutoStar, set the slew speed to 6 (press Number key 6) or higher and use the Arrow keys to center the alignment star in the SmartFinder. If your SmartFinder has been aligned with the telescope, the alignment star should now be in the eyepiece. Set the slew speed to 4 or less and center the star in the eyepiece. Also see the SPIRAL SEARCH tip, page 17. 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 find another star to align upon.

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NOTE: Saturn is not visible the entire year and you may need to choose another object from AutoStar's database; however, the procedure, as described below, remains the same. If Saturn (or any other object) is not currently visible in the sky, AutoStar displays Below Horizon. But you can use this procedure to find any object in the AutoStar database. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. After the telescope is aligned, Select Item: Object displays. If Select Item: Object is not displayed on your handbox, keep pressing MODE until it does display. Press ENTER. Object: Solar System displays. Press ENTER. Solar System: Mercury displays. Keep pressing the Scroll Down key until Solar System: Saturn displays (or you may choose another object from the Solar System list if Saturn is not visible). Press ENTER. Calculating displays. Then Saturn and a set of coordinates displays. Note that Saturns (and other planets) coordinates change throughout the year. Press GO TO. Saturn: Slewing. displays and the telescope slews until it finds Saturn. You may need to use the Arrow keys to center Saturn precisely in the eyepiece. AutoStar then automatically moves the telescope so that it "tracks" Saturn (or whatever other object you may have chosen); i.e., Saturn remains centered in the eyepiece.

Want to learn more about Observing Satellites? See page 32.
Satellite is a database of Earth-orbiting objects such as the International Space Station, the Hubble Space Telescope, Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites and geosynchronous orbit satellites. User Objects allows the user to define and store in memory deep-sky objects of specific interest that are not currently in the AutoStar database. See page 30 for more information. Landmarks stores the location of terrestrial points of interest in the permanent AutoStar database. Important Note: To use the Landmark function, the telescope must be located and aligned exactly as when the landmark was added to the database.
Want to learn more about Landmarks? See page 34.
Select: To select a Landmark already in the database (see ADD below), choose the "Select" option and scroll through the list. Press ENTER to select a Landmark, then press GO TO and the telescope slews to the object. Add: To add a Landmark, choose the "Add" option. Enter a name for the Landmark. Locate and center the Landmark in the eyepiece, then press ENTER.
Identify is an exciting feature for an observer who wants to scan the night sky and start exploring. After the telescope has been properly aligned, use the AutoStar Arrow keys to move about in the sky. Then follow this procedure:

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1. 2. 3. 4.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR ALL ALIGNMENT-BASED OPERATIONS: Only use the Arrow keys to move the telescope during the Identify procedure. Do not loosen the telescope locks or move the base or the alignment will be lost. When a desired object is visible in the eyepiece, keep pressing MODE until the Select Item: Object menu is displayed. Press ENTER to select this menu. Scroll through the Object menu options until the Object: Identify screen appears. Press ENTER. AutoStar searches the database for the identity of the object being observed. If the telescope is not directly on an AutoStar database object, the nearest database object is located and displayed on the screen. Press GO TO and the telescope slews to that object.

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Tracking Rate: Changes the speed at which the telescope tracks targets in the sky. a. Sidereal: The default setting for AutoStar; sidereal rate is the standard rate at which stars move from East to West across the sky due to the rotation of the Earth. Lunar: Choose this option to properly track the Moon over long observing sessions. Custom: Allows entry of user-defined tracking rates.
Reverse L/R: Reverses the functions of the Left and Right Arrow keys (i.e., the Right key moves the telescope to the left). Reverse UP/DOWN: Reverses the functions of the Up and Down Arrow keys (i.e., the Up key moves the telescope down). Calibrate Sensors: This menu allows you to improve your telescope's pointing accuracy to alignment stars. It calibrates to correct slight mechanical misalignment due to transport, vibration, or aging. It is recommended that calibration be performed after the LNT Module batteries are changed (see page 56 for more information). When this menu is selected, the telescope slews to Polaris. AutoStar then prompts you to center Polaris and to press ENTER. AutoStar uses the position of Polaris to fine tune the position of North and also for detecting level.
Quiet Slew: Sets the maximum slew rate to 1.5 for quieter operation. Max Elevation: Allows you to enter a value in degrees that sets a limit as to how far the optical tube can swing upward during a programmed slew. (Note that it does not prevent you from performing a manual slew past this limit.) This is useful when you have a camera or other peripheral attached to the telescope you can prevent it from striking the telescope base. Min AOS (Acquisition of Signal): Allows you enter a value in degrees. This value represents the altitude at which your telescope begins to slew when acquiring a satellite track. This is useful when you are observing satellites, but a tall tree or building is obstructing the telescope. For example, you might begin to track the satellite at 15 altitude, instead of 5. See OBSERVING SATELLITES, page 30, for more information about satellites. Calibrate Motor: If the telescope motors appear to have a problem, use this option to retest the motors before performing a Reset. This option is also used if an AutoStar unit is moved between telescopes, to match AutoStar to the new telescope. To calibrate the motors, select this option and press ENTER. Smart Drive: Allows you to perform periodic error correction (PEC) on the R.A. worm gear and can only be used with polar mounted telescopes. Must be performed with a high powered reticle (eg. 9mm). PEC Training for the the ETX telescopes will take about 24 minutes. High Precision: If High Precision is turned on, when looking for a faint celestial object (i.e., a nebula or galaxy), AutoStar first slews to a nearby bright star and displays "ENTER to Sync." Center the star in the eyepiece, then press ENTER. At that point the telescope has a high precision alignment to that part of the sky and it then slews to the object that was originally requested.

Fig. 32b: Example of a format 2 photo.

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technique. Long-lens photography has its own rewards, however, which short-focus lenses cannot duplicate. A Few Tips on Photography 1.Use the standard tripod or the optional table tripod ( see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 42) as a platform for the telescope. At effective focal lengths of 1250mm to 1450mm (ETX-90PE) or 1900mm to 2310mm (ETX125PE), even small external vibrations can easily ruin an otherwise good photo. Caution: With the #64 T-Adapter and a camera body mounted to the ETX photo port, the telescope can be rotated vertically only 45. Moving past this point may damage the telescope and camera. 2. Use a cable-operated shutter release with your camera. Touching the camera body to operate the shutter will almost certainly introduce undesirable vibrations. 3. Focus the image with extreme care. While observing the subject through the cameras reflex viewfinder, turn the ETX's focus knob (8, Fig. 1b) to achieve the sharpest possible focus. Note that some 35mm cameras may have an optional focusing screen (available from the manufacturer) for use with a long telephoto lens. This screen provides a brighter and clearer image to focus and is highly recommended. 4. Correct shutter speeds vary widely, depending on lighting conditions and film used. Trial-and-error is the best way to determine proper shutter speed in any given application. Note: The camera used with an ETX model may have an exposure meter that is still active when the standard lens is removed and the body is connected to the telescope with the T-mount. If used for terrestrial photography, the camera meter should be acceptable. If used for astrophotography, the meter probably will not provide good results since camera meters are not made to compensate for a dark sky. 5. Terrestrial photography through an ETX model is sensitive to heat waves rising from the Earths surface. Long distance photography is best accomplished in the early morning hours before the earth has had time to build up heat. 6. Photography of the Moon and planets through an ETX model can be especially gratifying, but points 1 through 4 should be particularly noted in this case. Lunar or planetary photography requires that the telescope be polar aligned (see EQUATORIAL (POLAR) ALIGNMENT, page 50). Note: Long-exposure photography of deep-sky objects is not practical with an ETX model, since this type of photography requires special electronic and optical guiding devices not available for this telescope. Photography with a Digital Camera Although digital cameras still cannot match the quality of images provided by traditional 35mm cameras, they provide some significant advantages to the casual astrophotographer: You do not have to develop the images (instant images), lower costs, computer and internet readiness. And because unwanted photos are easily discarded, they provide the freedom to experiment. Digital cameras present some problems for the astrophotographer: Many models have lenses that cannot be removed, difficulties in attaching to a telescope, possible vignetting, lack manual focusing and shorter exposure times. Shorter exposure times is one of the biggest drawback. Long exposures with digital cameras introduce undesirable noise and artifacts into a digital image. This limits the range of astro images to the Moon, planets and bright stars. Some tips for better photos: If you cannot remove the lens to your camera, look for a commercially available digital t-adapter. New solutions for attaching a digital camera to a telescope are becoming available as time goes by. If the camera is not directly coupled to the eyepiece, keep it as close to the eyepiece as possible and center the image to be photographed to minimize vignetting (darkening of the edges of the photo).

Fig. 33: The Deep Sky Imager.
Fig. 34: The Lunar Planetary Imager.

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OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
A wide assortment of professional Meade accessories are available for the for ETX telescopes. Meade accessories greatly extend many important applications to the telescope, from low-power, wide-field terrestrial viewing to high-power lunar and planetary observing. The premium quality of these accessories is well-suited to the quality of the instrument itself. Meade telescopes and accessories, including optional accessories for ETX telescopes, are available at more than 3,000 dealer locations in the U.S. and Canada and through Meade international distributors worldwide. Once you have identified the accessories you wish to order, contact your local Meade authorized dealer. To find a dealer near you call (949) 451-1450 or visit the Meade website at www.meade.com. #505 Cable Connector Kit: With Meade AstroFinder software loaded into your PC, AutoStar-equipped ETX90PE and ETX-125PE telescopes may be remotely controlled from the PC display. The #505 Cable Connector Set, permitting connection of ETX, AutoStar and PC, is included with each AstroFinder package. Eyepieces: For higher and lower magnifications, Meade Super Plssl (SP) and Super Wide Angle (SWA) eyepieces (Fig. 35), as well as the Series 4000 8mm to 24mm Zoom eyepiece, yield high-resolution imaging with all ETX telescope models. A useful selection includes the SP 9.7mm, SP 12.4mm and SWA 16mm. Under good seeing conditions, Meade Series 5000 Ultra Wide Angle 4.7mm and 6.7mm eyepieces present the widest obtainable fields of view at high powers and are well suited for observing the Moon and planets (other eyepieces are available in this series). Powers obtained with each eyepiece are shown in the following table.
Eyepiece SP 6.4mm SP 9.7mm SP 12.4mm SP 15mm SP 20mm SP 26mm * SP 32mm SP 40mm SWA 16mm SWA 20mm SWA 24mm UWA 4.7mm UWA 6.7mm ETX-90PE Power 2x Barlow 195X 129X 101X 83X 63X 48X 39X 31X 78X 63X 52X 266X 187X 390X 258X 202X 166X 126X 96X 78X 62X 156X 126X 104X N/A 374X ** ETX-125PE Power 2x Barlow 297X 196X 153X 127X 95X 73X 59X 48X 119X 106X 79X 404X 284X 594X** 392X 306X 253X 190X 146X 119X 96X 238X 211X 158X N/A 567X**
Fig. 35: Optional Eyepieces yield higher and lower magnifying powers.

Barlow

* Included as standard-equipment with the ETX models. ** Use these eyepieces only under extremely steady atmospheric conditions. Fig. 36: Use the #126 2x Barlow Lens to double the magnification of the eyepiece employed.
#126 2x Barlow Lens: An amplifying lens, the multi-coated #126 2x Barlow (Fig. 36) doubles the power of all eyepieces with which it is used. Insert the #126 into the telescopes eyepiece holder first, followed by an eyepiece. Example: By itself, the 26mm eyepiece yields a power of 73X with the ETX-125PE; when used with the #126 2x Barlow Lens, this eyepiece yields 146X. #64 T-Adapter: The basic means of photography through any ETX Astro telescope, the #64 T-Adapter threads to the rear cell of the telescope, followed by a T-Mount appropriate to the users brand of 35mm camera. In this way, the camera body is rigidly coupled to the telescope's optical system, which in effect becomes the camera's lens (see PHOTOGRAPHY, page 38).

Big Dipper

Cassiopeia
Fig. 50: Locating Polaris
Fig. 51: Section of Declination setting circle.
Fig. 52: Section of Right Ascension setting circle.

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APPENDIX B: LATITUDE CHART
Latitude Chart for Major Cities of the World
To aid in the polar alignment procedure (see page 51), latitudes of major cities around the world are listed below. To determine the latitude of an observing site not listed on the chart, locate the city closest to your site. Then follow the procedure below: Northern hemisphere observers (N): If the site is over 70 miles (110 km) North of the listed city, add one degree for every 70 miles. If the site is over 70 miles South of the listed city, subtract one degree per 70 miles. Southern Hemisphere observers (S): If the site is over 70 miles (110 km) North of the listed city, subtract one degree for every 70 miles. If the site is over 70 miles South of the listed city, add one degree per 70 miles. NORTH AMERICA SOUTH AMERICA
Albuquerque Anchorage Atlanta Boston Calgary Chicago Cleveland Dallas Denver Detroit Honolulu Jackson Kansas City Kenosha Las Vegas Little Rock Los Angeles Mexico City Miami Minneapolis Nashville New Orleans New York Oklahoma City Ottawa Philadelphia Phoenix Portland Salt Lake City San Antonio San Diego San Francisco Seattle Washington EUROPE
State/Prov./Country Latitude
New Mexico Alaska Georgia Massachusetts Alberta Illinois Ohio Texas Colorado Michigan Hawaii Mississippi Missouri Wisconsin Nevada Arkansas California Mexico Florida Minnesota Tennessee Louisiana New York Oklahoma Ontario Pennsylvania Arizona Oregon Utah Texas California California Washington District of Columbia N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N
Bogot So Paulo Buenos Aires Montevideo Santiago Caracas ASIA

Country

Colombia Brazil Argentina Uruguay Chile Venezuela

Latitude

4 N 23 S 35 S 35 S 34 S 10 N
Beijing Hong Kong Seoul Taipei Tokyo Sapporo Bombay Calcutta Hanoi Jedda AFRICA
China China South Korea Taiwan Japan Japan India India Vietnam Saudi Arabia

N N N N N N N N N N

23 N S N N S
Cairo Egypt Cape Town South Africa Rabat Morocco Tunis Tunisia Windhoek Namibia AUSTRALIA AND OCEANIA
Adelaide Brisbane Canberra Alice Springs Hobart Perth Sydney Melbourne Auckland

State/Country

South Australia Queensland New South Wales Northern Territory Tasmania Western Australia New South Wales Victoria New Zealand

37 S S S S S S S S S

Amsterdam Athens Bern Copenhagen Dublin Frankfurt Glasgow Helsinki Lisbon London Madrid Oslo Paris Rome Stockholm Vienna Warsaw
Netherlands Greece Switzerland Denmark Ireland Germany Scotland Finland Portugal England Spain Norway France Italy Sweden Austria Poland
52 N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N

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APPENDIX C: TRAINING THE DRIVE
Train the telescope motors using AutoStar. Perform this procedure if you are experiencing any pointing accuracy problems. Fig. 53 depicts the complete Drive Training procedure.
Note: Use a terrestrial object, such as a telephone pole or lamp post, to train the drive. Complete this exercise once every 3 to 6 months to maintain the highest level of telescope pointing accuracy.
Verify that AUTOSTAR INITIALIZATION is complete. Press MODE until Select Item is displayed.
Press > until it is centered

Further Study.

This manual gives only the briefest introduction to astronomy. If you are interested in pursuing further studies in astronomy, a few topics are suggested below that are worth reading up on (some of the topics are easy and some are quite challenging). Try looking up some of these in the AutoStar glossary. Also included below is a small sampling of books, magazines and organizations that you might find helpful. Topics 1. 2. How is a star born? How does a solar system form? How is the distance to a star measured? What is a light year? What is red shift and blue shift? 3. How are the craters on our Moon formed? Is there water under the surface of the Moon? 4. What is a black hole? A neutron star? A quark star? A gamma burster? An Einstein lens? 5. What are stars made of? Why are stars different colors? How is the elemental composition of a star determined? What is an Lyman Alpha forest? 6. What is the difference between a Type 1 and a Type II supernova? 7. What is the importance of studying the composition of comets? Where do comets come from? 8. How old is our Sun? Will our Sun evolve into a planetary nebula or go supernova? 9. What is the Inflationary Big Bang? What is dark matter? What are MACHO's? 10. How are extrasolar planets discovered? What is an accretion (or protoplanetary) disk? 11. What are the differences between elliptical, spiral and irregular galaxies? Can globular clusters be older than the universe itself? Books 1. 2. 3. 4. 1. 2. The Guide to Amateur Astronomy by Jack Newton and Philip Teece The Sky: A Users Guide by David Levy Turn Left at Orion by Guy Consolmagno & Dan Davis Astrophotography for the Amateur by Michael Covington

Select Item Object

Scope slews left. Bring target back to center using ENTER the Right Arrow key.
3 Press < until it is centered 13
Press the scroll up key once.

Select Item Setup

ENTER menu.
Scope slews right. Bring target back to center using ENTER the Left Arrow key.

Access the Setup

Train Drive Az. Train 5

Setup Align

Menu returns to Az. training.

Multiple presses.

Train Drive Alt. Train Setup Telescope 6

ENTER (vertical)

training. Altitude
Access the ENTER Telescope menu.

Drive Setup For this op.

Reminder to target.
Telescope Telescope Model

ENTER use terrestrial

Center reference 17 object Telescope Train Drive 8

ENTER using Arrow

keys. Center target

ENTER Drive option.

Choose the Train
Press until it is centered >

Train Drive Az. Train

Azimuth training.

ENTER (horizontal)

Scope slews down. Bring target back to center using ENTER the Up Arrow key.

Magazines

Reminder to ENTER use terrestrial target.
Scope slews up. Bring target back to center using ENTER the Down Arrow key.
Sky & Telescope Box 9111, Belmont, MA 02178 Astronomy Box 1612, Waukesha, WI 53187
Astronomical League Executive Secretary 5675 Real del Norte, Las Cruces, NM 88012 The Astronomical Society of the Pacific 390 Ashton Ave., San Francisco, CA 94112 The Planetary Society 65 North Catalina Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106
Center reference 11 object.

Center target

Organizations: 1.

Select Item Object 21

Fig. 53: Training the Drive Procedure.
And watch Jack Horkheimer, Star Gazer, on your local PBS station. Visit Jacks website at: www.jackstargazer.com

Page 56

APPENDIX D:CHANGING THE LNT MODULE BATTERY
The LNT Module uses a lithium coin CR2023 battery that will last about 5 years and is installed with the original LNT Module assembly. After you replace the battery, you will need to recalibrate the telescopes sensors and reset the time and date. You will need a new battery. Also, you may use Meades optional Atomic Time Update Module, although this is not necessary. To replace the battery: 1. Remove the top adjustment screw cap/long bolt from the LNT Module. See Fig. 54. 2. Remove the side adjustment screw cap/long bolt from the LNT Module. Take note that there are two springs inside the LNT. One spring is on the bottom of the unit. The second spring is on the side of the unit. One long bolt passes through the side spring and the other long bolt passes through the bottom spring. Set the springs aside as you will need to replace it later in this assembly. See Fig. 55 and 56.

Fig. 57: The Moon. Note the deep shadows in the craters.

Page 58

Tip: Enter a date in the Date menu and you can determine if a planet(s) or any other object in the databasewill be visible during the night of the entered date.
Note: Except during its early or late crescent phases, the Moon can be an exceptionally bright object to view through the telescope. To reduce the brightness and glare, use the #905 Variable Polarizing Filter (see the MEADE GENERAL CATALOG for more information). Planets Planets change positions in the sky as they orbit around the Sun. To locate the planets on a given day or month, consult a monthly astronomy magazine, such as Sky and Telescope or Astronomy. Listed below are the best planets for viewing through your ETX model telescope. Venus is about nine-tenths the diameter of Earth. As Venus orbits the Sun, observers can see it go through phases (crescent, half and full) much like those of the Moon. The disk of Venus appears white, as sunlight is reflected off the thick cloud cover that completely obscures any surface detail. Mars is about half the diameter of Earth. Through the telescope it appears as a tiny reddish-orange disk. You may see a hint of white at one of the planets polar ice caps. Approximately every two years, when Mars is closest to Earth, additional detail and coloring on the planet's surface may be visible. Jupiter (Fig. 58) is the largest planet in our solar system, with a diameter 11 times that of Earth. Jupiter appears as a disk with dark lines stretching across the surface. These lines are cloud bands in the atmosphere. Four of Jupiters 49 (and still counting! )officially named moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto) can be seen as star-like points of light when you use even the lowest magnification. The number of moons visible on any given night changes as they circle around the giant planet.
After entering a new date, go to the Object menu and select the desired planet from the menu. Then keep pressing one of the Scroll keys until the rise and set times display. Press MODE to exit.
Fig. 58: The planet Jupiter. Jupiter's four largest moons can be observed in a different position every night.
Saturn (Fig. 59) is nine times the diameter of Earth and appears as a small, round disk with rings extending out from either side. In 1610, Galileo, the first person to observe Saturn through a telescope, did not understand that what he was seeing were rings. Instead, he believed that Saturn had ears. Saturns rings are composed of billions of ice particles. The major division in Saturn's rings, called the Cassini Division, is generally visible through all three ETX models. Titan, the largest of Saturns moons, can also be seen as a bright, star-like object near the planet. Deep-Sky Objects You can use star charts to locate constellations, individual stars and deep-sky objects. Examples of various deep-sky objects are given below: Stars are large gaseous objects that are illuminated by nuclear fusion in their core. Because of their vast distances from our solar system, all stars appear as pinpoints of light, regardless of the size of the telescope used. Nebulae are vast interstellar clouds of gas and dust where stars are formed. Most impressive of these is the Great Nebula in Orion (M42), a diffuse nebula that appears as a faint wispy gray cloud. M42 is 1600 light years from Earth. Open Clusters are loose groupings of young stars, all recently formed from the same diffuse nebula. The Pleiades (Fig. 60) is an open cluster 410 light years from Earth. Several hundred stars of the cluster are visible through your telescope. Constellations are large, imaginary patterns of stars believed by ancient civilizations to be the celestial equivalent of objects, animals, people or gods. These patterns are too large to be seen through a telescope. To learn the constellations, start with an easy grouping of stars, such as the Big Dipper in Ursa Major. Then use a star chart to explore across the sky. Galaxies are large assemblies of stars, nebulae and star clusters that are bound by gravity. The most common shape is spiral (such as our own Milky Way), but galaxies can also be elliptical or even irregular blobs. The Andromeda Galaxy (M31) is the closest spiral-type galaxy to our own. This galaxy appears fuzzy and cigar-shaped. It is 2.2 million light years away in the constellation Andromeda.

Instruction Manual
ETX-90EC Astro Telescope ETX-105EC Astro Telescope ETX-125EC Astro Telescope
Meade Instruments Corporation

CONTENTS

WARNING!
Never use a Meade ETX Astro 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.
Quick-Start Guide.4 Telescope Electronic Controller Functions.5 ETX: Your Personal Window on the Universe.6 Telescope Controls.6 Electronic Controller Functions.8 Getting Started.9 Parts Listing.9 Assembly Instructions.9 Using the Viewfinder.10 Focusing the Viewfinder.10 Aligning the Viewfinder.10 Observation Techniques.11 Choosing an Eyepiece.11 Understanding Magnification.12 Terrestrial Observing.12 Astronomical Observing.13 Sidereal Rate.13 The Electronic Controller.13 Slew Speeds.13 Modes of Operation.14 Telescope Mountings.14 Alt/Az Mode.14 Polar Mode.15 Celestial Coordinates.16 Locating the Celestial Pole.16 Polar Alignment Procedure.16 Photography.18 A Few Tips on Photography.19 Optional Accessories.20 General Maintenance.22 Storage and Transport.22 Inspecting the Optics.23 Troubleshooting.23 Meade Customer Service.24 Telescope Specifications.25 Appendix A: Advanced Controller Functions.26 Tracking Motor Speed.26 Changing Modes.26 Appendix B: Helpful Charts.27 Latitude Chart for Major Cities of the World.27 Star Locator.27 Appendix C: Polar Alignment; Setting Circles.28 Precise Polar Alignment.28 Setting Circles.28 Appendix D: You and the Universe.29 Objects in Space.29 The Moon.29 Planets.29 Deep-Sky Objects.30
CAUTION! Use care to install batteries as indicated by the battery compartment. Follow battery manufacturer's precautions. Do not install batteries backward or mix new and used batteries. Do not mix battery types. If these precautions are not followed, batteries may explode, catch fire, or leak. Improperly installed batteries void your Meade warranty.
If you are anxious to use your ETX Astro Telescope for the first time, before a thorough reading of this instruction manual, see the QUICK-START GUIDE on page 4.
The name Meade, the Meade logo, and ETX are trademarks registered with the U.S. Patent Office and in principal countries throughout the world. All rights reserved. 2001 Meade Instruments Corporation.

QUICK-START GUIDE 1 4

Remove the ETX from its packaging and place it on a sturdy surface. Place the eyepiece (A) and viewfinder (B) into their appropriate positions on the telescope and tighten their respective attachment screws to a firm feel only.
Slide the Power Switch (E) on the Computer Control panel to the ON position. The lights flicker on the Electronic Controller. Press any key and the motors briefly move the telescope. The Electronic Controller is now operational.
H Slew Speed: Fast Medium Moderate Slow I D
Securely place the ETX on its side and remove the battery compartment cover (C) from the underside of the drive base. Insert eight (user-supplied) AA-size batteries into the battery compartment (D) in the proper orientation. Replace the cover and return the telescope to an upright position.
Use the Electronic Controller Arrow keys (H) to move the telescope up, down, left, and/or right. To change the telescopes slew speed, press the SPEED key (I). The indicator lights signify the speed, with the upper light showing the highest speed. Each press slows the speed down one level, then cycles back to the highest speed. NOTE: Before observing, verify that the flip-mirror control (14, Fig. 1) is in the up position. See FLIPMIRROR CONTROL, page 7, for more information.
NOTE: The telescope has rotational hard stops in the horizontal and vertical axes to prevent damage to the telescope. See page 6, for more information.
Verify that the Computer Control panel power switch (E) is in the OFF position. Remove the Electronic Controller (F) from the packing materials and plug it into the HBX port (G). Tighten the vertical and horizontal locks (6 and 9, Fig. 1) and then remove the dust cover (19, Fig. 1) from the end of the telescope tube.

Sight along the side of the telescopes main tube to locate an object. Practice using the Electronic Controller Arrow keys to center an object in the telescopes field of view. Use the telescopes focus knob (8, Fig. 1) to bring the object into focus.
TELESCOPE AND ELECTRONIC CONTROLLER FUNCTIONS 4 5
Features of the ETX-90EC, ETX105EC, and ETX-125EC are identical, with the exception of the size of optical tube and the type of viewfinder included as standard equipment.

(on left fork arm)

Fig. 1: The ETX-90EC Astro Telescope.
Fig. 1 (Inset): Computer Control Panel. (A) On/Off switch; (B) Auxiliary ports; (C) Handbox port; (D) 12v connector; (E) Power indicator light.
ETX: Your Personal Window to the Universe
The Meade ETX-90EC, ETX-105EC, and the ETX-125EC are extremely versatile, high-resolution telescopes with features similar to those once available only with larger and more specialized imaging systems. With pushbutton controls, automatic tracking of celestial objects (with one of the optional tripods), and diffraction-limited imaging, an ETX telescope may be all the telescope ever required by many terrestrial and astronomical observers. Your ETX telescope reveals nature in an ever-expanding level of detail. Observe the feather structure of an eagle from 50 yards or study the rings of the planet Saturn from a distance of 800 million miles. Focus beyond the Solar System and observe majestic nebulae, ancient star clusters, remote galaxies, and even stars recently discovered to have planets orbiting about them. Meade ETX telescopes are instruments fully capable of growing with your interest and are ideal for both the casual observer and serious astronomer alike.

Telescope Controls

An important array of features and manual controls facilitates operation of an ETX telescope. Be sure to become acquainted with all of these controls before attempting observations through the telescope.
Eyepiece - Place the supplied SP 26mm eyepiece into the 90 Eyepiece Holder (4, Fig. 1) and tighten in place with thumbscrew (3, Fig.1). Viewfinder a. b. ETX-90EC: 8 x 21mm Viewfinder: Slide the eyepiece end of the viewfinder through the front of the viewfinder bracket (1, Fig. 5). ETX-105EC, ETX-125EC: 8 x 25mm Right-Angle Viewfinder: Slide the front cell end of the right-angle viewfinder through the rear of the viewfinder bracket (2, Fig. 5).
Eyepiece Holder Thumbscrew - Tightens the eyepiece in place. Tighten to a firm feel only. 90 Eyepiece Holder - Holds the eyepiece upright for easy viewing. Optical Tube - The main optical component that gathers the light from distant objects and brings this light to a focus for examination with the eyepiece. Vertical Lock - Controls the manual vertical movement of the telescope. Turning the vertical lock counterclockwise unlocks the telescope enabling it to be freely rotated by hand about the vertical axis. Turning the vertical lock clockwise (to a firm feel only) prevents the telescope from being moved manually, but engages the vertical motor drive clutch for Electronic Controller operation. When polar aligned, the vertical lock serves as the Declination, or Dec. lock (see DECLINATION, page 16). Note: The vertical lock knob is a knurled knob located on the fork arm to the right of the focus knob (8, Fig. 1). Mounted beneath the knob is a circular scale with no numbers. Do not confuse this scale with the Dec. setting circle (16, Fig. 1) on the opposite fork arm which has a numbered scale used to locate astronomical objects. CAUTION: When loosening the vertical lock, be sure to support the optical tube (5, Fig. 1). The tube may swing downward suddenly and damage the telescope.

The Electronic Controller
Functions of the Electronic Controller include: Slewing (moving) the telescope's optical tube assembly to an object Turning on the telescope motor drive to automatically track celestial objects (when the telescope is polar aligned) Changing the hemisphere of operation, when required Changing tracking speed (see APPENDIX A, page 26)
Fig. 11: Electronic Controller.

Slew Speeds

The Electronic Controller has four slew speeds that are directly proportional to the sidereal rate. Press the Speed key to change the slew speed. Note each slew speed corresponds to one of the four LED's of the Electronic Controller.

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Light 1 (top LED): The fastest speed. Use to move the telescope quickly from one point in the sky to another. Light 2: Best for centering an object in the viewfinder. Light 3: Best for centering an object in the field of a low-to-moderate power eyepiece, such as the standard SP 26mm. Light 4: The slowest speed. Use to center an object in the field of view of high-power eyepieces, such as the optional 6.7mm or 12.4mm. The four available speeds are: Light 1 = 1200 x sidereal (300 arc-min/sec or 5/sec) Light 2 = Light 3 = Light 4 = 180 x sidereal (45 arc-min/sec or 0.75/sec) 32 x sidereal (8 arc-min/sec or 0.13/sec) 8 x sidereal (2 arc-min/sec or 0.034/sec)
The two slowest speeds (8x and 32x sidereal) can be used for pushbutton (manual) tracking of astronomical objects while observing through the eyepiece.

Modes of Operation

The Electronic Controller can be set to operate in either of two primary modes: the Alt/Az mode (used when the telescope is operated in the altazimuth configuration; see below) and the polar mode (used when the telescope is polar- (or equatorial) aligned; see page 16). Choose the Alt/Az (altitude-azimuth, or vertical-horizontal) mode for all terrestrial operations of the telescope. In the Alt/Az mode, use the Arrow keys to slew the telescope to terrestrial or astronomical objects and, once you locate them, follow these objects if they move. However, in this mode astronomical tracking is not automatic and requires continuous pushes of the Arrow keys. The Electronic Controller is factory pre-set to the Alt/Az mode. Choose the polar mode when the telescope is equipped with either the optional #880 (ETX90EC) or #881 (ETX-105EC or ETX-125EC) Table Tripod, or #883 Deluxe Field Tripod, for extensive astronomical observations. In this mode use the Arrow keys to slew the telescope to objects. In addition, the telescopes internal motor drive is turned on, enabling the telescope to automatically track celestial objects. You can configure the two screws on the bottom rear of the Electronic Controller handbox to change the default mode of the Electronic Controller to Alt/Az or polar. When in polar mode, you may also set the alignment to the hemisphere in which you are located (not necessary in the Alt-Az mode). Caution: Mode screws A and B are the outer screws in the recess directly under the letters A and B on the rear of the Electronic Controller. Do not remove either of the inner two screws in the recess. Remove mode screw A (1, Fig. 12) to make the Northern hemisphere polar mode the automatic default of the Electronic Controller when power is applied (i.e., the motor drive is activated for operation in the Earths Northern Hemisphere). Remove mode screw B (2, Fig. 12) to make the Southern Hemisphere polar mode the automatic default of the Electronic Controller when power is applied (i.e., the motor drive is activated for operation in the Earths Southern Hemisphere ). Leave both the A and B screws in place (or remove both screws) to keep the telescope in the original factory default Alt/Az mode. Note: Removing either A or B screw affects only the telescopes default mode; you may still make mode changes when desired using the MODE key (see, APPENDIX A, page 26).

Telescope Mountings

A mount allows a telescope to move on its axes. The two basic types of mounting are Altazimuth (Alt/Az) and Polar (Equatorial).
35-4702-00 CC Tested to comply with FCC Standards

Alt/Az Mode

Altazimuth (Alt/Az) mounting permits movement of the telescope tube in vertical (altitude) and horizontal (azimuth) directions. The ETX models incorporate an altazimuth mount (as shown in Fig. 9), ideal for terrestrial

FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

Fig. 12: Mode screws on rear of Electronic Controller. (1) Mode screw A; (2) Mode screw B.

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applications and for casual astronomical observation. The telescope may be placed on a rigid tabletop or on the optional Meade #883 Deluxe Field Tripod (see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 20) to provide a secure, variable-height, altazimuth observing platform. To manually track objects with the telescope in the altazimuth configuration, press the Arrow keys of the Electronic Controller as necessary to keep an object centered. Note: Automatic tracking of objects is not possible with the ETX-90 EC, ETX-105EC and the ETX125EC in the Alt/Az mounting. With the Electronic Controller in the factory pre-set Alt/Az (vertical-horizontal) mode, the Electronic Controller Arrow keys permit pushbutton movements (slewing) of the telescope. To move the telescope using the Electronic Controller: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Set the telescope on a level and stable surface, or mount to the Meade #883 Deluxe Field Tripod (see
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 20).
Insert a low-power eyepiece (e.g., SP 26mm) into the eyepiece holder (4, Fig. 1) and tighten the eyepiece thumbscrew (3, Fig. 1). Tighten the vertical and horizontal locks (6 and 9, Fig. 1), if necessary. Verify that the power switch (10A, Fig. 1) on the telescopes Computer Control panel is OFF. Plug in the Electronic Controller coil cord (4, Fig. 3) to the HBX port (10C, Fig. 1) on the Computer Control panel. Flip the power switch to ON. The power indicator (10E, Fig. 1) on the Computer Control panel lights and all four speed indicators (2, Fig. 3) blink rapidly. Press any key on the Electronic Controller and the telescope slews momentarily in the vertical and horizontal directions to test the motors. When the test is complete, light 1 remains on; lights 2, 3, and 4 turn off. Use the four Arrow keys (1, Fig. 3) to slew the telescope to the desired object. To change the slew speed, press the SPEED key.

Surf the Web

One of the most exciting resources for astronomy is the Internet. The Internet is full of websites with new images, discoveries, and the latest astronomical information. For example, when comet Hale-Bopp made its approach to our Sun in 1998, astronomers around the world posted new photos daily. You can find websites for virtually any topic relating to astronomy on the internet. Try the following key word searches: NASA, Hubble, HST, astronomy, Messier, satellite, nebula, black hole, variable stars, extrasolar, Chandra, gamma burster, etc. Check out Meades website for the latest product and technical information. You can download the latest software revisions, links to other astronomical sites, coordinates of celestial objects and the latest satellite tracking information for the optional #497 Autostar handset. See page 20 for more information. Youll find our website at: http://www.meade.com/ Here are some other sites you might find useful: Sky & Telescope: http://www.skypub.com/ Astronomy: http://www.astronomy.com/astro/ The Starfield: http://users.nac.net/gburke/ Astronomy Picture of the Day: http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.goc/apod/ Heavens Above (satellite observing information): http://www.heavens-above.com/ Photographic Atlas of the Moon: http://www.lpi.ursa.edu/research/lunar_orbiter Hubble Space Telescope Public Pictures

Po lar is

Fig. 15: Example of Standard Tripod Leg Latitude Scales.

Dec. at 90

Fig. 16: Example of Polar Alignment Using the #880 Table Tripod and ETX-90EC. (1) Standard tripod leg with latitude scale; (2) High-latitude hole; (3) Alternate hole; (4) Fixed tripod legs; (5) Declination pointer; (6) Thumbscrew; (7) R.A. scale pointer; (8) #1422 low-latitude balance weight.

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CAUTION! When using the #880 Table Tripod with the ETX-90EC, the optional #1422 LowLatitude Balance Weight is recommended if the telescope is to be polar aligned below 30, or if heavy accessories are attached to the eyepieceend of the telescope. The low-latitude balance weight is recommended for the ETX-105EC or ETX125EC at all observing latitudes and is included as standard equipment with the #881 Table Tripod.
and horizontal locks. In this orientation the telescopes optical tube is lined up parallel to the tripods adjustable leg. 8. Note the line and arrow extending from the telescope tube in Fig. 16. This line defines the telescopes polar axis. Lift the entire telescope, including tripod, and place the telescope on a firm and level surface so that this axis is pointing due North (i.e., if the location of Polaris, the North Star, is known, then point the telescope directly at Polaris).
ALT/AZ: Tripod head locked at 90
POLAR: Tripod head locked at observers latitude
9. If using the high-latitude tripod leg in the Northern hemisphere, extend Fig. 17: Examples of Alt/Az and polar mounting of an the leg until the telescopes polar ETX-90EC to the optional #883 Deluxe Field Tripod. axis points to Polaris, or due North, an alignment obtained by sighting along the telescope tube with the telescope oriented as shown in Fig. 16. Note: Observers located in the earths Southern Hemisphere must point the telescopes polar axis due South. 10.With the telescope now polar-aligned, the table tripod should not be moved, or else polar alignment will be lost. Motions of the telescope (e.g., to locate and/or track objects) can be affected only by (a) loosening the locks (6 and 9, Fig. 1), which permits the optical tube to be moved freely within the telescope mounting, or (b) more generally, with the locks in their locked positions, by using the Arrow keys of the Electronic Controller. Note: For almost all astronomical observing requirements, approximate settings of the telescopes polar axis are acceptable. Do not allow undue attention to precise polar alignment of the telescope to interfere with your enjoyment of the instrument. In those unusual cases where more precise polar alignment is desirable, refer to APPENDIX C, page 28.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography through your ETX model requires the addition of the optional #64 T-Adapter (see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 20). With the #64 T-Adapter attached to the telescope (Fig. 18), through-the-telescope photography is possible with any 35mm camera body with a removable lens. In this way the telescope effectively becomes the lens of the camera. For through-the-telescope photography, turn the flip-mirror control (5, Fig. 18) to the down position, allowing light to pass straight through the telescope and out the photo port (15, Fig. 1). With the flip-mirror control in the down position and the photo ports dust cover removed, you can see the front lens of the telescope when you look through the photo port. The #64 T-Adapter threads onto the photo port, followed by a T-mount for the particular brand of 35mm camera being used, followed by the camera body (with the camera lens removed). The #64 T-Adapter consists of two sections (1 and 2, Fig. 18), which are threaded together in shipment. You may use either of the following photographic mounting formats to couple the camera body to the telescopes photo port thread. Format 1: Camera Body + T-Mount + Section (1) of the #64 T-Adapter (7, Fig. 18). ETX-90EC ETX-105EC ETX-125EC 1250mm at f/13.8 1640mm at f/15.6 1900mm at f/15

Format 1 utilizes only the short section of the #64 T-Adapter to permit close-coupling of a camera body to the telescope. In this format vignetting will occur: the photographic image will appear on film with a slight darkening at the corners of the 35mm frame (see Fig. 19). Format 2: Camera Body + T-Mount + Sections (1) and (2) of the #64 T-Adapter (see Fig. 18). ETX-90EC ETX-105EC ETX-125EC 1450mm at f/16 1830mm at f/17.4 2310mm at f/18

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Format 2 utilizes both sections of the #64 T-Adapter threaded together to form a rigid unit. In this configuration there is no field vignetting: images are illuminated to the edges of a standard 35mm frame (see Fig. 20). To frame an object in the viewfinder of the 35mm camera body, slightly loosen the knurled attachment ring (3, Fig. 18), which threads the #64 TAdapter to the telescopes photo port; rotate the camera body to achieve proper framing of the object; then retighten the knurled ring.
Fig. 18: Example of photography through the ETX using the Photography through a long lens, such #64 T-Adapter: (1) Short section of #64 T-Adapter; as the ETX, requires special technique (2) Extension section of #64 T-Adapter; (3) Knurled attachment for good results. The photographer ring; (4) T-mount; (5) Flip-mirror control in down position; (6) should expect to use a roll or two of 35mm camera body; (7) Format 1. film in acquiring this technique. Longlens photography has its own rewards, however, which short-focus lenses cannot duplicate. A Few Tips on Photography 1. Use the optional table tripod specific to your model of ETX, or the #883 Deluxe Field Tripod as a platform for the telescope. At effective focal lengths of 1250mm to 1450mm (ETX-90EC), 1640mm to 1830mm (ETX-105EC), or 1900mm to 2310mm (ETX125EC), even small external vibrations can easily ruin an otherwise good photo. CAUTION: With the #64 T-Adapter and a camera body mounted to the ETX photo port, the telescope can be rotated vertically only 45. Moving past this point may damage the telescope and camera. 2. Use a cable-operated shutter release. Touching the camera body to operate the shutter will almost certainly introduce undesirable vibrations. Fig. 19: Example of a format 1 photo. 3. Focus the image with extreme care. While observing the subject through the cameras reflex viewfinder, turn the ETX's focus knob (8, Fig. 1) to achieve the sharpest possible focus. Note that some 35mm cameras may have an optional focusing screen (available from the manufacturer) for use with a long telephoto lens. This screen provides a brighter and clearer image to focus and is highly recommended. 4. Correct shutter speeds vary widely, depending on lighting conditions and film used. Trial-and-error is the best way to determine proper shutter speed in any given application. Note: The camera used with an ETX model may have an exposure meter that is still active when the standard lens is removed and the body is connected to the telescope with the T-mount. If used for terrestrial photography, the camera meter should be acceptable. If used for astrophotography, the meter probably will not provide good results since camera meters are not made to compensate for a dark sky. 5. Terrestrial photography through an ETX model is sensitive to heat waves rising from the Earths surface. Long distance photography is best accomplished in the early morning hours before the earth has had time to build up heat. 6. Photography of the Moon and planets through an ETX model can be especially gratifying, but points 1 through 4 should be particularly noted in this case. Lunar or planetary photography requires that the telescope be polar aligned (see POLAR ALIGNMENT PROCEDURE, page 16), and that the telescopes motor drive be in operation (see APPENDIX A, page 26). Note: Long-exposure photography of deep-sky objects is not practical with an ETX model, since this type of photography requires special electronic and optical guiding devices not available for this telescope.

Fig. 25: #825 RightAngle Viewfinder.
Fig. 26: The #Erecting Prism.
Fig. 30b: The #883 Deluxe Field Tripod shown with tripod head tilted for polar alignment.
Fig. 27: #774 Hard Carrying Case shown with an ETX-90EC.
Fig. 28: The #765 Soft Carry Bag for the ETX90EC.
Fig. 29: #1244 Electric Focuser.

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GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Your ETX model telescope is a precision optical instruments designed to yield a lifetime of rewarding observations. Given the care and respect due any precision instrument, the telescope will rarely require factory servicing or maintenance. Use the following guidelines: 1. Avoid cleaning the telescopes optics: a little dust on the front surface of the telescopes correcting lens causes virtually no degradation of image quality and should not be considered reason to clean the lens. 2. When absolutely necessary, remove dust from the front lens with gentle strokes of a camel-hair brush or blow it off with an ear syringe (available at any pharmacy). Do not use a commercial photographic lens cleaner. 3. You may remove organic materials (e.g., fingerprints) from the front lens with a solution of 3 parts distilled water to 1 part isopropyl alcohol. A single drop of biodegradable dishwashing soap may be added per pint of solution. Use soft, white facial tissues and make short, gentle strokes. Change tissues often. CAUTION: Do not use scented, colored, or lotioned tissues or damage could result to the optics. 4. In the very rare situation where cleaning the inside surface of the corrector lens becomes necessary, unthread the lens cell located at the front of the main tube. The entire correcting lens and secondary mirror system are mounted in this cell. You may use the lens-cleaner solution described in step 3 to clean the inside surface of the lens. CAUTION: Do not touch the aluminized circular surface of the secondary mirror with a finger, a tissue, or any other object. This will almost certainly scratch the mirror surface. Note: When cleaning the inside surface of the correcting lens, leave the lens mounted in its metal cell throughout the process. Do not remove the lens from its metal housing or optical alignment of the lens will be lost, necessitating a return of the telescope to the Meade factory. 5. If your ETX model is used outdoors on a humid night, telescope surfaces may accumulate water condensation. While such condensation does not normally cause any damage to the telescope, it is recommended that the entire telescope be wiped down with a dry cloth before being packed away. Do not, however, wipe any of the optical surfaces. Rather, simply allow the telescope to sit for some time in warm indoor air, so that the wet optical surfaces can dry unattended. In addition, the dust cap should not be placed back on to the optical tube until the telescope is thoroughly dry. 6. If your ETX model is not to be used for an extended period, perhaps for one month or more, it is advisable to remove the eight AA-size batteries from inside the drive base. Batteries left installed for prolonged periods may leak, causing damage to the telescopes electronic circuitry (see ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS, page 9). 7. The super-gloss anodized finish of any ETX models deep-violet optical tube fades if left in direct sunlight for prolonged periods. 8. Do not leave your ETX model outdoors on a warm day or inside a sealed car for an extended period of time; excessive ambient temperatures can damage the telescopes internal lubrication and electronic circuitry. 9. A set of two (English-format) hex wrenches is provided with ETX models. These wrenches are used as follows: Small wrench (.05): Use the small wrench to tighten the set-screws of any knobs that may loosen (e.g., the focus knob or flip-mirror control knob). Medium wrench (1/16): This wrench is used to detach the viewfinder bracket from the telescopes rear cell.

Storage and Transport

When the telescope is not in use, store it in a cool, dry place. Do not expose the instrument to excessive heat or moisture. It is best to store the telescope in its original box with the vertical and horizontal locks (6 and 9, Fig. 1) in the unlocked positions. If shipping the telescope, use the original box and packing material to protect the telescope during shipment. When transporting the telescope, take care not to bump or drop the instrument; this type of abuse can damage the optical tube and/or the objective lens, and knock the optics out of alignment. It is highly recommended to use an optional carry case to transport the telescope (see OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 21).

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Inspecting the Optics
A Note About the Flashlight Test:" If a flashlight or other high-intensity light source is pointed down the main telescope tube, the view (depending upon the observers line of sight and the angle of the light) may reveal what appear to be scratches, dark or bright spots, or uneven coatings, giving the appearance of poor quality optics. These effects are only seen when a high intensity light is transmitted through lenses or reflected off the mirrors, and can be seen on any high-quality optical system, including giant research telescopes. The optical quality of a telescope cannot be judged by the flashlight test; the true test of optical quality can only be conducted through careful star testing.

Troubleshooting

The following suggestions may be helpful with operation of the ETX-90EC, ETX-105EC, and ETX-125EC.
The power indicator light on the telescope does not come on or there is no response when pressing the Electronic Controller Arrow keys:
Verify that the Computer Control panel power switch (10A, Fig. 1) is in the ON position. Verify that the Electronic Controller cord (4, Fig. 3) is firmly connected to the HBX port (10C, Fig. 1). If using internal power (batteries), verify that the batteries are installed correctly and that they have sufficient charge (see ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS, page 9). Note: If the batteries are getting low on charge, there will be a marked difference in the slew speed. The speed indicator lights may also flash and the speed may change. If any of these symptoms occurs, turn the power off and replace the batteries. If using an external power source, verify that it is properly connected between the 12-volt connector (10D, Fig. 1) and either a wall plug (AC source) or a car cigarette lighter (DC source). If the Electronic Controller does not respond to commands, move the power switch to OFF and then back to ON. If the telescope does not slew after power is applied or if the motor quits or stalls, verify that there are no physical obstructions that would impede telescope movement. If all physical obstacles are removed and the telescope still does not move properly, turn off the power and unplug the Electronic Controller. Plug the Electronic Controller back in and turn the power back on.

Slow-Motion Controls. electric, 4 speed, both axes Optional Autostar Capability. yes Hemispheres of operation. North and South, switchable Bearings: Altitude. ball bearings Azimuth. PTFE thrust bearing and radial ball bearing Materials: Tube body. aluminum Mounting. ABS, with internal aluminum structure Primary mirror. Pyrex glass Correcting lens. BK7 optical glass, Grade-A
Telescope dimensions:. 43cm x 25cm x 20cm (17 x 10 x 8)
Telescope net weight: (incl. Electronic Controller & batteries). 6.1kg (13.5 lbs) Telescope shipping weight. 8.3kg (18.4 lbs) Battery Life (approx.): with Electronic Controller. 45 hrs with Autostar. 20 hrs
Specifications: ETX-125EC Astro Telescope
Optical design. Maksutov-Cassegrain Primary mirror diameter. 138mm (5.43) Clear aperture. 127mm (5.0) Focal length. 1900mm (74.8) Focal ratio (photographic speed). f/15 Near focus (approx). 5.5m (18 ft) Resolving power. 0.9 arc secs Super multi-coatings (EMC). standard Limiting visual stellar magnitude (approx.). 12.5 Image scale. 0.76/inch Maximum practical visual power. 500X Optical tube dimensions (dia. x length). 14.6cm x 36cm (5.75 x 14.2) Eyepiece. Super Plssl 26mm Viewfinder. 8 x 25mm right-angle Secondary mirror obstruction (dia.; %). 39.4mm (1.6); 9.6% Telescope mounting. fork type; double tine Setting circle diameters. Dec.: 4.3; RA: 9 Input voltage. 12 volts DC Motor Drive System. DC servo motors with encoders, both axes Slow-Motion Controls. electric, 4 speed, both axes Optional Autostar Capability. yes Hemispheres of operation. North and South, switchable Bearings: Altitude. ball bearings Azimuth. ball bearings Materials: Tube body. aluminum Mounting. ABS, with internal aluminum structure Primary mirror. Pyrex glass Correcting lens. BK7 optical glass, Grade-A
Specifications: ETX-105EC Astro Telescope
Optical design. Maksutov-Cassegrain Primary mirror diameter. 116mm (4.56) Clear aperture. 105mm (4.13) Focal length. 1470mm (57.8) Focal ratio (photographic speed). f/14 Near focus (approx). 4.6m (15 ft) Resolving power. 1.1 arc secs Super multi-coatings (EMC). standard Limiting visual stellar magnitude (approx.). 12.1 Image scale. 0.99/inch Maximum practical visual power. 420x Optical tube dimensions (dia. x length). 12.4cm x 32.8cm (4.88 x 12.9) Eyepiece. Super Plssl 26mm Viewfinder. 8 x 25mm right-angle Secondary mirror obstruction (dia.; %). 3.3cm (1.32); 9.4% Telescope mounting. fork type; double tine Setting circle diameters. Dec.: 3.81; RA: 7.8 Input voltage. 12 volts DC Motor Drive System. DC servo motors with encoders, both axes - 25 -
Telescope dimensions:. 48cm x 23cm x 27cm (19 x 8.9 x 10.8)
Telescope net weight: (incl. Electronic Controller & batteries). 6.9kg (15.2 lbs) Telescope shipping weight. 11.4kg (25.2 lbs) Battery Life (approx.): with Electronic Controller. 45 hrs with Autostar. 20 hrs

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Appendix D: YOU AND THE UNIVERSE

OBJECTS IN SPACE

In the early 17th century, Italian Scientist Galileo, using a crude telescope considerably smaller than the ETX-90EC, turned it to look towards the sky instead of distant trees and mountains. What he saw, and what he realized about what he saw, forever changed the way mankind thinks of the universe. Imagine what it must have been like being the first human to see moons revolve around the planet Jupiter or to see the changing phases of Venus! Because of his observations, Galileo correctly realized Earth's movement and position around the Sun, and in doing so, gave birth to modern astronomy. Yet Galileo's telescope was so crude, he could not clearly make out the rings of Saturn. Galileo's discoveries laid the foundation for understanding the motion and nature of the planets, stars, and galaxies. Building on his foundation, Henrietta Leavitt determined how to measure the distance to stars; Edwin Hubble proposed a glimpse into the origin of the universe; Albert Einstein unraveled the relationship of time and light; and 21st-century astronomers are currently discovering planets around stars outside our solar system. Almost daily, using sophisticated successors to Galileo's crude telescope, such as the Hubble Space Telescope and the Chandra X-ray telescope, more and more mysteries of the universe are being solved and understood. We are living in the golden age of astronomy. Unlike other sciences, astronomy welcomes contributions from amateurs. Much of the knowledge we have on subjects such as comets, meteor showers, variable stars, the Moon, and our solar system comes from observations made by amateur astronomers. So as you look through your Meade ETX telescope, keep in mind Galileo. To him, a telescope was not merely a machine made of glass and metal, but something far morea window through which the beating heart of the universe might be observed.

Autostar Glossary

If you're using the optional #497 Autostar handbox, be sure to make use of Autostars Glossary feature. The Glossary menu provides an alphabetical listing of definitions and descriptions of common astronomical terms. Access directly through the Glossary menu or through hypertext words embedded in Autostar. See the Autostar manual for more information. Listed below are some of the many astronomical objects that can be seen with your ETX telescope.

The Moon

The Moon is, on average, a distance of 239,000 miles (380,000km) from Earth and is best observed during its crescent or half phase when Sunlight strikes the Moons surface at an angle. It casts shadows and adds a sense of depth to the view (Fig. 33). No shadows are seen during a full Moon, causing the overly bright Moon to appear flat and rather uninteresting through the telescope. Be sure to use a neutral Moon filter when observing the Moon. Not only does it protect your eyes from the bright glare of the Moon, but it also helps enhance contrast, providing a more dramatic image. Using your ETX model, brilliant detail can be observed on the Moon, including hundreds of lunar craters and maria, described below. Craters are round meteor impact sites covering most of the Moons surface. With no atmosphere on the Moon, no weather conditions exist, so the only erosive force is meteor strikes. Under these conditions, lunar craters can last for millions of years. Maria (plural for mare, seas) are smooth, dark areas scattered across the lunar surface. These areas are ancient impact basins that were filled with lava from the interior of the Moon by the depth and force of the meteor or comet impact. 12 Apollo astronauts left their bootprints on the Moon in the late 1960s and early 1970s. However, no telescope on Earth can see these footprints or any other artifacts. In fact, the smallest lunar features that may be seen with the largest telescope on Earth are about one-half mile across. Note: Except during its early or late crescent phases, the Moon can be an exceptionally bright object to view through the telescope. To reduce the brightness and glare, use the #905 Variable Polarizing Filter (see the MEADE GENERAL CATALOG for more information).

Fig. 33: The Moon. Note the deep shadows in the craters.

Planets

Planets change positions in the sky as they orbit around the Sun. To locate the planets on a given day or month, consult a monthly astronomy magazine, such as Sky and Telescope or Astronomy. Listed below are the best planets for viewing through your ETX model telescope. Venus is about nine-tenths the diameter of Earth. As Venus orbits the Sun, observers can see it go through phases (crescent, half, and full) much like those of the Moon. The disk of Venus appears white, as sunlight is reflected off the thick cloud cover that completely obscures any surface detail. Mars is about half the diameter of Earth. Through the telescope it appears as a tiny reddish-orange disk. You may see a hint of white at one of the planets polar ice caps. Approximately every two years, when Mars is closest to Earth, additional detail and coloring on the planet's surface may be visible.

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Fig. 34: Jupiter and its four largest moons. The moons can be observed in a different position every night.
Jupiter (Fig. 34) is the largest planet in our solar system, with a diameter 11 times that of Earth. Jupiter appears as a disk with dark lines stretching across the surface. These lines are cloud bands in the atmosphere. Four of Jupiters 29 (and still counting!) moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto) can be seen as star-like points of light when you use even the lowest magnification. The number of moons visible on any given night changes as they circle around the giant planet. Saturn (Fig. 35) is nine times the diameter of Earth and appears as a small, round disk with rings extending out from either side. In 1610, Galileo, the first person to observe Saturn through a telescope, did not understand that what he was seeing were rings. Instead, he believed that Saturn had ears. Saturns rings are composed of billions of ice particles. The major division in Saturn's rings, called the Cassini Division, is generally visible through all three ETX models. Titan, the largest of Saturns moons, can also be seen as a bright, star-like object near the planet.

Further Study.

This manual gives only the briefest introduction to astronomy. If you are interested in pursuing further studies in astronomy, a few topics are suggested below that are worth reading up on. Try looking up some of these in the optional Autostar glossary. Also included below is a small sampling of books, magazines, and organizations that you might find helpful. Topics 1. How is a star born? How does a solar system form? 2. How is the distance to a star measured? What is a light year? What is red shift and blue shift? 3. How are the craters on our Moon formed? How old is the Moon and Earth? How old is the Sun? 4. What is a black hole? A neutron star? 5. What are stars made of? Why are stars different colors? What is a white dwarf? A red giant? Have we ever seen the surface of a star besides our own sun? 6. What is a nova? A supernova? 7. What are comets? Minor planets? Meteors? Meteor showers? Where do they come from? 8. What is a planetary nebula? A globular cluster? 9. What is the Big Bang? Is the universe expanding or contracting, or does it always remain the same? What is dark matter? 10. What is an extrasolar planet? What is an accretion (or protoplanetary) disk? 11. What is the difference between an elliptical, a spiral, and an irregular galaxy? Books 1. 2. 3. 4. The Guide to Amateur Astronomy by Jack Newton and Philip Teece The Sky: A Users Guide by David Levy Turn Left at Orion by Guy Consolmagno & Dan Davis Astrophotography for the Amateur by Michael Covington Sky & Telescope Box 9111, Belmont, MA 02178 Astronomy Box 1612, Waukesha, WI 53187 Astronomical League Executive Secretary 5675 Real del Norte, Las Cruces, NM 88012 The Astronomical Society of the Pacific 390 Ashton Ave, San Francisco, CA 94112 The Planetary Society 65 North Catalina Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106

Fig. 35: Saturn has the most extensive ring structure in our Solar System.

Deep-Sky Objects

You can use star charts to locate constellations, individual stars, and deep-sky objects. Examples of various deep-sky objects are given below: Stars are large gaseous objects that are illuminated by nuclear fusion in their core. Because of their vast distances from our solar system, all stars appear as pinpoints of light, regardless of the size of the telescope used. Nebulae are vast interstellar clouds of gas and dust where stars are formed. Most impressive of these is the Great Nebula in Orion (M42), a diffuse nebula that appears as a faint wispy gray cloud. M42 is 1600 light years from Earth. Open Clusters are loose groupings of young stars, all recently formed from the same diffuse nebula. The Pleiades (Fig. 36) is an open cluster 410 light years from Earth. Several hundred stars of the cluster are visible through the your telescope. Constellations are large, imaginary patterns of stars believed by ancient civilizations to be the celestial equivalent of objects, animals, people, or gods. These patterns are too large to be seen through a telescope. To learn the constellations, start with an easy grouping of stars, such as the Big Dipper in Ursa Major. Then use a star chart to explore across the sky. Galaxies are large assemblies of stars, nebulae, and star clusters that are bound by gravity. The most common shape is spiral (such as our own Milky Way), but galaxies can also be elliptical, or even irregular blobs. The Andromeda Galaxy (M31) is the closest spiraltype galaxy to our own. This galaxy appears fuzzy and cigar-shaped. It is 2.2 million light years away in the constellation Andromeda. - 30 -

Magazines 1. 2.

Fig. 36: The Pleiades is one of the most beautiful open clusters.

Organizations: 1.

And watch Jack Horkheimer, Star Gazer, on your local PBS station.

MEADE LIMITED WARRANTY

Every Meade telescope, spotting scope, and telescope accessory is warranted by Meade Instruments Corporation (Meade) to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase in the U.S.A. and Canada. Meade will repair or replace a product, or part thereof, found by Meade to be defective, provided the defective part is returned to Meade, 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 from Meade by writing, or by 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, and phone number. 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. Meade 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 original retail purchase. This warranty gives you specific rights. You may have other rights, which vary from state to state. Meade reserves the right to change product specifications or to discontinue products without notice. This warranty supersedes all previous Meade product warranties.