Insert the eyepiece. Remove the supplied 25mm eyepiece (B) from its container and place it into the eyepiece holder. Tighten the thumbscrews (C) to a firm feel only. Remove the dust cover from the end of optical tube assembly. Use the focus knobs (D) to bring objects into focus.
6. Adjust tripod. Adjust the height of the tripod by lifting the clip on each leg and extending the sliding inner section of each tripod leg to the desired length. Then press the clip back against the leg to lock in place.
7. Sight along the tube. Sight along the side of the telescope's main tube to locate an object and then observe through the eyepiece.
If you wish to attach the viewfinder, see page 10. If you wish to initialize Autostar, see page 15. If you wish to align the telescope, see page 17. If you wish to use Autostar to automatically view objects, see page 19 for some examples.
Fig. 1c: Cradle Rings Lock Knobs (on opposite side).
Fig. 1: DS-114AT Series Telescope.
Fig. 1b (Inset): Computer Control Panel. (A) LED (B) 12V Port (C) Handbox Port (D) AZ Port (E) ALT Port (F) AUX Port

TELESCOPE FEATURES

The DS-114AT telescope has a variety of useful features. Be sure to become acquainted with all of these controls before you begin making observations through the telescope.

Want to learn more about Autostar's buttons? See pages 8 and 9. Autostar's menus? See pages 22 through 27.
Focus Knobs: Move the telescopes focus drawtube in a finely-controlled motion to achieve precise image focus. Eyepiece Holder: Holds the eyepiece in place. Eyepiece Holder Thumbscrews (2): Tighten the eyepiece in place. Tighten to a firm feel only. Eyepiece: Place one of the supplied eyepieces into the eyepiece holder (2, Fig. 1). Viewfinder: Provides an easier way to initially sight objects than the main telescope eyepiece which has a narrower field of view. Viewfinder Alignment Screws (4): Adjust these screws to align the viewfinder. Viewfinder Alignment Bracket: Attaches the viewfinder to the telescope (11, Fig. 1). Alt Indicator: Displays the angle (in degrees) of the altitude of the optical tube. Cradle Rings (2): Hold optical tube securely in place. Cradle Ring Lock Knobs (2): Tighten to a firm feel to hold the optical tube securely in place. Fig. 1c depicts a cradle ring clamped in place by one of the lock knobs and one of the lock knobs hanging loose. Optical Tube: The main optical component that gathers the light from distant objects and brings this light to a focus for observation with the eyepiece. Primary Mirror Cell: Contains the optical tube's primary mirror and 3 screws that are used in a collimation adjustment. Note: Do not remove the piece of felt from the cell. Alt (Vertical) Gear and Motor: Moves the telescope along the vertical axis. Battery Pack: Supplies power to the assembly. Install 10 user-supplied AA batteries. Autostar: Autostar is able to control nearly all the functions of the telescope. Tripod Legs: To use, spread the legs as far as they will open. Adjust the height of the tripod by lifting the clip on each leg and extending the sliding inner section of each tripod leg to the desired length. Then press the clip back against the leg to lock in place. Accessory Tray: Conveniently holds extra eyepieces, Autostar, and other accessories. Az (Horizontal) Gear and Motor: Moves the telescope along the horizontal axis. Az Lock: Controls the manual horizontal movement of the telescope. Turning the Alt lock counterclockwise unlocks the telescope enabling it to be freely moved by hand on the horizontal axis. Turning the Alt lock clockwise (to a firm feel only) prevents the telescope from being moved manually and engages the vertical motor drive clutch for Autostar operation. Computer Control Panel (Fig. 1b)

Coil Cord: Plug the Autostar coil cord into the HBX port (C, Fig. 1b) of the computer control panel.

GETTING STARTED

Packing List
Assembling the telescope for the first time requires only a few minutes. When first opening the packing box, note carefully the parts listed on your giftbox.
How to Assemble Your Telescope
The telescope attaches directly to the tripod. The telescope in this way is "mounted" in an Altazimuth (Altitude-Azimuth, or vertical-horizontal) format. The telescope mounted this way moves along the vertical and horizontal axes, corresponding to the astronomical axes known as Declination (vertical) and Right Ascension (horizontal). Perform this setup on a flat, stable surface. It is recommended that you perform this operation in the daytime or in bright light the first time you assemble the telescope. 1.
Fig. 3 Remove assembly from the giftbox.
Remove the optical tube and tripod from the giftbox: The optical tube assembly is shipped with the cradle rings (9, Fig. 1), yoke mount (21, Fig. 1), and tripod attached. Carefully remove the assembly from the box. Lay the assembly on the floor. Remove the optical tube from the mount: The optical tube (11, Fig. 1) is shipped oriented the wrong direction in the yoke mount for observingyou must remove the tube from the mount and turn it around 180. Loosen and unlatch the cradle ring lock knobs (10, Fig. 1) so that you can open the cradle rings (9, Fig. 1). Once the rings are open, remove the optical tube from the cradle rings. Carefully note the orientation of the tube, so that you can rotate it 180 later on when you replace it in the rings.
Fig. 4: Adjust the cradle rings.
Stand the tripod and adjust the cradle rings: Stand the tripod on a flat surface and gently pull the legs (16, Fig. 1) apart to a fully open position. Turn the cradle rings so that the cradle ring base is horizontal (parallel) to the ground. Tighten the alt lock (22, Fig. 1), so the rings remain in the horizontal position. Attach the utility tray to the tripod: Place one of the tray's flanges around one edge of a tripod leg and then pull the tray around until the other flange snaps in place (Fig. 5). The utility tray (17, Fig. 1) can be pushed up or down the tripod leg to a convenient height. Attach and balance the optical tube: Turn the optical tube around 180 and replace it into the cradle rings. Fasten the cradle rings lock knobs (10, Fig. 1) so that they only hold the optical tube loosely; do not tighten the lock knobs yet. Slide the tube back and forth until you find a position where the tube remains horizontal (i.e., without tipping up or down). Then tighten the cradle rings lock knobs to a firm feel.

Fig. 9: Attach Az motor.

15. Adjust tripod: Adjust the height of the tripod to a convenient viewing height by lifting the clip on each leg and extending the sliding inner section of the leg to the desired length. Then press the clip back against the leg to lock in place. 15. Remove the dust cover: Pull out the dust cover (23, Fig. 1) from the optical tube. Assembly of the telescope is now complete.
Some Notes About the Dual-Motor System
Fig. 10: Attach the viewfinder bracket to the optical tube.
Fig. 11: Attach the viewfinder tube to bracket and tighten thumbscrews.
For the motors to be operational, the Az and Alt lock-knobs (19, Fig. 1) and (22, Fig. 1) must be in their locked positions. Firm-feel tightening of these locks is sufficient. Do not overtighten. If these are not sufficiently tightened, Autostar may display a motor fault message. When setting up the telescope, always plug in the battery pack to the control panel last, after plugging in the two motors and Autostar. Connecting the battery pack to the control panel before the motors and Autostar are connected may result in false electrical signals being sent to the motors, causing them to malfunction. In this case unplug the battery pack from the control panel, wait a few seconds, and plug the battery pack back into the control panel. This operation clears the motors of any false signals. Take care that cords do not become wrapped around the telescope; keep the cords loose at all times. Do not allow the telescope to slew into the tripod or other fixed object. Do not touch or hold the telescope tube while it is moving. If the motors stall or do not have sufficient power to move the telescope, place fresh batteries in the battery pack. Long-life alkaline batteries are recommended. The first time you initialize your system, make sure you train the drives. This allows Autostar to move the telescope precisely to objects. See page 16 for detailed infofrmation.

The Viewfinder

Because the main telescope has a fairly narrow field of view, locating objects directly in the main telescope can sometimes be difficult. The viewfinder (5, Fig. 1) is a small, wide-field telescope with crosshairs that permits you to locate objects more easily. When the viewfinder and optical tube are aligned to each other, both point to the same position in the sky. An object located in the viewfinder is therefore also positioned within the field of the main telescope. Before aligning the viewfinder to the optical tube, focus the viewfinder. Focusing the Viewfinder: 1. Turn the viewfinder eyepiece on its internal thread. Generally a few turns are sufficient to achieve proper focus.

Fig. 12: Insert 10 AA batteries into battery pack.

Viewfinder

Telescope Eyepiece
Aligning the Viewfinder: It is recommended that you perform steps 1 through 4 of this procedure during the daytime and step 5 at night. 1. Loosen the Az lock (19, Fig. 1) and the Alt lock (22, Fig. 1) by turning the locks about one turn counterclockwise, permitting the telescope to move freely on its axes. If you have not already done so, place a low-power (e.g., 25mm) eyepiece in the eyepiece holder of the main telescope (2, Fig. 1) and point the telescope at an easy-to-find land object (e.g., the top of a telephone pole). Turn the focuser knob (1, Fig. 1) so that the image is sharply focused. Center the object precisely in the main telescopes field of view. Re-tighten the Az lock (19, Fig. 1) and the Alt lock (22, Fig. 1). Now, looking through the viewfinder, turn some or all of the viewfinders alignment screws (6, Fig. 1) until the viewfinders crosshairs point precisely at the same object as centered in the main telescope. The viewfinder is now aligned to the main telescope. The right-hand image in Fig. 13A shows an object centered in the main telescope before the viewfinder (the left-hand image) has been aligned to the main telescope. Fig. 13B shows these same images after the viewfinder and main telescope are aligned. Check this alignment on a celestial object, such as the Moon or a bright star, and make any necessary refinements.

A. Not aligned

B. Aligned
Fig. 13: Aligning the viewfinder. Note that objects appear upside-down and reversed left-for-right when observed in the viewfinder.

Choosing an Eyepiece

A telescopes eyepiece magnifies the image formed by the telescopes main optics. Each eyepiece has a focal length, expressed in millimeters, or mm. The smaller the focal length, the higher the magnification. For example, an eyepiece with a focal length of 9mm has a higher magnification than an eyepiece with a focal length of 25mm. Your telescope comes supplied with a low-powered 25mm eyepiece which gives a wide, comfortable field of view with high image resolution. Low power eyepieces offer a wide field of view, bright, high-contrast images, and eye relief during long observing sessions. To find an object with a telescope, always start with a lower power eyepiece such as a 25mm. When the object is located and centered in the eyepiece, you may wish to switch to a higher power eyepiece to enlarge the image as much as practical for prevailing seeing conditions.
NOTE: Viewing conditions vary widely from night-to-night and site-to-site. Turbulence in the air, even on an apparently clear night, can distort images. If an image appears fuzzy and ill-defined, back off to a lower power eyepiece for a more well-resolved image.

Slew Speeds

WARNING: Do not look through the telescope's eyepiece or viewfinder while it is rapidly moving. Children should always have adult supervision while observing. Autostar has nine slew speeds that are directly proportional to the sidereal rate (see TRACKING AN OBJECT AUTOMATICALLY below for a definition of "sidereal rate") and have been calculated to accomplish specific functions. Pressing the SPEED/? key changes the slew speed, which is shown for about two seconds on Autostars display. The nine available speeds are: Speed 1 = 2x = 2 x sidereal (0.5 arc-min/sec or 0.008/sec) s Speed 2 = 8x = 8 x sidereal (2 arc-min/sec or 0.033/sec) s Speed 3 = 16x = 16 x sidereal (4 arc-min/sec or 0.067/sec) s Speed 4 = 32x = 32 x sidereal (8 arc-min/sec or 0.13/sec) s Speed 5 = 64x = 64 x sidereal (16 arc-min/sec or 0.27/sec) s Speed 6 = 0.5 = 120 x sidereal (30 arc-min/sec or 0.5/sec) s Speed 7 = 1/s = 240 x sidereal (60 arc-min/sec or 1/sec) s Speed 8 = 2/s = 480 x sidereal (120 arc-min/sec or 2/sec) s Speed 9 = Max = (Maximum speed possible, dependent on battery power)
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 12mm or a 9mm eyepiece. Speeds 4, 5, or 6: Enables centering an object in the field of a low-to-moderate power eyepiece, such as a standard 25mm eyepiece. Speeds 7 or 8: Best used for rough centering of an object in the eyepiece. Speed 9: Moves the telescope quickly from one point in the sky to another.

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, causing the overly bright surface to appear flat and rather uninteresting. Consider the use of 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.

Astronomical Observing

Level the optical tube 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, with minor qualification, limited only by the observers motivation.
Tracking an Object Automatically

As the Earth rotates beneath the night sky, the stars appear to move from East to West. The speed at which the stars move is called the sidereal rate. You can set up your telescope to move at the sidereal rate so that it automatically "tracks" the stars and other objects in the night sky. If the telescope is not tracking an astronomical object, the object will drift out of the eyepiece field of view. The tracking function automatically keeps an object more or less centered in the telescopes eyepiece. To automatically track objects, you must first set the telescope in the home position, then initialize Autostar, train the drive, and finally select "Targets: Astronomical" from the Autostar Setup menu. You must also learn how the Autostar keypad operates in order to move through the Autostar menus.
Fig. 18: Alt/Az Home Position.
The "Alt/Az" Home Position

1. 2. 3. 4.

Fig. 19: The Alt lock (motor attached).
Loosen the telescopes Alt lock (Fig. 19). Level the optical tube and tripod base. Tighten the Alt lock (Fig. 19) to a firm feel only. Loosen the Az lock (Fig. 20) and turn the telescope horizontally until it points North. See
LOCATING THE CELESTIAL POLE, page 32 for more information.
Tighten the Az lock. Press ENTER.
Moving Through Autostars Menus
The Autostar database is organized in levels for quick and easy navigation.

s s s s

Fig. 20: The Az lock (motor not attached).
Press ENTER to go deeper into Autostar's menu levels. Press MODE to move back toward the top menu level. Press the Scroll keys to move up and down through the options available for each level. Press the Arrow keys to enter characters and digits. The Arrow keys are also used to move the telescope.

Initializing Autostar

This section describes how to initialize Autostar. Perform this procedure the first time you use Autostar or after performing a RESET (see RESET, page 27). 1. 2. 3. Tighten Locks: Make sure that the Alt lock (22, Fig. 1) and Az lock (19, Fig. 1) are secured. Connect Autostar: Verify that Autostar is properly connected to your telescope. Supply Power: Plug the battery pack into the 12V port. The Autostar screen activates and a copyright message displays briefly, followed by a short beep. Then Autostar takes a few moments to start up the system. 4. Sun Warning: A message displays that warns you not to look at the Sun. At the end of this message, press the key prompted by Autostar to signify that the message has been read and understood. Getting Started: The Getting Started menu displays a scrolling message. Press ENTER (2, Fig. 2) to bypass the Help tutorial and continue with initialization. Enter Date: Autostar then requests the current date. Use the Up and Down Arrow keys (5, Fig. 2) to enter the digits for the date. Use the Right Arrow key (5, Fig. 2) to move right from one number to the next in the day display, and also to move to the month (use the Left Arrow key if you wish to move left). Then, use the Scroll keys (6 or 7, Fig. 2) to cycle through the list of months. When the current month is displayed, use the Right Arrow (5, Fig. 2) to move to the year. Use the Up and Down Arrow keys to enter all four digits of the current year. Press ENTER when the date has been entered. 7. Enter Time: Autostar then requests the current time. Use the Up and Down Arrow keys to enter the time. (Use a "0" for the first digit if less than 10.) Use the Right (or Left) Arrow key to move from one number to the next. Press either the Up or Down Arrow keys (5, Fig. 2) to scroll to "AM" or "PM." If you select the "blank" choice that follows "AM" and "PM," the clock displays time in a 24-hour (military time) format. Press ENTER to start the clock. Daylight Savings Time: The next screen requests the status of Daylight Savings Time. Pressing a Scroll key toggles between the YES/NO settings. Select the desired setting by pressing ENTER.

NOTE: Daylight Savings Time may be referred to by a different name in various areas of the world. NOTE: When multiple choices are available within a menu option, the current option
DEFINITION: Initialization is a procedure that ensures Autostar operates correctly. When you first use Autostar, it doesn't yet know where the observation site is or the time or date of the observation session. During the procedure, you will enter information, such as the current time and date, and observation location. Autostar uses this information to precisely calculate the location of celestial objects (such as stars and planets) and to move your telescope correctly for various operations.
is usually displayed first and highlighted by a right pointing arrow (>). 9. Select Country: The next screen asks for the country or state of the observing site. Use the Scroll keys to cycle through the database of countries, states, and provinces (listed alphabetically). Press ENTER when the correct location displays.
10. Select City: The next screen asks for the city closest to the observing site. Use the Scroll keys to cycle through the database of cities (listed alphabetically). Press ENTER when the correct city appears on screen. 11. Select Model Number: The next screen asks for the telescope model. Use the scroll keys to locate your telescope model number. Press ENTER when your model number displays. 12. Initialization Complete: System initialization is complete and the screen reads "Align: Easy."

Training the Drive

After you initialize Autostar for the first time you need to train the drives of the telescope. Training the drive allows the telescope to point accurately at astronomical objects. Perform this procedure every 3 to 6 months to maintain the highest level of pointing accuracy. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Verify that Autostar initialization is complete. Press MODE until "Select Item: Object" displays. Press the Scroll Up key once. "Select Item: Setup" displays. Press ENTER to access the Setup menu. "Setup: Align" displays. Press either Scroll key several times until "Setup: Telescope" displays. Press ENTER to access the Telescope menu. "Telescope: Telescope Model" displays. Press either Scroll key several times until "Telescope: Train Drive" displays. Press ENTER. "Train Drive: Az Train" displays. The next four steps are the prodedure for training the Az or horizontal drive. 9. Press ENTER. "Drive Setup" and a scrolling message displays. The scrolling message asks you to center a terrestrial object in the eyepiece. Use a terrestrial object, such as a telephone pole or lamp post, as your reference object. Press ENTER after reading the message. 10. "Center reference object" displays. Center the object ONLY using the Arrow keys and then press ENTER. 11. "Slewing" displays and the telescopes moves left. "Press until it is centered" displays. Bring the reference object back to the center of the eyepiece using ONLY the Right Arrow key. When the reference object is centered, press ENTER. Important Note: If you overshoot the center of the eyepiece as you perform the "press [Arrow key] until it is centered" steps (steps 11, 12, 16, 17), you must start this procedure over again. ONLY use the prompted Arrow key to center the reference object. For example, if the display reads ""Press (Left Arrow key) until it is centered," do not use the Right Arrow key to return to the center of the eyepiece if you overshoot the center. If you do overshoot, press Mode until "Select Item: Object" displays and begin the procedure again. 12. "Slewing" displays and the telescopes moves right. "Press until it is centered" displays. Bring the reference object back to the center of the eyepiece using ONLY the Left Arrow key. When the reference object is centered, press ENTER. 13. "Train Drive: Az Train" displays again. Press the Scroll Down key once. "Train Drive: Alt Train" displays. The next four steps are the prodedure for training the Alt or vertical drive. 14. Press Enter. "Drive Setup" and a scrolling message displays. The scrolling message once again asks you to center a terrestrial object in the eyepiece. Press ENTER after reading the message. 15. "Center reference object" displays. Center the object using ONLY the Arrow keys and then press ENTER. 16. "Slewing" displays and the telescopes moves down. "Press until it is centered" displays. Bring the reference object back to the center of the eyepiece using ONLY the Up Arrow key. When the reference object is centered, press ENTER. 17. "Slewing" displays and the telescopes moves up. "Press until it is centered" displays. Bring the reference object back to the center of the eyepiece using ONLY the Up Arrow key. When the reference object is centered, press ENTER. 18. Drive training is now complete. Press MODE to exit the Train Drive menus.

Two-Star Alt/Az Alignment
Two-Star Alignment requires some knowledge of the night sky. Two-Star Alignment is identical to Easy Align (see EASY (TWO-STAR) ALIGN, page 17), except Autostar displays a database of bright stars and two stars are chosen by the observer from this database for alignment. It is recommended that you choose stars with which you are familiar from this database when first trying out this method or the One-Star Alignment method.
One-Star Alt/Az Alignment
One-Star Alignment also requires some knowledge of the night sky. One-Star Alignment is identical to Easy Align (see EASY (TWO-STAR) ALIGN, page 17), except Autostar displays a database of bright stars and one star is chosen by the observer from this database for alignment. IMPORTANT NOTE: The accuracy of One-Star Alt/Az Alignment, unlike the TwoStar Alignment procedures, depends on how well the observer levels the telescope and how close to North the telescope is pointed when setting the Home Position (Fig. 18). Because the Two-Star Alignment methods use two stars to align upon, they are more precise than One-Star Alignment.

Go To Saturn

After performing the Easy Align procedure, the motor drive begins operating and the telescope is aligned for a night of viewing. Objects in the eyepiece should maintain their position even though the Earth is rotating beneath the stars. IMPORTANT NOTE: Once aligned, only use GO TO or the Arrow keys to move the telescope. Do not loosen the Alt and Az locks (22 and 19, Fig. 1), or move the base manually, or alignment will be lost.
Fig. 21: One of the most beautiful celestial sights, Saturn.
This exercise shows how to select a celestial object (Saturn) for viewing from Autostars database. NOTE: Saturn is not always visible and you may need to choose another object from Autostar's Object database; however, the procedure, as described below, remains the samejust choose a different object in step 3. After the telescope is aligned, Select Item: Object displays. Press ENTER. Object: Solar System displays. Press ENTER. Solar System: Mercury displays. Keep pressing the Scroll Down key until Solar System: Saturn displays. Press ENTER. Calculating displays. Then Saturn and a set of coordinates displays. Note that Saturns (and other planets) coordinates may 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.

1 2. 3. 4. 5.

Take a Guided Tour

Select Item: Object

Solar System Mercury Etc. Moon Asteroids Comets Constellations Andromeda Etc. Deep Sky Named Object Galaxies Nebulae Planetary Neb. Etc. Star Named SAO Catalog Double Etc. Satellite Select Add Delete Edit User Objects Select Add Delete Edit Landmarks Select Add Delete Identify

Select Item: Event

Sunrise Sunset Moonrise Moonset Moon Phases Next Full Moon Next New Moon Next 1st Qtr Next 3rd Qtr Meteor Showers Quadrantids Lyrids Eta Aquarids Delta Aquarids Perseids Orionids Taurids Leonids Geminids Ursids Solar Eclipses Lunar Eclipses Min. of Algol Autumn Equinox Vernal Equinox Winter Solstice Summer Solstice

Select Item: Guided Tour

Tour Objects Tonight's Best How Far is Far A Star's Life
A. Accretion Disk Etc. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. J. K. L. M. N. O. P. Q. R. S. T. U. V. W. X. Y. Z.

Select Item: Utilities

Timer Set Start & Stop Alarm Set On & Off Eyepiece Calc. Field of View Magnification Suggest Display Options Sun Warning Getting Started Brightness Adj. Contrast Adj. Battery Alarm Landmark Survey Sleep Scope Park Scope

Select Item: Setup

Align Easy One Star Two Star Date Time Daylight Saving Telescope Tele. Model Focal Length Az/Alt Ratio Mount Train Drive Tracking Rate Reverse L/R Reverse Up/Dn Calibrate Motor High Precision Targets Astronomical Terrestrial Site Select Add Delete Edit Owner Info Download Statistics Reset
Fig. 25: The complete Autostar Menu structure.
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.
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: IMPORTANT NOTE: Only use the Arrow keys to move the telescope during the Identify procedure. Do not loosen the telescope locks or move the base or alignment is lost. 1. 2. 3. 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.

Glossary Menu

The Glossary menu provides an alphabetical listing of definitions and descriptions for common astronomical terms and Autostar functions. Access directly through the Glossary menu or through hypertext words embedded in Autostar. A hypertext word is any word in [brackets], usually found when using the Autostar Help function or when reading a scrolling message such as a description of a planet or star. Press ENTER whenever a hypertext word is on screen and Autostar goes to the glossary entry for that word. To access directly from the Glossary menu, use the Scroll keys to scroll through the alphabet. Press ENTER on the desired letter. Scroll to the desired entry and then press ENTER to read the description.

Utilities Menu

The Utilities menu provides access to several extra features within Autostar, including a countdown timer and an alarm. The Utilities functions include: Timer selects a countdown timer. This feature is useful for functions such as astrophotography and tracking satellites. See OBSERVING SATELLITES, page 34. To use the Timer, press ENTER, then choose Set or Start/Stop."
Set: Enter the time to be counted down, in hours, minutes, and seconds, then press ENTER. Start/Stop: Activates the timer set previously. Use the Scroll keys to toggle between ON and OFF. When ON is displayed, press ENTER to activate the timer. When the timer runs out, four beeps sound and the timer is deactivated.
Alarm selects a time for an alarm signal as a reminder. To use the Alarm, press ENTER, then choose "Set" or "Start/Stop."
Set: Enter the time of day for the alarm to sound, in hours, minutes, and seconds, then press ENTER. Start/Stop: Activates the alarm set previously. Use the Scroll keys to toggle between ON and OFF. When ON is displayed, press ENTER to activate the alarm. When the alarm time arrives, Autostar beeps. Press ENTER to deactivate the alarm.
Eyepiece Calc calculates information about an eyepiece for the specific telescope to which Autostar is connected.
Field of View: Scroll through a list of available eyepieces. When an eyepiece is selected, the field of view is calculated. Magnification: Scroll through a list of available eyepieces. When an eyepiece is selected, the magnification is calculated. Suggest: Autostar calculates and suggests the best eyepiece for viewing, based on the telescope and the object being viewed.
Display Options enables or disables Autostars two initial displays. If both displays are disabled, Autostar begins with the Date display. s Sun Warning: Turns the Sun Warning message on or off.
Getting Started: Turns the Getting Started message on or off.
Brightness Adj: Adjusts the brightness of the display using the Scroll keys. When complete, press ENTER. Contrast Adj: Adjusts the contrast of the display using the Scroll keys. When complete, press ENTER. NOTE: This feature is usually only required in very cold weather. Landmark Survey automatically slews the telescope to all user-defined landmarks with a short pause at each location. Press ENTER to start the survey. While a slew is in progress, press any key to skip that object and go to the next landmark on the list. To observe a landmark for a longer period, press MODE when paused on the object to stop the survey. Press ENTER to restart the survey at the first object on the list. See LANDMARKS, page 23. Sleep Scope is a power saving option that shuts down Autostar and the telescope without forgetting its alignment. With "Sleep Scope" selected, press ENTER to activate the Sleep function. Autostar goes dark, but the internal clock keeps running. Press any key, except ENTER, to re-activate Autostar and the telescope. Park Scope is designed for a telescope that is not moved between observing sessions. Align the telescope one time, then use this function to park the telescope. Next time it is powered up, enter the correct date and time no alignment is required. Pressing ENTER causes the telescope to move to its pre-determined Park position. Once parked, the screen prompts to turn off power. IMPORTANT NOTE: When the "Park Scope" option is chosen and the display prompts you to turn off the telescope's power, Autostar is unable to be returned to operation without turning the power off and then back on.

3. 4. 5.

To GO TO a user-entered object: In this procedure, you will choose an object from the User Object list and GO TO the object. 1. 2. 3. 4. With "User Object: Add" displayed, press the Scroll Up key once. "User Object: Select" displays. Press ENTER. Use the Scroll keys (if necessary) to scroll to the desired object. Press ENTER. The name of the object and the Right Ascension and Declination coordinates display. Press GO TO and the telescope slews to the object.

APPENDIX C

Observing Satellites
In this procedure, you will prepare your telescope to observe a satellite pass. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Go to the "Object: Satellite" menu option and press ENTER. Use the Scroll keys to scroll through the list of satellites. Select a satellite from the list and press ENTER. "Calculating." and then "Tracking." displays. If the satellite is going to make a pass, "Located" displays. Use the Scroll keys to display data about the pass: aos acquisition of signal and los loss of signal. If you subtract the aos from the los, you can calculate how long the satellite will be visible. Location information also displays. "Alarm" displays after the location information. Press ENTER and Autostar automatically sets the alarm to sound a minute before the satellite's scheduled appearance. You may return to regular observations until the alarm goes off. When the alarm goes off, return to the Satellite menu and press a Scroll key until the desired satellite is on the top line of the display. Press GO TO. Autostar slews the telescope to where the satellite should appear. The motor drive stops and a countdown is displayed. NOTE: If the scheduled appearance position of the satellite is obstructed (i.e., by a building, tree, or hill), press ENTER and Autostar starts to move the telescope along the expected satellite track. When the track clears the obstruction, press ENTER again to pause the telescope, then continue with this procedure. 9. With about 20 seconds left on the countdown timer, start watching through the telescope viewfinder for the satellite to enter the field of view.
10. When the satellite enters the viewfinder field of view, press ENTER. The telescope starts to track with the satellite. 11. Use the Autostar Arrow keys to center the object in the viewfinder, then look through the eyepiece to view the object. Satellite orbits change and new satellites (including the Space Shuttle) are launched. Visit the Meade website (www.meade.com) approximately once a month to get updated information and instructions on how to download this data to Autostar. If orbital parameters are more than one month old, the satellite pass may not happen at the time predicted by Autostar. Downloading requires the optional #506 AstroFinder Software and Cable Connector Kit. See OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, page 31. NOTE: Satellite observing is an exciting challenge. Most satellites are in low orbit, travelling at approximately 17,500 mph. When visible, they move quickly across the sky and are only in the field of view for a few minutes, requiring Autostar to slew the telescope rapidly. Best viewing is near Sunrise or Sunset when the sky is still dark. Viewing in the middle of the night can be problematic because the satellite may pass overhead, but not be visible as it is in the Earth's shadow.

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? 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

Magazines 1. 2.

Organizations: 1.
And watch Jack Horkheimer, Star Gazer, on your local PBS station.
Access directly through the Glossary menu or through hypertext words embedded in Autostar. See GLOSSARY MENU," page 24, for more information. Objects in Space Listed below are some of the many astronomical objects that can be seen with the DS-114AT Series 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. 34). 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.

Fig. 34: The Moon. Note the deep shadows in the craters.
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) are smooth, dark areas scattered across the lunar surface. These dark areas are large ancient impact basins that were filled with lava from the interior of the Moon by the depth and force of a meteor or comet impact. 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. (Tip: enter a date in the Date menu and you can determine if a planet(s) will be visible during the night of the entered date by checking its rise and set times). Listed below are the best planets for viewing through the DS-114AT. 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, and appears through the telescope as a tiny reddishorange disk. Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system and is 11 times the diameter of Earth. The planet appears as a disk with dark lines stretching across the surface. These lines are cloud bands in the atmosphere. Four of Jupiters 16 moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto) can be seen as star-like points of light when using even the lowest magnification (Fig. 35). Saturn is nine times the diameter of Earth and appears as a small, round disk with rings extending out from either side (Fig. 36). Saturns rings are composed of billions of ice particles ranging in size from a speck of dust to the size of a house. Titan, the largest of Saturns 18 moons can also be seen as a bright, star-like object near the planet. Deep-Sky Objects Star charts can be used 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 self-illuminated by nuclear fusion in their core. Because of their vast distances from our solar system, all stars appear as pinpoints of light, irrespective of the size of the telescope used. Open Clusters are loose groupings of young stars, all recently formed from the same diffuse nebula. The Pleiades is an open cluster 410 light years away (Fig. 37). 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.

P/N 14-0500-00 06/00

CONTENTS
Introduction....5 Unpacking....5 Assembly: 60mm and 70mm models...5 Assembly: 80mm, 90mm, 114mm, and 127mm Models..7 Balancing the Tube in the Mount...7 Attaching the Viewfinder....7 Focusing the Viewfinder...9 Aligning the Viewfinder...9 Observing Through the Telescope...9 The Focuser and the Eyepiece-Holder..10 Astronomical Observing...10 Eyepieces and Magnification...10 The Barlow Lens....10 A Note About Power....11 Collimation of the Telescope's Optical System...11 Maintenance.....11 Questions and Repairs...11 Appendix 1: Optical Alignment of 114mm and 127mm Models:..13 Appendix 2: Telescope Control Systems...15 #490 Manual Slow-Motion Control set..15 #492 Dual-Motor Electronic Control System...15 To Install the #492 System...15 Operating Notes on the #492 Dual-Motor Electronic Control System.17 #493 Autostar Computer Control System...18 To Install the #493 System...18 Appendix 3: Optional Electronic and Computer Drive Systems..19 #490 Manual Control Set....19 #492 Dual-Motor Electronic Control System...19 #493 Autostar Computer Control System...19 #495 Autostar Handbox...19 #497 Autostar Handbox...19
The name Meade, the Meade logo, and Autostar are trademarks registered with the U.S. Patent Office and in principal countries throughout the world. All rights reserved. 2000 Meade Instruments Corporation.
Assembly and Operating Instructions for Meade Digital Electronic Telescope Series
60mm (2.4"), 70mm (2.8"), 80mm (3.1"), 90mm (3.5") Refracting Telescopes; 114mm (4.5"), and 127mm (5") Reflecting Telescopes Numbered references are to the figures on the pages of this manual. Example: D-4 refers to item 4 of Fig. D. WARNING! Never use a Meade DS 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. CAUTION: Use care to install batteries as indicated by the battery compartment. Follow battery manufacturers' 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.
Introduction: Meade Digital Electronic Telescope Series (DS) models are illustrated in the following figures: Fig. A 60mm and 70mm refracting telescopes; Fig. B 80mm and 90mm refracting telescopes; Fig. C 114mm and 127mm reflecting telescopes. Telescope optical specifications (diameter, D, and focal length, F) are printed on a foil plate affixed to the optical tube. Example: 60mm models have a diameter D = 60mm and a focal length F = 700mm. Meade DS instruments are available in a variety of trade names (Polaris, Saturn, TeleStar, etc.), with different levels and types of accessorization. All of these telescopes, however, share the same basic optical tube assemblies, mechanical mountings, tripods, and other features. The instructions provided here apply equally well to all DS trade names. All Meade DS telescopes are similar in assembly and operation. Fig. A is used in these instructions for most references where assembly or operation is identical among all the models. Differences among the models, where these differences affect assembly or operation, are pointed out below. Users of DS models which include (either as part of the original telescope or purchased separately as an optional feature) an additional telescope control system (such as the #490 Manual Slow-Motion Control Set, the #492 Dual-Motor Electronic Control System, or the #493 Autostar Computer Control System) should first assemble the basic telescope; instructions for adding one of these optional control systems are given in Appendix 2 of this manual. Unpacking: Locate and remove the following components and parts from the packing box: optical tube (A-1); viewfinder (A-4) and viewfinder bracket (A-5); yoke mount (A-6); tripod legs (A-7); poly bag with 3 bolts and nuts for attaching the tripod to the yoke (60mm and 70mm models only); accessory shelf (A-8); one or more eyepieces (A-9); diagonal mirror (A-10, not included with 114mm and 127mm models). On 60mm and 70mm models the optical tube is factory-attached to the yoke mount and the tripod legs are packed separately in the packing box. On all other models the yoke mount is factory-attached to the three tripod legs and the optical tube is packed separately in the packing box. Assembly: 60mm and 70mm Models Attach the three (aluminum) tripod legs to the base of the yoke mount, as shown in Fig. A. In attaching each leg, slide one of the bolts through the hole (A-12) at the top of the leg, thread the hex nut on to the opposite end of the bolt, and

use a + (Phillips-head) screwdriver to tighten the bolt to a firm feel. Do not overtighten. Note that each tripod leg includes a flip-lock (A-13) for adjusting the overall length of the tripod. These flip-locks should all face inward as the legs are attached to the yoke mount. With the tripod legs attached to the yoke mount and sitting on a flat surface, spread the legs out gently until all legs are fully spread out. Attach the accessory shelf (A-8) to one of the tripod legs by placing one of the shelfs flanges (A-20) at one edge of a tripod leg and then pulling the shelf around the leg until the other shelf flange snaps into place. (To remove the accessory shelf, push one of the flanges with both thumbs from the outside surface of the tripod leg.) The accessory shelf can be pushed up or down the tripod leg to a convenient height. The telescope should now appear as in Fig. A, except that the viewfinder (A-4) has not yet been attached. Note: Assembly of 60mm and 70mm models supplied with hardwood tripods is similar to the assembly described above. Each tripod leg attaches with one of the supplied bolts (D-5) through holes at the top of the leg; a washer and wing nut (D-6) fasten each leg to the base of the yoke mount (D-7). The metal flange (D-1) of each wood tripod leg should face inward. Attach the metal, triangle-shaped accessory shelf (D-2) to each of the three tripod legs using the thumbscrews (D-3) and wing nuts provided. To adjust tripod height, slide the inner section of each tripod leg up or down, securing it in position with firm-feel tightening (do not overtighten) of the thumbscrew (D-4). Assembly: 80mm, 90mm, 114mm, and 127mm Models Place the tripod (with yoke mount attached) on a flat surface and gently spread the three tripod legs outward until they are fully spread out. Each of these models includes a cradle ring system (B-1 or C-1), permitting the optical tube to be moved upward or downward within the cradle rings for proper balancing of the tube on the yoke mount. As the yoke mount/tripod assembly is removed from the packing box, only the lower-half (E-1) of each cradle ring is present. Locate the upper half (E-4) of each cradle ring in the packing box and connect each upper-half ring to its respective lowerhalf ring by inserting the flange (E-2) of each upper-half ring into the slot (E-3) located at the top of the lower-half ring. Be certain that each flange (E-2) is firmly seated into the corresponding slot. Each upper-half ring should now close down to form a complete circular ring without undue pressure being required. Open the upper-half rings and place the optical tube into the cradle rings. See Fig. F. Close the rings and tighten (to a firm-feel only) the latches (E-5). The telescope should now appear as in Figs. B or C, except that the viewfinder (B-6) or (C-6) has not yet been attached. The flip-lock (B-9 or C-10) on each tripod leg permits adjustment of tripod height. Balancing the Tube in the Mount (80mm, 90mm, 114mm, and 127mm models only): Loosen slightly (by rotating half a turn counterclockwise) the vertical lock (B-2 or C-2). Placing your hand on the upper end of the optical tube, move the tube up and down in a vertical direction within the U-shape yoke mount (B-4 or C-4). The tube should move easily and be well-balanced about the vertical axis of motion; if not, slightly loosen the cradle ring latches (E-5), move the optical tube up-or-down within the cradle rings to achieve good balance, and re-tighten the latches (E-5). Attaching the Viewfinder: Because the main telescope has a fairly narrow field of view, locating objects directly in the main telescope can sometimes be difficult. The viewfinder (A4) is a small, wide-field telescope with crosshairs that permits easy object location. With the viewfinder and main telescope aligned to each other, so that both point to the same position in the sky, the observer first locates an object in the viewfinder; the object is then also positioned within the field of the main telescope. The viewfinder bracket (A-5) attaches to the focuser housing at the position shown in Figs. A, B, or C. (On 114mm and 127mm models the viewfinder bracket attaches to the mounting block (C-7) located on the main telescope tube, near the focuser.) Using a + (Phillips-head)

176mm (6.9")

6 x 30mm

30mm (1.2")

148mm (5.8") 24mm (0.94")

5 x 24mm

screwdriver, secure the bracket in position by tightening the two attachment screws (G-1) inside the bracket (these screws are placed inside the bracket at the factory) into the mating threads (G-6) located on the focuser housing, or (in the cases of 114mm and 127mm models) located on the mounting block (C-7). Slide the viewfinder (G-2), eyepiece-end (G-8) first, into the viewfinder bracket. (Remove the rubber eyecup (G-8) from the viewfinder before sliding the viewfinder into the bracket. Replace this rubber eyecup after the viewfinder is positioned in the bracket.) Tighten (to a firm-feel only) the four alignment thumbscrews (G-3) to hold the viewfinder in the bracket. Focusing the Viewfinder: Each Meade DS telescope is supplied with one of two viewfinder models, 5 x 24mm or a larger 6 x 30mm. Identify the viewfinder of your telescope from Fig. H. Focusing the 5 x 24mm viewfinder is accomplished by turning the viewfinder eyepiece (H1) on its internal thread. Generally a few turns are sufficient to achieve proper focus. The 6 x 30mm viewfinder is locked into permanent focus at infinity. Look through the 6 x 30mm viewfinder at a distant land object; if the focus is not sharp, then follow this procedure: (a) loosen the focus lock ring (H-2) a few turns, permitting the lens cell (H-3) to be rotated; (b) looking through the viewfinder at a distant land object, rotate the lens cell until the object is sharply focused; (c) tighten the focus lock ring (H-2) up against the lens cell. Important Note: Objects appear upside-down and reversed left-for-right when observed in the viewfinder. With refracting telescope Models DS-60, DS-70, DS-80, and DS-90, objects viewed through the main telescope with the diagonal mirror (A-10) in place are seen right-sideup, but reversed left-for-right. This image inversion is of no consequence when observing astronomical objects, and in fact all astronomical telescopes yield inverted images. During terrestrial observing, where a fully-correctly-oriented image (right-side up and correct left-for-right) is desirable, an optional Meade 45 Erecting Prism (available in either 0.965" or 1.25" format to suit the appropriate Meade telescope model) is available. See the optional accessories sheet which accompanies the telescope or consult the Meade Telescope Catalog. Note that for reflecting telescopes, including Meade Models DS-114 and DS-127, no means of image inversion is available; while these telescopes may be used for terrestrial observing, the image will not be correctly oriented in either right-side-up or left-for-right orientations. Aligning the Viewfinder: Loosen the vertical (A-14) and horizontal (A-15) locks, by turning the lock knobs about one turn counterclockwise, permitting the telescope to move freely on both axes. Place a low-power (e.g., 25mm) eyepiece in the focuser of the main telescope and point the telescope at an easy-to-find land object (e.g., the top of a telephone pole). Turn the focuser knob (A-16) so that the image is sharply focused, and center the object precisely in the main telescopes field of view. Re-tighten the lock-knobs (A-14) and (A-15). Then, looking through the viewfinder, turn the viewfinders four alignment screws (G-3) until the viewfinders crosshairs point precisely at the same object as centered in the main telescope. The viewfinder is now aligned to the main telescope. The right-hand image in Fig. J shows an object centered in the main telescope before the viewfinder (the left-hand image) has been aligned to the main telescope. Fig. K shows these same images after the viewfinder and main telescope are aligned. Assembly of the basic telescope is now complete. If your telescope includes one of the DS optional features, continue to Appendix 2 to complete the assembly of the optional feature before observing. Observing Through the Telescope: Place the diagonal mirror (A-10) in the telescopes eyepiece-holder (A-17) and tighten the thumbscrews of the eyepiece-holder to secure the diagonal mirror in place. (Note that DS 114mm and 127mm reflecting telescope models do not include, and do not require, a diagonal mirror.) Place a low-power (e.g., 25mm) eyepiece into the diagonal mirror (or, with DS 114mm and 127mm models, directly into the eyepiece-holder), and tighten the eyepiece in place with the thumbscrews (A-18) provided.

The diagonal mirror permits a comfortable 90 angle for observing sky objects with DS 60mm through 90mm refracting telescopes; in addition the diagonal mirror results in an upright, but reversed left-for-right, image through the telescope during terrestrial observations. Loosen the vertical (A-14) and horizontal (A-15) locks, by turning the lock knobs about one turn counterclockwise. The telescopes main tube now moves easily in either vertical or horizontal directions. Alternately, partially-locking these locks provides a comfortable drag, neither too loose nor too tight, in the motion of the telescope tube about the vertical and horizontal axes. Experiment to find the best lock-knob tensions. Begin by observing easy-to-find land objects. Obtain a sharp image by turning the focuser knob (A-16). Use the viewfinder to locate objects before observing them in the main telescope. Start the observation of any object, astronomical or terrestrial, with a low-power eyepiece (see Eyepieces and Magnification, below), stepping up to higher power eyepieces, if desired, after the image is centered and focused in the main telescope. The Focuser and Eyepiece-Holder: Depending on the telescope model, Meade DS telescopes are supplied with an eyepiece-holder (G-4) that accepts eyepieces of either.965" (24.5mm) or 1.25" (31.7mm) barrel-diameter. DS models of 70mm and larger also include a separate eyepiece-holder that accepts giant, wide-field eyepieces of 2" (50.8mm) barrel-diameter, such as the optional Meade MH50mm eyepiece. This 2" eyepiece-holder ring threads on to the end of the focuser drawtube and replaces the standard eyepiece-holder (G-4) when 2" eyepieces are employed. The focuser drawtube lock (G-5) helps to prevent focuser slippage when heavier accessories are added to the eyepiece end of the telescope. Astronomical Observing: With the telescope focused on a celestial object such as the Moon, a planet, or a deep-space galaxy or nebula, the object is seen to move quite rapidly through the telescopic field of view. This apparent motion is caused by the Earths rotation on its axis once every 24 hours. To follow, or track, the object, place a hand on the main telescope tube and move the telescope on one or both of its vertical and horizontal axes. Tracking astronomical objects, particularly at higher powers, is greatly facilitated with the addition of a manual or electronic telescope control system. See Appendix 2. Eyepieces and Magnification: The magnification, or power, of a telescope is determined by two factors: the focal length, F, of the main telescope (this focal length is printed on a label affixed to the telescope tube or focuser), and the focal length of the eyepiece employed. Each Meade telescope is supplied with one or more eyepieces; some models also include a Barlow lens, described below, which doubles or triples eyepiece power. To calculate the power at which the telescope is operating, use this formula: Power Focal Length of Main Telescope = __________________________ Focal Length of Eyepiece

Example: Meade 60mm DS telescopes have a focal length of 700mm. The power obtained with a 25mm eyepiece is calculated as: Power 700mm = _______ = 28 times (written as 28X) 25mm
The optical type of an eyepiece (e.g., SR, H, MA, MH, etc.) has no bearing on power, but does affect such characteristics as field of view and image corrections. The Barlow Lens: Some Meade telescopes include a power multiplier called a Barlow lens. Consisting of a lens mounted in a 4" (10cm)-long tube, the Barlow doubles or triples the power

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obtained when an eyepiece is used alone. In the example above a 25mm eyepiece results in 28X magnification with the Meade 60mm DS telescope; when this same eyepiece is used in conjunction with a 2x Barlow lens, power is doubled to 56X. To use the Barlow, insert it into the telescopes focuser/eyepiece-holder (A-17), followed by the diagonal mirror and an eyepiece. (With Meade 114mm and 127mm DS telescopes, insert the Barlow into the telescopes focuser/eyepiece-holder, followed directly by an eyepiece.) A Note About Power: The most common mistake of the beginning observer is to use powers which the telescopes aperture (diameter) and typical atmospheric conditions cannot reasonably support. The result is an image which is fuzzy, ill-defined, and poorly resolved, through no fault of the telescope. Keep in mind that a smaller, lower-power but brighter and well-resolved image is far superior to a large, high-power, but dim and poorly-resolved one. Most commonly, Meade DS telescopes are best used at powers from about 30X (for land observing and for extended astronomical objects such as diffuse nebulae and star clusters) to about 150X (for more detailed study of the Moon and planets). Use higher powers only when the air is steady and when such powers actually increase the level of visible detail. Collimation of the Telescopes Optical System: The optical systems of Meade 60mm through 90mm refractors are collimated (aligned) at the factory and never require adjustment. Similarly, it is unlikely that the user of a Meade DS 114mm or 127mm reflecting telescope will need to adjust the factory-aligned optics of either of these models. Users of 114mm and 127mm models should, however, read Appendix 1 to confirm this point. Maintenance: The objective lenses of Meade DS 60mm through 90mm refracting telescopes and the primary and secondary mirrors of DS 114mm and 127mm reflecting telescopes should be cleaned as infrequently as possible. A little dust on a lens or mirror causes negligible loss of image quality and should not be considered as reason to clean it. If the telescopes dust cover (A-3) is replaced after each observing session, cleaning the optics will rarely be required. When cleaning a lens or mirror does become necessary, use a camels hair brush or compressed air gently to remove dust. The dew shield (A-19) of 60mm through 90mm refracting telescopes should be removed to access the lens prior to cleaning. Questions and Repairs: In the U.S.A. questions concerning any Meade DS telescope, accessories, or optional systems should be directed to: Customer Service Dept., Meade Instruments Corp., 6001 Oak Canyon, Irvine, California 92618; FAX: (949) 451-1460; Telephone: (949) 451-1450. Do not return a telescope or telescope part to Meade Instruments before calling or writing us first; the great majority of repair situations can be handled without requiring return of the telescope to us. Outside the U.S.A. please contact the Meade international distributor in your country. A listing of Meade international distributors is included in the Meade website www.meade.com. 4

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Appendix 1: Optical Alignment of 114mm and 127mm Models
Meade DS 60mm, 70mm, 80mm, and 90mm refracting telescopes are optically aligned (collimated) at the factory prior to shipment, and it is never necessary to re-collimate the optics of these models. Meade DS 114mm and 127mm reflecting telescope models are also factoryaligned, but may occasionally require re-alignment, particularly if the telescope has received rough handling in shipment. Before using one of these models for the first time, check the alignment of the optics as outlined in this appendix. Good optical alignment is essential for telescope performance, and in any case the alignment procedure is not difficult to follow. Refer to Figs. L through S: The optical systems of Meade DS reflecting telescopes include the following parts: primary mirror (L-1); secondary mirror (L-2); secondary mirror-holder (L-3); secondary mirror-vanes (L-4 and M1); primary mirror-tilt screws (L-5). The telescopes image is brought to a focus at (L-6). 1. Confirm alignment: To confirm optical alignment look down the focuser drawtube (C-11 and P-1) with the eyepiece removed. The edge of the focuser drawtube frames reflections of the primary mirror (P-2), the secondary mirror (P-3), the three (spider) vanes (P-4) holding the secondary mirror, and the observers eye (P-5). With the optics properly aligned, all of these reflections appear concentric (centered), as shown in Fig. P. Any deviation from concentricity of any of these telescope parts with the eye requires adjustments to the secondary mirrorholder (Fig. M) and/or the primary mirror cell (Fig. N), as described below. 2. Secondary mirror-vane adjustments: If the secondary mirror (Q-1) is left or right of center within the drawtube (Q-2), slightly loosen the 3-vane adjustment/lock knobs (M-1) located on the outside surface of the main tube and slide the entire secondary mirror-holder system up or down in the slotted holes of the main tube until the secondary mirror is centered in the drawtube. If the secondary mirror (Q-1) is above- or below-center within the drawtube, thread inward one of the adjustment/lock knobs (M-1) while unthreading another of these knobs. Only make adjustments to two knobs at a time until the secondary mirror appears as in Fig. R. 3. Secondary mirror-holder adjustments: If the secondary mirror (R-1) is centered in the focuser drawtube (R-2), but the primary mirror is only partially visible in the reflection (R-3), the three + (Phillips head) secondary mirror-tilt screws (M-2) should be slightly unthreaded to the point where the secondary mirror-holder (M-3) can rotate about its axis parallel to the main tube. Grasp the secondary mirror-holder (avoid touching the mirror surface!) with your hand and rotate it until, looking through the drawtube, you can see the primary mirror centered as well as possible in the reflection of the secondary mirror. With the rotation of the secondary mirror-holder at this best-possible position, thread in the three Phillips-head screws (M-2) to lock the rotational position. Then, if necessary, make adjustments to these three Phillipshead screws to refine the tilt-angle of the secondary mirror, until the entire primary mirror can be seen centered within the secondary mirrors reflection. With the secondary mirror thus aligned the image through the drawtube appears as in Fig. S. 4. Primary mirror adjustments: If the secondary mirror (S-1) and the reflection of the primary mirror (S-2) appear centered within the drawtube (S-3), but the reflection of your eye and the reflection of the secondary mirror (S-4) appear off-center, then the primary mirror-tilt requires adjusting, using the Phillips-head screws of the primary mirror cell (N-3). These primary mirror-tilt screws are located behind the primary mirror, at the lower end of the main tube. See Fig. N. Before adjusting the primary mirror-tilt screws, first unscrew by several turns (use either a hex wrench or pliers) the three hex-head primary mirror lock screws (N-2) which are also located on the rear surface of the primary mirror cell and which alternate around the cells circumference with the three Phillips-head screws. Then by trial and error turn the primary mirror Phillips-head tilt screws (N-3) until you develop a feel for which way to turn each screw to center the reflection of your eye in the drawtube. (An assistant is helpful in this operation.) With your eye centered as shown in Fig. P, turn the three hex head primary mirror lock screws (N-2) to re-lock the tilt-angle of the primary mirror. The telescopes optical system is now aligned, or collimated. This collimation should be rechecked from time to time, with small adjustments (per steps 1, 2, and/or 3, above) effected as required to keep the optics well-aligned.

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Appendix 2: Telescope Control Systems
Depending on the Meade DS telescope model, one of the following manual or electronic control systems may be included in the telescopes standard specifications. (Telescope specifications are generally listed on the box in which the telescope is packed.) Alternately, any of these control systems may be purchased separately as an optional feature. #490 Manual Slow-Motion Control Set: The #490 Control Set permits manual tracking of astronomical and terrestrial objects through the telescope, by turning one or both of the manual control knobs; one slow-motion control is attached to each of the vertical and horizontal axes of the telescope, as shown in Figs. T and U. If purchased as an option, the instructions for mounting the #490 are included with the control set itself. If this feature is standard on your telescope, the control set is preassembled on the telescope, except the control knobs (T-1 and T-2). Attach these knobs with the provided hex key. Be sure to align the set screw with the flat on the shaft. With the lock-knobs (U-1) and (U-2) in their locked positions, the observer may track, or follow, any object, astronomical or terrestrial, by turning one or both of the control knobs (T-1) and (T-2). To move the telescope rapidly from one point in the sky to another, unlock the lockknobs (U-1) and (U-2), relocking them once the desired object has been placed in the telescopic field. Note that placing each of the two lock-knobs in a partially-locked position creates a comfortable drag in moving the telescope. Experiment with the lock-knobs to find the optimum lock tensions for your applications. #492 Dual-Motor Electronic Control System: With the #492 Electronic Control System attached to any Meade DS telescope, all motions of the telescope, including moving the telescope to an object, centering it in the field of view, and tracking it (in the case of an astronomical object) to compensate for the Earths rotation, may be effected through the pushbutton Electronic Controller (Fig. X). If purchased as an option, the instructions for mounting the #492 are included with the control system itself. If this feature is standard on your telescope, the user needs to attach the motor assemblies to the telescope, as described below. The #492 System consists of the following components, each of which should be located in the packing before installation to the telescope is attempted (see Figs. V and Y): battery pack (Y-1); accepts ten AA-size user-supplied batteries) with cord; two small hex wrenches; two (identical and interchangeable) motor assemblies (V-1) and (V-4) with cords; one Electronic Controller handbox (Fig. X). (Note that for clarity cords attached to the motor assemblies and battery pack are not shown in the accompanying Figs. V and Y of the #492 Control System.) To install the #492 System: 1. Place ten AA-size batteries inside the battery pack (Y-1), with correct battery orientation as indicated on the battery packs internal holder; attach the battery pack to one of the tripod legs using the Velcro fastener as shown in Fig. Y, or set it on the accessory shelf (Fig. Y). 2. Attach the vertical motor assembly (V-1) to the vertical control unit by placing the knurled ring (V-2) of the motor assembly over the reduction gear (V-3). Note that three small plastic tabs project outward about 3mm (1/8") from the face of the threaded ring near the reduction gear (V-3). These locator tabs must fit into mating slots located just-inside the knurled ring (V-2). Wiggle the motor assembly (V-1) to engage the reduction gear (V-3) with the internal gears of the motor assembly (V-1). The knurled ring (V-2) locks into position by threading it to a mating thread located on the vertical control unit. Turn the knurled ring to a firm-feel only; do not overtighten.

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COMPUTER CONTROL

HBX AZ ALT AUX

IN FOCUS OUT SPEED MODE

FOCUS OUT

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3. Attach the horizontal motor assembly (V-4) to the telescope by following the same procedure outlined in step 2, above. Note: With both the vertical and horizontal motor assemblies attached, the telescope now appears as in Fig. Y. (Note that cords have been omitted from Fig. Y for clarity.) 4. Plug in the following cords to the control panel (V-5 and Fig. W): Cord from the vertical motor assembly (V-1) plugs into the ALT (altitude, or vertical) jack (Fig. W). b. Cord from the horizontal motor assembly (V-4) plugs into the AZ (azimuth, or horizontal) jack (Fig. W). c. Cord from the Electronic Controller (Y-2) plugs into the HBX (handbox) jack (Fig. W). 5. Finally, plug the cord from the battery pack (Y-1) into the 12v jack (Fig. W). 6. As soon as the battery pack is connected to the 12v jack on the control panel, all four indicator lights on the Electronic Controller (Fig. X) start blinking rapidly. Press the SPEED key on the Electronic Controller and the telescope slews (moves) momentarily in the vertical and horizontal directions to test the motors. When the test is complete, Light 1 (see Fig. X) comes on steady; Lights 2, 3, and 4 turn off. 7. The #492 Dual-Axis Electronic Control System is now operational. Use the four arrow keys (X-5) to slew the telescope to the desired object. To change speeds, press the SPEED key (X6) on the Electronic Controller. Depressing this key consecutively causes telescope speed to cycle through all of the four available speeds, from fast to very slow. The speed in operation is indicated by the four indicator lights (1, 2, 3, and 4, Fig. X) on the Electronic Controller, as follows: Light 1: Light 2: Light 3: Light 4: 5/second (fast). Use this speed to move the telescope across the sky rapidly from one object to another. 0.75/second (moderate). Use to center objects in the field of the viewfinder. 8 arc-minutes/per second (slow). Use to center objects in the field of view or to track objects at lower powers. 2 arc-minutes/sec. (very slow). Use to center objects in the field of view or to track objects at higher powers (e.g., above magnifications of about 80X). a.
Operating Notes on the #492 Dual-Motor Electronic Control System: 1. For the motors of the #492 System to be operational, the vertical and horizontal lock-knobs (V-6) and (V-7) must be in their locked positions. Firm-feel tightening of these locks is sufficient. Do not overtighten. 2. When setting up the telescope, always plug in the battery pack to the control panel last, after plugging in the two motors and the Electronic Controller. Connecting the battery pack to the control panel before the motors and Electronic Controller are connected may result in false electrical signals being sent to the motors, causing them to malfunction. In this case unplug the battery pack from the control panel, wait a few seconds, and plug the battery pack back into the control panel. This operation clears the motors of any false signals. 3. When using the arrow keys (X-5) to reverse the direction of motion of the telescope (e.g., when changing the telescope's direction of motion from horizontal-right to horizontal-left), there may be a brief pause before the telescope begins moving. This pause is caused by the internal gears of the motor assemblies. 4. The MODE key of the Electronic Controller (Fig. X) is inoperative on the #492 System; pressing this key has no effect. (The MODE key is used in certain specialized operations on other Meade telescope models where equatorial (polar) alignment of the telescope is desired.)

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5. The IN and OUT keys are used in conjunction with the optional Meade #1240 Electric Focuser. With the #1240 unit attached to the telescopes focuser, precise focusing of the telescopic image may be accomplished directly from the Electronic Controller. Detailed instructions are included with the #1240 Electric Focuser. 6. Note that the telescopes accessory shelf (A-8) includes a holder (A-21) for the Electronic Controller. 7. When using the #492 System, take care that cords do not become wrapped around the telescope; keep the cords loose at all times. Do not allow the telescope to slew into the tripod or other fixed object. Do not touch or hold the telescope tube while it is moving. 8. If the motors stall or do not have sufficient power to move the telescope, place fresh batteries in the battery pack. Long-life alkaline batteries are recommended. #493 Autostar Computer Control System: Attached to any Meade DS telescope, the #493 Autostar Computer Control System permits fully automatic motorized location (at 5/second on both telescope axes) of more than 1400 celestial objects, including the major planets from Mercury to Pluto; all 110 deep-space Messier objects; the finest galaxies, diffuse nebulae, planetary nebulae, and star clusters from the New General Catalog (NGC), the Index Catalog (IC), and the Caldwell catalog; hundreds of stars (double stars, variable stars, SAO stars); 15 periodic comets; 50 earth-orbiting satellites; and more. In addition the Autostar System can perform an automatic GO TO function to any object of known celestial coordinates (Right Ascension and Declination). Enter any of the preceding objects into the Autostar display, press GO TO, and the telescope moves to the object and places it in the telescopic field of view. To install the #493 system: Installation of the #493 system is identical to the procedure described in "To Install the #492 System," page 15, except for step 4c. In this step, the cord from the #493 Autostar Computer Control System plugs into the HBX (handbox) jack (Fig. W). Instructions for the operation of the #493 Autostar Computer Control System are included with the System itself. Important Note: The first time Autostar initializes, it calibrates the motors. If you remove the motors after a viewing session, mark one of the motors so that you remember the orientation of the motors. Use the same orientation in subsequent observing sessions; otherwise Autostar detects what appears to be a motor failure. If this occurs and a motor failure message is displayed, the motors have to be recalibrated.

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Appendix 3: Optional Electronic and Computer Drive Systems Available for Your Meade Digital Electronic Series Telescope
Your Meade DS telescope can be equipped with the latest in high-technology electronic drive systems. These systems attach to Meade DS telescopes in minutes and greatly extend the usefulness and excitement of telescope operation. #490 Manual Slow-Motion Control Set Use the Manual Slow Motion Control Set to manually track astronomical and terrestrial objects through the telescope by turning one or both of the manual control knobs attached to the vertical and horizontal axes of the telescope. Allows manual micrometric slow-motions of the telescope. #492 Dual-Motor Electronic Control System Use the Electronic Control System for pushbutton motions of the telescope on both telescope axes, simultaneously, at any of the drive speeds; very slow, slow, moderate, and fast. Track astronomical and terrestrial objects at the push of a button. The #492 system operates from a small battery pack included with the system, that accepts ten AA-size (user supplied) batteries. #493 Autostar Computer Control System With the Meade Autostar system attached to your telescope, fully automatic astronomical object-location becomes a reality. Bring up the object you want to observe from Autostars 1400-object database on to the Autostar display, press GO TO, and the telescope automatically moves to the object and places it in the telescope field of view! In addition, Autostar enables the telescope to track the object automatically, fully compensating for the earths rotation. Objects seem to stand still as the telescope follows their motions across the sky. Supplied with 2 control motors, battery pack and Autostar #495 handbox. #495 Autostar Handbox Owners of DS telescopes already equipped with the #492 EC System (see above) need only purchase the #495 handbox to convert their telescopes to full Autostar operation. See the description of the #493 Autostar System above for more details. #497 Autostar Handbox Includes all the features of the #495 handbox, but offers a database of over 14,000 objects, including over 5,000 objects from the Index Catalog (IC), 7800 objects from the New General Catalog (NGC), 109 objects from the Caldwell catalog and over 900 stars from the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO). The database also includes all 110 Messier objects, 50 earth-orbiting satellites, 26 asteroids, and 15 periodic comets. For more information on these electronic features, contact your Meade dealer, or send $3.00 to Meade Instruments for a copy of the Meade General Catalog, Information on Meade dealers located near you can be obtained by calling toll-free: 1-800-62MEADE.

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