User manual MEADE TELESTAR 40AZ-T

[. . . ] 1) · · · · · Complete optical tube (objective lens diameter = 40mm; focal length = 600mm) 25mm (25X), 6mm (100X) eyepieces (. 965" O. D. "Outside Diameter") Diagonal mirror (. 965" O. D. ) 2X viewfinder with bracket Table-top Altazimuth mount INSTALLATION: 1. 1) with the eyepiece cup (14, Fig. 1) pointing to the back, toward the telescope eyepiece (see diagram). Adjust the viewfinder as you are tightening the bracket so that it points in the same direction the optical tube is pointing. [. . . ] This motion is caused by the rotation of the Earth on its axis which results in an apparent motion of the object in the telescope's field of view; i. e. although the Moon, planets and stars are, for practical purposes, fixed in ­5­ their positions during any 2 or 3 hour observing session, the platform on which the telescope is sitting (the Earth) rotates once every 24 hours underneath these fixed objects. To keep astronomical objects centered in the field, simply move the telescope on one or both of its axes (vertical and/or horizontal), using the altitude control handle (5, Fig. At higher powers, astronomical objects will seem to move through the field more rapidly. Likewise, avoid observing sites where vibrations may resonate the tripod. Viewing from the upper floors of a building may also introduce image movement. Allow a few minutes for your eyes to become "dark adapted" prior to attempting any serious observations. Use a red-filtered flashlight to protect your night vision when reading star maps, or inspecting components of the telescope. Avoid setting up the telescope inside a room and observing through an open window (or worse yet, a closed window pane). Images viewed in such a manner may appear blurred or distorted due to temperature differences between inside and outside air. Also, it is a good idea to allow your telescope a chance to reach the ambient (surrounding) outside temperature before starting an observing session. We repeat the warning stated at the outset of this manual: NEVER POINT THE TELESCOPE DIRECTLY AT OR NEAR THE SUN AT ANY TIME!OBSERVING THE SUN, EVEN FOR THE SMALLEST FRACTION OF A SECOND, WILL RESULT IN INSTANT AND IRREVERSIBLE EYE DAMAGE, AS WELL AS PHYSICAL DAMAGE TO THE TELESCOPE ITSELF. Planets, in particular, viewed while low on the horizon, often exhibit lack of sharpness--the same object, when observed higher in the sky, will appear to be much better resolved with far greater contrast. Also, turbulent air in the upper atmosphere can cause the images to "shimmer" in the eyepiece--reduce power until the image steadies. Keep in mind that a bright, clearly resolved, but smaller image will show far more interesting detail than a larger, dimmer, fuzzy image. The 40AZ-T may be used for a lifetime of rewarding astronomical and terrestrial observing, but basic to your enjoyment of the telescope is a good understanding of the instrument. Read the above instructions carefully until you understand all of the telescope's parts and functions. One or two observing sessions will serve to clarify these points forever in your mind. The number of fascinating objects visible through your 40AZ-T is limited only by your own motivation. Astronomical software, or a good star atlas (check out your local library, bookstore or the Internet) will assist you in locating many interesting celestial objects. These objects include: · · · Jupiter and its four major moons, visible around the planet, changing position each night. [. . . ] While the theoretical power or magnification of a telescope is virtually limitless, there are, however, practical limits imposed by the Earth's atmosphere as to what can be seen well at a given power. The most useful higher magnification with any 40mm diameter telescope is in the range of 24 to 100 power. The general rule regarding power: Only use as much magnification as supports a steady, well-defined image. The stability of the air varies and is one reason why having various eyepieces is highly desirable. [. . . ]