Meade Instruments ETX125 Observer Telescope User Manual

1. Introduction

The Meade Instruments ETX125 Observer is a 127mm aperture Maksutov-Cassegrain computerized GoTo astronomy telescope. This instrument is designed to provide detailed views of celestial objects, combining portability with Meade's optical quality. It features an AudioStar controller with a 30,000+ object database and guided audio tours, making celestial exploration accessible and engaging for users of all experience levels.

Figure 1: Meade ETX125 Observer Telescope fully assembled on its tripod.

2. What's in the Box

The ETX125 Observer package includes the following components:

• Meade Instruments ETX125 Observer Telescope with Case and Tripod
• AudioStar Computer Hand Controller with 30,000 object database and 4 hours of presentation
• Fork Mount with DC Servo Motors
• Full Size Steel Tripod with EQ tilt plate
• Two 1.25" Super Plossl Eyepieces (9.7mm and 26mm)
• Red-dot viewfinder

Figure 2: The ETX125 Observer Telescope with its primary accessories, including eyepieces, red-dot viewfinder, and compass.

3. Setup

This section provides step-by-step instructions for setting up your Meade ETX125 Observer Telescope. It is recommended to perform the initial setup in a well-lit area.

3.1. Tripod Assembly

1. Place the tripod vertically with the feet down. Gently pull the legs apart to a fully open position.
2. Loosen the leg lock on each leg and extend each leg segment until the tripod is at the desired height and approximately level. Re-lock the leg lock latches to secure each leg segment.
3. Remove the end nut from the spreader shaft and slide the spreader in between the telescope legs. Attach the end nut and hand-tighten until the telescope legs are held snugly in the most spread position.
4. Position the tripod where you intend to use the telescope. Use the included bubble level compass to ensure the tripod head is approximately level.
5. Loosen the latitude control knob and lift the tilt plate to easily access its underside. Re-lock the latitude control knob to prevent slipping while attaching the telescope.

3.2. Mounting the Telescope

1. Align the ETX125 with the mounting holes on the base of the telescope with the tripod attachment knobs.
2. Thread both attachment knobs into the base of the telescope and tighten to a firm feel only. Do not overtighten.
3. Unlock the latitude control knobs and lower the tilt plate until it is level. Then, lock the latitude control knob.

3.3. Attaching Accessories

1. Place the 26mm eyepiece into the eyepiece holder on the telescope and tighten the attachment thumb screw to a firm feel only.
2. Slide the red-dot viewfinder into the slotted holder on the top surface of the telescope and tighten the attachment thumb screw to a firm feel only.

3.4. Powering the Telescope

1. Ensure the telescope master power switch is in the OFF position.
2. Lift the battery cover located between the mount fork arms.
3. Gently remove the battery holder from the compartment. Insert six user-supplied AA batteries into the holder, ensuring correct polarity.
4. Carefully reinsert the battery holder and close the cover.
5. Plug one end of the AudioStar cable into the HBX port on the control panel and the other end into the handbox port on the AudioStar hand controller.

3.5. Setup and Alignment Video Guide

For a visual guide on setting up and aligning your ETX Observer telescope, please watch the official video below:

4. Operating the Telescope

Once your ETX125 Observer is assembled and powered, you can begin exploring the night sky. The AudioStar controller is central to its operation.

4.1. AudioStar Initialization and Alignment

To automatically track and locate objects, the ETX must first be aligned with the sky. It is recommended to set up the tripod in twilight or before sunset for the first use.

1. Turn the telescope master power switch to the ON position. The AudioStar keypad will beep and light up.
2. Press '0' to align or 'MODE' for menu displays.
3. You will need to set your location, time, and select the telescope model as prompted by the AudioStar.
4. Once these settings are complete, AudioStar initialization is complete, and it will enter the easy alignment routine.
5. AudioStar will automatically choose two stars for alignment. When the telescope slews to the first star, it may not appear in the field of view in the eyepiece. The alignment star is usually the brightest star in that area of the sky.
6. While looking through the red-dot viewfinder, use the arrow keys on the AudioStar controller to move the telescope and place the red dot on top of the brightest nearby star.
7. Now, look through the eyepiece and use the arrow keys to move the star to the center of the eyepiece field. Press 'ENTER'.
8. Repeat this procedure for the second alignment star.
9. If the procedure is performed correctly, "Alignment Successful" will be displayed. If not, repeat the procedure.

4.2. Using the GoTo Function

After successful alignment, you can use the AudioStar's GoTo capabilities to automatically point the telescope to desired celestial objects. Navigate through the menus to select objects from the database, and the telescope will slew to them.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your ETX125 Observer Telescope.

5.1. Cleaning Optics

• Use a soft camel hair brush or compressed air to remove dust from optical surfaces.
• For smudges or fingerprints, use a specialized optical cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. Apply solution to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
• Avoid touching optical surfaces with bare hands.

5.2. General Care

• Store the telescope in its protective case in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use.
• Remove batteries if the telescope will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
• Ensure all knobs and screws are tightened to a firm feel before and after use, but do not overtighten.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your ETX125 Observer Telescope.

6.1. Power Issues

• Telescope not powering on: Check battery installation and ensure batteries are fresh. Verify all cable connections to the AudioStar controller and the telescope's control panel.
• AudioStar display is dim or unresponsive: Replace batteries in the telescope. Ensure the cable is securely connected.

6.2. Alignment Problems

• Alignment unsuccessful: Ensure the tripod is level and stable. Double-check that the correct location, time, and date are entered into the AudioStar. Make sure the vertical and horizontal locks are engaged.
• Stars not centered in eyepiece after GoTo: Re-perform the two-star alignment procedure carefully, ensuring the stars are precisely centered in both the red-dot viewfinder and the eyepiece.

6.3. Image Quality Issues

• Blurry images: Adjust the focus knob until the image is sharp. Ensure the eyepiece is fully inserted and secured. Allow the telescope to acclimate to the ambient temperature to reduce thermal currents.
• Dust or smudges in view: Refer to the 'Cleaning Optics' section for proper cleaning procedures.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1. Warranty Information

The Meade Instruments ETX125 Observer Telescope comes with a 1 Year Warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

8.2. Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Meade Instruments website or contact their customer service department. You can find more information and resources at the Meade Instruments Store.