Here are some tips and tricks I have picked up along the way.  Some are straight forward and some have evolved since I first started working with my ETX 70.

- Always use an alternate power source. 

It doesn’t matter if you use an official power supply from Meade or a storage battery, the ETX 70 will perform better when connected to a power supply other than the original batter pack.  I use the Meade power adapter.  Slew speeds are increased.  The scope is generally more responsive and I don’t have to worry about the batteries going dead during an observation session.  Here you can see I added a plug, this one is a standard 12v computer power plug.  It makes      it easier to store the scope. 

- Ditch the stock Meade focuser knob.

I purchased this flexible focuser knob off Ebay.  It came with an allen wrench to remove the stock focuser.  You can also use a length of rubber hose that fits snuggly over the stock knob.  The stock knob is extremely difficult to use when the scope is    pointed up, like in this picture.  It also comes in handy when wearing gloves. 

- Don’t go overboard with accessories

This combination level and compass is a good example.  It looked great on the internet.  I found out how unpractical it really is.  The ETX 70 tripod and scope have to be level for the Autostar to perform well.  This device actually makes it more difficult to use.  A good old fashioned compass and bubble level work better.

Power up the scope.  Run the alignment procedure and enjoy the view.

- Cable Control  

You may have up a lot of cables hanging off the scope.  Make sure there is plenty of slack.  Cables will bind the motorized portions of the scope and prevent movement.  Once that happens is back to the alignment procedure.

- Always Know Where The Autostar Is

Here you can see I have attached Velcro to the autostar and all three legs of the tripod.  No more looking for the accessory rack in the dark.  Place Velcro at the same height on all legs and it will help you manage the cable tangle

- Red Dot Finder

The use of a red dot finder will come in handy when searching the sky.  Try to use it with both eyes open.  The red dot will be projected onto the other eye.  This way objects are not blocked by the red dot.

ETX 70 Tips

DabsonAstronomy.Com

In English

Ausstatung

Links

Foto Galerie

Observationene

ETX 70 Tips

Meine Projekte

Meine Email

Seite Navigation

Home