|
An observatory-level telescope for the serious astronomer and astrophotographer, with advanced optics. Features: - 10" aperture
- 2,032mm focal length
- Fast f/8 focal ratio
- Precision GPS alignment
- UHTC lens coatings for maximum image contrast and brightness
- New carbon graphite and Kevlar tube
- New rear and front cell architecture
- RCX400 drive base
- Built-in dew heater
- Integrated cooling fan
- Precision encoder-measured digital focusing
- High-precision pointing capability
- Precision electronic optical collimation
- Smart Drive permanent periodic error correction
- Computer optimized internal baffling
- 9 customizable focus position presets for different observers
Includes:- Upgraded AutoStar II computer controller with expanded database of 180,000 objects
- Series 5000 24mm 2" Ultra Wide Angle eyepiece
- Meade #929 2" Diagonal Mirror permits the use of all wide-field 2" O.D. eyepieces
- New ultra-stable tripod
Expanded Database and User Memory
The RCX400's AutoStar II database has been expanded over the standard library of the LX200GPS scope and features 180,000 objects, including more stars from the Hipparchos/Tycho catalog, the popular "Lunar 100," the PK Catalog of Planetary Nebulae, the Hickson Catalog of Dense Galaxy Clusters and more.Precision Encoder-Measured Digital Focusing
With a laser-aligned primary mirror fixed in position, focusing is performed electronically and digitally by precisely moving the entire front cell in increments as fine as 1/100 of a millimeter. Digital readout of the focus position can be read on the telescope's AutoStar II handbox. Since the process is accomplished without moving the primary mirror, the entire assembly is virtually free from image shift. Precision GPS Alignment
Telescope alignment is accomplished automatically via signals from the Global Positioning System, a satellite system that enables extremely precise communication to the telescope of the observer's latitude, longitude and local time. Integrated True-Level and North electronic sensors in combination with a high-sensitivity Sony GPS receiver located in the left-hand fork arm result in accurate telescope alignment to the sky at the touch of a button. Proprietary UHTC Optical Treatment
The importance of Meade's proprietary Ultra-high Transmission Coatings becomes apparent when comparing total telescope light transmission, or throughput, caused by the compounding effect of the four optical surfaces. Averaged over the entire visible spectrum, total light transmission to the telescope focus increases by about 15%. New Carbon Graphite and Kevlar Tube
The carbon graphite and Kevlar tube is a unique lightweight, high strength material with ultra-low expansion characteristics that will maintain the spacing between the optics, so that focus settings do not change with outside temperature fluctuations. New Rear and Front Cell Architecture
The front and back cells are designed to allow the maximum amount of airflow around the optics in order to achieve the quickest cool-down times. To accelerate cool-down time, a built-in fan on the rear cell can be turned on and off through the AutoStar II handbox. RCX400 Drive Base
The multi-port panel of the RCX400 drive base includes a special, single high-speed USB 2.0 input port allowing simultaneous control over the telescope and either the Meade LPI or Deep Sky Imager camera (not included) through Meade's AutoStar Suite software (sold separately). There are also ports for a power cord input, the AutoStar II handbox, a DB-9 auxiliary port, 12v out power port and RS-232.
|
