How to refine the pointing accuracy of the Meade LX-90 telescope in the Southern Hemisphere.
Power up the LX-90 and carry out a normal automatic auto-alignment using two stars.
Confirm successful alignment.
Ensure accurate alignment of finder-scope.
Search the data base for Sigma Octans: SAO 258857 (aka HIP 104382 or HR 7228 or HD 177482).
Select “Go To” to slew the telescope to Sigma Octans.
Sigma Octans should be in the field of view but may not be centred.
Centre Sigma Octans accurately, first using low magnification, then with a high magnification eyepiece with illuminated reticle.
Record the exact telescope aiming position by zeroing the RA and Dec setting circles with Sigma Octans centred.
Select “Calibrate the Sensors” in the Setup menu.
It will use it's sensors and then try to aim at Sigma Octans.
It will not point accurately at Sigma Octans.
Without looking in the eyepiece or finder scope, slew the telescope using the ^v<> buttons until the markers on the setting circles line up again.
Sigma Octans should then be close to centre in the eyepiece, or at least in the finder scope.
Centre it as accurately as possible using the ^v<> buttons.
Press 'Enter'.
Reboot the telescope and carry out a routine automatic alignment.
LX90-04 rp