The lx80 multi-mount system – Meade Instruments LX80 User Manual

Page 31

3. Locate the included secondary dovetail adapter

(Fig 38). Note the adapters’ two hex head attaching

screws. Inspect the adapter mounting hole and

verify the attaching screws are suffi ciently screwed

back allowing it to fi t onto the counterweight shaft.

You may need to back the attaching screws out

using the LX80 tool if necessary. Next slip the

dovetail adapter onto the counterweight shaft.

Position the dovetail adapter all the way onto

the shaft so the attaching screws tighten into the

recessed channel at the end of the counterweight

shaft. Position the secondary adapter so it is at the

same angle as the primary OTA dovetail adapter

and tighten to a “snug” fi t using the LX80 tool.

4. Mount the secondary OTA, sliding its dovetail into

the secondary dovetail adapter and secure by

tightening the two dovetail lock knobs.

At this point you will need to balance the two OTAs.

Refer back to the section “Balancing the OTA” on

Page 19 for steps balancing in both DEC and RA

axis. Note that to achieve a balance in the RA axis

you may need to add additional counterweights

and or add extensions to the counterweight shaft.

Adding additional counterweight shafts moves

the secondary OTAs mass out further which

will give it greater counter leverage against the

primary OTA.

Balancing the OTAs is especially important when

using the LX80 in the dual OTA mode due to the

higher weight capacity. A balanced telescope in

both the DEC and RA minimizes strain on motors,

gearbox and delivers smoothest operation,

increasing battery life.

Dual OTA Mode

The LX80’s sectional counterweight shaft is designed

to accept a secondary dovetail adapter enabling you

to mount a second optical tube assembly. This offers

you the versatility and convenience of having two

different optical systems mounted and ready for use

at the same time. This is perfect for public outreach

events where dual OTAs allow for multiple viewing of

the same object. LX80’s unique design allows for a

total combined instrument weight of up to 70 pounds in

this confi guration.

The secondary OTA will need to be equipped with a

securely mounted “Vixen®” style dovetail. This OTA

dovetail is not included and will need to be purchased

separately and mounted to your secondary OTA.

Alt-Azimuth Mode

Begin by confi guring the mount in the alt-azimuth

mode. Note that dual OTA usage in the equatorial

mode is not possible, as the second OTA will not clear

the tripod leg.

Lock the RA and DEC clutches (Page 8, Fig 1, 29

and 30) so the primary optical tube is stationary.

2. Before beginning the next step it is advised to

enlist the help of a second individual to steady

the primary OTA. Both the counterweight and/or

sections of the counterweight shaft may be removed

and doing so will unbalance the telescope. Having

someone steady the mount while this is being done

will ensure that the un-weighted mount will not tip

over. While being steadied by a second individual,

carefully unscrew and remove the counterweight

safety nut and counterweight shaft(s), leaving

only the fi

rst section of the counterweight

shaft attached.

Fig 37: Dual OTA Alt-Az

Fig 38: Secondary mount plate

The LX80 Multi-Mount System