the famous "SuperCharge"
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Last updated: 4 January 2007
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the famous "SuperCharge" Last updated: 4 January 2007 |
A portion of the proceeds from this Service will benefit Weasner's Mighty ETX Site.
IMPORTANT INFO FROM DR. CLAY!!!
Sent: Thursday, January 4, 2007 08:37:28
From: P. Clay Sherrod (drclay@tcworks.net)
The Famous "SuperCharge"
THE FAMOUS SUPERCHARGE CONTINUES TO PROVIDE THE FINEST IN PERFORMANCE
Presenting "blueprint" performance for any telescope made...
Currently, The Arkansas Sky Observatory has provided the Supercharge
nearly every country in the world, including telescopes going to the
jungles of Africa, the Amazon, the deserts of Saudi Arabia and even
within the polar arctic circles! The reason for the POPULARITY of the
Supercharge? IT WORKS. Turn your telescope into the equivalent of a
"blueprinted race car" that puts out peak performance and the assurance
of years of reliable and accurate service without the need for worry in
the middle of a dark night.
important note.....
At present the demand for Supercharge Service is very high and
telescopes are taken in a first -come, first-served basis; those NEW
telescopes being shipped direct from dealers or from the manufacturer
are given "first in" status, meaning that scheduling allows for those to
be processed immediately upon receipt. Note that total turn time is
still only 7-10 days from receipt of scope until packed and ready to
ship!
MAJOR CHANGES IN RETURN SHIPPING POLICY ON SUPERCHARGED TELESCOPES! See
details at end of this description!!
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Supercharge Elite For 2007 !!
NOW including the famous SkyPak Astronomy Data CD !!
From the Arkansas Sky Observatory
YOUR NEW 2007 SUPERCHARGE INFORMATION GUIDE -
Now for ALL Telescopes, LARGE and small....
** THE SUPERCHARGE now includes, but is NOT limited to the following telescopes:
- Meade:
ETX (including all LNT and EC models)
90 (EC and RA models)
105
125
LX 90 (all sizes - 8, 10, and 12!)
LX 200 "Classic" (non GPS models, 8, 10, 12 and 16 inch)
LX 200 GPS and "R" Series, all sizes
MEADE RCX Telescopes!
CELESTRON NexStar and CGM Telescopes, all sizes!
ALL Meade and Celestron refractor and Newtonian series telescopes
- Celestron:
Nexstar - all models
Classic and GEM - All models (no matter WHAT color!)
-ALL other major brands of refractors, SCTs and Newtonian telescopes.
-Restoration Services AVAILABLE for all vintage and rare telescopes.
BONUS!! Every fork-mounted telescope now features completely re-worked DEC drives,
clamps and clutch assemblies for better holding power, better clamping and much better GO
TO and tracking accuracy.
BONUS!! Every GO TO telescope with programmable computer functions is now shipped
complete with the LATEST in the most recent comets, NEOs and tours
available....up to 50 tours can be loaded onto YOUR telescope as can
be the most recent comets that everyone is talking about!
Added Bonus, limited time! - ....when you specify YOUR home computer planetarium
program operating platform (i.e., STARRY NIGHT, GUIDE 8, THE SKY, DEEPSKY 2003, etc.) you
will be sent at absolutely NO additional charge a complete SKYPAK CD with comet, asteroid,
NEO and other data provided for your desktop PC to operate alongside your computer,
whether to generate tonight's charts for new comet discoveries OR to computer-operate your
telescope. Take advantage of this special offer while I still have the time to provide
this unique service!
EXPANDED FOR 2007! \ SKY-PAK OBJECT & TOUR LIBRARY CD!
With all Meade Autostar-operated AND other programmable Supercharged telescopes will
be the custom NEWLY UPDATED SKY-PAK 60-meg CD which will contain the entire library of
objects (updated regularly) for:
1) up to 165 comets CURRENT to within one week via the Harvard Comet postings
2) up to 120 asteroids CURRENT to within two weeks via the Harvard Minor Planet Center
3) major satellites; (to be updated by user for changing elements!)
4) more than 70 custom Autostar Tours to add and move as YOU see fit!
5) NOW with over 50 megs of astronomical freeware, programs, helpful tips, repair tips
and illustrations, operation and alignment guides and much much more! This unique ASO
SKY-PAK is exclusive and only available through your ASO Supercharge Service!
This added value feature will allow YOU to transfer in and out via the newest ASU
Autostar (or other telescope program) updater program computed objects and tours as you
see fit. All you must do is copy and paste each of the files individually onto the
Autostar Library Edit Screen of the Meade ASU 3.61 or more recent autoupdater (i.e., the
newer ASU 4.6) program...then transferring to YOUR Autostar or handbox is a snap!
This complete ephemeris library package is offered ONLY for Supercharge telescopes
which feature updateable computer controllers (Meade Autostar or similar). The file format
is supported by nearly all desktops for instant drag and drop, copy and paste, or file
transfer to the complete new Meade ASU 4.6! NOTE: this offer is good until further
notice and the file is updated weekly to include ALL the latest comets, asteroids and
important data for the computer operation of YOUR telescope.
CAN BE used on any PC program to update and add tours and create your own telescope
database library.
Among the many features found on this CD are:
1) the complete Harvard ephemeris listing of all comets current to within one week;
2) the same for all the brightest asteroids current for small to large amateurtelescopes;
3) satellite ephemerides;
4) the complete package of ephemeris data loaded into the "open"
format to instantly load into your Autostar ASU update program
that you have installed on your PC;
5) the 1950 epoch conversion program (complete!) for you to load
up on the desktop of your PC to determine today's location of
celestial objects after precession since 1950;
6) the complete summary description of all objects in the
Autostar 497 database, including hundreds of bright stars and the
object listing, this compiled by Dick Seymour;
7) URL listing for a wonderful new "two star" program to pick
your night and location PERFECT two stars for accurate ETX and LX
precision alignment;
8) Considerable Autostar, LX 200, NexStar and all telescope
maintenance tips, cleaning procedures, adjustments and overall
information to maximize your observing pleasure and time.
9) The complete ZIP files for the most current versions of
Autostar firmware for both Autostar and Autostar II!
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PART ONE: THE TELESCOPE EVALUATION AND 102-POINT INSPECTION PROGRAM
Following is a summary checklist of what the Supercharge service entails.
It is the most comprehensive evaluation and modification (without
changing ANY of the internal or external integrity) available to any
model of telescope. I fully guarantee the results that will result
in much greater satisfaction from you and performance for your
telescope. When your scope is returned, you will have a full
three-page evaluation and performance summary of virtually every
aspect: from electronic to mechanical, to optical quality.
THIS SERVICE PROVIDES ABSOLUTE PERFECTION IN:
1) optical performance;
2) mechanical performance in both tracking and Go To;
3) electrical integrity and performance;
4) electronic performance and output;
5) inherent RESALE value of your instrument!
6) cosmetic perfection of scope and mount!
NOTE that the service (and thus the description which follows) will
vary from model to model and that ALL telescope brands, types and
ages are welcome for the SuperCharge service!
NOTE: due to only three unscrupulous clients in a five year
Supercharge history that has served hundreds of astronomers
worldwide, it MUST be stated that your telescope will be returned to
you in the finest "possible" working order; many times manufacturing
defects result in telescopes that will have life-long inherent
problems from poor castings, improper fitting and drilling, etc.
EVERY such defect is corrected to the best possible solution.
The ASO Supercharge Guarantee is that extreme care and workmanship
will result in the best possible operation of your telescope once
returned, both optically and mechanically. Issues that are not
correctable OR those that may be manufacturing defects are always
alluded to and discussed on the work sheets that are returned with the
telescope.
CANCELLATIONS: Due to the overwhelming requests for Supercharge
service, any scheduled appointments that are cancelled must be 60
days prior to receipt of telescope upon scheduled appointment date OR
a 25% cancellation fee will apply. No exceptions....sorry, but this
is a must due to the number of folks turned down from lack of
available slots.
SCHEDULING in advance: because of the tremendous demand for
Supercharge service, any appointment that is scheduled more than 30
days PRIOR to scheduled date must be confirmed with payment in full.
The requests always come in very regularly, but I always take the
scopes on a first-come basis through an appointment method. For
example if you told me to expect your telescope (allowing for
shipping to me) on "April 8-10" I would block off those dates to
work exclusively on YOUR telescope, no others.
It is that simple. This is a VERY limited personal and exclusive
service.EVERY telescope is done one-at-a-time. HOWEVER, it never
hurts to e-mail or call first....many times I am ahead of schedule,
or perhaps waiting on a client's telescope that has not arrived. Why
wait if a quick inquiry can get me started on YOUR telescope TODAY!
PRIOR TO SHIPPING THE TELESCOPE - you will need to a-mail with a
FIRM date and tell me the following immediately via e-mail upon
scheduling YOUR Supercharge. This is so that the paperwork,
certification papers and metal plate and all custom Autostar data is
ready when your scope is received:
1) date of purchase of scope
2) who it was purchased from (new or used) and if warranty still applies
3) any known problems optically or mechanically
4) your exact observing locations (up to four) in either Lat. and
Long. or Street # and Zip Code;
5) mode of operation (I.a., Polar orientation or Alt-Azimuth)
6) complete return UPS address.
Ship SCOPE, AUTOSTAR (if applicable), eyepieces if you want them
checked, collimated & cleaned (up to three [3] at no additional
charge...all eyepieces/barlows, etc over 3, please add $10 per item
additional), a postal or major money order for the service and a
check for RETURN SHIPPING via UPS insured to:
Dr. P. Clay Sherrod - Arkansas Sky Observatory
#73 Tanyard Springs Road, Petit Jean Mountain
Morrilton, AR (Arkansas) 72110
IMPORTANT SHIPPING SUGGESTIONS:
Because of years of shipping experience, both incoming and outgoing,
I offer the following suggestions pertaining to shippers/carriers:
Small instruments: UPS or Fed Ex AIR (Only); do NOT use Fed Ex
Ground !!
Medium-sized scopes: UPS (up to 89 pounds) 3-day Select OR Fed Ex
Air / Emery Air Worldwide
Large Telescopes: Fed Ex Air Express Saver / Emery Air Worldwide /
Yellow Motor Freight or ABF Freight Systems.
Current Pricing: The complete "Supercharge" service package (repair
parts are always extra!) is ONLY:
*** $275 for the ETX telescopes (all models)
*** $370 for the LX 90-8, Nextar 4 and 5 and all similar socpes
*** $395 for LX 200-8" (classic or GPS models), 8" Celestron and all similar
*** $470 for LX 200-10" (classic or GPS) and 7" Maksutov, Meade LX
90-10, 9.25" Celestron and similar
*** $575 for LX 200-12" (classic or GPS), Meade LX90-12
*** $795 for LX 200-14" GPS
*** Meade RCX Scopes: 8 - $495; 10 - $595; 12 - $675; 14 - $850
*** call for quotes on 16" and larger telescopes.....Supercharge is
done ON site by appointment for larger and observatory-mounted
telescopes.
*** Full observatory installation and evaluation/planning services
are available for private observatories, schools and institutions.
*** Similar pricing on similar model telescopes (e-mail with the
brand, year of manufacturer and type for exact quote) plus your
return shipping which you want to include in a separate check. NOTE:
The price is subject to change. ANY TYPE TELESCOPE will benefit from
the service, whether computerized or not.
TELESCOPE RESTORATION IS A FEATURED SERVICE OF THE ARKANSAS SKY OBSERVATORY!
*** PLEASE NOTE:
The basic Supercharge DOES NOT INCLUDE repair work over and above
performance enhancement and tune-up; repair work and replacement of
broken/worn parts IS available at extra cost, depending on the cost
of parts and labor. Extra time is allowed for all telescopes needing
repair work. A complete evaluation of YOUR telescope will be made
upon receipt and you will be informed if any repairs might be
necessary for the future performance of your telescope; otherwise,
every aspect is typically enhanced or repaired without replacement if
possible.
****If your telescope is in need of repair this must be STATED when
arranging your appointment, and clearly stated as to degree of damage
or repair needed; any telescope that is received that is broken or
needing repair that was shipped that way without notification will be
reboxed and RETURNED TO SHIPPED immediately. A 25% processing fee
will be charged for telescopes so returned.
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Beginning immediately the service fee INCLUDES at no extra charge the
fabulous and popular certification plate mounted on your telescope!
This beautiful black enamel over brass plate gives a distinctive look
and value to your telescope, denoted the exact registered Supercharge
certification number as well as your telescope model and the
Supercharge trademark. In ADDITION, the custom ephemeris package for
all comet, asteroid, satellite and custom tour data is also supplied
at NO CHARGE to Supercharge clients!
Remember, it is VERY important to advise me on your date prior to
sending. Right now, with the interest in astronomy at an all time
high please schedule at your convenience.....if possible, I can
attempt to work in a client with extenuating circumstances at an
earlier date.
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PART 2 - THE DETAILS!!
DR. CLAY's SUPERCHARGE + TUNEUP"
Why play with the pups when you can run with the Big Dogs? For a
limited time and on a first-come, first-served basis Clay Sherrod is
offering his well-known "Supercharge Plus Tune-Up" to supercharge
your telescope, NO MATTER WHAT BRAND or model! This spectacular
telescope makeover can turn your mediocre-performing telescope into a
performance giant with minimum backlash, firm clamping capability,
precision tracking and GO TO drive performance, total de-greasing and
backlash adjustment and careful protective wire routing.
ALL MODELS ACCEPTED: At the present time, all model telescopes are
being accepted and all models are invited. Every telescope is
modified one-at-a-time with considerable care and attention to detail
by a retired astronomer who is offering this service on a limited
basis.
This "supercharge" is well known among all telescope users and begins
with an 102-POINT (!) inspection and modification plan to determine
all mechanical and optical problem areas that the telescope may have;
telescopes under warranty can benefit from this as well, since the
inspection (not the "supercharge") does not intrude on the workings
of the telescope, only inspects what the manufacturer has put there.
Any cracked, broken, missing or otherwise damaged warranty-covered
items are quickly identified to the owner who in turn can obtain
either a warranty fix or request replacements.
The actual "SuperCharge" is a five to seven day procedure in which
the telescope is diagnosed and corrected (if necessary) for the
following problems that CAN BE inherent in many telescopes, new and
used:
COMPLETE **102-POINT** INSPECTION PRECEDES EACH SUPERCHARGE!
This will identify ANY and all areas, both optically and mechanically
that your scope may be deficient in as well as warranty claim
areas/components that are likely covered by the manufacturer.
Supercharge includes at LEAST the following inspections, but is not restricted to.....
[will vary from telescope type to type!]
1) Drive Train - OR.A./Azimuth (all minor reduction gears are checked and secured)
a) complete degreasing of mechanical components and optical encoder;
b) process cleaning and polishing of RA clutch plate and
realignment and "turning" to drive gear;
c) worm driver/drive gear adjustment to minimize backlash;
d) set torque on worm driver gear and adjust "UP" bracket to mesh
properly with drive gear;
e) inspect and adjust main RA axis and holding nut to proper
torque to minimize azimuth "play";
f) provide custom friction clutch for RA locking mechanism;
g) re-route and secure base wiring to minimize common shorting;
h) adjust clutch/clamping mechanism internally;
I) adjust clamping mechanism externally;
j) test motors / test backlash / test clamping / test "Motor
Failure" / test reversal rates;
k) adjust and secure RA setting circle for more effectiveness;
l) replace/repair any damaged parts (extra) per instructions of owner;
m) complete sidereal tracking percentage testing both AC and DC (if applicable);
n) hand-highlighted RA and DEC indicator arrows accurately rendered
o) highlighted optimum axis locking positions if applicable.
2) Drive Train - Declination (Altitude) (all minor reduction gearing is checked and secured)
a) complete degreasing of declination drive and associated bearings, etc.;
b) clean and polish clutch plate to "marry" to DEC drive gear;
c) set worm driver and drive gear load to minimize backlash;
d) adjust torque on worm driver assembly;
e) reset worm driver assembly in "U" housing;
f) adjust both fork arm trunions and fit with "rocking reducers;"
g) set bushing in DEC lock mechanism;
h) apply rubber bushing to front of OTA support arm to minimize rocking;
i) re-route all wiring and secure to minimize shorting;
j) adjust clamping firmness and test;
k) install slippage reducers for DEC circle and adjust circle accurately;
l) test motor / test backlash / test clamping / test reversal and delay times.
m) replace / repair and damaged parts (extra) at instruction of owner.
3) ETX / LX-90 (only) Calibration Process - AutoStar must be included with telescope shipment!
a) Complete download (basic) to current version of ETX or LX
AutoStar firmware if not already loaded; AutoStar upload contains
the complete PACKAGE (see PART 3!) that is current for the
month in which the scope is received;
b) System reset for calibration;
c) Precise optical bench "Train Motor" calibration, not outdoors on a terrestrial object!
d) Motor calibration tested and reset again if necessary for backlash control;
e) Your percentages for Altitude and Azimuth backlash
compensation are determined and set for YOUR telescope;
f) Telescope is star tested for: GO TO / Slewing at all speeds
/ Sidereal and Lunar tracking rates and accuracy / Alignment
precision / System Backlash;
g) Autostar is set to precise latitude, longitude of the
observer's four (4) choice locations ( location profiles and
landmarks must be supplied by owner to determine precise values);
h) Owner information is entered based on the owner's supplied information;
i) Autostar functionality and GOTO accuracy is tested after all uploading and modification.
4) GPS TELESCOPES (Meade LX 200 GPS and NexStar GPS)
The Supercharge for these telescopes includes all of the basics plus MUCH more;
included are a thorough 2-day testing and precision monitoring of
self-leveling, home sensing, GPS acquisition and locking, alignment
star acquisition and precision, scope parking and much more....when
you get YOUR GPs scope back from Supercharge, you do not have to
"wonder" where it is going to "go" when you first turn it on.....all
the bugs have been exterminated!
Yes, be sure and put your GPS coordinates in as accurately as
possible; you can put in UP TO FIVE sites, so any other areas you
think you will be observing from, list those as well. I can get you
down to about 10 feet of accuracy on your AutoStar. I usually leave
one of the five as "alternate" (that's what you will select to under
"Site") so you can enter wherever you go on vacation, etc.
4) All optics are inspected, collimated (if necessary) including
eyepieces, finderscopes, filters, etc. Telescope, mounting,
eyepieces (if included) and all accessory equipment - finders,
AutoStar, etc. - are cleaned and protected prior to return shipping.
Mounting is cleaned and overcoated for protection; all moving parts
properly lubricated, front meniscus lens or corrector plate is
carefully cleaned as are all included optical surfaces. NOTE: the
finder is NOT aligned and is typically removed from the telescope
prior to return shipping! It is advised that the finder NOT be
mounted during shipment as damage can easily occur; merely slip the
finder out of its bracket and include wrapped separately!
5) Minor hardware that is worn or rusted or not up to standard - as
well as new fittings necessary for the precision operation for
Supercharge - is replaced at no additional charge.
6) Hard Case, if included, is treated, cleaned and refurbished as
best possible.
7) The distinctive black enameled Prestige Supercharge I.D. Plate is
NOW INCLUDED with every SuperCharge at NO additional cost! Also the
ASO "graduation diploma", a fine parchment document certifying your
Supercharged telescope and registration number is included.
8) ALSO included: SKYPAK complete ephemeride library for comets,
asteroids, tours, satellites on diskette for your desktop computer.
Other repair work that might need to be done (broken, cracked or worn
parts) can always be performed, with prior authorization by the
client. A firm quote on any such repairs (even if not done) is
always included with the evaluation. CUSTOM MODIFICATIONS and
additions can be arranged with aftermarket performance enhancing
accessories drop-shipped to the Observatory prior to the scope being
received for SuperCharge!
This offer is not a matter of prestige....it is a matter of
performance: MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE. Serious ETX, LX, Celestron and
other telescope users who want the very best performance from their
blue package of dynamite will certainly benefit from this service.
For casual observing, my advice is always free and the service may
not be necessary. But for the demanding and discriminating observer,
YOUR ETX, LX or other telescope can perform the way you always wanted
and anticipated, both optically and mechanically.
Spend your time observing and not fussing at a less-than-standard
performance. Combined with Mike Weasner's Mighty ETX web site's and
the LX 90, MAPUG, LX200 Yahoo and NexStar discussion groups, with
authoritative technical support from ETX, LX and modern telescope
users worldwide, Dr. Clay's Telescope "Supercharge" will put your
telescope ahead of the pack! It WILL perform the way you thought it
should....and better.
*** All telescope work is done ONLY by Dr. P. Clay Sherrod, a retired
astronomer/educator with over 39 years of astronomical, mechanical
and educational experience in the field, and the author of several
books and numerous articles in astronomy and physical sciences.
Serious inquiries only, please! Service is available by e-mailing to:
drclay@tcworks.net for availability and scheduling. Work is done by
appointment only, and your schedule will be maintained on a timely
basis.
Presently there is a two-week backlog.
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PART 3 - (MEADE and similar Programmable SCOPES ONLY!)
AUTOSTAR PACKAGE: SUPERCHARGE PLUS!!
"Select-Your-Own-Tour" Custom Autostar Bonus!
ARKANSAS SKY OBSERVATORY's SUPERCHARGED AutoStar Plan
CURRENT AUTOSTAR VERSION LOADED: Meade ASU 4.6 program (or similar)
w/ the ASO custom tour/ephemeride/calibration program for YOUR custom
observing requirements. NOTE: firmware loaded is best choice based on
performance and review at ASO and may NOT be current/lateset version.
Your own custom-selected PC Planetarium Program OR AutoStar TOUR
PACKAGE is now available with EVERY Supercharge Tune Up. The complete
custom upload portion of your Supercharge is an important part of the
enjoyment and effectiveness of your telescope experience. Because of
the growing demand for planned and efficient observing sessions, we
are now offering CUSTOM tour SELECTION by YOU when you send in your
telescope for a Supercharge!
There is NO additional cost to have YOUR personal tour package loaded
onto your AutoStar when you obtain the Supercharge!
Likewise, any previous Meade Supercharge client may have his or her
AutoStar updated AT ANY TIME for only $25 + $5.75 Priority Return
Mail with newer or different tours/versions/ephemerides by merely
sending in the Autostar! Your AutoStar will be uploaded and on its
way back to you the SAME DAY it is received!
Surfing the net has revealed some of the BEST in all there is as far
as Tours for your telescope's PC planetarium and sky programs as well
as the Meade Autostar and the selection that you see listed below
will change everytime a new tour is determined to fit the criteria of
the Supercharge client needs; the five Meade standard tours are
obviously included but the selection has now expanded with the
tremendous wealth of freeware available to include very object- and
constellation-specific computer assisted observing programs.
You can select constellation tours.....deep sky object
tours.....double star guided tours....objects to observe in city
conditions.....the very best NGC objects out there....the selected
finest objects for any given night. The list is wonderful and it
grows nearly every month. And as it grows, it enables YOU to select
the tours that you would like to have access to on your Autostar!
You may choose ANY combination of tours that suits your personal
observing needs! Select from the following tour listing. Remember
that the "Guided Tour" Library for your AutoStar cannot exceed more
than 60k (based on the tour writers' exact memory requirement
shown with each tour below); listings for satellites has been reduced
significantly to assist in allowing extra room for smaller tours;
since the orbital elements of satellites change frequently, there
really is no need to "waste" available space on obsolete satellite
ephemerides anyway.
*** OR....if you cannot decide....then let us load our special
18-TOUR package for you, which includes the BEST of all tours!
Thus, merely add up the total memory required (you will see the space
required "k" at the end of each tour) for all tours selected and work
with the combinations until you have a set of tours that are catered
to your observing preferences but DO NOT exceed the total memory
available!
You can always request special loading of library/ephemerides with
your upgrade. For example, many observers are interested in satellite
tracking and the number of entries can be increased as necessary.
UNLESS SPECIFIED here is a complete list of your AutoStar Library
that you will receive with every Supercharge (see below for complete
TOUR descriptions): #497 Autostar I
1) The sun (listed as an asteroid - "Sun2001")
2) asteroids - up to 144
3) comets - up to 155 subject to change as new comets are discovered and old ones fade away!)
4) satellites - 2 only (ISS & Hubble) [user installs his/her own
choices based on current orbital parameters!]
5) celestial objects - standard AutoStar, 30,000+ stars and deep sky objects
6) all planets, moon
7) all basic and standard Meade AutoStar functions
8) standard loaded TOURS
- CITY OBJECTS
- PLANETARY NEBULAE
- GLOBULAR CLUSTERS
- RASC FINEST NGC OBJECTS
- CONSTELLATION TOURS - custom tours
- Scorpius
- Sagittarius
- Bootes
- Leo
- Auriga
- Andromeda
- Cetus
- Taurus
- Cassiopeia
- DOUBLE/ MULTIPLE / UNUSUAL STARS - custom tours
- Orion's Best Multiple Stars
- Pretty Double Stars
- Carbon Stars
- PLANNED TOURS
- "Tonight's Best"
- "Messier Marathon"
- "Sky Gems, Part 1"
- "Sky Gems, Part 2"
However, if you wish to pick and choose your OWN tours "cafeteria
style," then when sending in the ETX or LX for your Supercharge (or
just your post-Supercharged AutoStar for an update), merely write out
carefully the exact list you desire, up to the 60k limit. It is as
simple as that!
Here are your current (including, but NOT restricted to .... the list
is quite extensive!!) tour descriptions and options: CITY OBJECTS -
The finest objects visible for urban / city observers with bright sky
conditions. Ideal for backyard observing!The American Association of
Amateur Astronomers has created a List of Deep Sky Objects (and
double and variable stars) for Northern hemisphere observers living
in urban regions compiled by John Wagoner.
http://corvus.com/aa02002.htm Meade tour file. 3k.
PLANETARY NEBULAE - The entire listing of suitable and observable
Planetary Nebulae visible in amateur telescopes!All NGC Planetary
Nebula Written by Kenneth N. Hicks References: Revised New General
Catalogue and Index Catalogue*** Version: February 2001 **by Wolfgang
Steinicke http://www.ngcic.com/steinicke/2001/revic.txt. SIZE: 11k.
GLOBULAR CLUSTERS - An exciting GO TO listing Tour of all globular
clusters, many of which may NOT be visible in small telescopes. All
147 Known Milky Way Globular Clusters sorted by RA -Written by
Kenneth N. Hicks - References: W.E. Harris, 1996-1999 Catalog of
Parameters for Milky Way Globular Clusters , AJ, 112, 1487. Revision
of June 22, 1999http://www.seds.org/messier/xtra/data/mwgc.dat.txt ;
http://physun.physics.mcmaster.ca/~harris/mwgc.dat SIZE: 13k
THE BEST NGC OBJECTS - a hand-picked selection of the best and most
exciting NGC (New General Catalog) objects!// The RASC's Finest
N.G.C. Objects List - The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC)
has published this list in their yearly Observer's Handbook which is
edited by Roy L. Bishop. The Finest N.G.C. Objects List was compiled
by Alan Dyer. http://www.edmontonrasc.com/finengc.html// Meade tour
file by Paul St. Amand. SIZE: 2k
SCORPIUS TOUR - Freeware - TITLE "Scorpius Tour" AUTO SLEW ON / AUTO SELECT
TEXT "Scorpius" The constellation Scorpius is best viewed in June and
July. It is fairly low in the south and the curved tail can be
difficult for northern latitudes. Scorpius has many bright stars.
There are 13 stars of at least magnitude 3.0 - more than any other
northern constellation. Press MODE to begin then press SCROLL DOWN
ARROW after the beep. SIZE: 3k
SAGITTARIUS TOUR - "Sagittarius Tour" AUTO SLEW ON / AUTO SELECT USER
19:03:00 -28d36m00s "Sagittarius" Sagittarius is best viewed In July
and August. This constellation is in the heart of the Milky Way near
our galaxy's largest star clouds and dark dust lanes. There are so
many star clouds and so much dust that we cannot see very far in this
direction, but we know that the center of the galaxy is in there. A
huge black hole attracts the dust and stars so strongly that they
spiral toward it to be pulled apart in a relativistic cataclysm.
Wouldn't you love to see that and understand those processes? Press
MODE to begin then press SCROLL DOWN ARROW after the beep. SIZE: 4k
AURIGA TOUR - a tour of Auriga based on Clay Sherrod's Constellation
GO TO Guides on Mike Weasner's Mighty ETX website
(www.weasner.com/etx) by Autostar expert Dick Seymour - TITLE "Clay's
Auriga Tour" AUTO SELECT TEXT "Intro" Use the MODE and scroll keys to
navigate. All the very best deep sky objects and multiple stars in
this fall/winter constellation.
LEO TOUR - a tour of Leo based on Clay Sherrod's Constellation GO TO
Guides on Mike Weasner's Mighty ETX website (www.weasner.com/etx) by
JimMcCambridge@yahoo.com May 2001 - TITLE "Leo Tour" AUTO SELECT TEXT
"Intro" "Based on Clay Sherrod's "Go-To Leo." Use the MODE and scroll
keys to navigate. All the very best deep sky objects and multiple
stars in this springtime constellation.
BOOTES TOUR - a tour of Bootes and nearby objects based on Clay
Sherrod's Constellation GO TO Guides on Mike Weasner's Mighty ETX
website by Jim McCambridge@yahoo.com May 2001 - TITLE "Bootes Tour
AUTO SELECT TEXT "Intro" "Based on Clay Sherrod's "Go-To Bootes."
Use the MODE and scroll keys to navigate. Lots of great objects in
this wonderful springtime constellation! SIZE: 4k
Clay Sherrod's Andromeda Tour - Visit the following web sites: The
Arkansas Sky Observatory - www.arksky.org/guides.html for all of Dr.
Clay's Constellation GO TO GUIDES. Tour Created by Joe Walker. Size:
9.5k
Clay Sherrod's Draco Tour-Visit the following web sites: The Arkansas
Sky Observatory - www.arksky.org/guides.htm for all of Dr. Clay's
Constellation GO TO GUIDES Tour Created by Joe Walker. Size: 10.8k
Clay Sherrod's Perseus Tour - The Arkansas Sky Observatory -
www.arksky.org/guides.htm for all of Dr. Clay's Constellation GO TO
GUIDES. Tour Created by Joe Walker. Size: 14.5k
Clay Sherrod's Pisces Tour - Visit the following web sites: The
Arkansas Sky Observatory - www.arksky.org/guides.html for all of Dr.
Clay's Constellation GO TO GUIDES - Tour Created by Joe Walker. Size:
10.8k
Clay Sherrod's Taurus Tour - Visit the following web sites: The
Arkansas Sky Observatory - www.arksky.org/guides.htm for all of Dr.
Clay's Constellation GO TO GUIDES. Tour Created by Joe Walker. Size:
14.2k
Clay Sherrod's Cassiopeia Tour - Visit the following web site: The
Arkansas Sky Observatory - www.arksky.org/guides.html for all of Dr.
Clay's Constellation GO TO GUIDES. Tour Created by Joe Walker. Size:
11.2k
Clay Sherrod's Cetus Tour - Visit the following web site: The
Arkansas Sky Observatory - www.arksky.org/guides.html for all of Dr.
Clay's Constellation GO TO GUIDES. Tour Created by Joe Walker. Size:
17.3k
Clay Sherrod's Virgo Tour - Visit the following web site: The
Arkansas Sky Observatory - www.arksky.org/guides.html for all of Dr.
Clay's Constellation GO TO GUIDES. Tour Created by Joe Walker. Size:
19.2k
ORION DOUBLES - 32 multiple star in Orion for Autostar handboxes - by
Jose L. Chinchilla. Madrid. SpainTITLE "Orion multiples" - AUTO
SELECT TEXT "Introduction" "32 multiple stars in Orion" based on Luis
Arguelles' list (S&T Feb 2000)." This tour information is given for
each system: Name, Magnitudes(Mag), Separation(Sep), Position
Angle(PA)"Press MODE to start, then again MODE to next. Ordered by
R.A. A great wintertime project! SIZE: 4k
TONIGHT'S BEST - Meade tour. The planets, deep sky objects, moon and
special events for any given night. Great for group observing and
star parties....or just a quick look around! SIZE: 3k
MESSIER MARATHON - Meade tour. Clark's Messier Marathon Tour (c) Set
for your specific night! Get the MOST out of your observing time and
join the "Messier Club!" SIZE: 2k
HOW FAR IS FAR? - Meade tour. This tour is designed to give you an
idea of the vast distances in space. It begins with objects
relatively close to Earth and works its way outward, to the edge of
our galaxy and beyond. Press MODE to begin a visual journey to the
far reaches of our universe. SIZE: 15k
STAR GROUPS - Meade tour. Stars, like everything else in the universe
are born, live out their lives and die. Stars have extremely long
lifetimes, making it impossible for a human to observe an entire
stellar life cycle. But, you can look around the sky and see
examples of young stars, middle age stars and old stars, all in one
night. SIZE: 12k
THE MOST COLORFUL DOUBLE STARS - "Colored Doubles" A VERY NICE quick
tour of contrasting colored double stars for observing in amateur
telescopes selected by Wayne Reed and sorted by RA. All stars are
bright enough to be seen in the ETX 90 and most are visible in the
ETX 60 and 70 as well!Data is from Edmund's Mag5 Atlas, Peterson's
Guide, Starry Night software, and Sky Gems Guided Tours." SIZE: 8k
PRETTY DOUBLE STAR TOUR - Mike Hadley's "Pretty Doubles" tour - Jan
16, 2001. Tour based on article in the January 2001 issue of Sky & //
Telescope by Alan Adler entitled "The Season's Prettiest Double
Stars" The following information is given for each double system;
Name, the magnitudes (Mag), separation (Sep), and position angle
(PA). "Press MODE to start". VERY NICE for casual nights out! Size:
2k
SKY GEMS - PART I - Based on Tonight's Jewels by Mark Crossley.
Objects are sorted by RA and the tour is split at Right Ascension
12:00:00. Editor: Richard B. Emerson. AUTO SELECT TEXT "Part 1" This
is part 1 of 2 parts, covering RA 00:00:00 to 11:59:59. Press MODE..
AUTO SELECT TEXT "Introduction" This tour is based on the public
viewing deep sky list by Steve Coe of the Saguaro Astronomy Club of
Phoenix, Az. All the observation comments are his. Very complete
,comprehensive! Press MODE to start. Size 9k.
SKY GEMS - PART II - Based on Tonight's Jewels by Mark Crossley.
Objects are sorted by RA and the tour is split at Right Ascension
12:00:00. Editor: Richard B. Emerson. AUTO SELECT TEXT "Part 2" This
is part 2 of 2 parts, covering RA 12:00:00 to 23:59:59. Press MODE..
AUTO SELECT TEXT "Introduction" This tour is based on the public
viewing deep sky list by Steve Coe of the Saguaro Astronomy Club of
Phoenix, Az. All the observation comments are his. A fun space trip!
Press MODE to start Size: 13k
101 Finest Deep Sky Objects - 101 of the brightest and most
sure-to-please Deep Sky Objects Sorted by RA and Constellation. This
tour focuses on only the brightest and most "crowd-pleasing" DSO's.
Written by Kenneth N. Hicks Size: 13k
Carbon Stars - A neat small tour of the "reddest stars" known! A
complete array of very old evolutionary stars which have burned all
their hydrogen and helium fuels and now depend largely on actual
nuclear fusion of CARBON to sustain the stellar process! Written by
Tom Heisey in 2001. Size: 3k
*** This SuperCharge Plus package is just one more bonus to assist
ETX and LX users in their quest for the most efficient and effective
packages obtainable to make observing the beautiful heavens more
rewarding, exciting and educational.
For more information, contact P. Clay Sherrod at drclay@tcworks.net.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
PART FOUR: WHERE AND HOW TO SHIP!
SCHEDULING THE SUPERCHARGE:
1. Always e-mail or call BEFORE shipping the telescope!
2. Supercharge openings MAY be available without notice! Many times
I am running ahead of schedule so it always pays to check to see if I
can work you in at any time!
3. Allow time for UPS or FED EX delivery incoming for your
appointment! It is very important that the telescope arrive on the
scheduled date since others are likely waiting!
4. It takes ONLY 5-7 working days to complete the Supercharge UNLESS
repair parts are needed.
5. e-mail ALWAYS when shipped with the tracking number. Every
telescope is personally picked up at the UPS office and not allowed
to ride on the little brown truck all day long!
6. Send all pertinent information (Part 1 above) via e-mail PRIOR to
sending the scope so that the custom Autostar package and paperwork
will be READY when your scope arrives!
SENDING THE TELESCOPE:
1) First schedule your appointment!
2) If ETX or LX or and GO TO telescope you MUST include the
Autostar, LX or other controller with the telescope! Remove the
finderscope from its bracket!
3) Include the controllers (if applicable), up to three eyepieces
(each additional eyepiece or accessory is $10.00 each for cleaning,
checking, collimating, etc.);
4) Include the exact Service Fee in a postal or other major money order;
5) Include a separate check (personal check is fine for this) for
the return shipping PLUS insurance;
6) PACK THE TELESCOPE in the original box it came in or similar
replacement; the telescope should have at LEAST 4 inches of padding
(bubble wrap only! NEVER use "plastic peanuts" to pack your
scope...damage will ultimately occur!!....see statement below)
completely around the instrument if NOT shipped in original box. To
preserve the integrity of the original packaging I strongly suggest
putting that box INSIDE of a "slightly" larger outer cardboard box
for protection;
*** DO NOT USE STYROFOAM "PEANUTS" - use ONLY foam, styrofoam pads
or other material....the styrofoam peanuts will compress and NOT
protect your telescope! AS OF JAN. 1, 2004, telescopes packed with
plastic peanuts will NOT be accepted due to extensive damage when
those are used. DO NOT let your local packing company talk you into
using these...they are cheap and their profit is higher if "peanuts"
are used. INSIST on bubble wrap.
7) DO NOT SEND TELESCOPE WITH BATTERIES INSTALLED!!! Take out
batteries and keep for return of telescope!
** 8) MARK YOUR CARTON IN RED ON ALL SIDES: "GLASS!! Fragile!!"
9) SEND THE TELESCOPE AND ITS ACCESSORIES TO:
P. CLAY SHERROD
ARKANSAS SKY OBSERVATORY
#73 Tanyard Springs Road, Petit Jean Mountain
MORRILTON, ARKANSAS 72110
www.arksky.org
9) e-mail the tracking number immediately to: drclay@tcworks.net to
insure safe passage and receipt of the instrument.
I look forward to providing YOU with the finest in observing
precision, accuracy and enjoyment for your future years exploring the
wonders of the Universe.
Until I hear from you....may the darkest skies and the brightest
comets fill your nighttime dreams!
** IMPORTANT! **
MAJOR CHANGES IN RETURN SHIPPING POLICY ON SUPERCHARGED TELESCOPES!
Insurance Claims are being denied across the country by UPS; major
astronomical suppliers are now shipping (i.e., JMI) without paying
the expensive insurance amounts with UPS since claims are not being
honored when damage is reported! Unknown until recently is that a
new policy in effect at UPS's private insurance company would NOT
have resulted in paid claims anyway through three-party shipping and
receiving transactions, no matter how substantiated the claim might
have been. Considerable monies have been literally wasted by
purchasing worthless insurance it seems.
However, you can still opt to have your telescope insured AS THE
OWNER of the instrument for Supercharge and be successful with your
claim. Third party shipping and purchased goods shipping claims are
being flatly refused as "no signs of damage." So, you need to decide
if you want to insure your package or not.....
BUT! there are indeed some nice ways to arrange this for your
Supercharge shipment. Note that Doc Clay has always "gone to bat" for
astronomers worldwide, and that out of hundreds of superb telescopes
shipped worldwide only minor damage reports have surfaced in five
years.....however, limitations on my time are now preventing me from
doing the heavy paperwork required to maintain insurance records and
claims.
1) IF YOU WISH TO HAVE YOUR TELESCOPE INSURED DURING RETURN SHIPMENT:
Insure Yourself Through Homeowner Policy
This is the most recommend way of insuring your telescope's safety
and assuring YOU that -in the rare case of damage - that your worthy
claim will be honored as it should be. No hassling with the foreign
UPS service line who could care less about your claim. Let your
personal Insurance Agent handle this for you. These are typically a
"no questions asked" type of policy provided that legitimate damage
can be demonstrated.
To insure your telescope for the trip to Arkansas and back to you,
merely contact your Insurance Agent (homeowner's, automobile,
renter's) and ask for a "Rider Policy" to insure the telescope for
its trip.....this is exactly like you would do if you wanted it to be
covered during a vacation trip. Very easy and very cheap. It will
be insured from the time it leaves until the time you receive it
back.
UPS - If you ship via UPS and Desire Insurance for Shipments
As the actual owner, you are far more likely to receive an insurance
settlement from any possible UPS damage by paying for both shipping
and receiving shipping and insurance. Thus, it is unfortunate, but
changes in insurance policy with UPS are now REQUIRING that all
Supercharge customers provide their own RETURN SHIPPING INVOICE OR
LABEL for the telescope package for return shipping to you. This is
ONLY if you desire insurance coverage on your telescope. If you do
not desire insurance on the return shipment, only the included check
for return shipping is required.
If no insurance coverage is desired, this must be stated IN WRITING
by you when scheduling your Supercharge (see #2, below). Packages
shipped from ASO after Supercharge (if shipped by UPS) will NOT be
insured, as they do not honor claims anyway.
Prepaid return labels are now required for all Supercharge customers
desiring UPS insurance and absolutely no exceptions can be made; this
is so that YOU can be assured that your telescope will be properly
insured and that such insurance will be honored by the shipping
company; recent changes in UPS shipping has resulted in a 3rd party
insurance company (Crawford) that is frankly less than cooperative
with claims unless the original shipper is responsible for both
incoming and outgoing shipments, both in payment and in insurance
coverage.
However, on the "up side" of this is getting your own label for
return shipping is now very quick and easy and can be done with your
local shipping company OR direct on the Internet.
NOTE that larger telescopes can be shipped fully insured via Emery
Worldwide with shipping arrangements for pickup and delivery to you
from this end, with shipping and insurance charges (very reasonable)
paid upon receipt of your telescope when done (see below).
To Provide Your Return Own UPS Label:
option a)
To create your own RETURN UPS label via the Internet, you can visit:
http://www.ups.com/content/us/en/index.jsx
and merely click on "Create a Shipment"
This will allow you to open a temporary account for your return
shipment AND - if you like - your shipment into ASO for the
Supercharge as well! It is actually very quick and easy and only
requires a credit card to establish.
option b)
PREPAY for a shipping label and allow your UPS Store or other
shipping service (i.e, Mail Boxes Etc.) to prepare your return label
and INCLUDE that in the box along with your telescope coming in for
Supercharge; this is perhaps the best method. Just let them know
that the return shipment will be identical in every way to the
outgoing shipment in terms of weight, value, etc.
option c)
larger telescopes: all LX 200, Celestron and larger telescopes are
recommended to be shipped ONLY via Fed Ex Express Saver or EMERY AIR
(now "Menlo Forwarding") for both safety and value. They are handled
far better with very little package (external, visible) damage,
packages are cleaner and they arrive in far better condition overall.
option d) larger telescopes: for all large telescopes of 50 pounds
are greater, you might consider Emery Worldwide with freight charges
collect, which will also include your insurance fees (very modest by
comparison to UPS and Fed Ex). I can arrange the return shipment
from this end and your telescope can arrive at the airport for you to
pick up (money saving) or delivery can be made at extra expense.
2) IF YOU WISH TO HAVE YOUR TELESCOPE NOT INSURED DURING RETURN SHIPMENT:
Those wishing no return insurance on their shipped telescopes can
have all shipping arrangements (prepaid by customer) still made once
the Supercharge is completed and I will arrange for labels and UPS
pickup as normal.
No special provisions by you are necessary except the following:
1) you must state in an e-mail (to my address below) PRIOR to
shipping your telescope that no insurance is desired and that you
will include a return shipping charges check in the box or via Postal
Service when your scope is shipped incoming for the Supercharge;
2) a letter or hand-written statement MUST be included inside the box
with the telescope that NO insurance is desired on return shipping.
NOTE that no telescope will be accepted for Supercharge that does not
comply with these changes in insurance coverage.
It is truly a shame that Crawford Company (UPS's "non-insuring"
insurance company) has enacted a point-refusal policy such as they
have and that it results in a bit of added work on everyone's parts.
However, ALL of the above methods are tried-and-true and will result
in even BETTER coverage for your telescope than if it was shipped
today fully insured with UPS.
Thanks for your attention and may the skies be filled with bright
stars and discovery for you.
P. Clay Sherrod - drclay@tcworks.net
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