The Meade Instruments LX85 150mm f/5 Reflector GoTo EQ Telescope
utilizes a highly-reflective parabolic primary mirror to produce bright
and clear views of difficult-to-see deep-sky objects like wispy
nebulae, and features a full GoTo computer-controlled motorized
equatorial mount that is required for long-duration observation and
astrophotography sessions.
The Newtonian reflector design
enables larger apertures than are practical in conventional refractors,
allowing novices and intermediate astronomers to reach out into the
universe with ease to enjoy wonders like galaxies, nebulae, globular
clusters, and more. Added to this already impressive performance is a
sturdy rack-and-pinion focuser that is outfitted with a 2" holder for
eyepieces and accessories. A 1.25" reducer adapter is also provided to
use smaller eyepieces and accessories. To help get new users started,
Meade includes two eyepieces that produce low and high magnifications,
along with an 8x50 finderscope.
The mount delivers the performance
required for clear views and images with dual-axis low-cog DC servo
motors with backlash compensation. Added to this is Meade's proprietary
Smart Drive system that records and constantly refines its Permanent
Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) to improve positioning and tracking
precision and ensure your target object stays centered for long-exposure
photography. Supporting the mount is a 1.75" stainless steel tripod
that has a wide stance for stability on most terrain, and a center tray
that holds eyepieces and accessories and acts as a leg lock to further
stabilize while helping to minimize vibrations.
Controlling the
mount is the next generation iteration of the iconic AutoStar system:
the AudioStar. This computer controller is equipped with a database of
over 30,000 objects, including the planets, stars, nebulae, galaxies,
and the complete Messier catalog; it can also be programmed with up to
100 custom user-defined objects with filters to create custom object
lists. An integrated speaker and Astronomer Inside system is packed with
over four hours of commentary that is customized to objects that are
visible in the night sky on any given day and time. Its intuitive
menu-driven user interface makes observing the heavens fast and easy,
and multiple alignment options make the controller an invaluable tool to
new users and experienced star-gazers alike.