The Meade Instruments LX85 203mm f/10 ACF UHTC Catadioptric GoTo EQ Telescope
has a large aperture and long focal length to allow you to make
detailed observations of near and deep-sky objects. Supporting this
powerful observation tool is a full GoTo computer-controlled motorized
equatorial mount that is ideal for long-duration observation and
astrophotography sessions.
This telescope utilizes Meade's
Advanced Coma-Free catadioptric light path to reduce color fringing and
off-axis comas, enabling it to clearly resolve dim deep-sky objects and
easily split binary stars with tack-sharp clarity. Complementing the ACF
system is their Ultra-High Transmission Coatings (UHTC) system, which
improves light transmission through the entire light path across the
whole visible spectrum. A combination of high-transmittance lens
coatings and highly reflective mirror coatings boost image brightness,
while minimizing external light loss and internal diffraction. To help
get new users started, Meade includes two eyepieces that produce low and
high magnifications, a 90° star diagonal, and 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, which 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 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 4 hours of commentary that
is customized to objects that are visible in the night sky on any given
date 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 stargazers
alike.