Meade ETX-80 AT TC Astro Telescopes w/ Autostar Computer Controller & Meade Tripod Models: Meade ETX-80 AT-TC-BB Astro Telescope Autostar w/ Light Tripod, Backpack and No Case Model 0805-04-20
by Meade
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Digital product summary information
Manufacturer: MeadeProduct features:
- The latest replacement for our all time telescope
- Powerful companion for exploring the universe at an incredibly attractive price
- Includes a dew shield, slightly lighter field tripod
- The perfect instrument for the casual observer
Digital camera reviews of Meade ETX-80 AT TC Astro Telescopes w/ Autostar Computer Controller & Meade Tripod Models: Meade ETX-80 AT-TC-BB Astro Telescope Autostar w/ Light Tripod, Backpack and No Case Model 0805-04-20
Digital camera Review: Design is flawed
Summary: 1 Stars
I bought this telescope after reading a few good reviews but I am sorely disappointed. I think this telescope could just kill off your budding interest in astronomy. Although the Autostar program is fairly easy to use, it is not entirely straightforward to a beginner. This is a fairly inexpensive automated telescope but there are several things that I do not like about this scope.
There is a serious design flaw. The focus knob is small, tight and it isn't smooth. When you try to focus, it transmits jerky vibrations to the scope and cause your objects to shake. Try focussing on a shaking object! It affects higher magnifications and it does not bother me that much when I use it at low magnifications. But then, at low magnification, you might as well get a good astro binoculars at 25% of the price.
The in-built Barlow, meant to double the magnification is of low quality. I have yet to try putting my own Barlow lens in. The 9mm eyepiece is also not a good one. The 25mm eyepiece is alright though.
I am amazed how people can see bands on Jupiter with a scope that focuses so badly.
The tripod is study and light. That is the best thing about this scope. The backpack is too small for the scope. I don't think getting a better fitting bag will affect the bottom line at Meade.
The whole concept of this scope is great. Small, portable, light and automated. However, it needs to deliver its basic function, to show objects sharply. It cannot do that due to its poor focussing mechanism, then this is a sheer waste of money.
I hope Meade will incorporate an electronic focussing system in their next design. Focus using the Autostar control pad instead of fiddling with a coarse knob which shakes up the whole scope.
Unfortunately I cannot recommend this telescope unless you love spending 15-20 minutes focussing on one object. The time saved by the auto star finding computer is wasted on focussing the scope.
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