Meade ETX 80

Product Description

The Meade ETX 80 telescope is a portable, computerized refractor telescope designed for amateur astronomers and observers. Meade ETX 80 features an 80 mm achromatic objective lens with a focal length of 600 mm (f/7.5) and fully multi-coated optics for high-quality images. ETX 80 includes a removable dew shield, sturdy mount, and a computerized goto system with AudioStar handbox for automatic celestial object tracking. ETX 80 telescope runs on standard or rechargeable batteries, making it ideal for visual observation of the moon, planets, and terrestrial objects. ETX 80’s compact size and light weight make it an excellent starter telescope for teens or entry-level observers interested in astronomy and multi-purpose use.

The ETX 80 serves as a dual-purpose instrument for both visual astronomy and terrestrial observation. Its removable optical tube and lightweight design of 9 pounds make it highly portable. The telescope operates on battery power, allowing for use in remote locations without external power sources. Beginners find the ETX 80 an ideal starter telescope due to its ease of use and compact size. Experienced astronomers appreciate its portability for traveling and field use.

Should you buy Meade ETX 80 as your first telescope?

Meade ETX 80 is cautiously recommended as a first telescope for novice astronomers. Compact and portable refractor telescope offers 80mm aperture for observing moon, planets, and bright deep-sky objects. 600mm focal length challenges beginners with focus. Small aperture limits detail resolution in faint objects. Potential buyers should weigh pros and cons, read reviews, and consider alternatives before purchase.

Is Meade ETX80 easy to use?

The Meade ETX80 is easy to use for entry-level astronomers and portable scope enthusiasts. ETX80’s user-friendly design allows easy assembly and disassembly in about 30 minutes. The telescope features an Autostar program with push buttons for easy alignment and operation. Autostar’s database contains thousands of celestial objects, enabling users to find stars, planets, and other objects with a simple button press. ETX80’s lightweight and compact design makes it ideal for travel. The telescope includes a sturdy tripod and red-dot finder for easy setup and alignment. ETX80 operates on 8 AA batteries, which may require frequent replacement during extensive use. External power supplies offer a solution to potential battery issues.

Should you buy Meade ETX80 for kids?

Meade ETX80 is cautiously recommended for children interested in astronomy. Novice astronomers benefit from its 80mm aperture and portable design. First telescopes require adult supervision for assembly and operation. Children must learn manual tracking controls. Parents should consider the child’s age and skill level before purchasing.

What can you see with Meade ETX80AT-TC?

The sights you can see with Meade ETX80AT-TC are listed below.

• Moon craters (e.g., Copernicus)
• Cloud belts on Jupiter
• Jupiter’s Great Red Spot
• Saturn’s rings
• Saturn’s moons (e.g., Titan, Enceladus)
• Mars ice caps
• Mercury’s phases
• Stars down to magnitude 11.7
• Sirius
• Vega
• Andromeda Galaxy
• Orion Nebula
• Lagoon Nebula

Should you buy Meade ETX80 to observe planets?

The Meade ETX80 is suited for basic planetary observation but has limitations for serious study. Its 80mm aperture and 600mm focal length provide decent views of planets, showing phases of Venus, polar ice caps on Mars, and cloud bands on Jupiter. Jupiter’s four largest moons are visible with the ETX80. Saturn’s rings appear, but lack clear definition. The telescope’s resolution limit of 1.45 arcseconds restricts the visibility of finer planetary details. The ETX80 struggles with faint objects like nebulae and starfields. Observers seeking more detailed views should consider alternatives with larger apertures. The ETX80’s suitability depends on the observer’s expectations, making it ideal for beginners or budget-conscious astronomers prioritizing portability and ease of use.

Should you buy Meade ETX 80mm to observe galaxies?

Meade ETX 80mm telescope excels at lunar observation. Moon views are good with moderate magnification and wide field of view. Bright galaxies are visible. Larger apertures are recommended for detailed galaxy, cluster, and nebula observations. Serious galaxy observers should choose telescopes with bigger apertures for superior deep-sky object resolution.

Should you buy Meade ETX80 for astrophotography?

The Meade ETX80 is not suitable for serious astrophotography. Its alt/az mount limits tracking capabilities and causes field rotation during long exposures. The telescope is restricted to short exposures only, making deep sky imaging difficult with its small 80mm aperture. Lunar and planetary photography are possible, but astrophotography is limited to brighter objects. The ETX80’s wider views offer an advantage for certain types of imaging, and its portability is beneficial for some astronomers. Serious astrophotographers should consider alternatives like a Dobsonian telescope or a larger aperture instrument with an equatorial mount for more precise tracking and better light-gathering capabilities.

Is Meade ETX-80 portable?

Meade ETX-80 is a portable telescope. Portability is praised by many users for ease of transport and setup. ETX-80 weighs 9.5 pounds (4.3 kg) and measures 12.5 x 4.5 x 7.5 inches (31.8 x 11.4 x 19.1 cm). Great telescope for its size and capabilities. Good option for travel and storage.