Meade LX850

Product Description

The Meade LX850 telescope is a high-end astronomical instrument for visual observation and imaging of deep-sky objects. Meade LX850 telescope features a 10-inch (254 mm) aperture, f/8 focal ratio, and 2032 mm focal length. LX850 telescope captures high-contrast images of celestial objects using a Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design. LX850’s optical tube assembly (OTA) delivers incredible clarity and performance with a coma-free and baffling system. StarLock system allows fast and accurate alignment with celestial objects, obtaining beautiful photographs of deep-sky objects with minimal exposure time.

The Meade LX850 works visually and delivers exceptional results for both observation and imaging. Its compact Schmidt-Cassegrain design produces a flatter field, while high-contrast baffling results in pinpoint star images. The telescope has an aperture of 355.6 mm (14 in), a focal length of 2800 mm (110 in), and a limiting stellar magnitude of 14.7. It offers a resolution limit of 0.28 arcseconds and a light gathering capacity of 1000x.

The Meade LX850 provides magnification ranges from 50x to 500x. It excels in capturing high-resolution images of deep-sky objects with minimal star trailing during long exposures. The system’s design allows for smooth and secure attachment of accessories, enhancing its versatility for serious astronomers and astrophotographers.

Should you buy Meade LX850 as your first telescope?

The Meade LX850 is not recommended as a first telescope for beginners. Newcomers to astronomy should buy a small refractor telescope instead. Small refractors are more affordable and easier to use than the LX850. Altaz mounts on entry-level telescopes are simpler to set up and operate. The LX850 requires significant experience and technical knowledge to use effectively. LX850’s complex design and advanced features target deep-sky imaging enthusiasts and research-grade applications. Setup process for the LX850 is difficult even for experienced astronomers. LX850 is an expensive option, costing several thousand dollars. Beginners should consider alternatives that suit their experience level and observing goals. Newcomers need to learn astronomy basics with simpler telescopes first. Starting with a smaller, user-friendly telescope allows beginners to gain valuable experience. Astronomers can upgrade to advanced models like the LX850 after developing necessary skills.

Is Meade LX850 Go-To Telescope easy to use?

Meade LX850 Go-To Telescope offers exceptional ease of use. Crayford focuser enables precise focus adjustments with a smooth-turning knob. LX850’s automatic StarLock system provides precise tracking without manual adjustments. Control system features intuitive menu and high-resolution LCD display. Autostar II hand controller allows easy location and tracking of celestial objects from a large database.

Should you buy Meade LX850 Computerized Telescope for kids?

The Meade LX850 Computerized Telescope is not recommended for kids. It is designed for serious astronomers and excels in astrophotography and observing deep-space objects. The telescope features complex features unsuitable for younger children. Its large size of 1372 x 406 x 406 mm and weight of 34 kg make it difficult for children to handle. The setup and calibration process is challenging for kids to manage independently. The high price tag is prohibitive for most families introducing their children to astronomy. Better options exist for kid-friendly telescopes that are smaller, lighter, easier to use, and more affordable. These alternatives provide a fun and educational introduction to astronomy without overwhelming young learners with advanced features they may not fully appreciate.

What can you see with Meade LX850 Go-To Telescope?

The celestial wonders you can see with the Meade LX850 Go-To Telescope are outlined below.

• Jupiter
• Saturn
• Mars
• Venus
• Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)
• Sombrero Galaxy (M104)
• Orion Nebula (M42)
• Carina Nebula (NGC 3372)
• Pleiades (M45)
• Double Cluster (NGC 869 and NGC 884)

Should you buy Meade LX850 Telescope to observe planets?

Meade LX850 Telescope excels at observing planets. Focal length of 2032mm and 355mm aperture provide sharp, high-contrast images. Meade ACF optical design reduces coma, ensuring minimal distortion. Planets are prime targets for this telescope. Great choice for astro imaging and photographing planets and Moon. Ideal for serious planetary observers.

Should you buy Meade LX850 Computerized Telescope to observe galaxies?

The Meade LX850 Computerized Telescope is an excellent choice for observing galaxies. LX850 is capable of capturing detailed astrophotographs with its 14-inch aperture and f/8 focal ratio. The astro-imaging system includes an autoguiding feature for precise tracking during long exposures. Deep-sky astrophotography benefits from the LX850’s 75 lbs payload capacity and computerized tracking system. The telescope’s setup aligns easily, allowing users to locate objects and start imaging quickly. LX850 delivers exceptional visual performance with a limiting stellar magnitude of 14.7 for deep-sky objects. Serious astronomers and astrophotographers invest in the LX850 for its high-quality optics, robust construction, and advanced features tailored for galaxy observation.

Should you buy Meade LX850 Computerized Telescope for astrophotography?

Meade LX850 Computerized Telescope excels in astrophotography. Focal length of 2032mm and aperture of 355mm capture high-resolution deep space images. Meade ACF optical design provides flat focal plane ideal for DSLR and astro cameras. Advanced computerized system ensures sharp imaging. Precision tracking allows long exposures. Sturdy construction supports heavy-duty imaging applications.

Is Meade LX850 Professional Telescope portable?

The Meade LX850 Professional Telescope is not designed for portability. The telescope weighs 34 kg (75 lbs) and measures 1372 x 406 x 406 mm (54 x 16 x 16 in), making it difficult to transport. Setup of the LX850 takes thirty minutes to an hour to complete, which is not ideal for quick deployment. The telescope’s size, weight, and setup time make it more suitable for permanent installations or observatories. Moving the LX850 requires careful planning and execution, as it is not a task for one person. The telescope’s sturdy tripod adds to the overall weight and size of the system, further limiting its portability. Advanced astronomers seeking high-quality imaging capabilities will find the LX850 an excellent choice, but those needing a lightweight and compact instrument should look elsewhere.