Features

• Exclusive multicoated, air-spaced achromatic objective lenses
• Razor-sharp images of both astronomical and terrestrial subjects
• Extremely portable at only 6.8 pounds
• Telescope can be used on any flat surface
• Meade 882 tripod included

Reviews (21)

Not a Televue but . . .
This is a great little telescope for the money. Two previous reviewers (who gave it a low rating) had quality control problems with it. I've had none with mine but I have had 3 of them with my Meade 4" refractor. The Meade customer service people were wonderful in correcting these problems, but it seems their quality control could be better.

Optically, this is an achromatic refractor with a very fast focal ratio. That means it's good for viewing extended objects like star clusters, Milky Way star clouds, large nebulae, pretty conjunctions, etc. Dark skies help alot -- the darker the better of course -- but good clear rural skies in Ohio are plenty wonderful. It doesn't have the aperture for dimmer objects but the brighter Messier objects, for example (and there's plenty of them!) are great. It isn't at its best on planets and the Moon but you can definitely see Saturn's rings, the phases of Mercury and Venus, Jupiter's moons and belts (the red spot is difficult at best) and the Moon simply can't help but look wonderful in any telescope!

The Autostar is really good. It's best when you align it carefully: use the north star to point it to north and use a bubble level to level the tripod and tube. You can find brighter Messier objects, comets, asteroids, the planet Neptune, etc, so easily! (But of course not Pluto, quasars, black holes and some other ridiculous objects in the Autostar database.) And you get better at aligning it as you practice. Be sure to check out the "synchronize" feature (in the owner's manual under the "enter key").

As others have pointed out, the focus mechanism is bad, and the tripod is not terribly sturdy. Together they make higher magnifications (which are not optically optimum either) just about impossible. But 50X is still reasonable with a good 7mm orthoscopic eyepiece. Also a good 32mm eyepiece will eliminate the need to buy a finder and give you wonderful wide views. A dew shield is a must in Ohio (reduces glare too).

It ain't a Televue, it's true, but for the price, this scope is hard to beat.

A lot of telescope for the price
The ETX 70 AT is a great little scope, very portable and easy to use (with a couple of nights practice!). A Barlow multiplying lens (x3) is a must to get good sharp close ups of the moon and planets. A set of filters also helps for a sharper contrast and cuts down the brightness of the moon. Once you have mastered the Autostar alignment procedure any object can be tracked automatically, ideal for photos. I have used the scope with and without the tripod, but the tripod does give a much more solid base (ie. less vibration when looking at the object).
The manual focus can be irritating (about 15 turns) when switching between eyepieces or adding a lens. Deep sky views are a bit faint but this is after all an ideal beginners scope.

Very Good, Easy to Use Telescope
...I can only offer praise and Kudos to Meade for offering such a wonderful instrument at a value price. For the past 30 years I have used a 60mm refractor from Sears without any problems. I finally decided it was time to get somthing a little more modern but didnt want to spend over a thousand dollars. After researching the market for 3 months, I finally decided on the ETX 70-AT. After adding 2x and 3x Barlow lenses, a 5mm plossl, a basic filter selection, and hard case I have spent less then $700.00. Once you have a realistic idea of what to expect when viewing through a small telescope, you will find that the image quality offered in the ETX 70-AT is outstanding for a 70mm telescope with such a short focal length (f/5). Autostar also makes easy work of finding subjects for the evening. The ETX 70-AT is a highly versatile instrument for both novice and experienced amateur astronomers. The rings of Saturn are clearly visible as is the Cassini Division. Jupiter is outstanding with the Red Spot visible under good conditions, and 5 moons visible. The Orion Nebula is very distinct as are the Plaedes. The only shortcomings I have found are: battery life could be better, focus knob is awkward, and dew shield should have been included as standard. Also, if this is your first telescope, dont expect to see images like those on the box. All in all, a Very Good Telescope for the money, and highly recommended for the astronomer on a budget.

Don't Let Meade Focus!!
At first I thought this scope was an excellent beginner scope. Soon I returned it as the motor would not train correctly. I received a brand new one. Same or similar problem. Returned and again received a new one. Problems are; training motor is a negative, If you are using in a city or with much light pollution you can't really go much higher than 70X so don't worry about purchasing 1000x+ eye pieces as you might as well purchase Captain Crunch. The focus knob is in a terrible place and just assume that Meade placed it there so they could focus! I have to admit though, Meade did replace the scope (twice) and their service dept. seemed great! However, back to reality, If you are interested in purchasing this scope...I would strongly suggest either; 1) Spend more money and receive a better quality scope or 2) spend the money you are going to spend on this scope and purchase yourself a very nice spotting scope and a cold beer!! You will not be disappointed by this advice. Now go out there and get the job did!!

Great Scope!
This is a great scope. At first I had trouble aligning it because when I tried to center the star with the autostar it didn't move. Later I found out that I had the speed to like 64X or 8X. Which is very slow. Then I moved it to 0.5 and I got it to work perfectly. The first night I got it to work I saw jupiter and its moons and I saw the moon. If you would like to see more detail of planets I would suggest buying a 3X barlow lense. You may not see things like you would in a planetarium but hey this is an ametuers scope and for the money you can see things well enough to say you had a great night in the field. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

The Meade ETX90EC is a compact telescope with excellent optics, packaged with a sturdy tripod and the remarkable Autostar computer control. Even though I own several telescopes and belong to an Astronomy club, the first night I took out the ETX, it showed me objects I'd never seen before. The ETX90EC is the computerized version of an affordable Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope first introduced by Meade in 1996. Every reviewer since then has commented on the excellent optics. How excellent? When I presented a session on optical testing at my local Astronomy club, I brought my ETX90 so that everyone could see what a "textbook" star test actually looks like.

What can you see with an ETX90? You won't see the flag on the Moon, but you will see sharp, color free views of mountains and valleys, craters, and lava flows. The planets are also a delight. I'll never forget seeing Saturn's rings with my own eyes for the first time. Although you can see the rings of Saturn and the cloud bands of Jupiter with the included 26mm Plossl eyepiece (about 48X magnification), you'll want to increase the magnification to bring out more detail. I find that a magnification of about 100X is ideal on most nights. You can reach 100X by using a Barlow Lens, I like the Celestron Ultima Barlow, or a smaller eyepiece such as the Celestron Omni Series 12.5mm . It's tempting to crank up the power to 200X or more, but on most nights I didn't see any more detail.

The Autostar controller makes it easy to find 30,000 celestial objects.

As good as the optics are, however, the most amazing feature of the ETX90EC is the Autostar computer. The ETX90EC with Autostar was the first computerized "go-to" telescope for under a thousand dollars. While bright objects like the moon are easy to find, the Autostar excels at finding the galaxies and star clusters that make space so fascinating. Maybe it's because I play with computers anyway, but I found the Autostar easy to use. The owners manual instructs you to begin the alignment by pointing the telescope North and tilting the telescope to level. I don't use a compass or a spirit level to do this, I simply point the telescope at the North Star, Polaris, and lower the telescope 44 degrees using the setting circles. This works because my home is near 44 degrees latitude. Don't know which star is Polaris? You'll want some kind of star chart that identifies the stars by name, NightWatch by Terence Dickinson is one of my favorites.

Many of the best galaxies and star clusters were discovered by a French comet hunter named Charles Messier. These so-called "M" objects looked to Messier like comets in the small telescopes of his day. My first night with the ETX, I switched on the "tour" mode. After looking at a few favorites, the cluster M52 came up on the Autostar. I pressed GO TO, and the telescope aimed itself at a cluster I hadn't looked at before. And darned if it didn't look just like a distant comet passing in front of a few small stars! I was so impressed, I bought an ETX for my step-son who works for the Air Force.

It's only fair to warn you, however, that if you find yourself enjoying Astronomy, you may start wanting a bigger telescope! --Jeff Phillips

Pros:

• Excellent optics
• The Autostar computer finds objects and describes them for you
• Small and easily portable

Cons:

• It's small--the only way to see more detail is with a bigger telescope
• When using small eyepieces, you might bump the finder scope with your nose

... Read more

Features

• Includes Autostar controller and deluxe field tripod
• Cordless motor drive for fully automatic tracking
• Equatorial fork mount, flip-mirror system
• Maksutov meniscus corrector lens of Grade-A BK7 optical glass
• Includes a Meade Series 4000 Super Plossl 26 millimeter eyepiece for 48 times magnification

Reviews (3)

Meade Does It Right
The Meade ETX90EC lives up to its billing. It's a high-quality piece of gear that exudes craft and workmanship. The bundled package w/Autostar and Tripod gives you most of what you need. If you have any intent of doing terrestrial viewing, you should consider the 45 degree erecting prism. Also, the package does not come with any power adapters. If you plan to be out for a long evening of star gazing, you will probably want the adapter that lets you plug into a cigarette lighter. I wish Amazon had the UHTC version available, but no luck. Finally, I haven't been able to find the correct T-mount adapter for this scope on Amazon. I do want to use it for photography eventually. The main thing I would say is that this is not a toy, but it is ideal for beginners to intermediate enthusiasts. I've had more fun in just a couple sessions than I've ever had before.

Disappointed in Meade
This was my husband's big present for Christmas, something he has always wanted. While unwrapping and unpacking, he heard a rattle in the spotting scope. Upon investigation, he fished out a broken set screw and discovered that it had sheared off the outside of the spotting scope. Another screw was badly damaged. The eyepiece covers had all been left off when shipping. Also, all the settings were loose and had to be reset. Meade does not have an 800 number and you are put on hold interminably when you try to contact them. All in all, he likes the scope BUT was very disappointed in the quality of the manufacturer and lack of customer service. What a disappointment for Christams day!

Great Telescope
I've only used my telescope a couple times, but it has been great. It takes a little while to get used to it, and I highly recommend reading the manual. Also, Meade has a deal going on that you will probably want to check out (http://www.meade.com/promo.d/plosslpromo.html). You will definitely want to take them up on this offer. ... Read more

Features

• Computer controller to help locate celestial objects
• Great for terrestrial and space viewing
• 2 eye pieces (78x and 28x)
• 700mm focal length
• Aluminum tripod with accessory tray

Amazon.com Product Description

When the original ETX telescope, the ETX-90RA, was introduced in 1996, it quickly created a revolution in amateur astronomy. Here for the first time was an ultraportable and highly versatile telescope system of unprecedented optical resolution and performance. Within a year of its introduction the ETX became the top-selling modern telescope in the world.

Manufactured entirely at Meade's Irvine, California, facility, ETX Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes produce optical performance and resolution that equal or exceed any Maksutov optics of similar apertures ever manufactured at any price, past or present. Their optics are so high in contrast, image brightness, and resolution that the ETX-90EC and ETX-125EC often outperform many telescopes of larger apertures.These models build on the original ETX concept to create the most advanced electronically controlled telescopes--including optional automatic go-to-object location with the Autostar computer controller--ever produced in their price range. And yet they don't sacrifice any of the user-friendly features that started the ETX revolution.

With twice the light-collecting area of the Meade ETX-90EC, the Meade ETX-125EC permits a much broader range of astronomical study. Jupiter's cloud belts, for example, are observable at a significantly heightened level of detail, with whirls and festoons and the Great Red Spot readily visible as they transit the planet's disc. The Cassini division in Saturn's rings is routinely seen, as are additional features of the planet's surface, even under less than perfect seeing conditions. Microfine lunar detail beyond the reach of smaller telescopes can be resolved in the Meade ETX-125EC. Looking to deep space, the ETX-125EC's larger aperture enables the observation of galaxies and nebulae in much wider extension. The entire Messier listing of 110 objects is now not only visible, but every object additionally takes on a readily discernible structure.

The observer who accepts astronomy as a serious field of interest will find the Meade ETX-125EC a deeply satisfying instrument for a lifetime of high-resolution astronomical study. ... Read more

Features

• 500x maximum magnification
• Fork mounts with standard-equipment dual-axis drive system and electronic controller
• Altazimuth or equatorial operation
• Cordless field operation
• Flip-mirror system

Reviews (10)

A great telescope
If you are considering purchasing any of the ETX models of telescopes I would strongly suggest paying extra for the 125EC. The 125EC's aperture is 193% larger than the 90EC's and this makes a huge difference. The brightness of galaxies and star clusters allow even closer magnification and brilliance. If you are going to make an investment on a telescope, you want a scope that you can be happy with for many many years, and with the resolve capabilities of the 125EC, you will be. I have seen spectacular displays of the Andromida galaxy along with many closer objects such Mars, Jupiter, and our moon.

Be aware though, that the price does not stop at this telescope. In order to get any practical viewing out of this you absolutely must purchase the deluxe field tripod for $200. This somewhat limits the portability of the telescope, but if you do not have it, you will not be able to see much at all. Also, the hard carrying case is greatly beneficial. For about 6 months I lugged this telescope around in the original box that it came in and it was a pain. The cardboard was bending and it would get wet and soft. Also you cannot take any accessories in the original box like eyepieces or the Autostar controller. The hard carrying case holds at least three eyepieces and has room for other accessories. Any other things that you buy with this telescope would be luxuries, like the T-adapter for taking pictures, the dew shield (you don't really need that and it doesn't always work), or any filters.

If you have thought about buying the Autostar controller, I would hold off for a bit. It is extremely beneficial to learn the sky on your own, so that if ever you part with that controller, or your batteries run dead, you are not lost in the dark. It is not hard at all to learn the skies, and with a few weeks time, with or without a telescope, you can master most of the constellations. An unparalleled benefit of the controller is its capability to track objects during your observations. It is able to hold objects in the field of view for hours without having to adjust the telescope manually.

The ETX telescope itself is great; it has a motor drive system with four speeds so finding any object under any magnification is easy. Its portability is handy when it comes to taking it over long distances. I had no problem taking this scope with me in a canoe in the Adirondacks to a remote camping site (the viewing there was spectacular). This would be a great telescope for any astronomer, as a first one to learn the skies, or as a backup, to use for long trips.

Good, pleasant, but not without a few problems
I bought this scope about a month ago. Overall I'm pleased. Its not too heavy, and the size makes it relatively easy to pull out of the garage and into the backyard.

I also bought several accessories with it. The field tripod is a must if you want any semblance of stability. And the plossl lense that it comes with is good for viewing the Moon, possibly some open star clusters, but not much else. You will probably end up getting one or two additional, higher power lenses -- and possibly a barlow as well. I bought the 12.4mm lense and the 2x barlow, and when using both at full magnification it can really bring an object like Saturn to life. The problem is that even the slightest vibration can cause the image to shudder.

I bought the Autostar, but can testify that when running on battery power alone you will NOT be able to "punch in an object" and expect it to go right there. It will get close, but even 8 new AA batteries seem to struggle to power the thing. So I ended up buying the power adapter, and now it works much better and more accurately.

As you can see, you may end up buying lots of accessories to get a good experience from your scope. However, it appears to be worth it. I have no regrets.

Meade ETX-125EC Wins for portability
My 11 year old son and I jointly purchased a Meade ETX-125EC and tripod. When I was his age I spent my summer nights outside looking though a fair quality 4.5 inch Newtonian reflector. My son took the Astronomy merit badge in Boy Scouts and got the bug bad! We looked through my old scope, the mount had broken, so we went shopping.

The ETX-125 fit our needs perfectly: good compromise in light gathering while being very portable (19 lbs)and outstanding optical quality. The tripod works well and is steady. We opted to wait to purchase the AutoStar computer controller so he can learn the locations of nebula, planets and double stars on his own and become familiar with the sky. We enjoy hunting down faint objects and finding them!

As to another reviewer's suggestion that for the same money you could buy a 10 inch Dobsonian reflector...most people would also have to buy a truck to haul it in! We like the portability to take it away from the city in search of darker skies.

Trouble and Poor Customer Support from Meade
I just purchased a new ETX-125EC (June 2003). I keep getting motor failure errors and retraining does not help. In talking with Meade they indicated that it was probably a motor encoder problem and to please send it back for repairs. The expected wait was quoted as 3 weeks. Asked why the wait was so long it boiled down to "get in line with everyone else needing repairs". Frankly, I didn't pay [money]. for a new scope to get in a 3 week line. I have an old (20 years) C11 as well as a C90 so I am very close to returning the unit to the supplier, who has tried to help but had no pull with Meade to do any better, and telling Meade to take their scope and arrogant customer service and shove it.

Portable but Pricey
This is the size that the ETX should have been when it was introduced. The 125 is a relatvely new member of the ETX lineup, and the one that I would recommend first to those with the money and the desire to buy an "UltraPortable" scope. With its 5 inches of aperture, it is the only ETX scope so far that I would recommend for any sort of serious deep sky (galaxies, star custers, nebulae) viewing. (See my review ot the ETX-90 for an explanation of why aperture is important.)

I am the president of a large (300 members) astronomy club in Columbus, Ohio and have looked through thousands of telescopes in my life- including a few Meade ETX-125s. The scope seems to be high quality, very contrasty, with just a touch of softness that makes views through it distinguishable from high end refractors costing many times as much. If you enjoy planetary or lunar viewing, and don't want the hassle and expense of a large refractor, or the "cool down time" of a reflecting scope, then this is the scope for you.

The AutoStar GOTO system seems to be the same as the one on the ETX-90, and, as in that scope, seems to do a good job finding objects. (Recommendation: learn the names of the brightest 20 or so stars in the sky. You will need them as guide stars to align the scope with.)

NOTE: I have stood next to many first time users of the Meade-ETX (all versions) and watched them fumble in the dark for hours with the system of computerized menus in the GOTO system that comes with this scope. Learn to use it in the daylight or during the full moon and not while you're cutting into your observing time.

At its current average asking price, beginning astronomy enthusiasists might ETX-125 might be a bit pricey. At much less, views that are almost as good (if not better, due to greater aperture) can be had through and 6-8 inch Orion or Meade Dobsonian scope. On the other hand, like the ETX-90, the ETX-125 is extremely portable- perfect for travel or quick looks.

The 24 millimeter finder is useless for finding anything but guide stars and the planets. It is difficult to align, and is so small that very little can be seen through it.

I would recommend getting a dew shield in addition to this scope. ... Read more

Features

• Altazimuth mount for smooth movement
• Great for terrestrial and space viewing
• 2 eye pieces (78x and 28x)
• 700mm focal length
• Aluminum tripod with accessory tray

Features

• Included MEADE #494 Autostar Computer Controller automatically locates and points the telescope to over 1400 celestial objects, at the push of a button
• 60mm diameter achromatic multi-coated objective lens
• Fully adjustable aluminum tripod with accessory tray
• 3 (0.965) eyepieces -SR4mm (175X), H12.5mm (56X) and H25mm (28X)
• 5 x 24mm viewfinder

Amazon.com Product Description

Meade's DS-80EC refracting telescope offers a large aperture, high-quality optics, and easy push-button electronic operation, making it a perfect instrument for the serious beginner or intermediate observer. It features a multicoated, achromatic two-element objective lens and precise, smooth altitude and azimuth movements. It includes the Meade handheld electronic controller, which allows for four-speed push-button operation and easy object location and tracking. It also includes Meade's StarNavigator software, which displays more than 10,000 celestial objects for help in locating galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, stars, and planets. Additionally, the telescope comes with a full-length, adjustable, heavy-duty aluminum tripod with accessory shelf.

The DS-80EC exhibits Meade's fine attention to detail and quality, from the precision-polished crown and flint optical glass components and contrast-increasing multicoatings to oversize bearings on both telescope axes that facilitate great precision in tracking. It offers a resolving power of 1.5 arcseconds, a limiting visual magnitude of 11.6, a 275x maximum practical visual power, and a 6mm by 30mm viewfinder. Its relatively large 80mm objective lens allows you to observe celestial objects like the rings of Saturn, Saturn's largest satellite, Titan, the moon-like phases of Venus, and hundreds of deep-space phenomena like galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

The DS-80EC is also built to be fully compatible with Meade's Autostar computer controller for automatic location and tracking of celestial objects. ... Read more

Features

• Easy to set up and use
• Includes a full range of magnifications, from low to high
• MEADE Manual Slow Motion Control System -Slow motion controls allow precise vertical and horizontal adjustments
• Includes FREE Meade Electronic Eyepiece in the box -displays real time telescopic images on any compatible TV set, VCR or camcorder! Great for the family ? Daytime or nighttime use ? Contrast control ? Monochrome CMOS imager
• Includes tripod & accessory tray, 3 eyepieces and 3x Barlow lens, plus bonus StarLocator Astro Software CD-ROM for PC

Reviews (1)

Great Telescope!
I myself do not actually own this telescope, but my brother does, and he loves it. It was given to hime as a birthday present, and it's a great birthday present at that! This telescope is perfect if you are looking for a quality beginners telescope! I also reccomend it, to any aspiring astonomers or astronauts! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Meade's DS-70EC refracting telescope offers high-quality optics and easy push-button electronic operation, making it a perfect instrument for the serious beginner. It features a multicoated, achromatic two-element objective lens and precise, smooth altitude and azimuth movements. It includes the Meade handheld electronic controller, which allows for four-speed push-button operation and easy object location and tracking. It also includes Meade's StarNavigator software, which displays more than 10,000 celestial objects for help in locating galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, stars, and planets. Additionally, the telescope comes with a full-length adjustable aluminum tripod.

The DS-70EC exhibits Meade's fine attention to detail and quality, from the precision-polished crown and flint optical glass components and contrast-increasing multicoatings, to oversize bearings on both telescope axes that facilitate great precision in tracking. It offers a resolving power of 1.6 arcseconds, a limiting visual magnitude of 11.3, a 250x maximum practical visual power, and a 5mm by 24mm viewfinder.

The DS-70EC is also built to be fully compatible with Meade's Autostar computer controller, for automatic location and tracking of celestial objects. ... Read more

Features

• 70mm (2.8 inch) aperture; 700mm objective lens focal length
• Includes electronic controller for easy push-button object location and tracking
• Smooth, precise tracking with altazimuth mounting
• 2-element achromatic objective lens with multicoating
• Includes full-length, adjustable aluminum tripod

Reviews (9)

OK - but better scopes available in the same price range
While not a bad scope, it shows signs of cost cutting. The finder and the 9mm eyepiece are awful - I replaced the 9mm eyepiece as soon as possible. The mount is not as stable as it should be for medium to high powers - I found it was hard to find focus due to the jiggling of the image. The electronic controls are fine but really don't offer any benefit over manual slo-mo controls available on many scopes.

This is a step up from "junk department store refractors" to be sure, but I recommend getting a more "back to basics" scope without the electronics. Scopes in the same general price range are available with better accessories and mounts, and/or larger apertures.

Good value for the money
Pros:
Good beginner scope (and probably the only scope necessary for a casual observer). Even if used only 3 or 4 times ever, the views of the Moon (lots of craters near where light side transitions to dark) and Saturn (looks like a dot with a ring around it) are worth this amount of money if you never have seen them through a telescope. Its neat to see those things with your own eyes in your own backyard even if they look small (its like looking at the back of an pencil eraser at Jupiter or Saturn), vs looking at pictures in a book. With the motors attached the image holds steady in the wind. It is pretty easy with the motors to hold Saturn in the center field of view and you never have to touch the barrel, just the control pad. This is small enough to carry with one hand from the garage to the backyard.
Cons:
70 mm size not large enpugh for deep sky objects (nebula, galaxy), this might limit depth for serious types (who would probably want a size of 150 mm)
Finderscope is small and hard to get at to look through. Ok for the bright planets and moon though.

Great beginner telescope!
We bought this telescope for our son's 9th birthday to keep him happy and occupied while his dad sets up our more advanced telescope. In particular, we wanted a telescope that he could use easily on his own. Set up was a breeze, and we were amazed at the clarity of what we were able to see on a rather hazy night in a fairly light polluted area. Jupiter with its bands and moons were clearly visible as were the rings on Saturn. Though it comes with electronic controls and will work with the Autostar, our son enjoys positioning the telescope manually which he found easy to do. This is a perfect beginner telescope!

Great Telescope for Beginners
(...)
Max Advertised Power was I think 250 but with the 9mm and 25mm lens you dont even get close which are the defaults that the telescope comes with. You have to buy the Barlow lens or the 4mm lens to see saturn.
Over all for the (...)price its really great, but buying the lenses will cost an additional (dollar amount), so total comes to about (dollar amount), for that price this is the best in its class.

Don't waste your time
In my opinion, viewing anything outside of this solar system is basically unviewable with this scope. If you want to look at Saturn, it is only a small dot with a ring around it. You really need to concentrate and have good vision to be able to see Saturn to the best extent possible with this scope. Jupiter is a ball where you also need to concentrate if you would like to see the "Great Red Spot" (which is hundreds of times larger than the Earth!!!). You will need tons of accesories to get the most out of this scope. Overall, don't waste your time on this scope, save your money for a better telescope. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Whether you want to study Saturn and its ring system, the primary cloud belts of Jupiter, or mountain ranges and other terrestrial objects, the Meade ETX-60AT gives you extraordinary power for the price. It offers a 60mm multicoated, air-spaced achromatic objective lens manufactured with Grade A crown and flint optical glass components. The flip-mirror system lets you observe in the standard 90-degree position. Just flip the internal optical flat mirror up, and you'll be set for sky viewing.

It's easy to carry, so you can take the Meade ETX-60AT to a distant mountaintop or to your own back yard. It only needs a quick 60-second alignment for setup. This telescope includes an Autostar hand controller that permits the automatic location of over 1,400 celestial objects. Just enter the object you wish to observe and watch as the telescope moves rapidly to place the object in your field of view. The Meade ETX-60AT also includes a serial interface, so you can download new software through your PC to the telescope. This way, the positions of Earth's satellites may be updated for observation, or newly discovered objects, such as comets, can be located. This model also comes with a sturdy, adjustable tripod. ... Read more

Features

• 1471 object database
• Ultraportable and simple to use
• Flip-mirror system
• 60mm diameter lens
• Dual-Axis drive system

Reviews (2)

Excellent for Beginners
Great for beginners.
Easily transportable.
Lots of add ons if you want them.
Some of the optional items will also work with more expensive models should you decide to upgrade later.

Amature or pro? Doesn't matter with this telescope
This telescope is one of the best I've ever looked into. Even trying out a beatup floor model at the local Discovery Channel Store, it was a dream. It is a great starter for amatures, but still delivers power and great features for the more experienced. The DS-60EC is a nice one too, but it is a bit bulky. The ETX-60AT is a lot smaller, lighter, and easier to move around. Trust me, if you get this one, you won't regret it. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Meade's DS-90EC refracting telescope offers a large aperture, high-quality optics, and easy push-button electronic operation, making it a perfect instrument for the serious beginner or intermediate observer. It features a multicoated, achromatic two-element objective lens, and precise, smooth altitudeand azimuth movements. It includes the Meade handheld electronic controller, which allows for four-speed push-button operation and easy object location and tracking. It also includes Meade's StarNavigator software, which displays more than 10,000 celestial objects for help in locating galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, stars, and planets. Additionally, the telescope comes with a full-length adjustable heavy-duty aluminum tripod with accessory shelf.

The DS-90EC exhibits Meade's fine attention to detail and quality, from the precision-polished crown and flint optical glass components and contrast-increasing multicoatings, to oversize bearings on both telescope axes that facilitate great precision in tracking. It offers a resolving power of 1.3 arcseconds, a limiting visual magnitude of 11.8, a 300x maximum practical visual power, and a 6mm by 30mm viewfinder. Its large 90mm objective lens allows you to observe celestial objects like the rings of Saturn, Saturn's largest satellite, Titan, the moon-like phases of Venus, and hundreds of deep-space phenomena like galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

The DS-90EC is also built to be fully compatible with Meade's Autostar computer controller, for automatic location and tracking of celestial objects. ... Read more

Features

• 90mm (3.5 inch) aperture; 1000mm objective lens focal length
• Includes electronic controller for easy push-button object location and tracking
• Smooth, precise tracking with altazimuth mounting
• 2-element achromatic objective lens with multicoating
• Includes full-length, adjustable heavy-duty aluminum tripod

Reviews (4)

The Perfect Telescope
I think that this telescope works really good. The Autostar System finds objects perfectly. I usually use Autostar more in the day because when it's bright, it's hard to find objects in the sky. I have seen Saturn, and Jupiter so far. I got this telescope three days ago, and I love it.

Better than Meade DS-70EC
I replaced my DS-70 with DS-90.Images are now brighter and sharper than before.
Here is what can you see with DS-90EC.Mercury-It's hardly to observe.When you catch it you can see it's moonlike phases.Venus-You can observe phases at any time.Nothing to see on the planet.Moon-WOW!Moon is plentiful of details.Every time you put your eye in the eyepiece you will see something new!Mars-The red planet is best observable during the oposition.Than you can see many details(including a polar cap).Jupiter-It's my favourite!On gas giant you can see up 7 cloud bands,two main equatorial belts and lot's of clouds.Of course,you can see the great red spot(GRS)and four galilean moons as starlike dots.You can often see a shadow of Jupiter's moon(s) on planet disk.GRS(And the other details)is much better observable when you are out of city(no light pollution).Saturn-Surely the most beautiful planet.You can easily see the rings and the Cassini divison.Up to three cloud bands are visible on the planet.You can also see up to five moons.Uranus-You can see a greenish disk without details.Some people said that they were see Miranda,Uranus largest moon,but I didn't.Neptun-Nothing specially.Just very,very small disk.Pluto-No chanse to see it.It's totally invisible.There are many other thigs to see: Comets,Double stars,Nebulae,Star clusters,galaxies......
If you are a beginner this is the best telescope to start with.

Good scope within Budget
The meade DS90 has very good optics compare to other named telescope. This is a refractor and the refractor has been known of its sharp and clear image on papers but meade proved that action is louder then just talk. The electronic system is really suburb. If you are the begginer or intermidiate user then I will recommand an autostar, the filter set and 2.5x powermat (barlow) to see the galaxies, nebula and planets in full datail. Just keep in mind that you should not exceed its recommanded power which is from my point of view is 150x. You can find magnification by multiplying the aparture of telescope in inches by 50x. This one is 90mm so it will be 3.55". The best way to view planet and galaxies is between 80x to 120x. ENJOY.

Outstanding Image quality
It is a plasure to put your eyes into the viewfinder of this Meade DS-90EC Telescope!. One may say that Meade does not make bad instruments and you are right. Also this telescope is a beauty in its own, even I can place it in my livingroom without my wife bleaming on it! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Meade's DS-80EC refracting telescope offers a large aperture, high-quality optics, and easy push-button electronic operation, making it a perfect instrument for the serious beginner or intermediate observer. It features a multicoated, achromatic two-element objective lens and precise, smooth altitude and azimuth movements. It includes the Meade handheld electronic controller, which allows for four-speed push-button operation and easy object location and tracking. It also includes Meade's StarNavigator software, which displays more than 10,000 celestial objects for help in locating galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, stars, and planets. Additionally, the telescope comes with a full-length adjustable heavy-duty aluminum tripod with accessory shelf.

The DS-80EC exhibits Meade's fine attention to detail and quality, from the precision-polished crown and flint optical glass components and contrast-increasing multicoatings, to oversize bearings on both telescope axes that facilitate great precision in tracking. It offers a resolving power of 1.5 arcseconds, a limiting visual magnitude of 11.6, a 275x maximum practical visual power, and a 6mm by 30mm viewfinder. Its relatively large 80mm objective lens allows you to observe celestial objects like the rings of Saturn, Saturn's largest satellite, Titan, the moon-like phases of Venus, and hundreds of deep-space phenomena like galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

The DS-80EC is also built to be fully compatible with Meade's Autostar computer controller, for automatic location and tracking of celestial objects. ... Read more

Features

• 80mm (3.1 inch) aperture; 900mm objective lens focal length
• Includes electronic controller for easy push-button object location and tracking
• Smooth, precise tracking with altazimuth mounting
• 2-element achromatic objective lens with multicoating
• Includes full-length, adjustable heavy-duty aluminum tripod

Reviews (1)

The Best Telescope Invented Since Galileo's! (pun- pun!)
This telescope was a gift from Jesse, my older sister's good friend. I m 14, and have been interested in astronomy for a very long time. I want to be an astronaut when I grow up, but for now I am just an astro- nut! The brilliant pictures this telescope portrays are very clear in focus, and the magnification is great. I was looking at the full moon once, in the telescope, and I almost felt like I was actually on the moon! Thanks to my sister for having such a good friend, and to Meade for making such a good telescope! Buy it today! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Ideal for the beginner or intermediate observer, the Saturn DS-114EC combines power and clarity. Like other Meade DS telescopes, the handheld electronic controller allows for 4-speed pushbutton operation. The telescope features a 700mm focal length and a 60mm aperture, allowing for excellent views of stars and planets. Its smooth motions in altitude and azimuth make precision object tracking quick and comfortable. The package weighs about 15 pounds and comes with an adjustable aluminum tripod. ... Read more

Features

• Observe celestial objects like the rings of Saturn, Saturn's largest satellite, ect
• 114mm aperture
• 6mm by 30mm viewfinder
• Offers a resolving power of 1.5 arcseconds
• Limiting visual magnitude of 11.6

Amazon.com Product Description

Meade's DS-114EC reflecting telescope offers a large aperture, high-quality optics, and easy push-button electronic operation, making it a perfect instrument for the serious beginner or intermediate observer. It features improved mounting for precise, smooth altitude and azimuth movements. Its high-resolution, multicoated primary and secondary mirrors are free of the optical zones and irregularities often found on optics of lesser quality. It includes the Meade handheld electronic controller, which allows for four-speed push-button operation and easy object location and tracking. It also includes Meade's StarNavigator software, which displays more than 10,000 celestial objects for help in locating galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, stars, and planets. It comes with a full-length adjustable heavy-duty aluminum tripod with accessory shelf.

The DS-114EC exhibits Meade's fine attention to detail and quality. It offers a resolving power of 1.5 arcseconds, a limiting visual magnitude of 11.6, a 275x maximum practical visual power, and a 6mm by 30mm viewfinder. Its large 114mm aperture allows you to observe celestial objects like the rings of Saturn, Saturn's largest satellite, Titan, the moon-like phases of Venus, and hundreds of deep-space phenomena like galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

The DS-114EC is also built to be fully compatible with Meade's Autostar computer controller, for automatic location and tracking of celestial objects. ... Read more

Features

• Newtonian reflector telescope with 114mm aperture
• 910mm objective lens focal length
• Includes electronic controller for easy push-button object location and tracking
• Smooth, precise tracking with altazimuth mounting
• Includes full-length, adjustable heavy-duty aluminum tripod

Reviews (16)

Cheap now or forever hold your eyepieces
This telescope is an excelent buy at the moment for [amt]. The review that states you should save yourself the trouble by buying a Newtonian/Dobsonian telescope did not meantion that the average price is around [amt] for a cheap telescope. Dobsonians ARE quality telescopes for their price, but if you just want to get started and don't care too much about all the tecnical stuff (but eventually want to know what it's all about) you should start with this telescope. I am happy with mine, although, I bought it a year ago near the price Amazon lists at above [amt], but I've been happy with it because of its nice electronic control, which is necessary to keep track of objects you are viewing at high magnification (adjusting the telescope by hand is difficult). The scope comes with TWO eyepieces instead of one. Each eyepiece has a magnification of 36X and 101X for the 25mm and 9mm pieces respectively. Add a 2X or 3X Barlow lens and you can double or triple those magnifications. Note that Meade suggests a maximum of 325X magnification is the limit of the scope.

Great Amateur Telescope
I have been using my friend's Meade DS-114 for about three months now, and I will say that I am truly impressed by the quality of this item. I have been searching for about 6 months for the right telescope, and I think I have found it.

The optics are incredible, and Meade doesn't make anything cheaply. All the materials seem to be top quality. You might wish to buy yourself a carrying case too. My friend has a couple scratches in his scope that would never be there if he had proper storage!

And just so you all know, Amazon has the best price that I have found to date. If you are going to buy a telescope (or binoculars for that matter) Meade is the way to go!

Buy it for $122 from Meade... on eBay
Hello! Thinking of the Meade DS 114, 4.5" reflector? It's a very good starter telescope, provided you get 1.25" eyepieces and not 0.985" eyepieces, and a 30mm finder and not a 24mm finder.

Once you get used to the electronic controller, you may want to buy and add (a) an electronic focuser that is operated from the little controller, or (b) a go-to 495 or 497 controller.

However, you can get this telescope on eBay for $122 from the manufacturer, meade Instruments. Sure, it may have a scuff on the tube, but it's half price and has a full guarantee.

- Canadian astronomer

Best First Telescope
It's a great price. It gives clear views and the objects are very detailed when looking through a high magnification eyepiece.
Also it is easy to operate and it's a perfect first telescpe for people who are just getting started in amateur astronomy.
It's hard to keep the telescope lined up with the object while changing eyepieces and it's hard to move it indoors and outdoors because of its size.Those are the only bad things I could find.

Not bad for a starter scope
I bought this for my daughter who wanted a telescope. I have had a few over the years and know my way around a telescope and the night sky. Over all I like the scope, especially at the price. It could use better eye pieces and a the finder scope that comes with it is a pain. I plan on buying more eyepieces and replacing the finder. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Meade DS-60EC telescope offers high quality for the burgeoning astronomer. The electronic telescope facilitates tracking of faster moving objects with greater accuracy than can be achieved manually. Like other Meade DS telescopes, the handheld electronic controller allows for four-speed pushbutton operation. Its 60mm diameter and 700mm focal length provide enough detail for both beginning and intermediate explorers. Its smooth motions in altitude and azimuth make precision object tracking quick and comfortable. The DS-60EC comes standard with an adjustable tripod. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Garbage telescope
There is a saying among amateur astronomers to stay away from ANY telescope that advertises magnification. This telescope is garbage, I was given one for Christmas several years ago and returned it. The optics are just terrible, the mount unstable and the 60 mm objective appeture will let you see the moon and not much else. For just a few dollars more, you can purchase a SkyQuest 4 - 1/2 inch dobsonian telescope from Orion that is dozens of times better. Meade does make some nice scopes, but these low end ones are only going to wind up in the junk. I would recommend that before anyone purchase a telescope they first read a book called Nightwatch by Terrence Dickenson, or do some research on the internet. There are many good websites...I have owned several telescopes including another one by Meade and the Saturn is one of the worst telescopes that I've looked through.

An inexpensive way to see the stars!
I was able to see so many great details of our solar system when I got this telescope. Sometime in the future I might upgrade to a really nice one, but this one is perfect for my wife and I to look at the moon together. It's a nice rich color too. It looks great sitting in our house next to the window. I think with the great price Amazon sells it for it would make a great gift.

Heaven's Eye Sight
This telescope is a great for new beginners who want to look at the stars and view details fo the moon. It's very easy to set up and very light to carry. If you are interested in looking at the stars, you should get this telescope. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Whether you want to study Saturn and its ring system, the primary cloudbelts of Jupiter, or mountain ranges and other terrestrial objects, the MeadeETX-60AT offers extraordinary power for its price. It offers a 60mm multicoated,air-spaced achromatic objective lens manufactured with Grade A crown and flintoptical glass components. The flip-mirror system lets you observe in thestandard 90-degree position. Just flip the internal optical flat mirror up, andyou'll be set for sky viewing.

It's easy to carry, so you can take the MeadeETX-60AT to a distant mountaintop or to your own back yard. It only needs aquick 60-second alignment for setup. This telescope includes an Autostar handcontroller that permits the automatic location of over 1,400 celestial objects. Just enter the object you wish to observe and watch as the telescope movesrapidly to place the object in your field of view. The Meade ETX-60AT alsoincludes a serial interface, so you can download new software through your PC tothe telescope. This way, the positions of Earth satellites may be updated forobservation, or newly discovered objects, such as comets, can be located. ... Read more

Features

• Convenient electronic hand controller
• Internal flip-mirror system
• 60mm diameter lens
• Razor-sharp images of astronomical and terrestrial subjects
• Either straight-through or 90-degree observing positions

Reviews (9)

A Great Little Scope
I've seen alot of negative reviews on this telescope and all I can say is: I absolutly love it. True, it isn't the best telescope as far as observing deep sky objects or even some of the planets. But it isn't usless as some claim. I have been an amatuer astronomer for well over 25 years and have uses a variety of telescopes. Yes, through some scopes the details of planets are better and can see galaxies and nebula more clearly, but this is my favorite telescope so far (until I can afford a bigger one).

First of all, the telestar systems works well. Once you set it up, it guides the telescope to whatever you punch in. sometimes, it get's off, but it is almost always because of user error or low batteris. I have seen things in the night sky I had never seen before for the simple reason because i couldn't find it--I've always had trouble with using degrees, seconds, and minutes. So it was well worth the price for the scope.

True, if you're used to using bigger scopes, then no, this scope isn't for you. But if you are new to astronmy or you are thinking of buying a telescope for the kids, then have no reservations on getting this telescope. I've seen quite a bit with mine. I've seen the snow caps on Mars and a little detail of the planets surface, the rings of Saturn, Jupiter looks great and you can see a few of the planet's band of clouds. I even saw Uranus, although basically all I saw was a bluish/green "star". And of course the Moon. The Moon is fantastic through the eyepiece of the 60mm ETX. Viewing nebula is where this scope has trouble, though. However, most people starting out want to see the moon and planets anyway. Besides, no amatuer scope shows the detail and size that we are accustomed to seeing in books and magazines. So, I can't see why everyone is downing the telescope. For a small, cheap scope, nothing beats it. Yes, for the money, you could by a better scope that will let you see more detail, but good luck in finding something to look at. The ETX 60mm gives you the capability to find objects with just a press of a button, if you're new to astronomy, or buying one for your kids, do you want to have to search tediously for the Andromeda Galaxy, or a comet. Or, would you rather press a button and have the scope do the work for you? The ETX 60mm is worth the price.

the best money I have spent and the many $$$$ i spent later.
I got this telescope for no particular reason. I had no interest in Astronomy or any thing closely related to star gazing. My back-ground is banking and investments. However, I bought it to start a new hobby. Low and behold, My free time began to disappeared and i was a full-fledge convert of the star-gazing cult. to make it simple it is a great gadget to pull your leg but no a particularly good piece. The software that comes with it is exceptional and indispensable.

It struck me with awe at first, then with ugh...
After several hundred dollars, I've discovered that this telescope is pretty much useless. An avid star gazer, I would have been better off purchasing the cheapest model at the local department store. I was sold on the idea of the "auto finder" but after reading the instructions and following them. The auto tracker still does not prove worthy. What a piece of junk. The nice thing about it is you can see the moon - oh...and it looks like a really cool telescope....ugh!

A darn expensive finder/spotting scope
After intensely looking through an acquaintance's Meade ETX-60AT several times, I walked away perplexed. What niche is Meade trying to fill with this scope? One would expect such a small scope to be optimized for planetary viewing- as viewing of the deep sky (star clusters, galaxies, nebulae) is definitely not its strength. However, presumably because of the difficulties inherent in the manufacture of low focal ratio telescopes, the optical quality is too low to give decent views of the moon and planets. What's its current average price, the scope is much less a value than the more useful ETX-90. While there is a market for good, high quality optics of this aperture, this scope doesn't serve it.

Views of the moon were muddy and indistinct compared to even the ETX-90- which is not the best scope in the world. Views of stars and star clusters (the aperture is too small to pull in any galaxies, except M31, or nebulae except M42) reminded me of those though my own finder scope, which I had bought for next to nothing at a swap meet.

The GOTO system is positively worthless. Almost anything that one would possibly want to look for in this scope would be easily visible to the naked eye, and thus easily pointed at, or too faint to be interesting to the beginner.

If the only scope you've ever looked through is a Tasco refractor (a "department store" telescope) the ETX-60AT will be a revelation. However, once you've looked through even the most modest Dobsonian telescope, the views through this scope will seem weak and disappointing.

Instead, if you're looking for a relaxing and fun way to sweep the Milky Way, buy a pair of 10x50 (or 7x50) binoculars for 1/4th the price. With them, you'll actually be getting 40 percent more light, you'll be able to use both eyes, and you won't have to fumble with a cumbersome GOTO system to find stuff (there is no finder becasue the lowest power of the scope is about 13, which allows the scope itself to be clumsily used as one.).

One interesting feature this scope posseses is the ability to flip a mirror and go from a upside down "astronomical" scope, to a spotting scope with an upright image. If you're looking for a spoting scope for birding, archery, hunting or spying on that cute thing down the beach, you can make do with something simpler (and much less heavy on the wallet) such as the Bushnell 78-1545- which, while not an optical powerhouse itself, will serve those purposes nicely.

My five-year-old loves it.
I purchased this "beginners" telescope for my five-year-old son for Christmas and he and I have truly enjoyed it. All features work as advertised. The telescope must first be "aligned" by pointing it due north, setting the date and time, and then centering two stars it rotates to in the eyepiece. Once this is done the telescope finds anything an amateur astronomer could hope for automatically. The images of planets are not large. Saturn and its rings are visible, but still quite small with the delivered eyepieces. I plan to purchase the 3x Barlow lens and the 6mm eye piece to increase magnification up to 175x. This telescope is rated at a maximum of 200x magnification. The only reason I did not rate this item 5 stars is due to my mild disappointment in the delivered magnification. ... Read more