Features

• View live monochrome video images through telescope
• Composite video port for sending image to TV, VCR, or camcorder (6-foot RCA cable included)
• Use with any telescope with 1.25- or 0.96-inch eyepiece
• Powered by 9-volt battery (not included)
• Easy to use and setup with contrast control dial

Reviews (4)

A clever (and fun!) gadget
The name is somewhat misleading. What this is, actually, is a small, senitive black and white TV camera designed to slip into a telescope focuserin place of an eyepiece. Now this won't deliver images of faint, deep-sky objects- you need a cooled CCD and long exposures for that- but it will deliver excellent views of the moon and planets to a TV monitor, videorecorder of computer with video converter. Using videotape and a digitizer as a "poor man's active optics" it's possible to select frames and produce suprisingly good results.

At the asking price, it's a pretty good deal, too, and an inexpensive way to get started in digital astrophotograp

great addition to any telescope
This eyepiece is quite nice. I tried it out and was amazed at the results. I use it on a six inch reflecting telescope. I used it first on the best target in the night sky, the Moon. It looked as though I was looking through a window on an apollo capsule orbiting the moon. I am not kidding. It was great. I then moved over to Saturn. I could clearly see the rings and bands of clouds. This item is worth the cost!

Fun for bright objects
There was very little documentation, nothing saying anything about the focal length to give any idea of the actual magnification.
Fun for bright objects, I've used it to get images of Jupiter and Saturn and some of the moon. I could only faintly see Jupiter's biggest moons when viewing on the TV screen (with the contrast set so Jupiter is washed out). When using my video capture card I couldn't get the moons to show up at any level of contrast, but still got some medeocre pics of Jupiter itself. There's not a very wide feild of view so it's very dificult to center something without tracking.
I've noticed that I can use it as a poor-man's electronic microscope by attaching my 25mm Meade eyepiece to it and using my trypod to help steady and focus.
A fun toy but I wouldn't expect to get any nebula or any other faint object with it.

Beware...
A few things you must know before purchasing the eyepiece:
1. The display is MONOCHROME (black & white)
2. You will need a 9-volt battery
3. In order to hook it up to the TV, your TV needs to have a yellow-colored Video-In port. Many TVs have it, duh, but yours might not. Some of us might have pawned our good TV set just to get enough cash for an ETX-90EC.
4. Keep in mind that you will need to take your TV or VCR where your telescope is. You might need an extension cord.
Have fun~* ... Read more

Features

• Excellent general-purpose eyepiece for observing hairline lunar and planetary detail or resolving faint nebulosity in deep-space
• Extremely low astigmatism, spherical aberration, and off-axis color
• Incorporates 7-layer multi-coatings and edge-blackened optics
• Includes a soft rubber eyeguard, custom-fitted with a bayonet mount
• Eyeguard folds down for eyeglass wearers

Features

• Observing latitude from 20-90 degrees
• 90 degree Altazimuth orientation
• Fully adjustable from 25" - 43"
• Graduated scale for elevation-angle adjustment
• Deluxe carry bag included

Amazon.com Product Description

This high-quality, 3-section tripod, suitable for both cameras and camcorders, features a channel lock and a two-way pan and and tilt head. It extends to a maximum and height of 70 inches and can fold up as small as 28 inches. A free case is included with the tripod. Comes with a one year warranty. ... Read more

Features

• Model # TR68
• Features a 3 section channel lock
• 2 way fluid pan & tilt head
• Max height: 70 inches
• Folds to 28 inches

Reviews (4)

Wobbly when extended.
Why I bought a new tripod: I already own an old garage-sale tripod of some unspecified brand that I've used with my video camera for several years. In retrospect, I took its stability for granted, but it lacked a few of the conviences typically found on current tripods. It folds up nicely, but is heavier to carry than current models, and the camera must be unscrewed from the base plate to remove it from the tripod. Having bought my first high quality digital still camera, I wanted a lighter-to-carry tripod and one that allowed quick removal and replacement of the camera.

Why I chose this one: This unit offered good height, light weight, a "fluid head" for smooth pans with the video camera, a snap-in base plate, and a carry bag - all at a great price.

Why I'm returning this one:

Least reason: The base plate attaches to the camera using a built in plastic tab attached to the screw. While this is a convenient idea, the tab must be folded down flat to get the base to lock onto the tripod. Not so bad until you want to remove the plate - you may need a screwdriver to pry up the tab or risk losing a fingernail. The screw itself does not have slots for a screwdriver.

Most reason: The stability I took for granted in my old tripod is lacking in the new one. Specifically:

1.The legs flex. On a vinyl floor, it was difficult to get a stable stance because the extended legs woud, one-by-one, flex and "dance" across the floor. On less-slick surfaces the feet stayed in place, but there was still movement in the unit.

2.The top pole (that raises with the crank) is shaky when extended. The idea of the "fluid head" for smooth pans seems lost when touching the camera causes considerable wobble in the bar itself. The top pole is better left down. (Yes, I tightend the connections.)

3.The bars of the center brace are attached by loose-fitting rivets. The brace may prevent the unit from collapsing should you need to set the legs at a narrower stance, but it does little to "solidify" the tripod.

Summary: At full height, it was difficult to take even still pictures without movement in the tripod. The setup may look stable, but then you have to touch the camera (unless you have a remote). It's worse with the video camera - I was unable to get a smooth pan in spite of the "fluid head". Stability is better at half-height.

Great Tripod!
Like the other reviews have stated, this is a great tripod. It is functionally stable in spite of its low price. You get more than you pay for with this item. I recommend it!!

PS - The 70" height is really nice!

Good value!
Haven't tried it in windy conditions yet but I like that it's lightweight, easy to transport and extends to 70 inches. The extra height extension prevents you from stooping over when shooting videos. Good value, and free shipping (delivered in 5 days to Hawaii - not bad!) from Amazon only makes it better! Highly recommended.

This is great for tall people, I am suprised it doesn't cost
This goes up to 5 feet 10 inches, while others go to up to an average of 5 feet. No bending over in an uncomfartable position, tape while staying at your height. Its very sturdy and woth every penny. Compatable,safe,comfartable - You should buy this one! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Meade 128 3x Barlow Lens triples the magnifying power of youreyepiece. Each lens includes two optical elements for high-resolution,color-corrected imaging. ... Read more

Features

• Includes 2 elements
• High resolution
• Triples magnifying power
• For use with an eyepiece
• Color corrects

Reviews (9)

I don't use it much any more
It works like it should (3x zoom) - of course it distorts the image, but you can see your image much bigger than without it.

Great with the basic lens
Right now we only have the 26mm lens that came with our Meade 90ETX. This 3x Barlow was the first add-on lens that we bought - and we're glad that we did. Images magnified with the 26mm + 3x Barlow remain crisp and well-defined.

I can't wait to try this baby out with some higher power base lenses.

Useful, but not a miracle-worker
This lens does what is says - it triples your current lens' magnification and makes things look much closer. However, do not expect miracles from it. The image is not quite a crisp and clear as your regular lens. You also have to re-focus after adding the Barlow lens, and it is a little more difficult to focus. Overall, it is a good lens but a stronger eyepiece might work even better.

What a VIEW!
This Barlow lens is a WONDERFUL addition to any amateur astronomers collection, bringing even the faintest objects much more clearly into view. On the down side, it is also very touchy, in that one needs to have the telescope extremely stable, and wind conditions cannot be above 5-7 mph, due to stability problems. However, all things aside, I would HIGHLY recommend this item to any astronomer wishing to increase their enjoyment of local (solar system) viewing as well as longer range viewing.
Extremely portable, very well made. Meade does it again!

Very pleasant surprise!
After reading some of the other reviews, I wasn't sure if I should get the 2X or 3X Barlow for my ETX-60AT. Since they cost the same, I went for the higher power one and boy was that the right choice! With the included 9mm(39X) eyepice, I now get 117X magnification w/ the Barlow. It's like being right on the moon! (Well, not really, but closer nonetheless.) What's even more impressive is the fact that the image remains crisp and clear. And for those who complain about having to re-focus when using the Barlow, what planet are you on? When you change eyepieces, don't you re-focus then also? BTW, with the 25mm(14X) eyepiece and Barlow, you'll get 42X. Another way to get 117X is to buy the 6mm(58X) eyepiece along w/ the 2X Barlow. Of course w/ the 6mm, you're looking into an eyepiece 33% smaller than the 9mm. May be tough to see if you're wearing glasses too. I wonder if there's a Meade 4X Barlow?? ... Read more

Features

• For secure portability of ETX Astro telescope models in the field
• Fully lined with fitted foam inserts
• Accepts the complete ETX-90RA, and ETX-90EC Astro telescopes
• Room for optional accessories
• 2 keys and lock included

Reviews (3)

A must have for all ETX owners.
One of the reasons I purchased the ETX-90 is its portability. The hard carrying case is really a very convieniet way to safely transport your telescope to star parties or when moving out. I took the ETX with me back home (Kuwait) and I checked the hard carrying case as a carry-in. Even though the case is designed to stand great pressure, you should always check it as a carry in. The smart design of the case enables you to have all your accesories in one place! Not to mention that the case looks neat and intimidating :-)

Nice case, but ...
Ok, so it isn't a Zero-Halliburton case. I bought the case and definitely recommend it when you are transporting your telescope in the car, however it isn't as sturdy as a Zero case or a Pelican case. Either of those cases you can customize the foam in to hold your telescope. I wouldn't take my scope as "checked baggage" in this case, but it is great for carrying the scope and its accessories. Something I would like would be a place to store the manuals and both the autostar and regular controller (for terrestrial viewing the hand controller is fine.)

Inexpensive Insurance
I was hesitant to order a "pricey" plastic case. Now, I am very glad I did. The internals of the case are pre-formed to fit the ETX-90EX, Autostar controller, lens filters, lenses, barlow, T-adapter, and a few extra storage areas. The external case is adequate to protect the contents from a short drop. It also comes with two keys so you can lock the case. The locks are designed to prevent curious children from opening the case. The lock on this case would never prevent a theft. It is also convenient to have all your accessories in one spot! Prior to using the case I had the little boxes my accessories came in one big box. This made it hard to find the right lens during a dark viewing session. With the case I know exactly where each accessory is. I do not need to see it. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Autostar Computer Controller offers automatic dual-axis GO TO function at 5 degrees per second to any of more than 14,000 database objects, including deep-space objects (galaxies, diffuse nebulae, planetary nebulae, star clusters--any object from the original IC, NGC, and Caldwell catalogs, as well as all 110 Messier objects); 900 stars (including double stars, variable stars, SAO stars); the eight major planets from Mercury to Pluto; 26 of the brightest asteroids; 15 periodic comets; 50 earth-orbiting satellites including the International Space Station; plus user-defined objects and the centroids of all 88 constellations. Select any of these objects, press GO TO, and the telescope automatically slews to the object, placing it in the telescopic field.

The Autostar provides automatic GO TO function to any object of known right ascension (R.A.)and declination (Dec.).

The Autostar gives digital readouts of telescope position (continuously in R.A. and Dec.), menu options, glossary, and utility functions.

The Autostar offers precise sidereal-rate tracking in either altazimuth or equatorial modes. For altazimuth tracking, set the telescope on its drive base and perform a quick, easy alignment.

The Autostar provides 9-speed dual-axis operation--pushbutton operation of the telescope on both axes, simultaneously, at any speed from two times sidereal to 5 degrees per second.

The Autostar includes an RS-232 serial port for operation of the telescope through a personal computer, using Meade Epoch 2000sk sky software or other astronomical software.

The Autostar also comes with over 20 other menu options, including guided tours, major event menus, user-defined terrestrial objects, and much more. ... Read more

Features

• 30,344 celestial oobject database
• Finds and Tracks all celestial objects, including the moon, planets, asteroids, comets, and satellites
• Celestial event option for eclipses, meteor showers, moon phases, and equinoxes
• Built-in eyepiece calculator and options for advanced telescope control
• Works with ETX-90EC, ETX-105EC, ETX-125EC Astro telescopes

Reviews (13)

necessary accessory
We purchased the ETX 125 and we found the Autostar to be necessary.

It was very easy to plug into the telescope and turn on, but getting the telescope aligned was another story. The first night we went out with just the Autostar and the telescope, assuming that we would have enough to get started. We were very wrong.

In order to align the telescope and get the Autostar working, the unit first asked us to find true north. Yikes! We gave it a rough guess. We were off compleetely, we would find out the next evening. Next was the exact time, which we also guessed on our inaccurate watches. Then we picked the nearest city, which is about 30 minutes away. Then the unit asked us to find two stars in the sky and identify and align them in the telescopeÕs eyepiece. The stars that the Autostar gave us to find were not exactly well-known stars, and they werenÕt in a part of the sky that was devoid of other bright stars. Without a map of the sky, we were lost. Pollox, Rigel, Castor were some of the stars we have come to know well through the Autostar. Needless to say, we did not get the Autostar working that night.

The next night, we went out equipped with not only the scope and the Autostar unit, but also a compass (to find north), a detailed map of the sky (to find the stars it was asking us to), and a watch that had accurate time on it. Before we headed out, we took the time to enter in our exact latitude and longitude into the Autostar. That night was a great success. After a short time spent aligning our two base stars in the scope, we were off to explore the universe and beyond. We saw Saturn, Venus, Jupiter, the Pleiades, the Orion Nebula and several Messier objects that evening.

I highly recommend the Autostar, but wish that the booklet would have warned us that we needed to be prepared with the compass, star map, latitude/longitude, and exact time to make our experience with it successful. The only drawback to the unit was that it needs to be aligned and reset every time it is used, but itÕs not like there are other competing units to use. ItÕs well worth the money, and enhances the experience with any Meade scope.

easy to use and great for educational purposes
The Autostar is so decadent! I almost feel guilty for using it. But it is so easy to use and enhances the ETX-90EC scope so much that I use it all the time.

Set-up and locating the reference stars is fairly easy, and it is so much fun to take the tour of the sky. I've used this several times in an educational setting and it is fantastic for quickly pointing out stars and other celestial objects. In addition, it expands on the standard controller, giving you nine variable speeds instead of the standard four.

Once you use the Autostar you will never go back.

Who wood have thought that there wood b sumthing fun+edu.?
easy to use and great for educational purposes June 14, 2000
The Autostar is so decadent! I almost feel guilty for using it. But it is so easy to use and enhances the ETX-90EC scope so much that I use it all the time.

Set-up and locating the reference stars is fairly easy, and it is so much fun to take the tour of the sky. I've used this several times in an educational setting and it is fantastic for quickly pointing out stars and other celestial objects. In addition, it expands on the standard controller, giving you nine variable speeds instead of the standard four.

Once you use the Autostar you will never go back.

Not as difficult as it's made out to be
I first grew acquainted with Autostar about 6 months ago (albeit the 494 model) on the ETX-70 AT, and had some accuracy issues the first few times I used it. They were easily fixed, though, with a good drive training (on a power pole about a mile and a half away) and careful motor calibration. That was in May, and except for when the batteries are low, I haven't really had problems since.

In late June, I moved up to the LXD-55 6 inch Shmidt-Newtonian (which uses the same 497 Autostar as the ETX line), and after one repair call for a motor problem it has easily met my expectations for visual work. While the short focus Newtonian may have a wider field of view and a much better sigting scope than the ETX's (as well as significantly more aperture for under $800), keep in mind that it must be POLAR aligned which is MUCH more difficult than an ETX Alt-Az procedure. I usually cheat and use Polaris instead of the true North Pole, but my accuracy is still predictibly within 30-45 arcminutes (1/2-3/4 of a degree or easily within the view of a 26mm eyepiece) on 90-95 percent of the slews with a rough setup.

Here's how to get the thing to work the way its supposed to on an ETX when you first get it. Do the first 6 in daylight to make the setup easier:
*Skip Time for now
*Enter Date (if you will observe that night) and nearest city
*Enter your observing site name and adjust your latitude and longitude (use topozone.com or a topomap to find your location to the nearest minute (60th of a degree)) for your site
*Train the drive using a distant (1 mile or more) object. Procedure is in manual. If done well you should not need to do it again for months
*calibrate motors
*turn off telescope
That night (or any night):
*set up and level telescope (use torpedo level and rotate tube to check level). This is only necessary if you know that your site is significantly (5 degrees or more) off or your tripod is set to less than maximum height
*Aim north at Polaris (the North Star). Do NOT use a compass-it is often as much as 14 degrees off from true north. Use the two stars at the end of the big dipper to aim at the first bright-ish star at the tail of the little dipper. Align finder scope if necessary her.
*level tube by bringing it straight down to horizontal
*start alignment (easy at first, two star when you know the sky better). push the down scroll button if the star is behind a tree or other barrier. center in the eyepiece, not just the sighting scope. Press enter. Repeat for other star (preferably far from the first one-the farther the better)
*Enjoy!

For the long term, get a star atlas or astronomy program and a range of good eyepieces/filters.

I deducted a star for the fact that Autostar displays thousands of objects nightly that are below the horizon and that the NGC and IC catalogs are nearly worthless unless you have a comprehensive atlas and know the catalog number of the object(s) you are looking for.

Not Optional for Beginners
We just purchased the Meade 90 ETX telescope and decided to get the computer controller too - and man are we glad that we did. We're novices with the telescope, so finding specific objects in the night sky is a challenge.

With the autostart, after taking about 15 minutes to go through the alignment process, we can just tell the Autostar what we want to find and it moves the telescope to the object for us. Without this, the only thing we would probably look at in the sky is the moon.

NOTE: If you're not planning to use your telescope to look at objects in the night sky (i.e. planets, etc), then you don't need the Autostar. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

For secure portability in the field, the Meade 773 Hard Carry Case isfully lined with fitted foam inserts and accepts a telescope and accessories. ... Read more

Features

• Hard outer shell
• Lined carry case
• Fitted foam inserts
• Accepts Mead telescopes
• Holds accessories

Reviews (3)

Meade 773 Hard Carry Case for ETX-60 AT Review
This item should have come with the telescope. This is very necessary purchase. The ETX-70 fits perfect. The case has a pocket for everything. The only exception is the remote for the telescope. It's cord has a hard time finding it's own resting spot. Put a reusable tie wrap around it and everthings fine. See I'm being picky and I'm still satisfied. My only wish is that they would use a harder plastic on the outside case. Face it, everybody doesn't have the greatest backyard conditions and this allows you to travel. Don't forget to reset your location in your settings. Those planets and stars will be even more out of alignment. Even at the price you pay it still is very necessary.

Overpriced
Functional, yes, but terribly overpriced.

A bit of pre-formed plastic plus a foam insert to hold the 'scope and some accesories. ...

I'm glad I have it!
(...) The ETX 70 really likes dark skies (being a rich field refractor and all) and this is perfect for getting it there. Lots of nifty pockets for eyepieces (of all sizes if you use your imagination) for a flashlight, a bubble level, and (of course) the scope. They tell me you can even get the dew shield and the right angle finder in it. It's also great for storing the scope and carrying everything to the backyard. The case seems rather sturdy and, while nothing is completely kid-proof, it's kept the scope safe from little girls -- so far! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Meade 884 Tripod is the best for any amount of Money
I bought this tripod when I purchased my Meade EXT 90 EC telescope. I've read that the most important feture of any telescope is the mount. This has an excellent mount that holds the views rock steady. It comes with a nice carring case type bag. It is a polar type mount which means that you can center the view to the attitude you are at. This feature makes the optional Autostar work at its best. This fine tripod is a high end piece of equipment that will last the life of any telescope. I was very happy with the way it performs. If I could spend any amount of money I would pick this one. You need this tripod if you are serious about high quility equipment and for the price it's the best possible choice. Meade products are the best quility equipment used by professionals. This tripod is a must if you want the best.

Overkill?
This tripod is a quality piece of equipment. However, given the fact that we're amateur astronomers, I'm not sure that we needed something quite so sophisticated for our Meade 90ETX.

The tripod comes with a device that allows you to tip it at an angle - which seems to serve no purpose when you're finding and tracking night-sky objects (probably something that the more advanced users know how to use).

It is heavy (heavier than the telescope) - which is good because you don't want it to easily move while you're using the scope (or, worse yet, tip over).

You won't be dissatisfied with this, but I think there is a less expensive option which may work just as well for amateurs like us. ... Read more

Features

• For use with Meade ETX-60AT and ETX-70AT
• Minimum position is 34 inches
• Extends to 54 inches
• For observing from seated or standing position
• Rigid observing platform

Reviews (9)

tripod is a waste of money
In less than a year all three plastic latches just fall apart. I thought it is just my bad luck but before ordering a replacement I checked reviews and found that I am not alone. I will try to get more expensive Meade #884 Deluxe Field Tripod, though its cost is approaching the price of a new scope :-(

good basic tripod for good basic scope
I have had this tripod for a year and have been very pleased with it. I have used it in my back yard, in a field, and at the beach, and I have found it to be sturdy enough for my AT60 telescope. I thought at first it felt too light to be sturdy, but that has not been a problem. The snap-on shelf for eyepieces and such made me nervous, too, that it would break in the process, but again, after a year's use it is just fine. The holes for the bolts to attach the scope are a little hard to get to at first, but once found the bolts go in without difficulty. More advanced observers may have reason to complain that I don't know yet, but this tripod meets my needs just fine.

Not worth the money !
Sorry to be so brutally Honest.
I didn't like this flimsy construction of this product.
I'd never trust my nice telescope on it. It wobbled and lacks any kind of center stabilizing cross bracing.

I'm going to hope the Deluxe model offers the quality and stability I am seeking.

Above Average Telescope, [bad] Tripod
I have to agree with other users of the Meade standard field tripod #882 I didn't have mine two weeks before it went in the closet because of broken adjusters. I have looked/called for nearly a year for replacements/repairs. NADA. Meade won't touch it because of " misuse". The AT70 I purchased with the tripod is a great beginners scope and nice features, but the tripod was a total disappointment. I think I'll try another brand when I get apetrure fever, or at least find a decent tripod before I purchase the telescope.

Great telescope but poor tripod
I have had the #882 little more than a year and 1 leg adjusting tab has broken off and 1 of the other 2 is cracked. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Meade 124 2x Barlow Lens doubles the magnifying power of youreyepiece. Each lens includes two optical elements for high-resolution,color-corrected imaging. ... Read more

Features

• Includes 2 elements
• High resolution
• Doubles magnifying power
• For use with an eyepiece
• Color corrects

Reviews (9)

Great addition
It really works as advertised and is a wonderful addition to any lens collection.

Adequate on the ETX90-EC
The Meade 124 2x Barlow Lens certainly zooms in a lot closer to the viewed object. It's difficult for an amatuer like me to say for sure if it actually doubles the magnification, I'll have to rely on Meades assurances for that. It's a useful addition for the ETX90 but it does have some drawbacks. The light gathering capabilities of the ETX90 restrict the magnification you can use to certain limits. To high a magnification and things start getting blurry. I have 26mm, 15mm and 9.7mm meade eyepieces in my collection. The 26mm is my most frequently used. I use the barlow mostly with the 26mm and occasionally with the 15 and 9.7. However, only in most steadiest of conditions do I get good results with the barlow and 15 and 9.7 combinations. Most of the time I get a much clearer view with the eyepiece alone. Things just get less defined with the barlow and higher power eyepieces combinations. Having said that, the barlow does give you a better range of magnifications and finding the most suitable one for a given situation is more likely. I use the barlow both for planetary and deep space viewing and find I have to adjust the focusing when putting in and taking out the barlow, which is a nuisance. I'm not convinced that the Meade Barlow I have is up to the standard of their other eyepieces in my collection as it seems to have some minute abberations on the lens itself. This is quite possible unique to mine, I'm not sure. Despite the above negatives, the Barlow is worth having with the ETX-90 and probably much more useful on the ETX-105 and 125. Recommended, but inspect and test your barlow on receipt of it and let Meade know immediately if it is not up to standard. Clear skies everyone.

tight fit
Love the 2X barlow lens. It performs as stated by Meade. All lenses used in conjuntion with the Barlow are doubled I saw no degredation of objects viewed at all. The lens fit very tight in my first telescope but perfectly in my second.

A benefit to any collection of eyepieces
The 2x Barlow lens practically doubbles your eyepiece collection. it mounts easily to any telescope and effectivly dobble the magnification of your current eyepiece. It is great for viewing planets and closer objects, when used with somewhat powerfull eyepieces on deep-space objects, the objects become really faint and hard to see. The lens comes in a convienient storage contianer and fits in any of the carrying cases.

ETX-90 plus this lens
As expected the Meade 2X Barlow appears to double the power on my Meade ETX-90 but it also slightly fuzzes the image. It's interesting to use this lens but it's definately not a show stopper. ... Read more

Features

• Use for high-quality, crystal-clear terrestrial viewing
• 45-degree angle creates normal, not reversed object image
• Provides better viewing position than normal 90-degree position
• Attaches to rear of telescope with set-screw
• Compatible with Meade ETX 90, 105, and 125

Reviews (3)

Great for terrestrial, ok for astronomy
This 45 degree erecting prism is great for birding or terrestrial viewing but is not suitable for star gazing (imagine if the star is right above your head). For star gazing the prism does not reflect as much light as desired so you won't be able to see dim distant objects easily, for that I recommend star diagonal with everbrite mirror ( from televue), it will cost more but a good investment for anyone who is serious about star gazing.

Useful- but not for astronomy
This is a generic Pacific-rim made prism imported by Meade, and not terribly different from similar items sold by Celestron, Orion and other popular companies catering to amateur astronomers. It's a useful accessory for nature viewing, but don't try to use it for star gazing. Because of how they're constructed, with multiple reflecting surfaces, erecting diagonals lose a lot of light, something you can't afford when looking at distant, dim images. Worse, they produce ghost images- for every star or planet, you'll see a dim twin nearby. Save it for daylight use, and you'll have no problem.

Great product
This prism is needed if you intend to use your telescope for terrestrial viewing and photograpy. If you do not use it, your image will be inverted. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Increase the resolution and contrast of your viewing with the Meade 3200 color filter set, which includes red, yellow, blue, and neutral-density filters. Each lens is packed in a separate plastic case for protected storage. ... Read more

Features

• Optical glass color filters
• Increase contrast
• Better resolution
• Comes in 4 colors
• Each filter has a protective case

Reviews (1)

Useful to enhance your planetary views!
This color filter set is an excellent buy if you want to enhance visual details and increase observable contrast of the moon and the planets. For less than forty dollars (US$ 40.oo) you will get a set of four filters that will tread into the barrels of any eyepiece with a 1.25" outside barrel diameter (O.D.) including all Meade 1.25" (inches) O.D. eyepieces. Although the package says that the filters are for use with the Meade ETX 60AT and ETX 70-AT telescopes I have used them in a small 4 1/2 inches Tasco Reflector and also with my ten inches Meade Dobsonian to enjoy beautiful views of Jupiter, Saturn and the Moon. The filters are light yellow, light red, light blue and neutral density. The first three are useful to enhance the belts of Jupiter, the rings of Saturn and the surface of Mars while the neutral density filter is of great help in order to reduce the glare that sometimes plagues lunar observation. The filters are individually packed in a plastic case for convenient storage and transportation. A great buy! ... Read more

Features

• Threads into the objective lens cell
• Inhibits dew deposits
• Protects lens
• For outdoor use
• Fits Meade telescopes

Reviews (3)

A waste of money
If you ask me, the dew shield isn't really worth it to buy for 15 bucks for your meade telescope. Most telescope brands come with dew shields but for meade, they break everything to be so basic so that you would waste your money. However, the dew shield itself is essential though I wouldn't recommend you to consider one when you buy a meade telescope *now*, or else if you have one like me, you can still use it. It works very good!

Essential accessory for your ETX
During winter dew is a major issue with my astronomical viewing. On those clear nights when I am out with the ETX, very often I have dew forming relatively quickly. I am typically out for two to four hours weather permitting, and invariably everything is getting soaked. Scope, tables, atlas etc. I havn't as yet invested in a heated element (corrector warmer) and rely solely on my Meade Dew Shield. At some stage however, I will definitely be purchasing one to compliment the dew shield. After about three to four hours, even with the shield on I begin to notice some buildup of dew on the optics. The different Meade dew shield model numbers for the various ETX scopes are as follows: ETX-60AT and ETX-70AT (#670), ETX-90 (#673), ETX-105EC (#675), and ETX-125EC (#678). Overall, I am generally pleased with the shield. It is made of solid plastic and screws on securely to the ETX tube, where the lens cap normally screws on. Obviously this means you have to remove it each time you want to put the dust cap back on. I have read of one owner who keeps his dew shield on permanently and has made a foam lens/dust cap for the end of the dew shield. Take care when unscrewing your dew shield from the tube as it does sometimes suffer the same problem as the lens cap. That is, it can stick and not unscrew easily. Don't panic. Just grip the tube firmly and unscrew the shield/lens cap without unscrewing the front of the tube assembly. When screwing the shield on, do it gently and never force it, so not as to strip the thread. The shield has a flat black finish which looks nice, and absorbs stray reflections. I store mine by slipping it reversed over the tube and it fits nicely in the Meade ETX Hardcase. And now for the important part, use your dew shield all the time, summer and winter. It performs one other extremely important function. It assists greatly in protecting your optics from pollen. Pollen is the number one problem that can affect your beautiful ETX, and ruin the one part of your scope that really can't be replaced easily. Trust me on this one, I have damaged optics on my first ETX as a result of my ignorance about pollen. Since using the dew shield I have noticed much less of a pollen problem on my optics. So not only does the shield protect against dew, it protects against all the other contaminents that can be carried in the air. Why have I only given the shield 3 stars? The shield is simply overpriced, otherwise it would have rated a 5. Unfortunately though folks, if you want to protect those optics and maximise your viewing, you really need one. Clear skies everyone.

Should come with the telescope
Unless you live in the desert or something, a dew shield seems necessary for any telescope. (Most telescopes come with them.) This one works just fine with the ETX-70. It stores nicely in the Hard Carry Case. It's made of lightweight plastic (as is most of the ETX-70) so you can be pretty sure it won't hurt your motor and gears. It doesn't seem to make the tripod any shakier than it already is. I just wish it came with the scope. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

For photographing the moon, planets, or terrestrial objects, connectyour 35mm SLR camera to a telescope using the Meade 64ST T-Adapter. Thisconnection rigidly couples your camera to the telescope's optical system, whichin effect becomes the camera's lens. ... Read more

Features

• Photo adapter
• For SLR cameras
• Mounts camera to telescope
• Camera becomes 350mm optical system
• Take pictures of celestial objects

Reviews (4)

What you need to take pictures with your 35mm SLR camera...
I know I was really confused on what I would need to do this. But I figured it out so I thought that I would let you all know! First of all you need to get the correct T-ADAPTER for your telescope (For the ETX-60AT & 70AT the #64ST, for the ETX-90 and higher you need the #64) That is part that actually atteches to the telescope. Then you need a T-RING that fits your specific 35mm SLR removeable-lens camera. You should be able to get a T-RING at any camera reseller store, for around [..].

The only other thing that Meade suggests is using a cable-operated shutter release cord. You should be able to get this on Amazon, through your camera manufacuar or an autorized camera reseller. I have not yet recieved my #64ST adapatr and T-Ring, I will write a review after i try them out!

Wait before you buy
You need two adapters for this to work on your Camera and your telescope. This is the adapter that fits the telescope. You need another one for you camera for it to work.

Not Correct
for the ETX90EC or ETX125EC telescopes. You need a T-mount adapter for YOUR camera body and the Meade 07363 #64 T-Adapter(for ETX). Better do your research before purchasing from this site.

Cheap, but better than ever
Meade 64ST, T-Adapter is a good quality telescope at a very good price. It is very accesible, even for people with not so much money. You can use it for fun, or work. You can discover many interesting things that happen on the night sky very easy. You must be proud of you if you bought it. Now, you know you made a good investment. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Meade 933 45-degree erecting prism aids terrestrial observing wherea correctly oriented image is desirable. It threads onto the telescope's rearcell and accepts an eyepiece of any focal length. ... Read more

Features

• 45-degree prism
• For correct viewing orientation
• For terrestrial observing
• Threads to the rear cell
• Accepts any Meade eyepiece

Reviews (2)

Purely for terrestrial viewing
Only purchase the Meade 933, 45 Degree Erecting Prism if you want to use your ETX for terrestrial viewing. It doesn't really have a uselful astronomical application and tends only to diminish the quality of the object viewed in space. You don't necessarily need this for terrestrial viewing either unless you desire to see the object in its correct orientation, which is what this item is designed for. Does the job nicely in this respect. Recommended for terresrtrial viewing only.

Good for spotting use- but not for astronomy.
Erecting prisms like this Meade unit are a great help for terrestrial use, but don't try to use it for astronomical viewing. The multiple reflecting surfaces in the prism result in multiple ghost images when trying to view stars and other dim astronomical objects. If you buy a Meade ETX with the idea of using it for nature viewing you'll find it handy. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

For easy sighting of terrestrial or astronomical objects prior to theirobservation in the main telescope, the 8x25mm right angle viewfinder displays awide 7.5-degree field. ... Read more

Features

• Includes a cross hair eyepiece
• Precise focusing
• Viewfinder bracket
• Attaches to telescope in seconds
• 7.5-degree field of view

Reviews (5)

A must for ETX90 astronomers.
This finder, a standard on the ETX125, is a must for the ETX90 if one plans on using it for astronomy. The straight thru finder is fine for birding, or other terrestrial viewing, but is akwardly placed for most astronomical observing, especially near the zenith (overhead). The tiny screw used to hold the finder can be difficult to replace. Then again, it is still only a 25mm finder.

"This should be standard Meade!"
I own a Meade ETX-90EC and it comes standard with the straight through finder. As most ETX-90 owners will testify, it is utterly hopeless for anything astronomical. Meade should be ashamed of putting this useless finder on their otherwise cool scopes. You can purchase the Right Angle Finder as an extra (which comes standard on the ETX-125EC) and locating objects manually will be dramatically easier, although not 100% suitable. It's a relatively expensive purchase, but will make your viewing time that much more enjoyable. Check out Mike Weasners site for the best information on ETX's and alternative finder scopes. Recommended, but check out alternatives also.

fall apart lens
The meade #827 right angle viewfinder arrived in less than a week. I installed it on my telescope with great difficulty, the allen head screw in the scope was rounded out and very tight, as I tried to adjust the focus the lens assembly fell into my telescope. I had to return the telescope as it had a defect in the lens (...)

Spend a little, save your neck
I love my ETX-90, but putting it on an object manually can be a literal pain in the neck. That's because the straight through viewfinder, which great for terrestial viewing, is not so good when you're trying to look up at the stars. (I assume this is why it is standard on th ETX-125 since that is more of an 'astronomy' scope).

The good news is this viewfinder makes finding things easier because you're look angle is the same for the view finder and the eyepiece. The bad news is that you're most comfortable view is to tilt it off to the side (away from the eyepiece) and that makes "driving" the scope non-intuitive. I also found it harder to align than the straight through finder.

On the bright side this leaves you with the original viewfinder as a nice spotting scope for your younger astronomers.

A must-own for ETX owners
The Meade ETX is a cute little scope, but the supplied straight-through finder is nearly impossible to use. If you put the scope on a tabletop as Meade shows in their ads, it *is* impossible to use. Luckily there's a simple fix- this right-angle finder. If you own an ETX, you need it. ... Read more

Features

• Includes an electronic eyepiece that allows you to display telescope views in monochrome on a television screen
• Video output for direct connection to monitors, VCRs, and camcorders
• View and record astronomical and terrestrial images in real time
• Compatible with most "frame grabber" software
• Built-in contrast control adjusts for varying astronomical and terrestrial lighting conditions

Reviews (1)

wow
This is a great telescope it is able to see the moon.I feel no need for any more of these. ... Read more

Features

• 4-element Plossl lens
• High power
• Designed for use with Meade telescopes
• Useful in moon and planet observation
• For steady atmospheric conditions

Reviews (3)

horrible
This eyepiece has such bad eye-relief that even if you push it into your eyesocket as hard as you can, you still can't see full field of view. the actual glass is only half the size of my 3.6 mm celestron nexstar pl. Also the quality of view(what little you can see of it with such small eye-relief that is) is also the worst i have seen in any eyepiece including some realy cheap eyepieces i have.

Probably not what you want
I love the ETX 70, it's a cheap but good rich field telescope. But this isn't the best way to improve it. There are two problems really. The first is that the ETX 70 doesn't take this much magnification very well for various reasons, both optical and mechanical. The other is that the quality of this eyepiece is not good. Admittedly it's cheap, but for only a little more, you can buy a good quality orthoscopic (I'd recommmend a bit longer focal length). Or buy a barlow that doubles the magnification of your supplied 9mm eyepiece (so you can see for yourself what I mean about too much magnification) but also doubles your supplied 25mm to a very useful 28x so you don't waste your money.

Very usable
As is normal magnification = tube focal lenght / eyepiece focal length. You can see from the simple equation that this will give you good magnification, and it is a little more forgiving that a 4mm, and has a better magnification than a a larger eye piece. Being the standard 1.25" means that this eyepiece can be used by many telescopes, but keep in mind what it is designed for. I would say use this for zooming in to what you want to see close, but keep a larger mm eyepiece handy for just general panning around. ... Read more