Meade LX80 8" F/10 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope # 0810-08-01

Meade LX80 SC-8 with Multi-Mount #0810-08-01. Now you no longer have to make the difficult decision between the ease of setup and operation of an alt-azimuth mount or the versatility and long duration imaging capability of a German equatorial mount. Meade's LX80 is the only mount that gives you both plus one more- three computerized GOTO mounts for the price of one. The new line of LX80 telescopes with Multi-Mount are the most innovative and versatile mid-range telescope systems available anywhere.

This 8" SC Schmidt-Cassegrain model includes the Meade 8" (203mm) f/10 optical tube with industry leading Ultra-High Transmission Coatings (UHTC) achieving 15% better light transmission than standard coatings, thermally stable oversized primary mirror, and water-white glass corrector plate unlike the inferior plate glass used by some other telescope manufacturers. The result is a spectacular viewing experience not available on competitors' SC telescopes.

The LX80 Multi-Mount operates in three modes: German equatorial, single OTA alt-az and dual OTA alt-az. Setting up in any mode is quick and easy, while tapered roller bearings in each axis ensure rock solid performance with a total payload of up to 40 pounds in German EQ or single OTA alt-az modes and an amazing 75 pounds in the dual OTA configuration. Mount weight is 35 pounds. The all new fully height adjustable (30.5" to 47") tripod features built in leg levelers at the top of each leg, 2" diameter stainless steel legs for ultimate stability and durability and weighs an additional 31.5 pounds. Latitude range in polar mode is 25 to 90 degrees.

This complete GOTO computerized scope comes fully equipped with the Meade AudioStar handbox with over 30,000 object library, 10 arcminute pointing accuracy (5 arcminutes with High Precision mode active) and Astronomer Inside digital audio technology with audio files on over 500 objects. Meade SmartDrive periodic error correction (active in Polar mode only) dramatically reduces errors providing performance only available on much more expensive mounts, taking your astro imaging to a new level of precision. The complete mount is powered by 8 user supplied "AA" batteries. An optional 12V DC power supply is available for separate purchase. Includes two RS-232 serial interface ports (USB Adapter available separately). An optional plug-in Autoguider port is also available and sold separately.

The Meade LX80 8" SC package includes a Meade Series 4000 26mm eyepiece, 8x50 viewfinder with quick release dovetail mount, a quality 1.25" Diagonal Prism, 11 pound steel counterweight, and Meade AutoStar Suite Astronomy software DVD. Compatible with all Meade and other brand 1.25” barrel size eyepieces including Series 4000 and Series 5000.

Product carries full one year Meade factory limited warranty. (within US/Canada only).