Home
New
order
Links
Privacy
Bookmark This Page
|
Meade ETX Telescopes
Let Your Tour of the Universe Begin!
Imagine having the GPS system for the universe. Once aligned, the Meade ETX telescopes
allow you "push button" access to the heavens above. Since they were introduced in
1996 they have revolutionized amateur astronomy. Now even beginning astronomers can
locate and explore the planets, galaxies, and nebulae, as well as star clusters,
asteroids, and comets all at the push of a button. Meade ETX Astro Telescopes, in
four apertures (sizes), bring the full range of celestial images to your eye with astonishing
levels of clarity, resolution and definition. Even the smallest Meade ETX telescope
shows all the following objects clearly and sharply: the magnificent ring system of
Saturn, as well as Saturn's largest moon, Titan; the distinctive cloud belt
structure and four Galilean satellites of Jupiter; the Moon-like phases of the
planet Venus; hundreds of craters, mountain ranges, and rilles on our own Moon; and
a multitude of deep-space objects, including diffuse and planetary nebulae, galaxies
and star clusters. In addition to all this, a Meade ETX telescope can also be used
to obtain high-resolution views of terrestrial objects, from reading a license
plate more than a mile in the distance, to resolving the feather structure of a bird at
50 yards.
Meade ETX telescopes are manufactured entirely at the Meade Irvine, CA facility. They
produce optical performance and resolution that equals or exceeds any Maksutov optics
of similar apertures ever manufactured at any price. In fact, the optics are so high
in contrast, image brightness, and resolution that the ETX Models often out perform
many telescopes of larger apertures. Modern telescopes are typically one of three
types, each with its own advantages: Refracting telescopes such as the ETX 70
use a large
lens at the upper end of the optical tube to collect light. Refractors are easy to
maintain, yield sharp images, and are relatively inexpensive in smaller apertures.
Reflecting telescopes use a concave mirror as the primary optical element. They
generally yield the largest aperture-per-dollar. Catadioptric (Mirror-Lens)
telescopes employ a combination of mirrors and lenses to form the image. They
are more portable in larger apertures, and are extremely popular among advanced
amateurs. The ETX 90, ETX 105, and ETX 125 are a Maksutov-Cassegrain, mirror-lens
design.
The fork mountings of the ETX models include high torque, DC motors on the telescope's
vertical and horizontal axis. This allows the telescope, to not only automatically
locate stellar objects, but to also compensate for the earth's rotation, keeping the
objects centered once they are found. The motors can be operated at any of nine speeds from
2 X sidereal for tuning at high magnifications, to 5°/second for quickly slewing
(moving) across the sky. The Meade ETX telescopes can be operated for more than 40 hours
with AA batteries
(6 for ETX70 / 8 for ETX 90-125). The ETX
series can also use a cigarette plug or AC power cord (accessories available below).
The telescope can be used with no power when you are not utilizing the electronic features.
The ETX flip-mirror system allows for a traditional observing through the eye piece in
the up position, or flip the mirror down for terrestrial observing with the optional
45° erecting prism. The compact and easily portable design, flip mirror system, and
automatic tracking which compensates for the earth's rotation make the ETX
telescopes perfect for photography using the optional T adapter for mounting your
camera.
Super Bonus worth up to $350.00
The two most popular ETX accessories are now included FREE!
Autostar controllers are now included free with all ETX telescopes. The Autostar
controller turns your ETX telescope into an automatic celestial object locating
system. Simply do a quick (less than one minute) telescope alignment, and you are
ready to observe any object in the Autostar's 30,000 object database
(14,000 objects for ETX 70).
| 5,386
|
objects from the
Index Catalog (IC); galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters of all types; the complete Index
Catalog
|
| 7,840
|
objects from the
New General Catalog (NGC); additional galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters of all types;
the complete New General Catalog |
| 109
|
objects from the
Caldwell Catalog of the best objects for small telescopes |
| 110
|
Messier (M)
objects; the complete Messier catalog |
| 16,800
|
stars from the
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) catalog, including double stars, variable stars, and other stars of special note |
| 50
|
Earth-orbiting
satellites |
| 26
|
asteroids,
including all of the brightest asteroids |
| 15
|
periodic comets |
| 8
|
major planets
from Mercury to Pluto |
|
 |
In addition to the objects in the Autostar's database, it offers automatic GO TO
capability. You can find any
astronomical object of known Right Ascension and Declination. Enter the object's RA
and Dec. from a star catalog or monthly magazine, press GO TO, and the Autostar does
the rest. This is particularly useful in the case of periodic phenomena, such as
comets. The Autostar offers a 200 object user defined memory. Its digital readout displays
telescope position in RA and Dec. It also displays the location, mythology, and
important objects located in 88 constellations. The Autostar will even give you a
guided tour of the night sky choosing the best objects for any given night! Plus,
over 20 other options including major events: Moonrise times, Moon phases, minimums
of Algol, Equinoxes, etc. It also has a timer, alarm, eyepiece power calculation, and
much more.
A Field Tripod is now also included free with your ETX telescope. These tripods provide a rigid platform for your telescope. The ETX telescopes can be
operated either in the altazimuth mode on the table or tripod, or in the equatorial
mode on the field tripod or table top tripod. The Autostar controller allows fully
automatic astronomical tracking in the more convenient altazimuth mode.
Meade ETX-70AT Telescope
With Free 494 Autostar controller and 882 Field Tripod
The Meade ETX-70AT Telescopes bring you amazing observing ability in an
ultra portable and affordable package. Observe all the planets except Pluto;
study Saturn's ring system; the cloud belts of Jupiter and its four Galilean
satellites; the moon-like phases of Mercury and Venus; or even prominent features on
Mars, and the star-like images of the outer planets Uranus and Neptune. The
craters, mountain ranges, and fault lines of the Moon stand out in
stunning three-dimensional-like detail. Moving out in our galaxy, the ETX-70
displays hundreds of nebulae, star clusters, multiple stars, and variable stars.
Dozens of deep space galaxies can be seen in all their variations of form
and structure. The ETX-70 makes a land-view instrument with image quality and
resolution that far exceeds the levels normally expected of terrestrial
telescopes. Using the ETX Autostar, land objects can be readily followed, or
tracked from a distance, using one of nine speeds. Six AA batteries power the
ETX-70 for over 20 hours. The ETX-70 includes a free 497 Autostar Controller
giving you push button location of over 1400 celestial objects specifically
chosen for observing with the ETX-70. Also included are MA9mm (39X) and MA25mm
(14X) multi-coated eyepieces giving you a complete observing instrument to
explore the night sky.
Show Cart
Meade ETX-80/70/60 Accessories
 |
Meade Series 4000 Super Plossl Eyepieces
The optional eyepieces allow you to have additional magnifications, both
higher and lower, than those included with your scope. Meade eyepieces yield extremely
high-resolution imaging. The magnification, or "power", of a telescope eyepiece combination is equal to the focal length of the scope, divided by
the focal length of the eyepiece. As an example, a telescope with a focal length of 350mm (ie the ETX 70), with a 9mm eyepiece, would
have a magnification of 350 / 9 or 39 X.
Meade 4000 Eyepiece 6.4 MM
Show Cart
Meade 4000 Eyepiece 9.7 MM
Show Cart
Meade 4000 Eyepiece 15 MM
Show Cart |
 |
Meade ETX #124 2x Barlow Lens:
This multi-coated lens doubles the power of any eyepiece used with it. You simply insert the Barlow into your
telescope's eyepiece holder, then insert the eyepiece of your choice into the Barlow. It works with any ETX
model, and is intended for astronomical applications.
Show Cart |
 |
Meade ETX 45° Erecting Prism #933 for ETX 70/60:
The ETX telescopes have an internal mirror to reflect the light to the 90°
astronomical observing position. In this position the image is upright, but reversed (a mirror image).
The Erecting Prism gives you a correctly oriented image for terrestrial observing, and a convenient 45°
viewing angle. This allows you to use your ETX telescope to do double duty as a powerful spotting scope for
hunting, bird, and ship watching, etc.
Show Cart |
 |
Meade ETX T-Adapter #64ST for ETX 70/60:
The T-Adapter plus a T-mount, allows you to use your ETX Scope as a lens for your 35MM or Digital SLR. The
T-Adapter threads to the rear cell of the telescope, followed by a t-mount
specific to your brand of camera. The camera body is rigidly coupled to the
telescope's optical system, which in effect becomes the camera's lens. This is an amazing accessory
for anyone interested in photography.
Show Cart
Meade ETX Canon EOS T-Mount:
For use with your ETX Telescope and the T-Adapter above.
Show Cart |
|
Meade ETX Hard Carry Cases
These Hard Carry Cases offer protection and easy portability for your Meade ETX Telescope. They are
fully lined with fitted foam inserts, and hold the complete ETX telescope plus optional accessories in one
convenient portable case.
Meade ETX Hard Carry Case for ETX 80/70/60 - 07385:
Show Cart |
 |
Meade AstroFinder Software #506 for ETX 70/60:
The AstroFinder Software can be used with your ETX Telescope equipped with an Autostar Computer Controller to
operate the telescope directly from the display of a personal computer. With the AstroFinder software,
and your PC connected to the Autostar via the RS-232 serial port (aka comport), you can point and click on any
space object shown on the PC display. The telescope automatically slews to the object.
Show Cart
Meade USB to RS-232 Adapter:
This allows you to use the cable included with the AstroFinder Software on a computer that only has
a USB port, and no RS-232 serial port or comport.
Show Cart |
|
Meade #3200 Lunar and Planetary Filter Set:
Color filters are a great aid to the lunar and planetary observer. They increase your enjoyment of Solar System
viewing by permitting the observation, or photography, of detail that is virtually invisible without the aid
of filters. These color filters help to increase the image resolution and contrast, while reducing glare
on the planets and Moon. Color filters can be the difference between seeing fine details on Lunar and
Planetary surfaces, and not being able to make them out. This set comes with yellow, blue, red, and neutral density filters giving
you the right filter for most viewing conditions. The Meade Lunar and Planetary Filters fit Meade PL, WA, and MA eyepieces, as well as
most other 1 1/4" eyepieces. They come in protective plastic cases.
Show Cart |
Meade ETX-90AT Telescope
With Free 497 Autostar Controller and 883 Deluxe Field Tripod
The Meade ETX-90EC may be all the telescope ever needed for the beginning to
intermediate observer. It is also a great ultraportable, diffraction-limited
field telescope for the advanced astronomer who already owns a larger
instrument. Observe the ever-changing cloud patterns on Jupiter, and the shadows
cast on the planet by one of its four largest moons; the magnificent rings and
satellites of Saturn - you can even see the ring-shadow on Saturn's surface;
Moon craters, lunar rilles, mountain ranges, and fault lines by the hundreds, all
in brilliant high-resolution detail. In deep-space the motivated observer will
find it hard to see the huge quantity of visible objects: the incandescent
filamentary structure of the Orion Nebula; the elliptical luminosity of the
Andromeda Galaxy; the shining orb of the Hercules globular cluster. These are
just a few of the literally thousands of celestial objects viewable with the
Meade ETX-90AT.
Show Cart
Meade ETX-105AT Telescope
With Free 497 Autostar Controller and 883 Deluxe Field Tripod
The ETX-105AT yields 36% more light-collecting power than the ETX-90, with
a relatively small increase in price. From the eight major planets and the Moon,
to galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters; not to mention terrestrial objects can
be observed with a significant, immediately apparent increase in
resolution and image brightness. The ETX-105 is still compact and easily portable,
making it a very popular compromise between size and light-gathering capability.
Show Cart
Meade ETX-125AT Telescope
With Free 497 Autostar Controller and 883 Deluxe Field Tripod
The ETX-125AT offers twice the light-collecting area of the ETX-90, and permits
an even broader range of astronomical study. Enjoy the heightened level
of detail in Jupiter's cloud belts, with whirls and festoons. The
Great Red Spot is readily visible, transiting the planet's disc; the Cassini
division in Saturn's rings can be seen, as well as additional features of
the planet's surface. You can also see microfine lunar detail beyond the reach of smaller
telescopes. Continuing your journey into deep-space the ETX-125AT's larger
aperture enables observation of galaxies and nebulae in wider array; all 110 of
the Messier listed objects take on a readily discernible structure. The observer
who has a serious interest will find the Meade ETX-125AT a deeply satisfying
instrument for a lifetime of high-resolution observing.
Show CartAccessories for ETX 90, 105, and 125
|
Meade Series 4000 Super Plossl Eyepieces
The optional eyepieces allow you to have additional magnifications, both
higher and lower, than those included with your scope. Meade eyepieces yield extremely
high-resolution imaging. The magnification, or "power", of a telescope eyepiece combination is equal to the focal length of the scope divided by
the focal length of the eyepiece. As an example, a telescope with a focal length of 1250mm (ie the ETX 90), with a 25mm eyepiece would
have a magnification of 1250/25 or 50 X.
Meade ETX 125/105/90 Eyepiece 6.4 MM
Show Cart
Meade ETX 125/105/90 Eyepiece 9.7 MM
Show Cart
Meade ETX 125/105/90 Eyepiece 15 MM
Show Cart |
|
Meade ETX #126 2x Barlow Lens:
This multi-coated lens doubles the power of any eyepiece used with it. Insert the Barlow into your
telescope's eyepiece holder, then insert the eyepiece of your choice into the Barlow. It works with any ETX
model, and is intended for astronomical applications.
Show Cart |
|
Meade ETX 45° Erecting Prism #932 for ETX 125/105/90:
The ETX telescopes have an internal mirror to reflect the light to the 90°
astronomical observing position. In this position the image is upright, but reversed (a mirror image).
The Erecting Prism gives you a correctly oriented image for terrestrial observing, and a convenient 45°
viewing angle. This allows you to use your ETX telescope to do double duty as a powerful spotting scope for
hunting, bird, and ship watching, etc.
Show Cart |
|
Meade ETX T-Adapter #64 for ETX 125/105/90:
The T-Adapter, plus a T-mount, allows you to use your ETX Scope as a lens for your 35MM or Digital SLR. The
T-Adapter threads to the rear cell of the telescope, followed by a t-mount
specific to your brand of camera. The camera body is rigidly coupled to the
telescope's optical system, which in effect becomes the camera's lens. This is an amazing accessory
for anyone interested in photography.
Show Cart
Meade ETX Canon EOS T-Mount:
For use with your ETX Telescope and the T-Adapter above.
Show Cart |
|
Power Adapters for Meade ETX 125/105/90
The ETX 125/105/90 can be powered by a power adapter, as well as batteries, giving you extra freedom
in powering your telescope.
Meade ETX AD Aadpter for ETX 125/105/90:
This adapter allows your telescope to be powered by either a standard 110v home electric outlet, or a
car cigarette lighter. It includes a 25ft. cord that goes from the power source to your scope's control panel.
Show Cart
Meade ETX DC Adapter for ETX 125/105/90:
This adapter allows your telescope to be powered by car cigarette lighter. It can also be powered by
a female cigarette lighter plug attached to a 12 volt battery.
It includes a 25ft. cord that goes from the power source to your scope's control panel.
Show Cart |
|
Meade ETX Telescope Cases and Bags
These Hard Carry Cases offer protection and easy portability for your Meade ETX Telescope. They are
fully lined with fitted foam inserts, and hold the complete ETX telescope plus optional accessories in one
convenient portable case.
Meade ETX Hard Carry Case for ETX 125 -07609:
Show Cart
Meade ETX Hard Carry Case for ETX 105 - 07606:
Show Cart
Meade ETX Hard Carry Case for ETX 90:
Show Cart
|
|
Computer Software
Meade AstroFinder Software #505 for ETX 125/105/90:
The AstroFinder Software can be used with your ETX Telescope equipped with an Autostar Computer Controller to
operate the telescope directly from the display of a personal computer. With the AstroFinder Software,
and your PC connected to the Autostar via the RS-232 serial port (aka comport), you can point and click on any
space object shown on the PC display. The telescope automatically slews to the object.
Show Cart
Meade USB to RS-232 Adapter:
This allows you to use the cable included with the AstroFinder Software on a computer that only has
a USB port, and no RS-232 serial port or comport.
Show Cart |
|
Meade #3200 Lunar and Planetary Filter Set:
Color filters are a great aid to the lunar and planetary observer. They increase your enjoyment of Solar System
viewing by permitting the observation, or photography, of detail that is virtually invisible without the aid
of filters. These color filters help to increase the image resolution and contrast, while reducing glare
on the planets and Moon. Color filters can be the difference between seeing fine details on Lunar and
Planetary surfaces, and not being able to make them out. This set comes with yellow, blue, red, and neutral density filters giving
you the right filter for most viewing conditions. The Meade Lunar and Planetary Filters fit Meade PL, WA, and MA eyepieces, as well as
most other 1 1/4" eyepieces. They come in protective plastic cases.
Show Cart |
Specifications and Features: ETX-70AT, ETX-90AT, ETX-105AT, and ETX-125AT Astro Telescopes
|
|
| TELESCOPE: |
ETX-70AT |
ETX-90AT |
ETX-105AT |
ETX-125AT |
|
|
| Optical Design |
Achromatic refractor |
Maksutov-Cassegrain |
Maksutov-Cassegrain |
Maksutov-Cassegrain |
| Primary Mirror Diameter |
N/A |
96mm (3.78") |
116mm (4.56") |
138mm (5.43") |
| Clear Aperture |
70mm (2.8") |
90mm (3.5") |
105mm (4.13") |
127mm (5.0") |
| Focal Length, Focal Ratio |
350mm f/5 |
1250mm f/13.8 |
1470mm f/14 |
1900mm f/15 |
| Near Focus (approx.) |
17 ft. (5.2m) |
11.5 ft. (3.5m) |
15 ft. (4.6m) |
15 ft. (4.6m) |
| Resolving Power (arc secs.) |
1.6 |
1.3 |
1.1 |
0.9 |
| Optical Coatings |
multi-coated
objective lens |
MgF2; standard aluminum/SiO |
MgF2; standard aluminum/SiO |
MgF2; standard aluminum/SiO |
| Ultra-High Transmission Coatings |
N/A |
optional at time of purchase |
optional at time of purchase |
optional at time of purchase |
| Limiting Visual Stellar Magnitude |
11.3 |
11.7 |
12.1 |
12.5 |
| Image Scale |
4.14°/inch |
1.16°/inch |
0.99°/inch |
0.76°/inch |
| Maximum Practical Visual Power |
240X |
325X |
420X |
500X |
| Optical Tube Dimensions (dia. x length) |
3.6" dia. x 12" (9.3cm x 30.4cm) |
4.1" x 11" (10.4cm x 27.9cm) |
4.88" x 12.9" (12.4cm x 32.8cm) |
5.75" x 14.2" (14.6cm x 36cm) |
| Eyepiece(s) |
MA9mm, MA25mm |
Super Plössl 26mm |
Super Plössl 26mm |
Super Plössl 26mm |
| Secondary Mirror Obstruction (dia.; %) |
N/A |
1.1" (27.9mm); 9.6% |
1.32" (33.0mm); 9.4% |
1.55" (39.4mm); 9.6% |
| Telescope Mounting |
fork type; double tine |
fork type; double tine |
fork type; double tine |
fork type; double tine |
| Setting Circle Diameters |
Dec.: 3.7"; RA: 7" |
Dec.: 3.5"; RA: 7" |
Dec.: 3.81"; RA: 7.8" |
Dec.: 4.3"; RA: 9" |
| RA and Dec. Motor Drive Systems |
DC servo motors with encoders, both axes; 9-volts DC |
DC servo motors with encoders, both axes; 12-volts DC |
DC servo motors with encoders, both axes; 12-volts DC |
DC servo motors with encoders, both axes; 12-volts DC |
| Slow-Motion Controls |
electric, 9-speed, both axes |
electric, 9-speed, both axes |
electric, 9-speed, both axes |
electric, 9-speed, both axes |
| Autostar Controller |
included (#494) |
included (#497) |
included (#497) |
included (#497) |
| Hemispheres of Operation |
North and South |
North and South |
North and South |
North and South |
| Batteries (user-supplied) |
6 x AA |
8 x AA |
8 x AA |
8 x AA |
| Battery Life (approx.) |
20 hrs |
20 hrs |
20 hrs |
20 hrs |
| Bearings |
Dec.: Acetal; RA: Nylon |
Nylon, both axes |
Dec.: ball bearings; RA: radial ball bearing |
Dec.: ball bearings; RA: radial ball bearing |
| Materials: |
| Tube Body Mounting |
high-impact ABS aluminum |
aluminum reinforced high-impact ABS |
internal aluminum structure with high-impact ABS |
internal aluminum structure with high-impact ABS |
Primary Mirror
Correcting Lens |
N/A |
Pyrex® glass
BK7 optical glass, Grade-A |
Pyrex® glass
BK7 optical glass, Grade-A |
Pyrex® glass
BK7 optical glass, Grade-A |
| Tripod; net weight |
#882 Field Tripod; 6 lbs. |
#884 Deluxe Field Tripod; 11 lbs. |
#884 Deluxe Field Tripod; 11 lbs. |
#884 Deluxe Field Tripod; 11lbs. |
| Telescope Dimensions |
15" x 7.3" x 8.5" |
15" x 7.3" x 8.5" |
17" x 8" x 10" |
19" x 8.9" x 10.8" |
| Telescope Net Weight, less tripod |
6.8 lbs. (3.0 kg) |
7.8 lbs (3.5 kg) |
13.5 lbs. (6.1 kg) |
15.2 lbs. (6.9 kg) |
| Telescope Shipping Weight, less tripod |
11.9 lbs (5.4 kg) |
12.4 lbs (5.6 kg) |
18.4 lbs (8.3 kg) |
25.2 lbs. (11.4 kg) |
|
|
