Meade LX90

My first "real" telescope was the Meade External link LX90 External link. It's an 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope (SCT) with computer control by means of the Autostar External link handset. Here's is a photo of my LX90, featuring a homemade dew shield and heater strip. I've also made a couple of other basic modifications to make the observing experience just that little bit more pleasant.

Clickable Photo of my Meade LX90 Telescope Dew Heater Controller Fine Focuser Dec. Arrow Heater Strip Dew Shield
Clickable Photo of my Meade LX90 Telescope

Why The LX90?

I was oringinally planning on getting an LX10 External link, which is basically the same OTA (Optical Tube Assembly), but with fewer features than the LX90. However, when I enquired about this model, it appeared that it was no longer available in Europe, or at least here in the Netherlands. The next step up is the LX90, which has computer control, a better finder, and basically most of the things I figured I'd want to add to an LX10 eventually anyway. For the price, the LX90 is packed with goodies, as many reputable telescope reviewers will tell you.

Links

Meade Instruments Corporation External link

Manufacturer of the LX90, and of course many other telescopes and optical kit.

LX90 Telescope Users Group External link

Very active mailing list for LX90 owners (or those thinking about it!).

Jan's LX90 Pages External link

Nice, detailed site focused on modifying/upgrading the LX90.

Bob's Knobs External link

Handy replacement screws that make collimation more of a pleasure than a chore.