The LX200-ACF: the world famous LX200 legacy continues in its most advanced and feature packed version ever. This revolutionary new optical design offers the coma-free pinpoint star images and flatter image fields greatly desired by discerning amateur astronomers, astrophotographers and professional observatories alike. The patented Advanced Coma-Free (ACF) system also reduces the astigmatism and eliminates diffraction spikes found in classical RC’s. No competing Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope can make those claims.
This 14" LX200-ACF has 14” diameter f/10 ACF optics (focal length 3556mm) and Ultra-High Transmission Coatings (UHTC) for maximum image brightness and contrast. Features the advanced LX200 AutoStar II computer system with 145,000 object library, multiple guided tours, High Precision Pointing capability with sub arc-minute pointing accuracy, and Meade SmartDrive with Permanent Periodic Error Correction.
Precise and quick star alignment is done near effortlessly with Meade's level north technology alignment system incorporating a 16 channel genuine Sony GPS receiver. The Autostar II is flash-updatable via free downloads at Meade.com (optional cable required). The drive base of the telescope has multiple input and output ports including an RS-232 PC interface and jacks for a (user supplied) CCD Autoguider and illuminated reticle.
Mechanically loaded as well all LX200 models feature a primary mirror locking mechanism, which effectively prevents movement of the primary mirror during long exposure astrophotography or observing. Turn the lock knob located just above the telescopes main focus knob and the progressive-tension primary lock completely cancels any residual image shift due to mirror movement during visual, photographic, or imaging applications.
All LX200-ACF models feature the DC-servo driven super heavy duty double fork mount, the strongest and most rigid mount in its class. Fast slew speeds are from 1 to 8 degrees per second, and can be user selected at .1 degree per second increments, while fine slewing and photographic guiding speeds can be adjusted from .01x to 1x sidereal in one one-hundredth increments. The mount and all electronics are internally powered by 8 (user supplied) C-cell batteries which will typically operate the telescope for around 20 hours (optional Meade Universal AC adapter also available). The mount additionally has mechanical locks and slow motion manual controls in both axis if for some reason you found yourself without power.
The 14" LX200-ACF comes fully equipped with a heavy duty height adjustable Meade Giant Field Tripod, 1.25" diagonal prism, Series 4000 26mm Plössl eyepiece, 8x50 viewfinder with quick release bracket and Meade AutoStar® Suite Astronomer Edition Software for PC. Scope weight is 125 pounds with 50 pound tripod. Ships in 2 boxes.
