The StarLock system completely automates target acquisition and accurate guiding during astrophotographic exposures. The optical path and components of the ACF telescope designĪnother distinguishing feature of the LX600 line is the inclusion of the StarLock automatic guider, built right onto the optical tube of the Meade 14' f/8 ACF. This shorter focal length yields a wider field of view with a given camera sensor or eyepiece and allows for a shorter exposure time compared with the slower f/10 system, while still providing the legendary optical quality that ACF system is known for. The 14' f/8 LX600 features a 2845mm focal length, shorter (and faster) than the LX200 14' (3556mm f/10). The Meade LX600 series differs from the LX200 offerings in several key features, first and foremost being the focal ratio of the optical tube assembly (OTA). Key Features and Upgrades Set the LX600 Apart Meade ACF telescopes, including the mounts, are manufactured and assembled in North America. The ACF primary, secondary and corrector plate glass blanks are manufactured in the USA exclusively for Meade. The ACF system also reduces astigmatism and eliminates diffraction spikes.ĭesigned and Manufactured in North America. The Ultra-High Transmission Coatings (UHTC) are included as with all Meade ACF optics, yielding maximum image brightness and contrast at the eyepiece or camera sensor. This makes the ACF system ideal for visual observers and astro-imagers alike. The patented Advanced Coma Free (ACF) optics produce impressively flat fields of view with no coma, even out to the edges of larger format cameras or extreme wide angle eyepieces. Push button controls, automatic locating and tracking of celestial objects, and a wealth of object data at your fingertips in the AutoStar II hand controller make the LX600 a joy to use. The robust fork arms hold the optical tube rock solid to dampen any vibrations, which is critical for high power planetary observation or long exposure deep-sky imaging. When broken down into its constituent pieces, the LX600 14' is manageable and can be set up by one person (see below for the weight breakdown to be sure you are comfortable lifting the heaviest component). Incredibly compact for its aperture, the 14' f/8 ACF is ideally suited for both medium/large sized observatories and transporting to a dark sky site on the weekend. The Meade 14' f/8 LX600 ACF Telescope is the ultimate performer among Meade's LX series of Alt/Az fork mounted telescopes.

Meade reflector telescope tracking