The Meade 12" f/8 LX850 ACF optical tube assembly offers a large aperture in a compact and portable design, perfect for amateur astronomers. This model combines advanced optics with lightweight construction, making it a top choice for both visual observation and astrophotography.
Specifications:
- Aperture: 12 inches
- Focal Ratio: f/8
- Focal Length: 2438mm
- Optics: Advanced Coma-Free (ACF)
- Coatings: Ultra-High Transmission Coatings (UHTC)
- Mirror: Oversized low-expansion Borosilicate primary mirror
- Focuser: Two-speed, Crayford style zero shift focus mechanism
- Weight: 41 lbs (18.6 kg)
- Mount Compatibility: Losmandy-style dovetail bar
Key Features:
- Advanced Optics: ACF optics deliver a flat field, reduced astigmatism, and eliminate diffraction spikes, offering superior visual clarity.
- High-Quality Construction: Designed and manufactured in North America with glass blanks made exclusively in the USA for Meade.
- UHTC Coatings: Enhance image brightness and contrast, providing detailed views of celestial objects.
Astrophotography Advantages:
- Long Native Focal Length: Ideal for high-resolution photography of planets and the Moon.
- Optional Focal Reducer: Converts f/10 ACF to f/6.8, enhancing deep space imaging by reducing exposure times and expanding the field of view by nearly 50%.
- Dual-Experience Functionality: Enables both stunning astrophotography and detailed visual observation.
Focusing System:
- Two-Speed Focus Knob: Allows for ultra-precise focusing with a 7:1 reduction fine focus knob.
- Crayford Style Zero Shift Mechanism: Eliminates focus shift and mirror flop, ensuring zero backlash and smooth motion, even at high magnifications.
Design and Compatibility:
- Compact and Portable: Lightweight design with a Losmandy-style dovetail bar for easy attachment to compatible mounts.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for both backyard observation and remote dark sky locations.
The Meade 12" f/8 LX850 ACF optical tube assembly is an excellent choice for astronomers looking for high-quality optics in a portable package. With its advanced features and user-friendly design, it offers exceptional performance for both visual observation and astrophotography, making it a valuable tool for exploring the night sky.