The Meade 14" f/8 LX850 ACF optical tube assembly offers a large aperture in a compact and lightweight design, ideal for both amateur and professional astronomers. It provides high-performance optics with portability, making it suitable for various observational and astrophotographic applications.
Specifications:
- Aperture: 14 inches
- Focal Ratio: f/8
- Focal Length: 2845mm
- 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
- Weight: 63 lbs (28.6 kg)
- Mount Compatibility: Losmandy-style dovetail bar
Key Features:
- Advanced Optics: ACF optics provide a flat field, reduced astigmatism, and eliminate diffraction spikes for 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, offering 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/8 ACF to f/5.5, optimizing the telescope for deep space imaging by reducing exposure times and expanding the field of view by nearly 50%.
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.
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 14" f/8 LX850 ACF optical tube assembly combines advanced optical performance with portability, making it a top choice for astronomers who require a high-quality instrument for both visual and astrophotographic exploration of the night sky. Its sophisticated design and features provide exceptional clarity and detail, enabling users to capture stunning views and images of celestial objects.