$300-400 refractor with auto goto

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Hi!

I am trying to evaluate a good intro/intermediate refractor. I see Optics Planet sells the Meade DS-2080 LNT Refractor and the Celestron Nexstar 80 SLT refractor. Do you have any thoughts on which one has better optics or ease of use? I can spend up to $700, but I do not know if that is necessary. Obviously, I would be hoping to not out grow the scope in a short period of time. Minimal maintenance is key for me.

Thanks for you help!

opticsplanet.com · Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 4:15 pm Post subject:

Hi

There is no significant difference between these two in terms of ease of use, performance or quality. As far as the GOTO feature, you'll probably get an argument either way between the SLT and the Autostar.

$700 will put into the range of an ETX-90, http://www.opticsplanet.net/meade-etx90ec.html This scope will have a much better mount than either of the above, better optics, better computer and overall better construction. Plus you still retain the advantages of the refractor in terms of maintenance and durability, all in a more compact package. Best of all, should you move into a big telescppe someday, the 90 will make a breat backup or travel scope. I know many people who own both an ETX and much bigger scopes. Guess which scope sees the most use?
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