Telescope Reviews: Re: An ETX-80 Buyer's Checklist

Hi Tim, I own the back pack edition of the 80. As stated, the tripod is not as sturdy. It works, but is maxed out with the 80. It helps to use the built in hook to hang a bit of weight from for added stability.

As for the scope itself, as others have said, it is a bit noisy during slewing. Accuracy is extremely good, and, gets better with more use. I made a 12V adapter, and run mine off of a small jump start battery, at the full 12 volts. I made the cord long enough, and, have also used my vehicle's lighter outlet.

As for storage in the bag, everything is held in place rather well, but, I wouldn't recommend jogging with it. It is sufficiently padded for normal use, but I wouldn't dare put it through an airline or bus terminal. Storage space is pretty tight. The scope/base is by itself in the main compartment, with the dew shield flipped over on the objective end. The secondary compartment has two velcro pouches for mount screws, and the 45 diagonal, three eyepiece pouches, which if not kept horizontal, mine tend to fall out into the bottom of the secondary compartment. There is a small divided area in the bottom of the secondary compartment that barely holds the autostar, and my power cord.

Hope this helps!

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David
"Seek the Spirit of the Wolf, for He holds the Secret of Life."

Edmund Astroscan/Meade DS 2000 tripod
Meade ETX 60
Tasco 60mm EQ
Meade 114 NT/LXD75

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