We test-drive Meade’s latest computer-controlled catadioptric reflector. Meade’s freshly minted LX65 8-inch telescope certainly has extras. It boasts Advanced Coma-Free (ACF) optics, a computerized GoTo mount with motorized tracking, capacity for two telescopes and Meade’s AudioStar control system software, which offers brief “Astronomer Inside” recorded voice descriptions of chosen celestial objects.

"This is really amazing technology, and it sets the LX600 apart from any other fork-mounted telescope on the market, bar none. In a nutshell, every time you slew the LX600 to a new target, StarLock automatically acquires a suitable guide star and begins guiding the telescope accurately enough for astrophotography."

"My biggest surprise was how much I enjoyed using this small scope visually. While there’s no such thing as an all-purpose telescope, this excellent instrument was as close to that as any telescope I’ve used in a long time."