Welcome! The LX200GPS(-SMT) is a line of computerized Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes (as well as a 7" Maksutov-Cassegrain) made by the Meade Instruments Corporation of Irvine, California. Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes have been a popular telescope format for amateur astronomers for several decades now. The compact lens/mirror optical design is portable, relatively maintenance free, and provides excellent views of deep sky and planetary objects alike. In addition, relatively large apertures are available at reasonable prices. Since the early 90s, Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, from Meade and other SCT makers, have been available with "GOTO" computer systems that allow the user to electronically command the telescope where to point. With most GOTO telescopes, like the Meade LX200GPS, this can be done by using the hand controller or a separate computer with the appropriate software. This created an entirely new arena for amateur astronomers by allowing remote observations, scripted imaging, unattended asteroid searches, and all sorts of activities that were previously left to professional observatories. General LX200GPS Information » Release date: January 2002 » Apertures: 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16" » Focal ratios: f/10 (f/15 for the 7" Maksutov) » Focal lengths: 2000mm (8") to 4064mm (16") » Price range: US$2300 (8") to US$10,500 (16") Meade's new computer interface (the Autostar II), mirror lock, electric microfocuser, and integrated GPS receiver, allow the LX200GPS to build on the strengths of its predecessor, the venerable LX200. Now, with SMT, the LX200GPS promises to continue Meade's tradition of providing cutting-edge technology and precision at reasonable prices for the beginning, intermediate, and advanced amateur astronomer. Read the site's disclaimer and credits © 2002-2005 MeadeLX200GPS.com — All rights reserved. © 2005-2006 CaliforniaStars.net — All rights reserved.  QUICK LINKS »  Download the latest ASII Firmware »  More Meade software! »  LX200GPS-SMT manual (PDF) »  Meade introduces new scopes! Latest News 04/03/06: I've removed or redirected some sections of this site since it is now redundant with my main site, Californiastars.net. 01/12/06: I've sold my Meade equipment and have purchased non-Meade equipment. For that reason, I'll be updating this site less and less in the future. For the latest in the LX200GPS community, be sure to visit the Yahoo! group. Please be sure to visit my new astronomy site, CaliforniaStars.net!