When it comes to computerized GoTo telescopes, two models frequently dominate the conversation: the Celestron NexStar and the Meade LX90. Both are well-regarded brands in the astronomy community, offering high-tech features, excellent optics, and reliable performance. But how do they compare, and which one should you choose for your stargazing adventures? In this article, we’ll break down the features, pros, cons, and key differences between the Celestron NexStar and the Meade LX90 to help you make an informed decision.
1. Overview of the Celestron NexStar and Meade LX90
The Celestron NexStar series is known for its user-friendly GoTo technology, making it one of the most accessible computerized telescopes for amateur astronomers. The NexStar models come in various configurations, ranging from small, portable scopes to larger, more powerful instruments. They are designed for ease of use, with quick setup and automatic object tracking, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned astronomers alike.
On the other hand, the Meade LX90 is a more premium offering, with a focus on high-end optics and precision tracking. Meade’s LX90 telescopes are renowned for their sharp, clear images, often favored by astrophotographers and those who want a more advanced GoTo experience. They come equipped with Meade’s AutoStar II system, which offers a wide range of celestial objects for automatic tracking and observation.
2. Optical Quality and Performance
Both the Celestron NexStar and Meade LX90 are equipped with high-quality optics that deliver excellent views of the night sky. However, there are key differences in their optical design:
- Celestron NexStar: The NexStar models come with a range of optical designs, such as Schmidt-Cassegrain, Maksutov-Cassegrain, and refractor designs. The Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes in the NexStar series offer good all-around performance with a relatively compact design, making them portable for field trips. However, some users report that the images can be slightly less crisp compared to Meade’s offerings, especially in lower-end models.
- Meade LX90: The LX90 features high-quality Apochromatic Schmidt-Cassegrain optics, which are designed to reduce chromatic aberrations and provide superior contrast and sharpness. This makes the LX90 ideal for those who want to explore deep-sky objects with pinpoint accuracy. The LX90 is known for its excellent image quality, especially when observing planets and galaxies.
3. GoTo Technology and Tracking
The GoTo system is the heart of both the NexStar and LX90, enabling automatic object tracking and helping users quickly locate and observe celestial objects. Both telescopes are equipped with advanced GoTo systems, but there are some differences in their technology:
- Celestron NexStar: The NexStar series uses the SkyAlign system, which allows users to align the telescope with the night sky by simply pointing it at any three bright objects. The alignment process is quick and simple, making it a great choice for beginners. The NexStar also has a vast database of over 40,000 celestial objects, allowing users to explore a wide range of stars, planets, and galaxies.
- Meade LX90: The LX90 uses the AutoStar II system, which offers a more comprehensive database of over 144,000 objects. While the alignment process is slightly more complex, it is still user-friendly and provides greater precision for those who are familiar with telescope operation. The LX90 also boasts SuperCharge motors, which provide faster and smoother tracking, making it ideal for astrophotography and long-duration observations.
4. Ease of Use and Setup
Ease of use and setup are crucial factors to consider when choosing a telescope, especially for beginners. Here’s how the two models compare:
- Celestron NexStar: Known for its simplicity, the NexStar series is designed to be user-friendly. It comes with a lightweight mount and easy-to-follow instructions, making it a great option for newcomers to astronomy. The quick setup process means you can start stargazing within minutes of unpacking the telescope.
- Meade LX90: The LX90, while still user-friendly, is slightly more complex than the NexStar. Its larger size and heavier weight may require more time and effort for setup, especially if you’re using a mount with an equatorial design. However, once set up, the LX90 provides a stable platform for high-precision tracking.
5. Portability
Portability is an important consideration for astronomers who like to travel to different locations for stargazing. Let’s compare how each telescope fares in this department:
- Celestron NexStar: The NexStar models are typically more compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport. If portability is a priority for you, the NexStar is a better option, especially in the smaller models like the NexStar 4SE or NexStar 6SE.
- Meade LX90: The LX90, due to its larger size and heavier mount, is less portable compared to the NexStar. While it is still manageable, it’s better suited for users who plan to keep the telescope at a fixed location or don’t mind the extra effort when moving it.
6. Price and Value for Money
Price is always an important factor when purchasing a telescope. Here’s how the two models compare in terms of cost:
- Celestron NexStar: The NexStar series offers a range of prices, making it accessible to both beginner and intermediate astronomers. The smaller models, such as the NexStar 4SE, are relatively affordable, while the larger models with advanced features can cost more.
- Meade LX90: The LX90 is positioned as a premium telescope, and its price reflects that. It’s more expensive than the NexStar models, but it offers superior optics, advanced features, and greater precision. If you’re serious about astrophotography or deep-sky observation, the LX90 may be worth the investment.
7. Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
Both the Celestron NexStar and Meade LX90 are excellent GoTo telescopes that offer high-tech features and impressive performance. However, the right choice depends on your needs and experience level:
- Choose the Celestron NexStar if you’re a beginner or someone who values portability, ease of use, and a more affordable price. Its quick setup and simple GoTo system make it an ideal choice for casual stargazers.
- Choose the Meade LX90 if you’re an experienced astronomer looking for superior optics, advanced tracking capabilities, and precision. The LX90 is ideal for deep-sky observation and astrophotography, offering exceptional image quality and advanced features.
Ultimately, both telescopes offer great value, but understanding your specific needs will help you make the right decision. Happy stargazing!