Apochromats with three-element lenses are unheard-of at this price. But Meade's 3.1-inch triplet delivers amazing views — high-contrast images with no distortion or haziness — in a robustly engineered package. It's heavy (6.2 pounds) for its size, but that weight is nicely balanced; in a pinch you could use it as a club to defend your astro-turf from rival stargazers.
Review: Meade Series 5000 ED APO 80mm
Apochromats with three-element lenses are unheard-of at this price. But Meade’s 3.1-inch triplet delivers amazing views — high-contrast images with no distortion or haziness — in a robustly engineered package. It’s heavy (6.2 pounds) for its size, but that weight is nicely balanced; in a pinch you could use it as a club to defend […]
WIRED
Tube rotates within a neatly embedded metal ring, so it's easy to reposition the eyepiece while panning the sky. Small size and maneuverability make it great for terrestrial viewing, too — wildlife, wild pool parties... .
TIRED
Finish quality isn't on par with peers. Focuser, which astronauts scrutinize as closely as the lens, is rough. Lens cap can be tricky to screw on and off.