Meade LightBridge 10 in. Standard (600 x 254mm) Telescope

The Meade 10 inch LightBridge is for all practical purposes the best all around telescope for the money. If one could not afford the larger scopes (bigger is always better with most telescopes as they gather more light) the 10 inch LightBridge would be the one I would shoot for. It is just under 600 dollars which is nearly 60% less than last year, and is large enough for you realistically see into deep-space. Virtually any galaxy that can be seen from earth can be seen with the 10 inch LightBridge. In fact, I would say it is large enough any serious back yard astronomer would never outgrow it. It is enough telescope to satisfy any star gazer for a lifetime.

The open truss support system makes this telescope movable and its three part design will allow you to take it apart and re-assemble it elsewhere within minutes. The battery operated fan cools the mirror quickly and the steel ball bearings allow the telescope to move with a light push of a finger so it can be placed without effort on any part of the sky. Some complain the open support system allows for light pollution and glare, but this is mostly a city problem where stray light can not be controlled. Some flock the mirror box and put black foam rubber pipe insulation on the supports, but I've never done this as I live in an isolated part of eastern Kentucky where light pollution is not much of a problem. A 40 dollar shroud which attaches via velcro will correct most light pollution and also keep the dew off the mirror.

For the money, this is the most affordable telescope on the market with great optics, a rubber gasket eyepiece holder instead of the old screw into place system, and ease of use. The viewer will accept both the 1.25 inch or the 2 inch eyepiece. Carrying handles make it easy to move, and the heaviest part - the base - can be carried by anyone capable of carrying a 4 year old child. Optional equipment from battery operated heaters aren't needed, but available for the really cold night viewers - but the shroud should eliminate this need and is far less expensive. Sighting is made simple with a laser red dot sight and once tuned in, is accurate.

The telescopes come with star charts and software that will start the novice off on the right foot. It's magnification is about 600 power but telescopes rely mostly on light gathering capability an not magnification like binoculars do. This light is then focused into a concentrated spot, forming the image. The Meade LightBridge has some of the finest mirrors on the market and do an outstanding job of delivering the sky to your feet.

Once you the galaxies for yourself you will realize you have seen the very breath of God manifested before you. It's a sight to behold and makes all those Hubble photos seem pale in comparison to the real thing!

If you have 600 bucks -- this is the ONE TO GO FOR!