The Meade ETX 125EC telescope allows for a wide range of astronomical study and observation that will allow you to see all the way to Jupiter’s cloud belts. With enhanced lighting capabilities and convenient portability, this model is perfectly designed for anyone who views astronomy as a serious hobby or would appreciate a high resolution telescope that will last a lifetime. It even offers the convenience of using altazimuth or equatorial mounting and operation. This review will provide detailed and useful information that will help you to better decide on what telescope would be best to buy.
What is the Meade ETX 125EC Telescope?
The Meade ETX 125EC has a small design made of aluminum and strong plastic. The motor of this telescope is entirely cordless, powering itself with batteries, which last approximately 50 hours. The diameter of the main light-gathering lens is actually larger than its previous model, the ETX 90. The focal length was also improved from the last model, giving it a better focal ratio. This model also offers dual-axis mounting and speeds that can be controlled simply through an electronic remote. The ETX 125EC also includes an automatic tracking software that can track terrestrial and astronomical objects in relation to the earth’s rotation. This tracking software is fully functional anywhere in the world through its altazimuth or equatorial operation.
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Pros & Cons to Using the Meade ETX 125EC Telescope
Pros:
It comes as a complete system and is ready to use upon purchase.
It is extremely portable and very adaptable.
These models offer an advanced electronic remote control with automatic locating software.
It offers extraordinary optics and resolution.
Its dual axis drive system and electronic controller allow you to easily observe from anywhere in the world.
Fully automatic astronomical tracking is possible in altazimuth mode with the optional Autostar Computer Controller.
It offers cordless field operation.
Cons:
There is no storage provided for the controller.
The only power source provided are batteries so those will have to be replaced.
They are little pricey.
The Autostar Computer Controller is an addition, and is not included. But it does still offer astronomical tracking with the controller that is included.
The model was discontinued by the company and is only available for sale on other websites.
Where to Find the Meade ETX 125EC Telescope?
Being that the Meade ETX 125EC is a discontinued model, it is only available to be purchased used. It is available for purchase online, on websites such as Amazon. It usually costs around $750. The ETX 125EC is also for sale on a variety of other websites, such as High Point Scientific, Adorama Camera, and Jet. It’s unlikely you will find any new Meade ETX 125EC telescopes, as the model has been discontinued by the manufacturer.
Telescope Performance
The Meade ETX 125EC offers outstanding clarity of images through a mirror-lens design. It has even been said to offer better quality resolution than many telescopes that have a larger aperture. This telescope offers an increased level of detail and is capable of seeing the Cassini division in Saturn’s rings and Jupiter’s cloud belts. This telescope can offer great image resolution, even when the conditions outside aren’t ideal. This design is also suitable for astrophotography if you use the T adapter to mount your camera.
Extra Info
There are a couple things that people have recommend for this telescope. They recommend that you maintain it very well and that you purchase the Meade hard case to keep it safe, especially if you are traveling with it.
Maintenance Advice
It is always good advice to maintain your telescope, especially your optic system. For the most part, the only thing that you will have to do is spray it down with a compressed can of air, and only if it is dusty. It is recommended to never clean the actual inside of the optics, unless absolutely necessary. The lenses can be wiped down with distilled water/propanol solution to remove finger prints and smudges. Just remember to use lens cleaning tissues. Proper cleaning and maintenance instructions should be included in the manual.
Telescope Accessories
The Meade ETX 125EC comes with a 26mm Plossel eyepiece (73x) and a 25mm Plossel eyepiece (50x). Included in the package is a 8×25 Right Angle Finder and a Red Dot Finder. You can purchase separately a Meade Super Wide ocular, for wide-angle observing and Meade T-Adapter- for terrestrial and astrophotography. There are also solar and lunar filters available.
If you want to travel with this telescope, we would also recommend buying a hard case for protection
and a 12-volt power supply.
Warranty and Guarantee Information
This model has been discontinued by Meade, so, unfortunately, there would not be a manufacturers warranty or guarantee. However, the other providers you can purchase it from may have a guarantee or return policy. For example, Amazon offers the A-Z guarantee that ensures the condition of the item. There are also usually return options available. If not, you can sell your item for cash to other Amazon customers without a listing fee. If you decide to purchase other accessories from Meade, they would come with a limited-lifetime warranty.
Our Recommendation
The Meade EXT 125EC seems to be the perfect telescope for any serious astronomy observer. It is small and easily portable for those who like to travel. It seems to offer outstanding clarity of image with a high resolution and has the durability to last a lifetime. Although, it is a little expensive, costing around $700, it seems to be well worth the money, if you are an avid telescope enthusiast.
Already have a Meade EXT 125EC telescope? Feel free to share your experience! Thinking about buying one or just have a question? Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and questions!
I have the Meade 125 EC new in the box. Are there any serious buyers out there for $600?