The ETX-70AT finds and tracks hundreds of objects completely automatically.

I often think of Meade's ETX-70AT as half a pair of large binoculars. It offers the same large field of view and bright image at low magnification, but overcomes many of the disadvantages. To start with it has a sturdy mount that holds it steady. This can be placed on a table or on a field tripod. The mount is motorised and computer-controlled making it easy for the newest astronomer to find and follow objects in the sky.

It uses interchangeable eyepieces based on the same standard as all high-quality telescopes (1.25") so different magnifications can be selected, depending on the object being observed. The basic package contains two eyepieces. One gives 14x magnification which is the optimimum for a 70mm telescope and is ideal for general browsing and for large objects such as the Pleiades. In binocular terms the format is 14x70 which matches the output of the telescope to an average dark-adapted eye. The other eyepiece gives 39x magnification which is high enough to see lots of detail on the Moon and to see the Galilean moons of Jupiter and the rings around Saturn.

The Autostar Computer Controller that comes with the ETX-70AT is based on the technology used for several of Meade's larger telescopes. It is completely self-contained and takes the form of a small handset connected to the telescope by a short cable. Using the Autostar is very simple and requires no knowledge of astronomy or the night sky. It has to be aligned with two bright stars to get started but it even finds these for itself. All the user has to do is to key in the date, time and location, then set the tube level and pointing north. The Autostar then chooses a suitable bright star and points to it. It won't be spot on but will be close enough for it to be obvious which star it's aiming for. Using push-buttons on the handset, the telescope position is adjusted until the star is in the centre. Autostar then chooses a second star and the user centres this one. And that's all there is to it.

Autostar contains a database of 1200 objects so the next step is simply to select one of these and press the 'goto' button. The ETX-70AT then slews to the object and tracks it across the sky. The list of objects includes constellations, planets, galaxies, nebulae and satellites. It will even select a set of objects to make up a tour for your current location, date and time. If you come across something of interest while browsing you can ask the Autostar what it is. It will tell you if there is anything close to the place it's currently pointing at.

The basic ETX-70AT will provide countless hours of fun and will help you learn your way around the night sky. But there are several optional accessories to add to its usefulness:

• Camera Adaptor. Use this to attach an SLR camera and turn the telescope into a 350mm lens. (Requires a T-ring to match your brand of camera)
• Image Erector. Use this to make the telescope suitable for terrestrial use.
• Filter Set. Use these to increase image contrast on the Moon and bright planets.
• Hard Carry Case. Use this to protect your telescope and accessories. Ideal for travelling.
• Dew Shield. Use this to cut out stray light from the nearby Moon or streetlights, and to prevent condensation from settling on the main lens.
• Astrofinder Software and Cable Kit. Use this to plan your observing sessions on your own PC. The cable allows you to download new software and to update satellite positions.
• Extra Eyepieces are used to provide different magnifications to get the best views of different objects.
• Barlow lenses are used with an eyepiece to double or triple its magnification.
• Right-angle viewfinder. Use this to preview the object before viewing it through the main scope. Especially useful when working at high magnification.