This is an update to my previous OPT Gold Accessory Kit report. That initial report was based on usage with the 8" LX90-ACF. This update is based on usage with the 8" LX200-ACF. See the earlier report for unpacking and first use details.

All of these tests were with the OPT 2" star diagonal attached to the Meade Microfocuser. Here you can see that there is essentially no clearance available from the mount base when using the Microfocuser:

The eyepiece in the photograph is the Meade Series 5000 26mm that comes standard with the 8" LX200-ACF. The star diagonal would touch the mount base when the telescope was pointed to an altitude of about 82°. Without the Microfocuser in place, there would be no clearance problem.

When used with the 8" LX200-ACF, I found no difference from the results I reported earlier when I tested them with the 8" LX90-ACF. No differences were expected, as both OTAs are the same design with the same capabilities.

Even with the clearance issue with the Microfocuser attached, I intend to leave the OPT 2" star diagonal attached to the telescope. While I think some FOV edge distortion is introduced in the 2" diagonal, it is not significant enough to make the views unusable or distracting. Being able to switch between 1.25" eyepieces and 2" eyepieces is just too convenient to not be used.

The OPT 1.25" 15mm eyepiece has become one of my favorite eyepieces, as has the OPT 2" 30mm eyepiece. Both of these eyepieces offer excellent views and can take advantage of the LX200-ACF superb optics.

I think the OPT Gold Accessory Kit is an excellent value and worth considering. For $169.95, or $269.95 without a telescope purchase, the quality of the star diagonal and eyepieces is certainly outstanding.

Go to the LX200-ACF Table of Contents.

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