The ETX-90PE - Lots of Potential

I bought this new - it's the UHTC model. Out of the box, everything was pretty good. Setup was fast and easy - aligning the SmartFinder in daylight was a challenge because the dot is dim even at its brightest setting - this task is best performed at night.

Overall performance is good. The optics are excellent, as is common for the ETX scopes. The views of planets, moon, double stars, and other objects are very sharp. The only limitation is the relatively small aperture, which makes it harder to see the many dim objects in the night sky.

Focusing is smooth with no evidence of image shift. GOTO's are accurate as well, making this a good scope for the beginner who wants to start observing right away without having the learn the night sky.

I experienced more problems aligning the ETX with Auto Align (uses the LNT module) than with the other alignment methods. Tracking is good. The only significant problem was a rocking in the base which caused the tube to raise or lower by a degree when slewing - this will have to be repaired.

This is a very light, portable, easy to use telescope. It is good for a beginner who is willing to spend the money asked for these. it is also a good choice for the experienced amateur astronomer who wants something that is portable and quick to set up.