Meade has announced that the new ETX-LS automated telescope is now shipping. The telescope was first announced at CES back in January and the scope is a completely automatic unit. The ETX-LS is the first and only hands off and self-aligning telescope.

The device uses patented Meade LightSwitch technology to automatically determine the telescope orientation, time, and date and allows the alignment of the device with the flip of a switch. Other features include a built-in speaker and video-out jack.

An integrated Astronomer-inside feature takes users on an exploration of the night sky. The alignment system uses GPS and level north sensors along with an ECLIPS CCD Camera for the LightSwitch technology. The telescope is available now for $1299 with SC optics or $1499 with premium ACF optics.

Via Meade