I can't argue with what's been said here in terms of value for money, but I'd add simply not to forget giving a good refractor some consideration as well. Often easy to transport and rarely needs collimation. It can be put onto a decent mount.
I'd also support the notion of not diving into a GoTo mount just yet. They're a great thing, don't get me wrong, but without it you have to visually learn the night sky. A handy skill for a budding astrophysicist.
Let us know how you go. I look forward to reading your son's name in the scientific journals in years to come.
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