congratulations on the wonderful choice of how to spend your free time!
just today I ranted for an hour or so about how much there is to learn and do in this hobby. it's soo much variety - it will keep me hooked for years, I feel.
as to your equipment I will not dare to make any recommendations, being so new to all, myself.
but congratulations here, too, that you can invest such a lovely sum!
if you get a scope that's first class for astrophotography, you will have enough money to spare to get eyepieces and stuff that will cover the other end of the pure visual observation.
or buy two scopes?
anyway - welcome aboard and enjoy the ride!
