Hi all,
I am looking to purchase an SCT, with an aperture from 9.25 to 11 inches.
My last scopes were a 10 inch Newtonian, and an 8 inch SCT (Nexstar), things I am looking for, as in a basic list of requirements are:
- Aperture: 9.25 to 11 inch (Pref for 11 inch)
- GPS
- Goto Facility (accurate, and quick alignment process), updatable and customisable object database.
- Long exposure astrophotography possible
- Ease of use, and quick setup
- Stable Mount
- Preference for lower overall weight, as I am now 59 yo
- SCT preferable
- High quality, and problem free equipment
- Setup done by the shop I buy it from, so it is ready to use
Price is important to me, and my budget is from $5K to $7K, depending on what is on offer.
Can anyone provide any info on the current range of scopes in this category, and some basic recommendations on a specific model that is reliable and has good reviews?
I want to use it for:
Planetary observation, Deep sky objects, Messier/Caldwell marathons, Astrophotography, Observation of comets and asteroids/minor planets primarily.
This is probably going to be my last major scope purchase, so I want to get it right.
Any advice gratefully received, and if you need additional info, let me know.
Regards