Quote:
Originally Posted by raymo
If you are talking new gear rather than used, there are several ways you can go,
depending on how important extra aperture is to you, and how important
astro imaging is, because all scopes are compromises.
You are obviously used to using a Newtonian, and know that the
eyepiece can get into some inconvenient positions. If you are happy
with a Newt, I suggest the Skywatcher HEQ5 Pro GOTO and the 8" f/5[200mm]
Newt that are often sold as a package around $1700-1800.
To get more aperture with GOTO capability, but not so versatile
photographically, you could get a Skywatcher 10"[250mm] GOTO
collapsible Dobsonian.[otherwise known as a Flexdob].You would
have some change left over for any desired accessories.
For high quality planetary work you could get a 6"[150mm]
Maksutov, on the aforementioned HEQ5 mount for around $2000,
but it is rather slow photographically.
Finally, you could get a small APO refractor on a GOTO mount
which would give first class imaging results, but not so good
for fainter objects visually because of it's small aperture.
As I said, all scopes are a compromise. Your choice; I hope
this helped.
raymo
P.S. I have no connection whatever with Skywatcher.
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Thanks that is a big help. They all look good but will have to figure out what is best for my interests. The Skywatcher Explorer 200P HEQ5 PRO looks like the best all rounder. Might head out and try a few of these at some viewing nights. Thanks for all the suggestions!