Viewing and AP

[Northern Otoko]

I have been researching to buy my 1st telescope. I have a set of binoculars that I currently use to find some stars and constellations but I need more to keep me happy. I have always been fascinated with the night sky.
I am looking for something that can be used for viewing but also be adaptable to AP. We currently have an under utilized D90 that I would like to use. I have been reading some material (Clark Starks Affordable Astronomy) that recommends keeping the focal length to less than 1000mm. The 10" Newt Sky watch comes in at 1200mm. Is this mainly due to guiding challenges at higher exposures?

In the last couple of weeks I have changed my mind daily on what I want starting with an 8" Dob (viewing) to the BD SW ED 80 or ED100 (AP), 10" Dob (better viewing), 8" Newt (viewing and AP), 12" Dob (even better viewing). My gut feel now is the Newts will give me better viewing capabilties as well as AP potential. Any recommendations? I am technically inclined and don't mind challenges. I want to see as much as possible from planets to DSO. I want to view and do AP, my wife wants to view hence the reason the ED80 lost its initial appeal. AP will come after I gain more experience with the telescope and save up for the required adapters and accessories.

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance

Etienne

[andrew2008]

Welcome Etienne

There is only 1 solution i see. Get both. A 10" dob for observing and an ED80 on a HEQ5 to start imaging.
Cost of both those together will be roughly the same as a 10" newt on an EQ6 pro. Not sure if you have seen a newt mounted on a GEM before but observing can be difficult and may even require a step ladder when the tube is around zenith. The ED80 will be much easier to learn AP on as the shorter focal length is easier on less accurate polar alignment. The newt will also be difficult to get the DSLR to focus. Probably requiring a low profile focuser or cutting the tube to make it shorter to move the primary closer to the focuser. Good luck!