Hi Matthew,
to ice in space :-)
Why not try a William Optics Zenithstar 71mm which is an ED doublet lens (less false colour and higher quality) here for $499 US
http://www.williamoptics.com/wo_shop...product_id=581
And a carry case here for $48 US
http://www.williamoptics.com/wo_shop...product_id=622
The diagonal is included and the built in foot on the scope I think has a tripod screw on it so you can use it with an adaptor on a photo tripod.
You have to use the foam from the box in the case, but that shouldn't be a problem, the scope is only 310mm retracted so it's small enough as an extra carry on item?
Nice quality scope for a decent price.
Aussie distributor here
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com....tar_megrez.htm
It may be cheaper to order from WO direct, but try above or Astronomy Electronics Centre for local pricing.
Cheers
Chris