[aussiepeter (Peter)]

G'day folks

I've been thinking of picking up a telescope, key requirements are 8 inch, portable (compact) and has goto functionality. Don't care about photography. I've mostly looked at the Celestron 8SE which seems pretty ideal, but I'm not really sure what other options exist in other manufacturers (if any). Seems like they no longer make the Meade LT8SC which from what I've read is the equivalent model. Am I missing something, or are Celestron and Meade the main players that fit what I am looking for? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

BTW, I know Celestrons are massively overpriced in Australia, I would most likely buy one from the US when I'm over there later this year...

Thanks
Peter