[luka]

Hi

Would an 8" f/5 Newtonian be much of an upgrade from ED80 for astrophotography?

I know that it is trickier to set up but there is a significant gain in aperture (and almost double magnification) which would help with planetary imaging and visual as well (ED80 is not the best for either).

Also I know that HEQ5 is probably the minimum for 8" Newtonian but how would EQ5 cope with the weight? I just spent all this time/money customising my EQ5 with custom motor drive with GOTO, guiding etc. and would not like to upgrade to HEQ5 at this stage. What about for visual/planetary only?
I can see people putting even 10" on EQ5... I thought that would be crazy.

Thanks
Luka