If anyone has the time could someone please give me a basic run down on the difference between the most popular telescope designs, i.e SCT, Newtonian, Dobsonian, Mak etc.
I have an LX200R which is a Ritchey Cretien. I understand that there is a difference in the optical system between this and that of the old LX200 SCT but I don't know much about other types of reflectors.
When describing my scope to friends I struggle to be able to explain the difference between my RC and an SCT as they look ostensibly the same.
I also note that there are a number of conbinations out there i.e. Newtonian-Cassegrain etc. How does this all work in a description for a layman like myself?
Also are refractors just refractors and then there is a variety of reflectors or is there also a variety of refractors out there?
Thanks