[Mountain_Wanderer]

Interesting stuff indeed. Thanks.

An 8 inch seems to be the ideal size. I mean, if I were to get a 10 inch, it would be longer (so more of a problem in taking places), the scope and mount would be heavier and larger, and it would cost more. Yes, it might deliver more things to see, but would it be practical? Am I likely to grab it and go see? Or would it more likely gather dust?

As a beginner I feel the 8 inch will deliver on my expectations and also be easy to take everywhere, meaning it would get a good deal of use. And, it seems that the astrophotography capabilities of the scope would allow the 8 inch scope's potential to be exploited and expanded even further.

It's sorta like having an acoustic guitar compared to an electric guitar. Most of the time I play my acoustic because it's so much easier to grab and play compared to all the effort required to play the electric guitar. Or, sorta like buying a mountain bike - you don't need the wizz bang dual suspension, expensive super bike to have fun. It's better just to get a decent bike that will do the job and make you happy. Something that won't cost the world and will deliver the goods. Always.

Ok time to stop ranting and start drinking my longneck. Tonight it's Coopers.

Interesting stuff indeed.