Celestron Astromaster 130EQ and SkyWatcher SW135

[ManUtdFans (Alan)]

What do you guys think about these 2:
Celestron Astromaster 130EQ and SkyWatcher SW135. Both looks have similar price:
Celestron Astromaster 130EQ with motor drive $429
SkyWatcher SW135 with motor drive $400

Differences SW135 focal length 1000mm, while Astromaster 130 EQ has 650mm. Not sure how to choose which one?

At the moment not sure my targets will be, first will be moon and then other planets.

[glend (Glen)]

I have the 130 Astro with the motor drive and its a pretty good scope for the money. It came with a good red dot finder but I added a finder scope as well. Re the motor drive be aware it only drives ascension you still need the flexi knob for declination, but at least your not turning two at once. It's been semi-retired as my 12" Dob gets used more these days, but its a quick setup.

You can find the Celestron on sale for less than the price you've mentioned, which is probably RRP, I've seen them for $389.

Re the Sk?ywatcher I have no experience other than seeing them around.

[ManUtdFans (Alan)]

Thanks Glend.
The Astro I found here:
http://www.telescopesdirect.com.au/T...ctor-Telescope

Where did you find the price of $389?

I have my budget up to $500, so if I go for Astro 130 then I might still have some left for upgrade of eyepiece or something later.
Or I should got for next higher model?
eg.
SkyWatcher 150p?
http://crazystu.com.au/skywatcher-15...telescope.html
But this does not have motor drive.

As for some other suggest to buy Dob as first scope, but I think it is not easy for Astro-photography I guess for my budget and hard to find a sturdy table.

[glend (Glen)]

Your may have problems doing astrophotography on a Newt with only one driven axis, unless your doing very short exposures. You might get away with short exposures of the bright moon. I'd suggest starting out with visual observation until you learn the sky and how to find things, etc.

Either of those newts will work fine for visual use as a starter scope, which is where they are pitched in the market.

As to the $389, that was a price I saw around last Christmas, if you keep an eye out on the Net, they do go on special from time to time, but you have to wait.

Perhaps have a look at the 'For Sale' section here on IIS as you might be able to pick up a good second hand scope in your budget range.