rmorrison1116 wrote:
My present telescope, a 8 inch Meade reflector, is getting old and I've been looking into replacing it for a while now. I've done a lot of research on what's available today and have concluded there's way too much information out there to comprehend in my already overloaded mind. I'm looking for some meaningful help.
I'm looking for a scope that may be used for both celestial and terrestrial observations. The image alignment doesn't really matter to me, upside down, right side up, inverse, since my main objective is astrophotography.
I'm looking for a complete package, the OTA and motorized mount and tripod. The scope needs to be portable and durable and my budget, according to the wife anyway, is under $2000 USD. I'm leaning towards a Cassegrain type reflector, preferably a RitcheyChrétien but I'm limited by the budget.
Any useful suggestions or expertise on this issue is greatly appreciated.
My present telescope, a 8 inch Meade reflector, is... (
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Buy a Questar! I purchased one about ten years ago and I can report that it is magnificent. It is everything you are asking for: portable, built-in clock drive, and with its 3.5" mirror it will outperform anything up to 8" in resolving power. The 50th Year Anniversary model is still available. It is a beautiful piece to look at even if it is just for show... And it is made in the USA!