Hey Matt, I'm puzzled as to why you sold the LX10 SCT and would still consider the Nexstar 8SE. Outside of that I would note that for photograhy, you really don't need aperture, instead you need speed - a fast focal ratio - e.g. F4 is very fast, F6 is average. Also if you keep your focal length below 1,000 mm your tracking will be much easier. However on the visual side, big aperture is required to see DSO. In the long run most people have one rig for Astrophotography and one for visual.

I note that your 10 years with the LX 10 gives you considerably more astro experience than me - but I don't mind giving you my objective opinion. Good luck and have fun.

Hi James

Thanks for your comment. Just because I had the LX10 ten years doesn't mean I used I as much as I should! One of the key reasons for changing was to allow me a GOTO system, also I think it makes sense to chage after a while to see what other scopes have to offer. Thanks for your advice, it was helpful. Regards, Matt

Hey Matt, no worries. I didn't realize the LX10 was not GoTo. I agree on trying new scopes, I change to something new on average about every 2 years. I usually sell the used gear for more than 50% of its cost, so it doesn't cost me a fortune to move on. Good Luck