Kenboy

1 hour ago, carastro said:

Not really a good idea - A large scope on a lightweight mount is asking for problems.  Better to have a sturdier mount and a lighter scope.  I'd suggest an HEQ5 Pro and Skywatcher 130PDS.  Excellent for imaging and not bad visually either.

Will go over your budget a little unless you can find second hand.  You will also need some accessories, like a collimator, a guidescope and camera and an imaging camera once you get into it properly.

Carole   

Thanks for the advice 

Would the iOptron SmartEQ GOTO Mount be a good option for a 130p scope? (it's a lot cheaper than HEQ5) 

Ok thanks for your replies!! 

I think a 130 mm scope with a sturdy mount, would be the best initial setup for me - as I would like to both visual and AP

I can buy a separate Skywatcher 130PDS OTA as you mentioned!

But is there anything cheaper than a HEQ5 mount, that would also return good images. 

Ah thank you for your replies. so many things to consider 😛 , my expectations are realistic though. 

Ideally I'd like to do both visual and AP 

what would you suggest for my budget?? thx  

Sorry people this has probably been asked many times, but I would appreciate some help!

I'm completely new to all of this - I'd like to buy some basic but capable equipment to start with  

Budget is around £500-£600 

Question is:

Skywatcher Explorer 200p + EQ5 mount VS Celestron Astromaster 130EQ 

If I buy the 200p, I'll probably just start out by taking long exposure pictures on it, with my iPhone! 

If I get the 130EQ, I'd have enough money to buy a budget DSLR as well. 

What would you suggest as my first setup?? How much better is the EQ5 mount compared to the CG3 mount? 

Thanks in advance :)