moon/planets - best scope for under £400?

[brookescourt]

Im after recommendations for the best under £400 scope for the moon & planets?

I would prefer something fairly small and portable if possible and is there anything available that has a goto or tracking system that can be used accurately by hand?

Thanks in advance,

Robin.

[richbyers]

this is one of the most popular scopes with a mount

First Light Optics - Skywatcher Explorer 200P EQ5

theres a 150mm thats cheaper and made for planets with a longer focal length but cant find it

[Rob L]

For moon and planets:

First Light Optics - Skywatcher Skymax 127 SynScan AZ GOTO

[Tribal-Wolf]

this is one of the most popular scopes with a mount

First Light Optics - Skywatcher Explorer 200P EQ5

theres a 150mm thats cheaper and made for planets with a longer focal length but cant find it

THIS one?

[Tribal-Wolf]

For moon and planets:

First Light Optics - Skywatcher Skymax 127 SynScan AZ GOTO

+1 for that.

[John]

I'd agree with the 127mm maksutov-cassegain as a great, compact and portable scope for lunar an planetary viewing. You can seen deep sky objects with it as well of course but it's not a scope for wide, low power views. You will need a dew shield with it as well as they have a tendency to attract dew. GOTO and just tracking versions are available from around £300 I believe.

[tjr]

Would definitely agree with the Skymax 127. It excels at lunar & planetary views. Also great for splitting double stars too due to its long focal length. A 5" aperture will also bag you most of the Messier objects as well.