Think I've decided on my first telescope

[Veil]

After much research and deliberation, and a lot of help from users in this forum, I think i'm finally decided on my first scope. I've decided to put my photographic ambitions on hold for the time being and go for a 10" dobsonian.

I'm considering either:

Orion SkyQuest XT10g GOTO 

Orion SkyQuest XT10i  Intelliscope (Push To)

Anyone out there who can give advice one way or the other? What about the size - I'm happy with the dimensions & weight, but would these be a pain to collimate? Other similar scopes worth considering?

Cost is not a massive issue, and either way I will be able to buy a couple of decent EPs to go with it.

Thanks in advance,

[wolfpaw]

After much research and deliberation, and a lot of help from users in this forum, I think i'm finally decided on my first scope. I've decided to put my photographic ambitions on hold for the time being and go for a 10" dobsonian.

I'm considering either:

Orion SkyQuest XT10g GOTO 

Orion SkyQuest XT10i  Intelliscope (Push To)

Anyone out there who can give advice one way or the other? What about the size - I'm happy with the dimensions & weight, but would these be a pain to collimate? Other similar scopes worth considering?

Cost is not a massive issue, and either way I will be able to buy a couple of decent EPs to go with it.

Thanks in advance,

I see you're in London. Will you be able to take the scope out to a dark sky sight?

[NGC 1502]

Either of those two scopes are very capable.  The previous post makes a good point about travel to a dark site.  This scope http://www.firstlightoptics.com/dobsonians/skywatcher-skyliner-250px-flextube-goto.html is similar, but the tube collapses to make it more transportable.

Many (but not everyone) find that after getting used to collimation, it's a non issue. If you are a DIY sort, used to basic tool handling, it will be a non issue for you.

All the best in your choice, Ed.

[Veil]

Thanks for the replies. I'm actually about 25 miles out of london, and within easy reach (10 mins drive) of countryside - presumably as dark as most poeple can manage these days!

[Astro Imp]

Both of those scopes are very well regarded.

Just be aware that with the GOTO option you will need a reliable power source.

[clarkent]

Hi Veil

If you're happy that either will provide a similar viewing experience and the choice is down to whether it is push-to or goto, then perhaps the goto option may afford you more fun and satisfaction in the long run.  

With the XT10g you can of course push-to as well as goto, so perhaps the best of both worlds.

Good luck