The GEM 8" f/4 is indeed a "short tube" Newt. The focus is fast, wouldn't be too bad for deep sky. Planetary viewing may suffer a little, but lunar viewing will be very good. Now you can buy a 8" SCT for less than $1000. Meade has their LXD 300 and their LXD 500. Both are 8" f/10. They come with the tripod that has polar alignment. I have used these scopes before. I have done astrophotography with them and was pretty satisfied with the results. However, you will need to purchase the motor drive separtely. They usually come with a 90 degree prism and 26mm Plossel or Super Plossel. Also Orion has a 4.7" Refractor for less than $1000. Meade has one in place of the LXD 300, 500 series. In the long run, once you have a scope. You'll understand better what you really want concerning accessories. Build up as you go. When I built my 8" Dobs I only had a 17mm eyepiece. Then I built up as I went. Now I just about got everything. I am not that familiar of the Apogee scopes. I realize you want a motor drive too. Meade has the DS series 5" reflector that could come with Auto Star drive for less than $550. If it's arperture your after, be prepared to shell out the bucks for what you want. Happy hunting, and Good Luck!