Bobsal's suggestion to get a larger aperture is indeed a good one, however, the goodies you intend (or at least would like to have) to get with the LX200 (any size) will be very expensive. The better CCD equipment from Meade is extremely pricey. Even Santa Barabara Intruments (SBIG) CCD's are expensive. That's not counting all the other goodies you'll need for astrophotography.
I'm sure you are a "stout" fellow, but be prepared for the size of a 12" LX200. Even a 10" is "cumbersome" or "bulky". I know this. I had a 12" LX200 for several years and it can be a pain to set up. Most people that have them, that I know, have a permanent or semi-permanent mounting, inclusing home obervatories. I do not know your specific accomodations, but like I said....be prepared. Good Luck!!

• Thanks for the input! - craby - August 28, 2001 - 09:12 UTC