What Scope to Get

Equipment
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I am currently in the process of building an observatory in my back garden. Will be putting a Sywatcher EQ8r mount for the telescope. I have Bortle 7 skies, so I understand this would limit the scope’s size. Will mainly be viewing and imaging the planets, however, I will also be doing deep-sky. I will be mainly viewing and imaging the planets, however, I will also be doing deep sky imaging. I have a budget of £8000 for the scope, looking at the Askar 203 APO 203mm f/7 Triplet ED Refractor, the Celestron C11 edge or a 12-16" Orion Optics CT Ultra Newton. Just looking for opinions on what scope would be best for my sky conditions. I like the idea of the refractor having very little maintenance compared to the Newton or SCT needing ollimation on a regular basis.

Thanks
George

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Hi:
First, welcome to this forum.

The best option for observing planets is a refractor telescope. With that 203 mm refractor, you can use It both planets and deep-sky objects (in visual observation and imaging)

In Bortle 7 skies, it’s better smaller telescopes, above 12". In your case and in my opinion, the size shouldn’t be no more than 12".

Regards

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This question is a tough one to answer because the answer will be based on personal preference. If its me doing both visual and AP with one scope i would be going with a good sized SCT.

I think i would be finding a local astro club and see what others in your area are using.

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