8" Vs 10" SCT's

I would like to hear from anyone with viewing experience with a 8" sct and then moved up to a 10" sct. Is it worth the $600., - the extra weight and will I see a significant difference to justify the cost and added weight?

Also, can you really see any difference with the new UHTC coatings?

I live in Melbourne, Fl. and we have moderate light pollution.

I'm trying to get advice before the Meade deal ends.

Thanks for your time and consideration in this very important matter.

Peter

Peter,

Only you can make such decision.

As you have seen the answers are mixed. There is no way any of the folks here nor myself can tell you just how "significant" of a difference you will see. Will you see a gain in resolution and light gathering? Of course! However, to answer the how significant part you must consider your expectations and experience as well. The gain in apperture will only be significant if you use the 10" as much as the smaller scope.

One thing I've noticed with GPS and other GOTO scopes is how little time the users spend at the eyepiece. At times it appears they are on a Messier marathon and just check the EP to log the objects. I can honestly say experience AT the eyepiece savoring and studying objects IN DETAIL rather than a casual glimpse will more than make up for lack of apperture.

Personally the jump from my old C8 to a C9.25 as "significant" enough to eventually trade up.

Best,

Angel

I have used both the 8" and a 10". I can get the 10" up on a wedge by myself, but the transport and setup are such a hassle that the 8" got much more use. I think of scope setup as how many armloads I need to carry everything to where I set up. I can easily carry an 8" SCT on it's tripod in one trip. With the 10", I would rather use a dolly even with just the OTA in it's case. Also, I can put the 8" in a small car.

Charlie