KushTROID wrote:Thanks Clifford and Gary for the reply.
As for now, I'm deciding on getting the biggest aperture that could fit in the (suv) boot itself without using any passenger space or at least minimal usage of it. Due to budget and commitment, serious astrophotography would be possible in 2 to 3 years time. I'm interested in dso such as nebulae, star clusters etc. Would a mct or sct be more practical in my situation? Or should I go for dobsonian(truss tube?) instead since I'm going fully visual for the coming years? Any recommendation?
I am mainly a visual person. With that bias, for your case (serious AP in 2 to 3 years and visual preference for DSO), I would say go fully visual with a dob/newt/MCT/SCT for at least 1 year while learning more about AP - e.g. push the limits of your visual system to do whatever AP it is capable of, attend stargazing sessions to learn more about AP while enjoying visual. Without a non-serious AP setup budget, you may have enough leftover funds to get a budget binocular to enhance your visual astronomy experience.
No doubt you want to make use of your car space. But do that note if the telescope is too big/heavy, even the thought bringing it to your car from your house may discourage from observing on most clear enough nights. That's why I am adding MCT/SCT to the list instead of just the biggest dob that can fit into your car. Having said that, if you have the motivation, passion, commitment and energy, then by all means enjoy the wow factor a big aperture dob.
When the time comes to purchase serious AP gear, you will most probably enjoy your visual system so much that you will keep that system too without the need to sell it off. The advantage of going visual first before diving straight into AP is that you can find time to discover what you like to observe and then get the best value for money out of your future AP systems that is most capable of photographing those objects within your budget.
If you can state a rough budget, it will be easier for forum members to give you more specific recommendations.