Re: equatorial mount

Orion sells a 10" reflector with an Atlas mount as a package -- so an atlas mount on it's own might work. I think they go for $700-$800 but you may be able to find a used one here.

Good Luck

Some thoughts...

The Atlas mount is probably the only affordable EQ mount that can handle a 10 inch F5 Newtonian and be reasonably solid. I have a 10 inch F5 GSO DOB and have the rings to mount it on my Celestron CG5 ASGT. No way.

A 10 inch F5 scope on an EQ mount is big and awkward. This is something of an issue with setup but your are doing the setup.

However getting a 10 year old to the eyepiece will involve a ladder or some steps and will require frequent assistance rotating the OTA so that the eyepiece is in a comfortable position. There will be issues with the ladder and the counter weight wanting to occupy the same space. Big Newtonians require rotating rings to make them most useable.

An EQ mount sounds like a good idea but if you haven't used a 10 incher on an EQ Mount, I suggest getting a first hand look before you buy.

There is a reason that DOBs are so popular, EQ mounted Newts have been around a long time but DOBs make everything so much more accessible and comfortable.

So, I think the EQ platform is a reasonable solution, it retains the compactness, ease of use, and simplicity of the DOB while providing tracking.

Another alternative would be to purchase a premium eyepiece or two, good eyepieces are a life time investment, something that will pay off in with any scope.

Jon