After much independent research I decided that I would buy the Orion Space Probe 130ST. I went with this particular scope because I wanted the best scope for my money and I wanted it to last me some time if I got even more into it and wanted to try photography, as this scope is capable of the simplest form. I read some other reviews about how this scope is better than the standard 130EQ because (1) it is a short tube design which gives you a wider focal view...F/5 over F/6.9 (2) the telescope comes with better eyepieces instead of the explorer II (3) the main reflective mirror is parabolic so you get a crisper picture that distorts less at higher magnifications. I figured for the extra 40 dollars that it cost, it was well worth it. But the best part was that even though I spent an extra 40 dollars for the scope, I actually saved some money on shipping because it is smaller and weighs less than the standard 130EQ!
I also found out that dew wont build up on this telescope like it will on other closed tube telescopes because the mirror is situated on the bottom of the tube and also is open to the outside air. This particular telescope also comes with a magnifying finder scope so it is easier ti find points of interest instead of looking through a hollow plastic tube with cross hairs, but it looks the same as with your naked eye. The telescope itself is very sleek and it certainly looks like more than 300 dollars worth. After I got used to aligning the mirrors and using it at night, I find myself very happy with my purchase. The telescope too is also still portable because it weighs 40lbs so I can go out by myself and move if I have to and don't have to ask for help like the guys with the 10" reflectors do because they weigh 100lbs sometimes.