Buying telescopes doesn't always have to be expensive. 90% of the telescopes I own have been bought second hand. You can find great second hand telescopes here in the UK and here in the US. However buying second hand can be a bit of a lottery whereas if you buy from a reputable dealer and you don't like what you've bought you can always return the item. I am affiliated with FLO in the Uk and OPT in the US. Both offer a price match guarantees and are happy to return the items within a 30 day window. Its also worth reminding your better half that you should be able to sell your scope for around 70% of what you bought it for - so don't throw away the packaging!