Schmidt Cassegrain Telescopes
In the Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope the light enters the scope through a thin Schmidt correcting lens, then strikes the primary mirror, then is reflected back up the tube and intercepted by a small secondary mirror which reflects the light out an opening in the rear of the instrument where the image is formed at the eyepiece. They are lighter than Maksutov-Cassegrain models and tend to be less expensive than the Maksutovs. Schmidt-Cassegrains are more popular for astrophotography.
Maksutov Cassegrain Telescopes
The Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope is very similar to the Schmidt model, but the Maksutov uses mirrors and lenses to condense light and make the tube length less. Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes tend to be heavier and a bit more costly than the Schmidt varieties, but they produce brighter visual results.
Cassegrain Telescopes
Cassegrain telescopes literally "bend" the light coming into the telescope by using a series of mirrors, which greatly reduces the length of the scope, and reduces the weight, too. There are several different types of Cassegrain scopes" Schmidt-Cassegrain, Maksutov-Cassegrain, and Schmidt Cameras. Each type produces different results. To find out the differences, read a telescope buying guide, to decide which type of Cassegrain telescope is right for you.
Schmidt Camera Cassegrain
The Schmidt Camera Cassegrain is used expressly for astrophotography, it cannot be used for general viewing. This telescope was actually the prototype for the Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes used for both viewing and astrophotography.
Cassegrain Optics
Cassegrain optics are superior to general refractor-type telescopes because they produce more light and visual clarity in a smaller "package." Most top-of-the-line home telescopes use Cassegrain optics for the best results. If you want to do astrophotography then a Cassegrain telescope provides the perfect optics to attach your camera and shoot away.