Due to the system, a Newton delivers an upside-down and reversed image. For earth observations you need an erecting lens, then the image orientation is correct. The mount is impractical for terrestrial observations because the mount cannot be lowered to zero degrees pole elevation; but even that can be managed to some extent. If you set the counterweight rod horizontally, you only have to swivel the declination so far that the tube is roughly horizontal. But you can't pan sideways, you have to unscrew the mount on the tripod head and turn it sideways.