There are a lot of dynamics to buying pinballs, and especially as a new collector you tend to do better by being more open to options.

There have been several games mentioned so far that are fantastic (Flash Gordon and Pinbot), but will likely be above the 2k budget, especially in any type of decent working condition. That brings me to my next point: Are you wiling to put in any wrench time, or do you need it to be 100%? That will also be a big difference in what you can/should get.

Also, how flexible are you on theme? Being open to various themes often leads to a wider net cast and better options. Bally Paragon is one of the most underrated/undervalued pins in existence, and it is in your price range. It isn't spaced themed, but it is an amazing game that will "wow" family and guests. Food for thought.

Here are my suggestions for space (space-ish) type games:

In your price range; firepower, firepower II, stars, time machine, space shuttle, space station, big guns, laser cue, galaxy, black hole, blackout, meteor, countdown, flight 2000

Just above your price range (would require additional funds, finding a smoking deal, or wrench time for a non-100% game):
Pinbot, Flash Gordon, Stargate

The choice is obviously your own, but I would recommend a few things: be willing to add some money for a better or higher quality game, consider other themes as well, look for games that require just a bit of work to get going so you can save some money on a better pin.

P.S. I have a friend with a very nice Williams Big Guns for sale here on pinside. You would have to have it shipped, but it's a great game in good condition with your desired theme and price point. If interested, contact dc2010

Look on the pinside.com map for other pinheads near you as well as technicians. There are lots of pinsiders close to you. You can also check craigslist and Facebook for pin listings and pin techs in your area.

Pins can be found in the same places (Facebook, craigslist, letgo, pinside, 5 mile, estatesales.com)

Lost world for 650 in Ames, IA

https://m.facebook.com/marketplace/item/309291163531518/?ref=browse_tab&search_query=pinball&tracking=%7B%22qid%22%3A%226901071037771474308%22%2C%22mf_story_key%22%3A%224681312541943285%22%2C%22commerce_rank_obj%22%3A%22%7B%5C%22target_id%5C%22%3A4681312541943285%2C%5C%22target_type%5C%22%3A0%2C%5C%22primary_position%5C%22%3A-1%2C%5C%22ranking_signature%5C%22%3A0%2C%5C%22commerce_channel%5C%22%3A503%2C%5C%22value%5C%22%3A0%2C%5C%22upsell_type%5C%22%3Anull%7D%22%7D