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Equipment Discussions >> Reflectors

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Jason B
My wife says I am Obsessed...

Reged: 06/21/04

Loc: Mid-Michigan

Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2
#2385638 - 05/10/08 04:34 PM

You can find part 1 here.

Thanks and keep posting the pics!

Jason

Post Extras:

jg3
sage

Reged: 05/27/07

Loc: near Auburn, CA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2388343 - 05/11/08 08:58 PM Attachment (1937 downloads)

The post-a-pic thread is one of my favorites, with great ideas and examples of craftsmanship by the DIYers, and closer looks at what's out there with manufactured scopes. The moderator split the thread into a part 2 not because of mine, but because of so many before.

Finally got a good pic of my 12.5-inch f/6.3 Newtonian, completed over a year ago. (And finally learned how to post pictures here!) They should take me away for putting such a large scope on top of a Meade LXD-75 mount! It rocks 'n rolls (in the motion sense); photography is unthinkable. But views of DSOs and planets alike have been thrilling. The OTA structure itself is rock-solid, and would be great in a "Dob" mount, but I like the goto and tracking. My first DIY scope - many lessons learned and modifications planned.

Features:

- Split truss great for getting through doorways - the bulky upper unit is light in weight.
- Box pier built to hold the scope as low as possible, and permits views to the zenith.
- Extended counterweight shaft with only 20 lbs balances the 40 lb scope. (Total supported weight is the same as Meade's SN-10 setup, but the bending moments are greater.)

Components, credits:

- Primary mirror made locally by the shop now known as Optic Wave Labs
- Protostar secondary mirror and arch vane
- Wyoroc focuser
- University Optics floatation cell (discontinued)
- Stellarvue right-angle finder (local)
- Silenx 12VDC fan from Fry's is silent and vibration-free (it doesn't eliminate thermals from the pavement, however.)
- R.F. Royce for construction concepts (Many liberties taken; I might have also used his rotating head design, but needed to save weight.)

jg3
near Auburn, CA

Post Extras:

Eaiello1086
sage

Reged: 02/26/07

Loc: Saugerties, NY and Oneonta, NY...

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jg3]
#2388393 - 05/11/08 09:19 PM

That's somethin' else, jg3! I'm a fan!

Post Extras:

fireman
professor emeritus

Reged: 07/27/07

Loc: Houston, Texas

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eaiello1086]
#2388412 - 05/11/08 09:26 PM

WOW! If you did the woodwork I'm impressed! Very cool! Like you background too!

Post Extras:

Greg K.

Reged: 12/11/03

Loc: Clifton Park, NY

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jg3]
#2388772 - 05/12/08 12:05 AM

Quote:

Finally got a good pic of my 12.5-inch f/6.3 Newtonian, completed over a year ago. (And finally learned how to post pictures here!) They should take me away for putting such a large scope on top of a Meade LXD-75 mount! It rocks 'n rolls (in the motion sense); photography is unthinkable. But views of DSOs and planets alike have been thrilling. The OTA structure itself is rock-solid, and would be great in a "Dob" mount, but I like the goto and tracking. My first DIY scope - many lessons learned and modifications planned.

Beautiful scope, but that LXD75 looks like it's screaming in pain.

Post Extras:

Tinker
super member

Reged: 05/26/07

Loc: Stillwater OK

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Greg K.]
#2388979 - 05/12/08 03:52 AM Attachment (1265 downloads)

Just your basic Chinese Dob under a soon to be dark sky.

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Shawn H
Postmaster

Reged: 05/16/07

Loc: Equatorial Guinea, West Africa

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tinker]
#2389333 - 05/12/08 09:57 AM

Yours looks like mine

! Missing the Telrad though

! Shawn

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Tom Andrews
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 01/25/07

Loc: Albuquerque, NM

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jg3]
#2389750 - 05/12/08 01:24 PM

Quote:

They should take me away for putting such a large scope on top of a Meade LXD-75 mount!

WOW! Love that DIY mentality! Congratulations on a very unconventional setup!

Post Extras:

InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tom Andrews]
#2424631 - 05/28/08 12:49 PM Attachment (1228 downloads)

This is my first scope. It’s small and humble, but I can fit an entire galaxy in there!

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InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: InkDark]
#2424635 - 05/28/08 12:49 PM Attachment (754 downloads)

And up close...

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Nodinute
member

Reged: 06/05/07

Loc: 49°21'N / 6°10′E

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2425022 - 05/28/08 03:58 PM Attachment (1149 downloads)

This is Darth Vader's scope...

SkyVision UC 12.5" F/4 (ultra compact).
More pics here
Clear skies

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skyward_eyes

Reged: 12/12/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2426640 - 05/29/08 12:04 PM

Nice everyone

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MDearingJaxFL
Astronomicus

Reged: 08/28/04

Loc: Florida

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: skyward_eyes]
#2427919 - 05/29/08 09:53 PM Attachment (830 downloads)

Enterprise Optics 6" F/4 imaging reflector

:>) mark

Edited by MDearingJaxFL (05/31/08 03:16 AM)

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dozer613
member

Reged: 08/01/04

Loc: Chicago,IL

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: MDearingJaxFL]
#2428412 - 05/30/08 04:36 AM Attachment (981 downloads)

Here is my baby along with the observatory that I built
14.5" Nightsky

Post Extras:

csa/montana
Den Mama

Reged: 05/14/05

Loc: montana

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: dozer613]
#2428689 - 05/30/08 09:53 AM Attachment (937 downloads)

Here"s my brand new AT16": (with my 8" Dob, recently sold)

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Sundown6
member

Reged: 01/26/08

Loc: Palo Alto, Ca

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2428714 - 05/30/08 10:01 AM Attachment (821 downloads)

This is my AP setup

Post Extras:

bsim
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 01/04/08

Loc: Miskatonic

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Sundown6]
#2428833 - 05/30/08 10:52 AM

Here's my Teeter's 10" f/6 dob:

Post Extras:

InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Sundown6]
#2428866 - 05/30/08 11:06 AM

Its fun to go through this thread (and part 1) and see the different equipment and the ingenuity that some used to personalize their settings. What I really enjoy though is seeing the observation sites in the pictures of some folks (for example Carol’s, Scott’s, jg3’s above... among others). There’s just something about looking at a scope in its playing field.

Post Extras:

scott m
sage

Reged: 12/06/07

Loc: Hatfield Pa

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2431410 - 05/31/08 12:53 PM Attachment (949 downloads)

From a recent camping trip.

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Dave.
member

Reged: 01/07/06

Loc: Australia.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2432253 - 05/31/08 09:02 PM Attachment (779 downloads)

Nice scopes here again. I have updated my mount with a new pier. All works well.

Post Extras:

Thunderhead
professor emeritus

Reged: 08/27/05

Loc: Melbourne, Australia

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Dave.]
#2432425 - 05/31/08 10:58 PM

^^ Hey Dave haven't see you around here before! That's a hot looking setup

Seeing as I've practically bought your entire astro suite, can I have that aswell?

My two dobs:

Edited by Thunderhead (06/01/08 06:53 PM)

Post Extras:

jhors
Riddle me this

Reged: 07/16/07

Loc: Mesa, AZ

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tinker]
#2433610 - 06/01/08 04:44 PM Attachment (350 downloads)

Quote:

Just your basic Chinese Dob under a soon to be dark sky.

Mine too

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dav1d89
member

Reged: 07/30/07

Loc: Dorset, England

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jhors]
#2438882 - 06/04/08 08:30 AM

My scope and observing assistant

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EJN
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 11/01/05

Loc: Highway 61

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: dav1d89]
#2446631 - 06/08/08 01:41 AM Attachment (452 downloads)

Starsplitter 8" f/6, repainted and refinished
by me.

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Tom Andrews
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 01/25/07

Loc: Albuquerque, NM

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: EJN]
#2447300 - 06/08/08 01:34 PM Attachment (426 downloads)

Quote:

Starsplitter 8" f/6, repainted and refinished by me.

Very nice work!

Here's my two: Discovery 12.5" split-tube (2007) and 8" Coulter Odessey (1988).

Post Extras:

Sean Cunneen
Let Me Think

Reged: 08/01/07

Loc: Blue Island Illinois

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tom Andrews]
#2454219 - 06/11/08 04:20 PM Attachment (590 downloads)

Here is my newly finished (but they never really are, aren't they?) 8" f/8 Newtonian mounted on a CG5 Pier. With the exception of the finder and focuser, The scope is almost entirely handmade and/or Heavily modified. The build is documented in the ATM forum as the " 8" f/8 newtonian project started!" thread. I'd post a link, but I am better with a saw than with a keyboard. The scope features a 3 vane curved spider, adjustable depth mirror cell. The mirror is a Discovery Plate glass, 1/13 RMS. the secondary is a 1/10th wave 1.6" diameter pyrex mirror. The mount is a motorized Cg-5 mounted on a TAL pier. The cords have been removed just for the photo. Images are wonderful and collimation is a piece of cake. It took me outside of 3 months start to finish and my wife couldn't be happier!

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rnabholz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 07/25/04

Loc: Iowa

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Sean Cunneen]
#2456890 - 06/12/08 09:24 PM Attachment (583 downloads)

Two pictures - first one is the "just out of the shop - first light" shot

Post Extras:

rnabholz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 07/25/04

Loc: Iowa

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: rnabholz]
#2456896 - 06/12/08 09:26 PM Attachment (551 downloads)

Three years later......can you say Project Creep?

Are they ever done?

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Don W
demi-god

Reged: 05/19/03

Loc: Wisconsin, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: rnabholz]
#2456916 - 06/12/08 09:38 PM

Very nice, but it looks somehow unfinished.

Post Extras:

rnabholz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 07/25/04

Loc: Iowa

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Don W]
#2456923 - 06/12/08 09:41 PM

Maybe a pair of Fuzzy Dice hanging from the focuser?

Post Extras:

jayscheuerle
Post Laureate

Reged: 01/16/06

Loc: S. Philadelphia, PA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: rnabholz]
#2457587 - 06/13/08 09:51 AM

Rod, what's the secondary arrangement on that like? Do you have a pic?

Post Extras:

rnabholz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 07/25/04

Loc: Iowa

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jayscheuerle]
#2457711 - 06/13/08 11:01 AM Attachment (500 downloads)

Here was the original. 1/8" aluminum.

In the end I found that the aluminum slotted plate that the secondary attached to was not as stout as I would have liked and tended to bend during transport.

So back to the drawing board and .........

Post Extras:

rnabholz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 07/25/04

Loc: Iowa

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: rnabholz]
#2457732 - 06/13/08 11:11 AM Attachment (416 downloads)

....a curved spider is the replacement. Same 1/8 material, but the secondary mounting bracket is steel this time and very solid. Seen here just after fabrication and before painting.

If you are considering a similar style of scope, I would point you to Ron Ravneberg's 10" (about half way down the page) as a model. He has combined the function of a curved spider and the behind the secondary light baffle into a single piece. Very elegant and very convenient.

I was strongly considering this approach when looking to replace my V shaped spider, but in the end, the specific particulars of my scope's design did not lend itself well to a retrofit.

Rod

Post Extras:

frankcf5
member

Reged: 09/27/05

Loc: Carbondale, Colorado

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: rnabholz]
#2457978 - 06/13/08 01:04 PM Attachment (487 downloads)

Nice scopes everyone. Heres my Astrosystems 12 1/2" "Telekit", Ostahowski primary, Feathertouch focuser, Stellarvue f50 finder, Sky Commander.

Post Extras:

frankcf5
member

Reged: 09/27/05

Loc: Carbondale, Colorado

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: frankcf5]
#2457981 - 06/13/08 01:06 PM Attachment (339 downloads)

Another view- upper end w/ F50 finderscope

Post Extras:

Shawn H
Postmaster

Reged: 05/16/07

Loc: Equatorial Guinea, West Africa

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: frankcf5]
#2458008 - 06/13/08 01:27 PM

Frank
Are you comfortable with the focuser on top?

I'm use to having them on the side where your Telrad is. Shawn

Post Extras:

frankcf5
member

Reged: 09/27/05

Loc: Carbondale, Colorado

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Shawn H]
#2458303 - 06/13/08 04:15 PM

Hi Shawn, as I recall the focuser is about 20-25 degrees down the side from vertical. At zenith my feet straddle the back corner of the scope, and at the horizon I am still looking down into the into the eyepiece. I find it pretty close to just right for me, however next time I may want the focuser a few degees down more towards the side. I think somewhere between where I have it now and where the Telrad is would be ideal for me. The reason being that with a tall eyepieces(Ethos) or a tall eyepiece and a barlow/powermate I am just an inch or 2 short of flat-footed viewing when the scope is just a little ways tilted from zenith. An upper cage that could rotate a bit either way would be a wonderful thing for my situation were the scopes eyepiece height (at zenith) and my eyeheight are about equal. Frank

Post Extras:

Juha
member

Reged: 06/13/08

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2458437 - 06/13/08 05:32 PM Attachment (409 downloads)

And my 200mm/1000mm/F5 Dobs, Helios.

Edited by Juha (06/16/08 01:40 PM)

Post Extras:

Deep13
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 01/25/05

Loc: NE Ohio

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Dave.]
#2458549 - 06/13/08 06:40 PM

Those refractor folks are way ahead of us in photos! I've got one I can post a little later.

Post Extras:

Steem
member

Reged: 02/01/07

Loc: Apeldoorn, The Netherlands

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Thunderhead]
#2460341 - 06/14/08 05:33 PM

Here's a picture of my 200mm GSO on the Losmandy GM-8. The GSO is fitted with a single speed crayford focuser and a red dot finder (don't know which brand). A motorfocuser is on the way. Visually I use the Vixen LVW's and they keep down the coma, when photographing I use the Baader coma corrector. It does quite a good job but there is still some coma visible. Nevertheless, I like it!

Post Extras:

Jared
Post Laureate

Reged: 10/11/05

Loc: Piedmont, California, U.S.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2460425 - 06/14/08 06:32 PM Attachment (496 downloads)

I am mostly a refractor kind of guy, but I just purchased my first reflector in some years... A Vixen VC200L classical Cassegrain that I picked up to do some longer focal length imaging. First light was last weekend, and you can find the results here and here.

The scope is riding on an Astro-Physics Mach1 GTO (which is why I was able to move to the longer focal length in the first place--the GM-8 just wasn't up to imaging at focal lengths longer than about 1,000mm.) So far, I am really pleased with the scope. The field is amazingly flat even using a full frame 35mm CCD camera.

Post Extras:

Hal Pollner

Reged: 08/30/05

Loc: Southern California Desert

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jared]
#2460439 - 06/14/08 06:43 PM Attachment (576 downloads)

Here's a Family Portrait of my "current" telescopes. (the stable changes every year)

See if you can guess the identity of the five telescopes shown:

Nice Skies...
HAL

Edited by Hal Pollner (06/14/08 06:49 PM)

Post Extras:

spoolboyy
sage

Reged: 08/01/05

Loc: Silverdale, WA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Hal Pollner]
#2461048 - 06/15/08 03:31 AM

gotta love that starblast!

Post Extras:

Joe_Malik
member

Reged: 05/31/08

Loc: Austria, Europe

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Steem]
#2461056 - 06/15/08 03:56 AM

This is my personal No.1-scope 8" f/6 Sky-Watcher Dobsonian waiting for clear Bortle 2-skies near my hometown in the Austrian Alps.

I pimped this scope as follows: replaced Rack & Pinion-Focuser with the new Sky-Watcher Crayford, Teflon-Ebony Star in azimuth axis and lined the tube with velours foil to boost the contrast. I like this pic a lot.

Picture did not post. Strange link removed by moderator.

Edited by Don W (06/17/08 10:17 AM)

Post Extras:

bsim
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 01/04/08

Loc: Miskatonic

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: frankcf5]
#2462359 - 06/15/08 09:15 PM

Frank is that a custom mount for your Sky Commander computer? I like the setup.

Post Extras:

frankcf5
member

Reged: 09/27/05

Loc: Carbondale, Colorado

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: bsim]
#2463417 - 06/16/08 01:36 PM

bsim, I made the Sky Commander holder from 1/8" aluminum sheet. If you would like additional pictures let me know.
Frank
Carbondale, CO

Post Extras:

jeffg
member

Reged: 02/13/07

Loc: Irvine CA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2464359 - 06/16/08 10:39 PM Attachment (511 downloads)

Here's the result of the 3rd rebuild of my 10 inch Dob with a 1981 Coulter mirror. It's modeled after a design in S&T around 2000. The little red dots are labels so I can assemble the struts without much trial and error.

Post Extras:

llanitedave
Humble Megalomaniac

Reged: 09/26/05

Loc: Amargosa Valley, NV, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jeffg]
#2464469 - 06/16/08 11:29 PM

That's a unique and fascinating design, Jeff! Wow!

Post Extras:

OGarza
member

Reged: 09/21/06

Loc: Bay City Tx.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2466516 - 06/17/08 10:17 PM

Ready for the night at Big Bend Nationl Park with my Orion Atlas 10".

Post Extras:

OGarza
member

Reged: 09/21/06

Loc: Bay City Tx.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: OGarza]
#2466531 - 06/17/08 10:25 PM Attachment (466 downloads)

OOPS !!!

Post Extras:

skyward_eyes

Reged: 12/12/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: OGarza]
#2467294 - 06/18/08 10:50 AM

WOW! I bet those are are some very nice skies out there. Very nice shot as well. Where is that located?

Post Extras:

OGarza
member

Reged: 09/21/06

Loc: Bay City Tx.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: skyward_eyes]
#2467575 - 06/18/08 01:29 PM Attachment (432 downloads)

The sky is as dark as you will find in Texas. The camp site is about 12 miles west of Panther Junction,which is pretty much in the heart of the park. The road taken to reach the site is a rocky gravel road that allows maybe 4mph and is about 3 miles off the blacktop. The picture I used is facing northeast. Attached is a pic. facing opposite to show just how awsome a location. The night sky is just as breath taking.

Post Extras:

Scanning4Comets
Markus

Reged: 12/26/04

Loc: Deep Space!

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: OGarza]
#2468333 - 06/18/08 07:23 PM

Very nice scopes!!!!

Post Extras:

Hal Pollner

Reged: 08/30/05

Loc: Southern California Desert

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Scanning4Comets]
#2468381 - 06/18/08 07:46 PM Attachment (397 downloads)

Here's a shot of my 12.5" Discovery PDHQ dob in a dark-sky area just outside my High Desert neighborhood.

HAL the ELDER

Edited by Hal Pollner (06/18/08 07:48 PM)

Post Extras:

llanitedave
Humble Megalomaniac

Reged: 09/26/05

Loc: Amargosa Valley, NV, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: OGarza]
#2468710 - 06/18/08 10:53 PM

Quote:

The sky is as dark as you will find in Texas. The camp site is about 12 miles west of Panther Junction,which is pretty much in the heart of the park. The road taken to reach the site is a rocky gravel road that allows maybe 4mph and is about 3 miles off the blacktop. The picture I used is facing northeast. Attached is a pic. facing opposite to show just how awsome a location. The night sky is just as breath taking.

Not fair! I think all pictures that show both a scope AND the Chisos mountains should be banned!

That's just too much "rubbing it in!"

Haven't been there in years, but it still holds some of my fondest memories ever!

Post Extras:

OGarza
member

Reged: 09/21/06

Loc: Bay City Tx.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2468957 - 06/19/08 01:21 AM

Hello Dave; I'm glad that you enjoyed the pics. in that they stired fond memories. I try to visit the park at least once a year. I'm reminded of a poem by Ralf Hodgson: I stood upon that silent hill and stared into the sky until my eyes were blind with stars and still I stared into the sky. Big Bend is indeed a wonderful place.

Post Extras:

jblaschke
super member

Reged: 03/07/08

Loc: New Braunfels, Texas

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: OGarza]
#2468989 - 06/19/08 01:42 AM

Ah, I miss the Chisos. Beautiful country, and pretty much the darkest skies I've ever seen.

Here's mine, a 6" Meade 645. This is a pic I cropped from another image. The 645's currently undergoing major restoration, which I'll post a finished shot of when complete.

Hopefully, I'll be able to bet it away from these light polluted skies before long!

Post Extras:

F.Meiresonne
Post Laureate

Reged: 12/22/03

Loc: Eeklo,Belgium

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Hal Pollner]
#2469158 - 06/19/08 06:50 AM

Ah Hal,

Stop posting pictures of those incredible cool environments..wich are absolutly out of my range....

It's driving me nuts....

Post Extras:

mtngoat62
sage

Reged: 12/04/06

Loc: USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: dozer613]
#2469251 - 06/19/08 08:07 AM

Wow!! Gorgeous Scopes Everyone!!

I love the observatories - both natural and manmade!!

Post Extras:

astro_baby
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 06/17/08

Loc: United Kingdom

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Dave.]
#2470389 - 06/19/08 05:12 PM Attachment (485 downloads)

Heres me and my two babies - The smaller one is a
Sky- Watcher 130PM (5.1") on an EQ2 mount with motor. The bigger one is a Sky-Watcher 200P ( 8" )on an HEQ5 mount.

I live in an apartment so I have a maximum size I can handle as I have to lug them up 6 flights of stairs.

Post Extras:

OGarza
member

Reged: 09/21/06

Loc: Bay City Tx.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: astro_baby]
#2471140 - 06/19/08 11:44 PM

Hello Lady and WELCOME to Cloudy Nights. Six flights of stairs??? Thats what I call the love of star gazeing.
Nice scopes !!!

Post Extras:

JoshuaH
journeyman

Reged: 07/27/07

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 *DELETED* *DELETED* new

[Re: OGarza]
#2471148 - 06/19/08 11:52 PM

Post deleted by JoshuaH

Post Extras:

o1d_dude
o1der than dirt

Reged: 10/03/07

Loc: The Wolfpack

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: JoshuaH]
#2471242 - 06/20/08 12:55 AM

I'm impressed A_B.

Six flights is a lot of stairs to navigate just to view the stars. That explains the running shoes. I imagine the return trip back up to your apartment is the worst of the two.

Edited by o1d_dude (06/20/08 12:58 AM)

Post Extras:

astro_baby
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 06/17/08

Loc: United Kingdom

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: astro_baby]
#2471331 - 06/20/08 02:47 AM

Well its six flights of stairs and then across a small lawn to the car ( its a tiny sports coupe so a bit of a squeeze ). Then I have to transport them about 10 miles to a decent dark sky site. Walk the last 400 yards because the track ends before the site. Unload and set-up and then pack up again.

For some stuff and if I am feeling lazy I open a window and let the room in the apartment chill down to outside tempterature and then just view from the flat. It has its advantages for Jupiter at the moment. Jupiter being so low in the sky would mean theres be very poor chance of seeing it from ground level in any sort of built up area. Being 3 floors up and taller than any of the surrounding houses means I get a good view of the Southern, Western and Northern Horizons ( no view East though ). I know its not the best way to observe from inside a house but I think 20 minutes of observing under less than ideal conditions is better than nothing at all.

I suppose it keeps an old lady like me fit for sure. Especially the lugging the HEQ5 up and down the stairs which is like a work out in itself.

Seeing all the amazing home brew scopes on here makes me feel positively idle just buying mine. Thats dedication making your own stuff.

Post Extras:

taffy
sage

Reged: 01/22/08

Loc: Somerset UK

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: astro_baby]
#2471934 - 06/20/08 11:31 AM

Like the scopes astro baby. I'm sure the people on SGL would like to see a photo of your scopes.

taffy

Post Extras:

astro_baby
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 06/17/08

Loc: United Kingdom

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: taffy]
#2472292 - 06/20/08 01:43 PM

Nah taffy - on SGL they all either have the same or better. I only posted here cos I liked looking at the other pics on here and the ingenuity of the home brewed stuff. Thought the least I could do was reciprocate.

I did think of putting on something a bit sassy and try and look like an old Celestron Ad

Post Extras:

ken scharf
sage

Reged: 02/09/08

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: astro_baby]
#2472701 - 06/20/08 05:09 PM

As a teen I built a 6" F8 reflector on a pipe thread GEM mount on a homebrew tripod. I put wheels on the tripod so I could roll it around (removed them before use). I lived on the second floor of an apartment building in Brooklyn NYC. I took the elevator to the basement so I could roll the scope up the ramp to the street (instead of a flight of stairs down from the 1st floor). Then had to roll the scope
across the street to a parking lot for the supermarket that was dark when the store closed for the night. As close to a 'dark sky' location that I could find. Still I did manage to find 6 of the planets (Mercury and Uranus were the hardest).

Post Extras:

DaemonGPF
Redonkulous

Reged: 03/22/08

Loc: Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: ken scharf]
#2473140 - 06/20/08 09:15 PM

Here's mine:

C10N-GT, Starshoot 4.5

Post Extras:

lymorkiew45
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 12/30/07

Loc: Surfing the galaxy...

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2473180 - 06/20/08 09:35 PM

nice setup!

Post Extras:

OGarza
member

Reged: 09/21/06

Loc: Bay City Tx.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2473340 - 06/20/08 11:13 PM

Now that's a sweet set up.

Post Extras:

bsim
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 01/04/08

Loc: Miskatonic

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2473745 - 06/21/08 08:17 AM

Off topic, but you have a MAME cabinet!

Is that a home-built cab? I love the four joysticks. Must be great for Gauntlet and other four player games.

Post Extras:

Don W
demi-god

Reged: 05/19/03

Loc: Wisconsin, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: bsim]
#2474553 - 06/21/08 04:20 PM

Please stay on subject. If you want to talk about something else, then send a private message.

Post Extras:

Siguy
sage

Reged: 01/05/08

Loc: Massachusetts

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Don W]
#2474922 - 06/21/08 08:46 PM

Wow, that's a big downsizing! @.@

Has the Starshoot 4.5 worked well for you?

Post Extras:

DaemonGPF
Redonkulous

Reged: 03/22/08

Loc: Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Siguy]
#2475021 - 06/21/08 09:52 PM

Thanks everyone. The Starshoot has only been out once thus far. I didn't have much time with it, but it looks like it will do the job for a lightweight portable setup. It needs an aftermarket focuser though, the stock one is kinda cheap. Definitely lighter load on the mount for sure.

The C10 is an amazing piece of equipment, just not allowed to haul it on family trips, thus the Orion starblast.

Actually, the MAME cabinet does have some relevance, I do a lot of image processing on it as the machine I put together in it is seriously potent in the graphics rendering aspects lol. And, yes, I designed it all myself, gauntlet was the inspiration. = ) You're welcome to PM me on the specs.

Edited by DaemonGPF (06/21/08 09:53 PM)

Post Extras:

MikeCatfin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 03/12/04

Loc: NJ, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2479838 - 06/24/08 10:51 AM

Being a refractor guy, I wanted to try out a dob; never having owned one. I picked this up last week and had one outing with it and had a lot of fun with it. Discovery 8" f6; not sure how old it is though. And no that is not some kind of ancient finder under the Telrad!

Post Extras:

Deep13
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 01/25/05

Loc: NE Ohio

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: MikeCatfin]
#2479855 - 06/24/08 10:59 AM

I have one just like that. I bought mine in 2000.

Post Extras:

John K
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 12/26/05

Loc: Vernon BC Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Deep13]
#2483697 - 06/26/08 12:48 AM

How are the views in the discovery 8?

Post Extras:

MikeCatfin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 03/12/04

Loc: NJ, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: John K]
#2483986 - 06/26/08 08:35 AM

Quote:

How are the views in the discovery 8?

I've only been able to take it out one night but i found the views to be quite impressive. While the seeing wasn't the best due to high humidity and unsettled air, I sat and watched Jupiter for about 30 minutes and it was just a grand sight.
I do believe that the collimation was slightly off due to the poor focuser which shifts, so I ordered a Moonlight for it which should alleviate that issue. But so far I think its quite the bargain on the used market!

Post Extras:

Deep13
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 01/25/05

Loc: NE Ohio

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: John K]
#2484017 - 06/26/08 09:01 AM

Quote:

How are the views in the discovery 8?

In good seeing and properly cooled (which is aided by the over-sized, ventilated tube) it is razor sharp. I use a JMI reverse Crayford focuser. At the time, the regreased, metal, 1.25" focuser was better than what came with other entry-level Dobs.

Post Extras:

SeeEmComing
member

Reged: 09/12/07

Loc: Doylestown P.A.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Dave.]
#2486462 - 06/27/08 01:56 PM Attachment (286 downloads)

Here is my 4 1/2 11T reflector and an old white
3" reflector, These are my reflector 'firsts'

SeeEmComing

Post Extras:

SeeEmComing
member

Reged: 09/12/07

Loc: Doylestown P.A.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Dave.]
#2486479 - 06/27/08 02:07 PM

I like the color- Dave
SeeEmComing

Post Extras:

DeepSpaceTour
Post Laureate

Reged: 10/25/05

Loc: In the dark and"WAY"out there!

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: SeeEmComing]
#2488603 - 06/28/08 07:58 PM Attachment (443 downloads)

The 17.5" Discovery ready for another night of viewing.

Post Extras:

Maureen
Geek Mom

Reged: 04/27/05

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DeepSpaceTour]
#2488625 - 06/28/08 08:12 PM

Very Nice Bill! Where are the altitude bearings from? They certainly don't look like they're from Discovery.
Maureen

Post Extras:

DeepSpaceTour
Post Laureate

Reged: 10/25/05

Loc: In the dark and"WAY"out there!

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Maureen]
#2488631 - 06/28/08 08:17 PM

Thanks Maureen.No they are not Discovery Alt bearings,they are Obsession,they were needed to make the Dob Driver 2000.0 tracking system work properly.

Clear skies.

Post Extras:

dvb
different Syndrome.

Reged: 06/18/05

Loc: Vancouver, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DeepSpaceTour]
#2489085 - 06/29/08 01:15 AM Attachment (419 downloads)

My 10" f/4.7 Skywatcher. On an EQ6 Pro.

- The focuser is the Orion drop-in replacement low-profile Crayford
- An ADM Losmandy-style replacement, and then Vixen adapter holds the dovetail very well (until I decide to get some Parallax rings).
- Wilcox Ring really helps loading and unloading the tube, as well as with rotation.
- Ethos 8mm in focuser actually requires a lot of out-focus, more than the Orion can provide -- keen eyes will note the extension tube from a JMI focuser on the bench.
- Not seen is a Howie Glatter laser, which is great!

Edited by dvb (06/29/08 01:18 AM)

Post Extras:

pferendzo
super member

Reged: 02/10/08

Loc: St Louis

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: dvb]
#2489247 - 06/29/08 06:36 AM

I have the Orion equivalent to your set up... but movement in RA puts the eyepiece in an awkward position forcing me to wrestle with the tube to rotate it. How does the Wilcox ring work for you... any details on your particular implementation?

Post Extras:

dvb
different Syndrome.

Reged: 06/18/05

Loc: Vancouver, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: pferendzo]
#2489485 - 06/29/08 10:48 AM

I replaced the round-headed bolt that acts as a hing for the front Orion-type ring and replaced it with a flat-headed bolt. I countersunk the hole -- the metal is soft, so it was easy to do with an electric drill, even though I am not very "handy".

This created a flat surface so the Orion ring could turn against the Wilcox ring itself as a kind of bearing. I can then loosen the tension bolts on the rings until they are almost apart and turn the tube, with Wilcox ring turning agains the Orion ring.

The Wilcox ring also provides some security against the tube sliding down and out, but that security is not perfect (as when the tube is in the position in the picture) so I take care not to remove the tension bolts completely. A finger against the bottom of the tension bolt tells me when the bolt is loose enough, but still engaged.

Only other thing I do differently from most Wilcox rings is to use a single, 14" gear clamp, instead of connnecting a number hose clamps. There are some good, if lengthy discussions of making Wilcox rings elsewhere on CN.

Next, I intend to line the Orion-type rings with strips of flocking paper, and perhaps wax the tube, to make the turning smoother.

However, I've been very impressed by how well it works as is -- keeping the object in the eyepiece after a substantial turn at 150x.

Clear Skies!

Post Extras:

pferendzo
super member

Reged: 02/10/08

Loc: St Louis

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: dvb]
#2489575 - 06/29/08 11:51 AM

Thanks... I need to give it a try.

I find the biggest obstacles to using my equipment are ease of set up and ease of use - that's why my XT10 sees so little use, compared to my refractors and MCT.

Post Extras:

JPG
member

Reged: 05/04/07

Loc: LI, NY

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: pferendzo]
#2492427 - 06/30/08 09:11 PM Attachment (333 downloads)

This is my SN-6 and my first scope. I just add an ST-80 to start autoguide and now wait some clear nights to test it.
JP

Edited by JPG (06/30/08 09:11 PM)

Post Extras:

lymorkiew45
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 12/30/07

Loc: Surfing the galaxy...

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: JPG]
#2492455 - 06/30/08 09:30 PM

Good choice, not to big, not to small...clear skies

Post Extras:

DaemonGPF
Redonkulous

Reged: 03/22/08

Loc: Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: JPG]
#2493429 - 07/01/08 12:44 PM

Quote:

This is my SN-6 and my first scope. I just add an ST-80 to start autoguide and now wait some clear nights to test it.
JP

That is a very clean looking setup.

Post Extras:

dvb
different Syndrome.

Reged: 06/18/05

Loc: Vancouver, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2493916 - 07/01/08 05:45 PM

Nice SN6 set-up -- and, because it has a corrector plate, you can post it again in the CATS forum!

Post Extras:

jcely7
super member

Reged: 10/21/07

Loc: Minnesota

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2494085 - 07/01/08 07:26 PM

Z10 dob on a recently refurbished star-liner mount. (still need to do the electronics though)

Post Extras:

yonkrz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 11/16/06

Loc: SW Minnesota

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jcely7]
#2494426 - 07/01/08 10:33 PM

Looks Good,i like it!!

Post Extras:

DeepSpaceTour
Post Laureate

Reged: 10/25/05

Loc: In the dark and"WAY"out there!

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: yonkrz]
#2495346 - 07/02/08 01:13 PM Attachment (397 downloads)

And just for the heck of it here is a current photo from the beginning-set up of last night-this mornings all nighter at a dark sky site....note the F80 finder scope,what a fantastic finder,and a small telescope in it's own right!!

Edited by DeepSpaceTour (07/02/08 01:30 PM)

Post Extras:

Maureen
Geek Mom

Reged: 04/27/05

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DeepSpaceTour]
#2495413 - 07/02/08 01:43 PM

Bill,
I like your scope. Have you changed the original set up for attaching the truss poles to the UTA? If so, what have you done and is it easier? Any info would be appreciated. Always looking for ways to improve my 12.5" Discovery.
Thanks,
Maureen

Post Extras:

DeepSpaceTour
Post Laureate

Reged: 10/25/05

Loc: In the dark and"WAY"out there!

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Maureen]
#2495570 - 07/02/08 03:07 PM

Maureen;

Thank you again.No that is the way Discovery used to do the truss pole connections on the trusses,it works very well and is esthetically pleasing as well.

Clear skies.

Post Extras:

skyward_eyes

Reged: 12/12/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DeepSpaceTour]
#2495577 - 07/02/08 03:10 PM

My friend has an older 17.5" but the new scopes look like they have made a lot more upgrades. They look very clean.

Post Extras:

SigmaOrionis
journeyman

Reged: 06/27/08

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: skyward_eyes]
#2496104 - 07/02/08 07:28 PM

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to the forum but not astronomy. I've been at it for about 10 years. This is my Discovery 10"/F6 non split tube. I purchased it about 8 years ago. Its a great telescope very smooth in ALT/AZ. Great optics as far as I can tell. Nice construction and holds its collimation very well. The only negative is that it is very heavy and a little awkward to carry. The altitude bearings have handles so this helps. Still its not the best scope to have to transport around.

This file is hosted on a photo sharing site. Hope it doesnt violate forum rules.

Edited by Don W (07/03/08 07:32 AM)

Post Extras:

dvb
different Syndrome.

Reged: 06/18/05

Loc: Vancouver, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 *DELETED* new

[Re: SigmaOrionis]
#2496790 - 07/03/08 01:47 AM

Post deleted by Don W

Post Extras:

E_Look
Post Laureate

Reged: 03/06/08

Loc: near New York

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 *DEL new

[Re: dvb]
#2560019 - 08/04/08 05:42 PM

I'd post a pic of my reflector, but you can get a better picture at the vendor's website, as it is a commercial 'scope.

Post Extras:

DaemonGPF
Redonkulous

Reged: 03/22/08

Loc: Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2560646 - 08/04/08 10:31 PM

I moved to a different reflector setup to focus on Imaging, the C10 was just suffering in the wind. It has changed roles and now is used for "entertaining family/friends visually" while I spend most of my time now with these:

Post Extras:

mv1000
super member

Reged: 05/27/07

Loc: WI

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2562779 - 08/05/08 09:22 PM Attachment (353 downloads)

The reflector is the one on the left.

This is at Northwoods Starfest this past weekend. 2 excellent nights.

Post Extras:

denodan
professor emeritus

Reged: 10/06/04

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: mv1000]
#2563204 - 08/06/08 01:43 AM Attachment (247 downloads)

My Telescope a Skywatcher 8" f5 Newtonian on an LXD75 mount, with an Astrozap accessory Tray, and Astro Aimer laser.

Edited by denodan (08/06/08 01:45 AM)

Post Extras:

................
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/04/06

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: denodan]
#2573906 - 08/11/08 09:14 AM Attachment (329 downloads)

Finally got around to posting a pix of mine. Nothing too fancy, 12" DSO on custom Baltic Birch base. OTA Mods include:
--Replaced collimation screws and springs with the 12" Lightbridge set from Scopestuff.
--Fabricated a rear cell baffle plate to direct all fan airflow through the tube. Full cool-down within 30 minutes.
--Fully flocked tube. In addition to improving contrast, flocking also provides some interior protection from dew formation.
--Added rail counter-balance kit, allowing good balance with my heavier eyepieces without resorting to resistance clamping.
--Reworked and fine-tuned focuser; stock GSO dual-speed is very smooth and enjoyable, thanks for the instructions Pollux!
--Replaced stock 8x50 straight-thru finder with Telrad. Never received the RACI finder I was supposed to get, but haven't missed it at all.

This scope has what I feel are VERY GOOD optics. On nights of good to very good seeing, 400x is possible without image breakdown, and tracking afforded by the birch base is effortless. An Obsession it ain't, but I'm not concerned. At the moment I'm a one scope man and very happy.

Post Extras:

yonkrz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 11/16/06

Loc: SW Minnesota

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: ................]
#2574096 - 08/11/08 11:03 AM

Hey Steve, nice looking,ive seen one of those before.

Post Extras:

InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: yonkrz]
#2574105 - 08/11/08 11:07 AM

Nice scope Steve. Nice EP tray too.

Post Extras:

InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: InkDark]
#2574112 - 08/11/08 11:11 AM

Hi Josh,

That combo looks like the Space shuttle riding the boeing!

Post Extras:

................
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/04/06

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: yonkrz]
#2574230 - 08/11/08 12:01 PM

Yep, your PM prompted me to finally post this. Thanks Jeff.

Post Extras:

................
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/04/06

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: InkDark]
#2574236 - 08/11/08 12:03 PM

Thanks Jimmy. I was looking at Josh's setup too; pretty impressive to me!

Post Extras:

Tom Clark
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/14/07

Loc: North of Deming, NM

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: ................]
#2574294 - 08/11/08 12:30 PM Attachment (333 downloads)

Here's an invite for you to come on over to the dark side and look into the world of building your own reflector. It is ever so much easier than you think. Click to see a slide show of the last 25 years of scope building, starting with my first scope, a styrofoam 20", going thru lots of different scopes, from travel scopes to a couple of 36s, and ending with a 42" that resides in its own dome.

Telescope building is a rewarding hobby that can be a lifetime of fun. Below is my 24". It weighs 160 pounds, sets up in a few minutes, and provides views that will keep anyone busy for a lifetime. slide show

Post Extras:

skyward_eyes

Reged: 12/12/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2574609 - 08/11/08 03:15 PM

Nice 24" I cant wait for my 16" only a few more weeks!

Post Extras:

................
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/04/06

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tom Clark]
#2574648 - 08/11/08 03:35 PM

WOW, really nice scopes Tom! Nice detail to craftsmanship and solutions shown in the video too. Congrats.

Post Extras:

omahaastro
sage

Reged: 08/30/06

Loc: Omaha, NE

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: ................]
#2574922 - 08/11/08 05:29 PM

My son posing with our 'classic' 18 at Nebraska Star Party.

Post Extras:

AlexN
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 08/09/08

Loc: Brisbane - Australia

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: omahaastro]
#2575919 - 08/12/08 06:30 AM Attachment (276 downloads)

Heres my planetary imaging rig...

Skywatcher 8" F/6 Newt on EQ6 Pro 5x Powermate + Phillips SPC900NC.

The Skywatcher 8" started life as a Dobsonian, however imaging planets with the dob got frustrating.. FAST! The EQ6 Pro is now the centre of my astronomy world

Post Extras:

Paulo Gor
member

Reged: 12/07/06

Loc: Portugal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: AlexN]
#2589485 - 08/18/08 09:40 PM

Hi AlexN

I have a Skywatcher 8" f/6 Dod (same as yours)
and I'm tests it on a EQ-5 mount, but every time i move
the tube in a different direction the primary mirror decollimate,
it happens the same with yours?

Thank you

Gor

Edited by Paulo Gor (08/18/08 09:41 PM)

Post Extras:

AlexN
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 08/09/08

Loc: Brisbane - Australia

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Paulo Gor]
#2589937 - 08/19/08 05:01 AM

Hi Paulo,

I dont have any problems with collimation at all actually, I've not collimated it in about 2 months and its still accurate enough for planetary imaging... I check it before and after every night, but it VERY rarely needs adjustment.

Have you tightened the locking screws?

Post Extras:

kmsu
Vendor / Maxvision

Reged: 02/25/08

Loc: Maxvision Kunming Yunnan China

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2589977 - 08/19/08 06:35 AM

See for the first time
Newton does Guide telescope!
Easy operation?

Edited by kmsu (08/19/08 06:52 AM)

Post Extras:

kmsu
Vendor / Maxvision

Reged: 02/25/08

Loc: Maxvision Kunming Yunnan China

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: kmsu]
#2590029 - 08/19/08 07:52 AM Attachment (255 downloads)

The Cassegrain telescope of our club
StarClub 350

PK.Chen of Taiwan
With
Japanese fancier

Post Extras:

Scott Ayer
super member

Reged: 11/23/06

Loc: Indiana

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: kmsu]
#2590086 - 08/19/08 08:29 AM Attachment (278 downloads)

Here my newest acquisition- 20" Obsession.

Edited by Scott Ayer (08/19/08 08:32 AM)

Post Extras:

Paulo Gor
member

Reged: 12/07/06

Loc: Portugal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: AlexN]
#2590245 - 08/19/08 09:52 AM

Hi AlexN

You was right about the locking screws, they was not enough tightened
Normally when i collimate the tube on the dob mount never tight strong
the locking screws, but now i understand that, in this type on mount it is
different.

Thank you my friend

Gor

------------------------
8" f/6 Newtonian :: Orion Stratus 35mm :: Panoptic 24mm :: Radian 8mm :: Nagler 5mm :: TV Barlow 2x

Post Extras:

Alvin Huey
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/18/05

Loc: NorCal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Paulo Gor]
#2590377 - 08/19/08 11:05 AM Attachment (357 downloads)

The right scope is my 22" and the left is my old 16" which was sold to a local TAC member.

This photo was taken about 10 years ago, when the 22" was 99% complete. Both scopes were home-built.

Oh, the 22" fits in my VW Beetle .

Post Extras:

Alvin Huey
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/18/05

Loc: NorCal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Alvin Huey]
#2590380 - 08/19/08 11:06 AM Attachment (222 downloads)

Closeup of the 22" upper cage.

Post Extras:

Alvin Huey
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/18/05

Loc: NorCal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Alvin Huey]
#2590383 - 08/19/08 11:07 AM Attachment (200 downloads)

Upper cage clamps with phenolic ball tipped trusses. The trusses are very thin walled, 0.035" wall thickness veruss the "standard" 0.049". The upper cage is very light, so I can get away with thinner trusses.

Post Extras:

Alvin Huey
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/18/05

Loc: NorCal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Alvin Huey]
#2590389 - 08/19/08 11:10 AM Attachment (274 downloads)

And lastly my 30" StarMaster. This is Rick Singmaster's first 30" he built. He made a total of 4 30" Starmasters. All with Vaughn Parson's (Intermountain Optics) mirrors.

This was taken at TSP 2006 by Steph.

Post Extras:

Alvin Huey
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/18/05

Loc: NorCal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Alvin Huey]
#2590396 - 08/19/08 11:12 AM Attachment (245 downloads)

Check out how thin the focuser board is. Plenty stiff enough. Yeah, I went with the JMI focuser as I'm partial to them and it is way lighter than the Feathertouch.

Post Extras:

Alvin Huey
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/18/05

Loc: NorCal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Alvin Huey]
#2590401 - 08/19/08 11:15 AM Attachment (197 downloads)

Tailgate. The fan is mounted on aluminum mount with rubber washers to minimize vibration. No, I do not have boundery fans...but plan to install them.

But I hardly use the fan as my mirror cools down pretty fast.

Post Extras:

Alvin Huey
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/18/05

Loc: NorCal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Alvin Huey]
#2590406 - 08/19/08 11:16 AM Attachment (190 downloads)

Lower clamps. One knob per pair of trusses, so only 4 knobs versus 8.

All of these were taken about 8-10 years ago, except the 30" photo.

Post Extras:

AlexN
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 08/09/08

Loc: Brisbane - Australia

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Paulo Gor]
#2590483 - 08/19/08 11:56 AM

Quote:

Hi AlexN
You was right about the locking screws, they was not enough tightened
Normally when i collimate the tube on the dob mount never tight strong
the locking screws, but now i understand that, in this type on mount it is
different.

Thank you my friend

Gor

You are very welcome, I made the same mistake when I first collimated my 8"

Alex.

Post Extras:

drshr
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 06/09/08

Loc: Darwin, Australia

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: AlexN]
#2591453 - 08/19/08 07:29 PM Attachment (321 downloads)

I feel positively embarrassed to post my pic after the behemoths above.

Anyway, I think mine would be at the upper end of solid tube reflectors

Post Extras:

Don W
demi-god

Reged: 05/19/03

Loc: Wisconsin, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: drshr]
#2591520 - 08/19/08 07:56 PM

No need to be embarrassed. You may have a smaller scope, but you have the southern skies which put the northern skies to shame. In April of 2005, I spent a good part of a week observing near Siding Springs. One of my favorite scopes to use was a 14.25" solid tube homebuilt dob. What incredible views of Omega Centauri and the southern Milky Way.

Post Extras:

chefdrew
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/02/08

Loc: Marietta, GA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: drshr]
#2591540 - 08/19/08 08:03 PM

Quote:

I feel positively embarrassed to post my pic after the behemoths above.

Anyway, I think mine would be at the upper end of solid tube reflectors

I wouldn't be any kind of embarrassed about a 14" scope.

Post Extras:

muni
super member

Reged: 11/14/05

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2592336 - 08/20/08 06:51 AM Attachment (239 downloads)

Here's my home made 8" f/6 newt on HEQ5 Pro mount.

Post Extras:

jason_kelly
member

Reged: 07/01/08

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: muni]
#2592583 - 08/20/08 09:47 AM

My new 8", got it last week, and loving it so far, since I figured out how to collimate:)

Post Extras:

jason_kelly
member

Reged: 07/01/08

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Dave.]
#2592593 - 08/20/08 09:50 AM Attachment (268 downloads)

and the pic

Post Extras:

Alvin Huey
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/18/05

Loc: NorCal

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: muni]
#2592731 - 08/20/08 10:58 AM

Quote:

Here's my home made 8" f/6 newt on HEQ5 Pro mount.

Muni,

Very NICE job!

Post Extras:

Djennings
sage

Reged: 07/03/08

Loc: Katy, Texas

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jason_kelly]
#2592742 - 08/20/08 11:01 AM

Jason,

No picture?

DJ

Post Extras:

Mark Harry
Vendor

Reged: 09/05/05

Loc: Northeast USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Djennings]
#2592761 - 08/20/08 11:10 AM Attachment (260 downloads)

My recent addition. Focuser is on the left side of the tube to take advantage of the local eddies at night(suggested by Don Pensack). Works very well for planetary use, even though it's an 8" F/4.72 with lotsa coma at low powers.

Post Extras:

Rinaldo
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 06/28/04

Loc: Lawng-eye-lind - New York, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Mark Harry]
#2603109 - 08/25/08 05:26 PM Attachment (266 downloads)

Here's my Portaball, one of the last few turned out before the new owner took over. It deviated from the standard optical configuration in that it has an Ed Stevens 12.5" f/4.5 Primary. The standard optics they use are Zambuto f/5. This mirror is rated at a Strehl of .989, and is performing to those numbers!

I included the 20mm t2 in the shot to show that the scope can balance with this heavy EP, yet it also maintains balance with lighter EPs as well. I'm not sure if I would have the same result at f/5, as this would create a longer lever arm.

Edited by Rinaldo (08/25/08 06:22 PM)

Post Extras:

Tom Clark
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/14/07

Loc: North of Deming, NM

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2606610 - 08/27/08 07:58 AM Attachment (301 downloads)

Aperture fever can get you into trouble. I built this one back in '92, and it is still going strong today. It's a 36" f/5, and the views are unbelieveable. Where there is a will - there is a way!!

The scope was hauled around in a trailer, and it took four guys to set it up. Today I am much lazier, and have a larger scope, but it is in a dome out in the side yard. What a great hobby.

Post Extras:

chefdrew
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/02/08

Loc: Marietta, GA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tom Clark]
#2606651 - 08/27/08 08:32 AM

Quote:

Aperture fever can get you into trouble. I built this one back in '92, and it is still going strong today. It's a 36" f/5, and the views are unbelieveable. Where there is a will - there is a way!!

The scope was hauled around in a trailer, and it took four guys to set it up. Today I am much lazier, and have a larger scope, but it is in a dome out in the side yard. What a great hobby.

Can you see the Moon with that little scope????

Post Extras:

Tom Clark
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/14/07

Loc: North of Deming, NM

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: chefdrew]
#2606699 - 08/27/08 09:01 AM

Quote:

Can you see the Moon with that little scope????

Just barely - if you keep your eye closed so you don't go blind!!!

Once we had it set up and was showing everyone the moon while waiting for it to set and dark skies to arrive. Everyone would step back from the eyepiece, say thanks for the view, and then walk off - and start running into things - because they had lost all dark adaption. We had to be careful no one got hurt…

Post Extras:

chefdrew
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/02/08

Loc: Marietta, GA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tom Clark]
#2606709 - 08/27/08 09:05 AM

I'm sure you have to be careful not to burn o hole through their head with that thing.....BTW that's one beautiful scope

Post Extras:

InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tom Clark]
#2606885 - 08/27/08 10:30 AM

Quote:

Aperture fever can get you into trouble. I built this one back in '92, and it is still going strong today. It's a 36" f/5, and the views are unbelieveable. Where there is a will - there is a way!!

The scope was hauled around in a trailer, and it took four guys to set it up. Today I am much lazier, and have a larger scope, but it is in a dome out in the side yard. What a great hobby.

It's as if you could climb up the ladder, slide in the tube and get shot out to safely land in a far away net!

Very nice scope!

Edited by InkDark (08/27/08 10:33 AM)

Post Extras:

FirstSight
Postmaster

Reged: 12/26/05

Loc: Raleigh, NC

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: InkDark]
#2607539 - 08/27/08 03:05 PM Attachment (358 downloads)

Here's a picture of my heavily modified Orion XT12i Dob, together with the white-haired Wizard of Odd standing by its side. Few, if any, of the modifications are of the sort to stand out or be visible at all in a picture, but they sure improve the scope's performance:

1) Moonlite CR-2 focuser
2) Stellarvue 10x60 Finderscope
3) Telrad
4) Protostar spider/secondary holder with built-in heater and wiring built-into the vanes
5) Protostar quartz 2.6" secondary mirror
6) Swayze-refigured primary mirror
7) Homebuilt adjustable counterweight (magnets + iron pipe) - see structure riding atop optical tube toward the bottom.
8) Ebony Star 4552-50 laminate azimuth bearings
9) Orion primary mirror cooling fan
10) Purple shower cap, to keep spiders and dust out.

Unfortunately, the Wizard of Odd himself is not yet modified with some upgrades he could certainly benefit from.

Post Extras:

InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: FirstSight]
#2608007 - 08/27/08 06:02 PM

Hi FirstSight,

That's a very cool and nicely equipped scope you got there! I like the optical finder.

Post Extras:

dave brock
sage

Reged: 06/06/08

Loc: Hamilton, New Zealand

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: InkDark]
#2608999 - 08/28/08 07:43 AM

Here's my 16" dob. Tube rotates and breaks in two sections. It has Palm DSC installed.

Dave.

Post Extras:

dave brock
sage

Reged: 06/06/08

Loc: Hamilton, New Zealand

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: dave brock]
#2609000 - 08/28/08 07:45 AM Attachment (277 downloads)

OOPS!
Here's the pic.

Dave

Post Extras:

Djennings
sage

Reged: 07/03/08

Loc: Katy, Texas

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: dave brock]
#2609124 - 08/28/08 09:24 AM Attachment (260 downloads)

Here is a picture of my 8" Dob. Small in comparison to many but I love it just the same.

Post Extras:

InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Djennings]
#2609274 - 08/28/08 10:51 AM

Quote:

Here is a picture of my 8" Dob. Small in comparison to many but I love it just the same.

Nice scope! I'll take a smaller but better equipped scope any time... Mine is smaller than yours anyways!

Now that I look at your sign...that does not look like a Sky-Watcher...

Post Extras:

Djennings
sage

Reged: 07/03/08

Loc: Katy, Texas

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: InkDark]
#2609323 - 08/28/08 11:13 AM

Hi Jimmy,

You are so right, I have my signature incorrect and will change it. It is a SkyQuest, now I feel stupid, lol.

Thanks for pointing that out.

Post Extras:

Astrolabe
sage

Reged: 07/08/07

Loc: sydney Australia

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: drshr]
#2610786 - 08/28/08 10:07 PM

Quote:

I feel positively embarrassed to post my pic after the behemoths above.

Anyway, I think mine would be at the upper end of solid tube reflectors

Drshr
It looks cool to me, good mirror size and Focal Ratio. If you are in Sydney and decide to sell it please let me know. I would like to look at and through it.

Best Regards

George (astrolabe)
Sydney Australia

Post Extras:

Bill Cowles
MacGyver

Reged: 04/16/06

Loc: Utah

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Djennings]
#2613527 - 08/30/08 01:15 PM Attachment (227 downloads)

First light of another scope, 8" F/4.9 Orion. I plan on using this for video imaging, but needs some work with the Wilcox rotating rings. The scope rings didn't come with nice felt, but a thin tape, so the scope is very hard to rotate. I will add some felt pads. It is very stable on the Atlas and the Orion dual speed focuser is very nice.

Bill

Post Extras:

PierreDesvaux
Vendor (Dobsonian Factory)

Reged: 11/06/06

Loc: Paris, France

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Bill Cowles]
#2618343 - 09/02/08 03:08 AM

Hello,

Here is a 20" dobson which I recently made: 42 kg, optics included.

[img]
http://dobson.2005.googlepages.com/1DSCN03840002.JPG/1DSCN03840002-large.JPG[/img]

And here, the 20" together with an ultralight 12" (10 kg all included)

[img]
http://dobson.2005.googlepages.com/DSCN03980001.JPG/DSCN03980001-full.JPG[/img]

All details here:

http://dobson.2005.googlepages.com/dobson500mirrosphère

Post Extras:

Brian Reed

Reged: 10/29/04

Loc: North East Illinois

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Bill Cowles]
#2619274 - 09/02/08 03:13 PM

Bill,

A good friend of mine uses the same scope with Wilcox rings also. The optics in his are outstanding and gives much larger scopes a real run for the money on planets. Its no slouch on wide field views either - should work great with the videocam

Post Extras:

TexBiker
super member

Reged: 12/18/07

Loc: North Texas

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Brian Reed]
#2619297 - 09/02/08 03:29 PM

Pierre- Those are beautiful scopes. They make my solid tube 10" dob look like a trash can!

Post Extras:

Bill Cowles
MacGyver

Reged: 04/16/06

Loc: Utah

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Brian Reed]
#2620278 - 09/02/08 11:25 PM Attachment (231 downloads)

Brian, really hope to get use to the camera with this scope and then go to my 12" LB on your EQ platform.

Bill

Post Extras:

Brian Reed

Reged: 10/29/04

Loc: North East Illinois

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Bill Cowles]
#2621060 - 09/03/08 10:40 AM Attachment (229 downloads)

Here's my 10-inch rig. She's a bit beat up, but the views with the Mallincam "Oh My"

Post Extras:

Maureen
Geek Mom

Reged: 04/27/05

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Brian Reed]
#2621164 - 09/03/08 11:15 AM Attachment (240 downloads)

Here's a picture of me and my scope at the Adirondack Astronomy Retreat. I'll post a few pictures but they don't show all the mods I've made to the scope. will take more detailed pictures on vacation
Maureen

Post Extras:

Maureen
Geek Mom

Reged: 04/27/05

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Maureen]
#2621169 - 09/03/08 11:16 AM Attachment (211 downloads)

Here's a shot of the balance system which works great. Thanks Carol!
Maureen

Post Extras:

Maureen
Geek Mom

Reged: 04/27/05

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Maureen]
#2621172 - 09/03/08 11:18 AM Attachment (251 downloads)

Here's another one. The empty bracket on the right holds a 12v battery.
Maureen

Post Extras:

Strgazr27

Reged: 10/04/04

Loc: StonyHill Observatory

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Maureen]
#2630963 - 09/08/08 02:27 PM Attachment (276 downloads)

Here she is 1 day after finishing it up! First light was amazing....Atleast my camera thought so

CS's

Edited by Strgazr27 (09/08/08 02:27 PM)

Post Extras:

F.Meiresonne
Post Laureate

Reged: 12/22/03

Loc: Eeklo,Belgium

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: drshr]
#2630991 - 09/08/08 02:43 PM

Quote:

I feel positively embarrassed to post my pic after the behemoths above.

Anyway, I think mine would be at the upper end of solid tube reflectors

Why should you? A 14.5 is BIG aperture!

Post Extras:

skyward_eyes

Reged: 12/12/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Strgazr27]
#2630992 - 09/08/08 02:43 PM

What scope is that?

Post Extras:

Strgazr27

Reged: 10/04/04

Loc: StonyHill Observatory

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: skyward_eyes]
#2631002 - 09/08/08 02:46 PM

It's an R200SS that I completely reworked. I hand made the CF tube, reworked he mirror cell, beadblasted the end rings, flocked the tube, used all stainless hardware and added a FT with digital focusing controller.

I call it the R200SS/CF

Post Extras:

HellsKitchen
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 09/05/08

Loc: Melbourne Australia

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Strgazr27]
#2631515 - 09/08/08 08:01 PM Attachment (260 downloads)

Here's my 12" F/4.6 truss dob. Awesome performer on planets! Too bad 98% of the time my seeing is equivalent to looking above a fire...

Edited by HellsKitchen (09/08/08 08:07 PM)

Post Extras:

HellsKitchen
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 09/05/08

Loc: Melbourne Australia

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: HellsKitchen]
#2631528 - 09/08/08 08:07 PM Attachment (217 downloads)

another pic:

Edited by HellsKitchen (09/08/08 08:09 PM)

Post Extras:

Fireball
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/24/06

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: HellsKitchen]
#2632111 - 09/09/08 05:20 AM

A very BLACK one !

Post Extras:

Burnspot
member

Reged: 09/09/08

Loc: Rocky Mount, NC

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Dave.]
#2650130 - 09/18/08 04:46 PM

Here's my Discovery 8" reflector. I got this a number of years ago, used it for about a year, and had it stored away for nearly 5 years until recently...can't remember any of the focal details, but it still works great.

One of these days I want to upgrade the mount as it's a little wobbly at times.

Post Extras:

Mark Harry
Vendor

Reged: 09/05/05

Loc: Northeast USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Burnspot]
#2653667 - 09/20/08 05:12 PM Attachment (245 downloads)

Here's both of mine side by side, both Dobbies. Was in a hurry to get the larger one together before this good weather disappears for the year!

8" F/4.72...........................14" F/4.5
Mark

Post Extras:

Djennings
sage

Reged: 07/03/08

Loc: Katy, Texas

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Mark Harry]
#2653679 - 09/20/08 05:20 PM

Hey Mark,

Looks good, both of them... Nice job on the stands too.

David

Post Extras:

Mark Harry
Vendor

Reged: 09/05/05

Loc: Northeast USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Djennings]
#2654405 - 09/21/08 07:31 AM

I found out last night, the little casters on the 14"er's groundboard need to be changed from plastic to metal. With the tube in place, they develop a "flat spot" when sitting too long. Otherwise, it performed very well.
M.

Post Extras:

Deep13
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 01/25/05

Loc: NE Ohio

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Maureen]
#2655151 - 09/21/08 05:25 PM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3108/2877156438_f004a224f4_b.jpg

Here's my don't feel-like-setting-up-the-big-scope planetary set-up. Discovery 8" f/6 DHQ with Denk II and tracking platform.

Edited by Deep13 (09/21/08 06:34 PM)

Post Extras:

Tom Clark
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/14/07

Loc: North of Deming, NM

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2657957 - 09/23/08 06:48 AM Attachment (250 downloads)

This is my favorite scope of the moment. It weighs about 1600 pounds and no, it is not portable! I do have a travel scope for those times when we need it…

Now getting ready to observe takes a minute or two to open the dome and scope. Like everyone else, we spent years traveling to dark sky sites, and when we retired it was fun to move to one.

My web site has a slide show of the dome and scope being built, and also an article on observing with very large telescopes.

The scope? It's a 42" f/4 with a go-to drive.

Post Extras:

chefdrew
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/02/08

Loc: Marietta, GA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tom Clark]
#2657959 - 09/23/08 06:52 AM

I want one

That is quite a beautiful scope

Post Extras:

yonkrz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 11/16/06

Loc: SW Minnesota

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tom Clark]
#2658036 - 09/23/08 08:07 AM

Awsome Tom,great slide show also.

Post Extras:

llanitedave
Humble Megalomaniac

Reged: 09/26/05

Loc: Amargosa Valley, NV, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Tom Clark]
#2658293 - 09/23/08 10:37 AM

Quote:

The scope? It's a 42" f/4 with a go-to drive.

One question about that, Tom ... what kind of drive motors do you require at that mass? Do you use high-torque steppers?

Post Extras:

stargazertony
sage

Reged: 09/25/07

Loc: Apple Valley, CA.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2658350 - 09/23/08 11:10 AM Attachment (191 downloads)

The latest pic of my Discovery 12.5" PDHQ

Post Extras:

Tom Clark
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/14/07

Loc: North of Deming, NM

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2658873 - 09/23/08 02:54 PM

Quote:

One question about that, Tom ... what kind of drive motors do you require at that mass? Do you use high-torque steppers?

Vic McKeighan from Sky Commander built the drive for me. It's the same as used on Starmasters, except the motors are larger, and Vic added a heat-sink to the outside of the black box that holds all the electronics. The scope moves on all 2" diameter ball bearings and can be moved easily with your little finger, so the motors are not really overworked. Photos are on the slide show.

Post Extras:

Bowmoreman
Clear enough skies

Reged: 09/11/06

Loc: Bolton, MA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Strgazr27]
#2658922 - 09/23/08 03:18 PM Attachment (211 downloads)

And now she's in her new home: WSO

Here's Bobby's masterpiece all mounted up, fully aligned, fully experience in first light at WSO, and now fully and tightly collimated.

BTW: with Bobby's kind permission (?) I'm going to call it a R200CF...

Her motto: "she ain't heavy, she's my... astrograph"

(Loose apologies to the Hollies!)

First light last night was great. Can't wait for second light tonight to test the tweaked collimation.

BTW: this was the easiest Newt I've ever collimated.

clear enough skies

Post Extras:

Bart Wide
sage

Reged: 05/16/08

Loc: Europe

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Bowmoreman]
#2660083 - 09/24/08 08:08 AM Attachment (302 downloads)

Hi, can't help myself but to post another picture of my new scope in this thread as well.

Edited by Bart Wide (09/24/08 08:13 AM)

Post Extras:

chefdrew
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/02/08

Loc: Marietta, GA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Bart Wide]
#2660936 - 09/24/08 04:03 PM Attachment (263 downloads)

I hope I don't jinx my self but I am going to pick this one up in 2 weeks

14.5" f/5.2 w/ skyscout
Christmas is coming early this year for me

Post Extras:

Lunartic
sage

Reged: 06/14/04

Loc: Long Island

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: chefdrew]
#2661256 - 09/24/08 06:58 PM

Quote:

I hope I don't jinx my self but I am going to pick this one up in 2 weeks

14.5" f/5.2 w/ skyscout
Christmas is coming early this year for me

NICE! Merry Christmas indeed!!

Post Extras:

InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Bart Wide]
#2661382 - 09/24/08 08:16 PM

Bart, I...I...I don't know what to say. Very, very nice!

Post Extras:

JWH
member

Reged: 08/30/08

Loc: The Netherlands

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: InkDark]
#2661937 - 09/25/08 04:29 AM Attachment (253 downloads)

Impressive scopes in here, hope to own a big one myself some day.

Here's my telescope / contribution. It's a Skywatcher Newton 150/750, nothing fancy. My first telescope and loving it so far. Setup, on the picture, for it's first ever adventure!

Edited by JWH (09/25/08 04:30 AM)

Post Extras:

Bowmoreman
Clear enough skies

Reged: 09/11/06

Loc: Bolton, MA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: JWH]
#2662007 - 09/25/08 06:55 AM

Welcome to CN, JWH. Jump right in, the folks here are MOST helpful!

clear enough skies

Post Extras:

Greyhoundman
sage

Reged: 11/20/07

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Bowmoreman]
#2666152 - 09/27/08 11:40 AM

After a week of trouble with the secondary mirror. I finally have the 8" done. Even with the light clouds, Jupiter looked super.

Post Extras:

AV in CMH
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/07/05

Loc: Columbus Ohio

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Greyhoundman]
#2668666 - 09/28/08 08:04 PM Attachment (216 downloads)

6" F5

Plywood tube.

Small scopes are nice.

Regars,

Anthony

Post Extras:

skyward_eyes

Reged: 12/12/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2674004 - 10/01/08 11:51 AM Attachment (235 downloads)

Here is a picture of my Custom 16" f/4.5 with a Swayze refigured and recoated Primary.

Post Extras:

rocco13
Got Milk?

Reged: 07/29/06

Loc: Phoenix, Arizona

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: skyward_eyes]
#2674248 - 10/01/08 02:05 PM

Hey, Kevin, that's some nice woodwork on the upper cage!

What kind of focuser is that?

Post Extras:

skyward_eyes

Reged: 12/12/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: rocco13]
#2674292 - 10/01/08 02:27 PM

Rocco,
This fosuer is a custom home made Crayford fouscer with a fine touch focus on the left side. The scope and focuser were made by Chuck Fellows of Cave Creek, AZ. He makes amazing scopes and I am honored to be the owner of his largest creation. Please feel free to visit his site at www.cfellows.com

Post Extras:

DaemonGPF
Redonkulous

Reged: 03/22/08

Loc: Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Strgazr27]
#2680463 - 10/04/08 08:11 PM

Quote:

Here she is 1 day after finishing it up! First light was amazing....Atleast my camera thought so

CS's

What's the weight on that OTA? That's gotta be pretty light with the CF tube.

Post Extras:

fireman
professor emeritus

Reged: 07/27/07

Loc: Houston, Texas

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: DaemonGPF]
#2680552 - 10/04/08 09:25 PM Attachment (225 downloads)

Here's me and the "TOY" as my wife called my Obsession. I've added ServoCAT, Ground board and AN. Great scope and views!

Post Extras:

KWB
Postmaster

Reged: 09/30/06

Loc: Westminster,Co Elev.5400 feet

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: fireman]
#2680597 - 10/04/08 10:24 PM Attachment (194 downloads)

El cheapo 10 incher but it serves my purpose.

Post Extras:

Lawrence Mak
member

Reged: 03/14/07

Loc: Hong Kong

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: KWB]
#2681310 - 10/05/08 11:21 AM Attachment (179 downloads)

Here's my imaging set up - Takahashi MT-160 Newt on EM-200 mount.

Post Extras:

molniyabeer
Confused and Asleep

Reged: 01/08/05

Loc: Albuquerque, NM

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Lawrence Mak]
#2681510 - 10/05/08 12:36 PM Attachment (186 downloads)

Here is my newest scope, a 16" Lightbridge (Beowulf), recently purchased from Hal. We had it out last weekend on Figueroa Mt. and the views just blew me away.

Post Extras:

Ed Jones
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/06/04

Loc: Sin-sin-atti

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: molniyabeer]
#2682308 - 10/05/08 08:42 PM Attachment (229 downloads)

Here's my 12 inch f/6.8 CHief.

Post Extras:

fireman
professor emeritus

Reged: 07/27/07

Loc: Houston, Texas

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Ed Jones]
#2682491 - 10/05/08 10:30 PM

Quote:

Here's my 12 inch f/6.8 CHief.

Did you make your scope? Pretty cool looking! What size is she?

Post Extras:

JimPie
sage

Reged: 11/10/07

Loc: S.E.Michigan

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: fireman]
#2682779 - 10/06/08 04:11 AM

Quote:

Quote:

Here's my 12 inch f/6.8 CHief.

Did you make your scope? Pretty cool looking! What size is she?

Eds ATM "Chiefspiegler" (variation on the schiefspiegler design) is an off axis ,completly unobstructed telescope.Ed and his scope were featured in the last S&T telescope workshop-a very interesting article. The scope in the magazine (according to the article)is a 12.5" f/7. Is this a different one? Congrats Ed. Its a beaut.

Edited by JimPie (10/06/08 04:19 AM)

Post Extras:

Ed Jones
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/06/04

Loc: Sin-sin-atti

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: JimPie]
#2682935 - 10/06/08 08:17 AM

Yes it's the same one that is in S&T. It's 12.5 inches but I've always called it a 12.

Ed

Post Extras:

F.Meiresonne
Post Laureate

Reged: 12/22/03

Loc: Eeklo,Belgium

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: molniyabeer]
#2683562 - 10/06/08 02:59 PM

Quote:

Here is my newest scope, a 16" Lightbridge (Beowulf), recently purchased from Hal. We had it out last weekend on Figueroa Mt. and the views just blew me away.

Glad to see it's being used afterall....

Post Extras:

Fireball
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/24/06

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: F.Meiresonne]
#2683641 - 10/06/08 03:55 PM

This nicely modded scope has really deserved to finally catch photons

Post Extras:

molniyabeer
Confused and Asleep

Reged: 01/08/05

Loc: Albuquerque, NM

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Fireball]
#2684533 - 10/07/08 12:31 AM

And catch them it did, with some pretty spiral arms in M33 and that little bright patch on the edge of M31 (NGC 206).

Post Extras:

Pat42
sage

Reged: 12/26/04

Loc: Saskatchewan, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: molniyabeer]
#2684618 - 10/07/08 01:39 AM Attachment (206 downloads)

Here is a picture of me and my new C8-NGT plus PT17 (combination Birthday and early xmas present)

Now if only the skies would clear up.

Patrick

Post Extras:

csa/montana
Den Mama

Reged: 05/14/05

Loc: montana

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Pat42]
#2698421 - 10/14/08 11:28 AM Attachment (244 downloads)

Here is my pride & joy: an AstroTech 16" Dob

Post Extras:

F.Meiresonne
Post Laureate

Reged: 12/22/03

Loc: Eeklo,Belgium

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: csa/montana]
#2698653 - 10/14/08 01:50 PM

Big impressive scope, Carol...strange it has small bearings.How does it move?

Post Extras:

csa/montana
Den Mama

Reged: 05/14/05

Loc: montana

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: F.Meiresonne]
#2699110 - 10/14/08 05:40 PM Attachment (188 downloads)

The bearings are not as small as the picture makes them look. The movement of the scope is exceptional! It requires hardly more pressure to move it, than my 8" dob needed.

Post Extras:

Carina1
member

Reged: 10/22/08

Loc: Australia.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: csa/montana]
#2713719 - 10/23/08 03:58 AM Attachment (218 downloads)

Hi,
My new set up. Been here under a different user name, but it does not work. Anyway just purchased the new SW 12" Flexi Dob.
Have not seen first light. Build seems great. Moves very smooth. I will use a Paraccor with this scope.
Had a few small scopes but they just don't cut it.

Post Extras:

Carina1
member

Reged: 10/22/08

Loc: Australia.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Carina1]
#2713720 - 10/23/08 03:59 AM Attachment (168 downloads)

And in down mode.

Post Extras:

Starkler
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 11/04/05

Loc: Australia, Melbourne

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Carina1]
#2715116 - 10/23/08 09:01 PM

Quote:

Hi,
My new set up. Been here under a different user name, but it does not work.

Is that you Dave? The new name seems slightly feminine

Looking forward to seeing you and checking out the new scope soon.
Enjoy

Post Extras:

Carina1
member

Reged: 10/22/08

Loc: Australia.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Starkler]
#2715157 - 10/23/08 09:23 PM

Quote:

Quote:

Hi,
My new set up. Been here under a different user name, but it does not work.

Is that you Dave? The new name seems slightly feminine

Yes my last user name was my Fav, Glob. This one my Fav nebula.

Post Extras:

ndelo
professor emeritus

Reged: 08/02/06

Loc: Light-polluted New Jersey

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Carina1]
#2716089 - 10/24/08 01:27 PM Attachment (219 downloads)

Here's my home built obsession clone. Just had it's real first light last night! Was very gratifying after a year of building.

M31 and M15 were eye-poppin!

Post Extras:

jayscheuerle
Post Laureate

Reged: 01/16/06

Loc: S. Philadelphia, PA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: ndelo]
#2716239 - 10/24/08 02:56 PM

Nice job, Ndelo! Where did you get your alt bearings?

Post Extras:

ndelo
professor emeritus

Reged: 08/02/06

Loc: Light-polluted New Jersey

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jayscheuerle]
#2716339 - 10/24/08 03:51 PM

I ordered both the alt bearings and upper truss clamps from Obession. I really like the cast aluminum. But, if I had to do it again, I think I would just make them (the alt bearings that is).

Post Extras:

Jason D
Postmaster

Reged: 10/21/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: ndelo]
#2716371 - 10/24/08 04:08 PM

Nice scope...

What kind of optics do you have in your scope?

Just curious, how much money have you saved? I do realize most ATMers do it for the fun -- not the saving -- but still curious about how much it cost you to build versus purchasing a new one from obsession.

Jason

Post Extras:

ndelo
professor emeritus

Reged: 08/02/06

Loc: Light-polluted New Jersey

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason D]
#2716387 - 10/24/08 04:16 PM

Optics are 18" 4.2 Pegasus.

I started keeping track of what I was spending on this, but I lost track. I had to buy some tools, like a drill press and router, so all in all, I don't think I saved much.

However, I did "pay-as-I-built." When I had some spare cash, I made the next part. So the initial outlay of $$$$$$$$ never pinched my wallet (instead it was drained incrementally over the course of a year).

This was good, because I could have never saved up the money (and then parted with it) for a real obsession.

The only huge outlay was the initial drop for the optics. but I took this plunge as a way of driving headlong into ATM'ing.

As a first project, I followed the Obsession book pretty much page-by-page.

Post Extras:

gmacln
professor emeritus

Reged: 04/10/06

Loc: Ontario, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: ndelo]
#2716415 - 10/24/08 04:46 PM

Great job Ndelo! At f4.2 do you find you need a step to get to the EP at zenith?

Post Extras:

ndelo
professor emeritus

Reged: 08/02/06

Loc: Light-polluted New Jersey

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: gmacln]
#2716578 - 10/24/08 06:48 PM

Quote:

Great job Ndelo! At f4.2 do you find you need a step to get to the EP at zenith?

One step is all.

Post Extras:

mv1000
super member

Reged: 05/27/07

Loc: WI

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: ndelo]
#2717535 - 10/25/08 12:37 PM

Gotta love that TV 60 for a finder. Very similiar set up to mine. Even where you put the Dew Buster.

Post Extras:

Robert Provin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 08/14/06

Loc: Northridge, CA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2727143 - 10/30/08 08:24 PM Attachment (181 downloads)

Most of my scopes are refractors, but when "aperture fever" strikes I get out my 18" Obsession. I'm cured every time!....at least for a while.

Robert

Post Extras:

skyward_eyes

Reged: 12/12/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Robert Provin]
#2727528 - 10/31/08 12:27 AM

Looks good Rob. Are you enjoying that 7 Nagler you bought off me?

Post Extras:

HellsKitchen
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 09/05/08

Loc: Melbourne Australia

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Carina1]
#2727962 - 10/31/08 10:24 AM

The black with white trim looks pretty cool on that mate

Shotgun when it goes for sale on Icetrade in a couple of weeks

Quote:

Hi,
My new set up. Been here under a different user name, but it does not work. Anyway just purchased the new SW 12" Flexi Dob.
Have not seen first light. Build seems great. Moves very smooth. I will use a Paraccor with this scope.
Had a few small scopes but they just don't cut it.

Post Extras:

Robert Provin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 08/14/06

Loc: Northridge, CA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: skyward_eyes]
#2728149 - 10/31/08 12:10 PM

Quote:

Looks good Rob. Are you enjoying that 7 Nagler you bought off me?

Thanks Kevin. I really love the 7mm Nagler. It gives me 330x on the Obsession and has produced some nice views of Jupiter and double stars. Thanks again!

Robert

Post Extras:

Burnspot
member

Reged: 09/09/08

Loc: Rocky Mount, NC

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Robert Provin]
#2745172 - 11/10/08 08:49 PM

Already have my 8" Discovery in this thread, but thought I'd resurrect the thread with the XT10i that joined the stable last week.

That's my homemade Denver chair sitting beside the XT. It was built mostly to the plans on the net, but I made it a bit taller. It's a perfect match for the XT and works great.

Edited by Burnspot (11/10/08 08:52 PM)

Post Extras:

Eric Hahl
super member

Reged: 11/30/06

Loc: Vancouver, WA. USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Burnspot]
#2746017 - 11/11/08 11:05 AM Attachment (226 downloads)

Here's a shot of my modified 16" LightBridge out in the field.

Post Extras:

yonkrz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 11/16/06

Loc: SW Minnesota

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eric Hahl]
#2746052 - 11/11/08 11:31 AM

Hey Eric,nice setup.Do you have any pics of it in daylight,id like to see your mods, and the base looks to be made of ply??which would be nice to see.

Post Extras:

Eric Hahl
super member

Reged: 11/30/06

Loc: Vancouver, WA. USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: yonkrz]
#2746067 - 11/11/08 11:41 AM

Thanks Jeff,

No, I don't have any other pics yet but I might be able to get some this evening and post. Yep, the base is made of ply, nothing fancy, just 3/4" cabinet grade. I'll try and post some pics this evening and describe the mods I've done then.

Post Extras:

Jason D
Postmaster

Reged: 10/21/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eric Hahl]
#2746068 - 11/11/08 11:42 AM

Very nice artistic photo

. It would make a nice astro poster on anyone's wall.
Jason

Post Extras:

chefdrew
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/02/08

Loc: Marietta, GA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eric Hahl]
#2746337 - 11/11/08 02:18 PM

Quote:

Here's a shot of my modified 16" LightBridge out in the field.

Awesome picture

Post Extras:

Jason B
My wife says I am Obsessed...

Reged: 06/21/04

Loc: Mid-Michigan

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: chefdrew]
#2749322 - 11/13/08 06:29 AM

Due to CN being a family oriented site, we have removed the offending picture and all related replies. While we understand that this was just for fun, Cloudy Nights is not the place for it.

Thanks for understanding,
Moderator Team

Post Extras:

1965healey
The Snarkster

Reged: 06/23/07

Loc: San Antonio, TX

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Jason B]
#2750984 - 11/14/08 12:18 AM

Quote:

Due to CN being a family oriented site, we have removed the offending picture and all related replies. While we understand that this was just for fun, Cloudy Nights is not the place for it.

Thanks for understanding,
Moderator Team

Thanks!

Post Extras:

Mike Ducharme
member

Reged: 08/13/08

Loc: Winnipeg, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: 1965healey]
#2751004 - 11/14/08 12:42 AM

Here's my 12" collapsible Sky-Watcher next to my 6" Sky-Watcher, with my dog thrown in for good measure.

Post Extras:

geoffcin
sage

Reged: 03/06/07

Loc: Long Island, NY

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: astro_baby]
#2751742 - 11/14/08 02:11 PM Attachment (184 downloads)

Here's me and the 18"

Post Extras:

F.Meiresonne
Post Laureate

Reged: 12/22/03

Loc: Eeklo,Belgium

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: geoffcin]
#2751924 - 11/14/08 04:10 PM

Nice scope, Geoff!

Post Extras:

gmacln
professor emeritus

Reged: 04/10/06

Loc: Ontario, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: F.Meiresonne]
#2751940 - 11/14/08 04:21 PM

Yeah, great scope Geoff!

Post Extras:

llanitedave
Humble Megalomaniac

Reged: 09/26/05

Loc: Amargosa Valley, NV, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: gmacln]
#2752161 - 11/14/08 06:48 PM

Finally ready to show!!!

"Sauron's Other Eye", or S.O.E., 16" F/4.5, conical mirror. Not exactly a dob, because it can pass all the way across the zenith and keep going.

There's still a lot of work left to do on it, but at least it's operational! I'm getting happier with it every day.

Post Extras:

InkDark
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/29/07

Loc: Lanaudiere, Quebec, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2752197 - 11/14/08 07:07 PM

That's one good looking scope Dave! It looks great and functionnal. 16 inch scope with your feet on the ground while the scope is pointing at zenith...nice work!

Post Extras:

yonkrz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 11/16/06

Loc: SW Minnesota

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2752210 - 11/14/08 07:15 PM

Awsome scope Dave,love the color.Is that your own design?

Post Extras:

gmacln
professor emeritus

Reged: 04/10/06

Loc: Ontario, Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: yonkrz]
#2752217 - 11/14/08 07:20 PM

Wow - great looking scope Dave!

Post Extras:

John Fitzgerald
In Focus

Reged: 01/04/04

Loc: AR

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2752218 - 11/14/08 07:22 PM Attachment (146 downloads)

Here is one of my 15" Discovery in the roll-off taken in late summer of this year.

Post Extras:

llanitedave
Humble Megalomaniac

Reged: 09/26/05

Loc: Amargosa Valley, NV, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: yonkrz]
#2752306 - 11/14/08 08:05 PM

Quote:

Awsome scope Dave,love the color.Is that your own design?

Thanks Jeff, and everyone!

Yes, it's my design -- both the good parts and the bad parts. It has plenty of flaws, both in design and construction, but once I get the worst of the bugs worked out, the remaining ones will be easy to work with.

And of course, there's an eventual rebuild!

Post Extras:

Dom
member

Reged: 12/28/07

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: John Fitzgerald]
#2752417 - 11/14/08 09:17 PM

wow love lord of the rings, and the scope too! It's perfect Dom

Post Extras:

David Pavlich
Transmographied

Reged: 05/18/05

Loc: Mandeville, LA USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2752484 - 11/14/08 10:23 PM

Quote:

Finally ready to show!!!

"Sauron's Other Eye", or S.O.E., 16" F/4.5, conical mirror. Not exactly a dob, because it can pass all the way across the zenith and keep going.

There's still a lot of work left to do on it, but at least it's operational! I'm getting happier with it every day.

A Ferrari red Newt. It just doesn't get any better. Neat looking scope, David!

David

Post Extras:

Rinaldo
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 06/28/04

Loc: Lawng-eye-lind - New York, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: geoffcin]
#2752507 - 11/14/08 10:35 PM

Haven't we met somewhere???

Quote:

Here's me and the 18"

Post Extras:

yonkrz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 11/16/06

Loc: SW Minnesota

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: John Fitzgerald]
#2752546 - 11/14/08 11:08 PM

Nice setup John,looks like you have plenty of room,whens the party?

Post Extras:

LLD
Lucky so far

Reged: 11/14/05

Loc: Ma..

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: David Pavlich]
#2752550 - 11/14/08 11:09 PM

Dave thats one AWESOME scope! Great design,I wish my 16" scope looked like that! Congrats!

Edited by LLD (11/14/08 11:11 PM)

Post Extras:

tigerroach
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 08/13/08

Loc: Houston, TX USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: LLD]
#2752797 - 11/15/08 06:50 AM

That SOE is a nice looking scope.

Post Extras:

geoffcin
sage

Reged: 03/06/07

Loc: Long Island, NY

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: gmacln]
#2752889 - 11/15/08 08:42 AM

Hi guys, Thanks. I'm already on my second one!

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PlanetMan
professor emeritus

Reged: 12/20/05

Loc: Upland, Ca.

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2753511 - 11/15/08 04:30 PM

Quote:

Finally ready to show!!!

"Sauron's Other Eye", or S.O.E., 16" F/4.5, conical mirror. Not exactly a dob, because it can pass all the way across the zenith and keep going.

There's still a lot of work left to do on it, but at least it's operational! I'm getting happier with it every day.

Dave, how is the wire secondary support system working out? That looks pretty cool.

Post Extras:

llanitedave
Humble Megalomaniac

Reged: 09/26/05

Loc: Amargosa Valley, NV, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: PlanetMan]
#2753877 - 11/15/08 08:24 PM

Craig, the wire was one of the things I was most worried about going in, but it's one of the most successful parts of the system. I like it so much I may use it when re-doing my 10".

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F.Meiresonne
Post Laureate

Reged: 12/22/03

Loc: Eeklo,Belgium

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2754313 - 11/16/08 06:40 AM

Wow, nice scope Dave.
Nice blue skies also...so it seems...
Can it be moved easily. Do you need wheelbarow handles?

Post Extras:

llanitedave
Humble Megalomaniac

Reged: 09/26/05

Loc: Amargosa Valley, NV, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: F.Meiresonne]
#2754584 - 11/16/08 11:22 AM

Freddy, the wheelbarrow handles are next week's project!

Post Extras:

Eric Hahl
super member

Reged: 11/30/06

Loc: Vancouver, WA. USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: yonkrz]
#2754859 - 11/16/08 02:18 PM Attachment (196 downloads)

Quote:

Hey Eric,nice setup.Do you have any pics of it in daylight,id like to see your mods, and the base looks to be made of ply??which would be nice to see.

Here are some shots of it in daylight. This Lightbridge which I call "MidNight" now has a smaller, lighter base, Felt lined tubes and felt covered truss poles. I've wrapped the altitude bearings with ebony star and put teflon pads on the matting surfaces. No stiction whatsoever, its a real joy to use.

I mounted a 50mm right angle correct image finder, telrad and laser pointer on the UTA and magnetic and other weights on the LTA to balance it out. I don't have to use the altitude brake but left it on there just in case.

As you can see, it has the Astro Zap shroud. My wife sewed in some velcro loops for my dew heater wires. I attach the dew heater controller on the outside of the LTA using the velcro patch you see there.

I painted it blue with black end rings and truss poles. I also blacked the top and sides of the secondary mirror with a sharpie and I put Bob's Knobs on the secondary as well.

I installed heavier compression springs on the primary.

I think that's about it. It works pretty good and is fun to tinker around with.

Post Extras:

Eric Hahl
super member

Reged: 11/30/06

Loc: Vancouver, WA. USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eric Hahl]
#2754863 - 11/16/08 02:19 PM Attachment (175 downloads)

Another shot

Post Extras:

Eric Hahl
super member

Reged: 11/30/06

Loc: Vancouver, WA. USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eric Hahl]
#2754865 - 11/16/08 02:19 PM Attachment (144 downloads)

another

Post Extras:

Eric Hahl
super member

Reged: 11/30/06

Loc: Vancouver, WA. USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eric Hahl]
#2754866 - 11/16/08 02:20 PM Attachment (128 downloads)

another one

Post Extras:

Eric Hahl
super member

Reged: 11/30/06

Loc: Vancouver, WA. USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eric Hahl]
#2754871 - 11/16/08 02:23 PM Attachment (147 downloads)

oh, I forgot to mention. I made this little decal that is a chart of my eyepieces, their magnification and TFOV with and without the parracor and also with a 2x powermate.

Post Extras:

llanitedave
Humble Megalomaniac

Reged: 09/26/05

Loc: Amargosa Valley, NV, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eric Hahl]
#2754911 - 11/16/08 02:42 PM

That's a neat set of mods you've done. Looks home-built, now!

Post Extras:

yonkrz
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 11/16/06

Loc: SW Minnesota

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Eric Hahl]
#2755193 - 11/16/08 06:13 PM

Thanks for the daylight pics Eric,looks great.

Post Extras:

geoffcin
sage

Reged: 03/06/07

Loc: Long Island, NY

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: yonkrz]
#2755950 - 11/17/08 09:05 AM Attachment (197 downloads)

My scope on eq platform. Taken last November...yes that's frost!

Post Extras:

llanitedave
Humble Megalomaniac

Reged: 09/26/05

Loc: Amargosa Valley, NV, USA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: geoffcin]
#2756047 - 11/17/08 10:10 AM

Very cool, Geoff! Are you happy with the tracking system?

Post Extras:

geoffcin
sage

Reged: 03/06/07

Loc: Long Island, NY

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2756159 - 11/17/08 11:22 AM

Hi Dave,

Yes, and no. The platform works great, exactly as intended. The problem is that I'm pretty much a hunter when it come to observing. My thing is teasing out dim fuzzies and detail in brighter objects. I've got encoders on the scope that I never use. And now I've got an eq base that I've used like 3 times. The platform is great if you want to sketch, or do plantary work. Problem is I don't do it!? Who knows maybe next season.

Post Extras:

John Fitzgerald
In Focus

Reged: 01/04/04

Loc: AR

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: geoffcin]
#2761657 - 11/20/08 03:58 PM Attachment (256 downloads)

Here is my Z-10 on a RT Platform in my obs last night.

Post Extras:

geoffcin
sage

Reged: 03/06/07

Loc: Long Island, NY

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: John Fitzgerald]
#2762043 - 11/20/08 07:25 PM

Now that's observing style! I would kill for an observatory with room like that. What's it size, and how are your skies?

Post Extras:

chefdrew
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/02/08

Loc: Marietta, GA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: geoffcin]
#2762211 - 11/20/08 08:48 PM

Notice the work out bench pushed to the back corner to make room for the important stuff

Post Extras:

John Fitzgerald
In Focus

Reged: 01/04/04

Loc: AR

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: chefdrew]
#2762292 - 11/20/08 09:43 PM

It's used as a seat, usually. My wife wanted it out of the house. Rather than throw it away, we hauled it out to the obs, 49 miles away.

Post Extras:

John Fitzgerald
In Focus

Reged: 01/04/04

Loc: AR

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: geoffcin]
#2762310 - 11/20/08 09:55 PM

Quote:

Now that's observing style! I would kill for an observatory with room like that. What's it size, and how are your skies?

The roll-off itself is 16 ft x 16 ft with a detached warm room/cooking/sleeping hut that is 12 ft x 16 ft. The skies are very dark, no local lights, Bortle scale 2, elevation 2,410 feet, which is about 600 feet above most of the surrounding terrain. For that reason it is sometimes windy, but dew is usually minimal. The drawback is that it is about 30 miles from the nearest real grocery store.

Post Extras:

matthew2000tx
sage

Reged: 12/14/06

Loc: San Antonio, TX

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: John Fitzgerald]
#2762455 - 11/20/08 11:14 PM Attachment (250 downloads)

Just a Quick Snapshot with the new Lightbridge after unpacking it.

This is my of my 10" f/4.5 Coulter Optical Odyssey 10, me, and my (new) 16" f/4.5 Meade Lightbridge with Astrozap on it.

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skyward_eyes

Reged: 12/12/06

Loc: California

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: matthew2000tx]
#2762484 - 11/20/08 11:36 PM

Your going to enjoy the extra 6"s of glass on the Light bridge. Wait till you get it out in a dark sky and you will really see the difference between that and the 10". I did the same jump, 10" to a 16" then the next installment is the 16" to the 25".

Post Extras:

jonathanCR
sage

Reged: 07/02/07

Loc: Costa Rica

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: skyward_eyes]
#2767102 - 11/24/08 01:21 AM Attachment (233 downloads)

here is my big boy. Already installed setting circles to it.

Post Extras:

matthew2000tx
sage

Reged: 12/14/06

Loc: San Antonio, TX

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jonathanCR]
#2767116 - 11/24/08 01:44 AM

Where did you get the setting circles?

Post Extras:

jonathanCR
sage

Reged: 07/02/07

Loc: Costa Rica

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: matthew2000tx]
#2767601 - 11/24/08 11:16 AM

Matthew, I got the setting circles from this website http://settingcircles.robertwillett.com:8000/ You can play around with options. There are several things you can change. See this link for a closer look of how I read/set the azimuth angle
Make sure you check the whole thread, there are so many good ideas there.

Post Extras:

hansolo
professor emeritus

Reged: 12/10/05

Loc: lebanon,pa

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: jonathanCR]
#2768233 - 11/24/08 04:51 PM

i must be a computer idiot ive tried and tried hours and i cand figure this out put in 11" and outside printable area ugh!!!

Post Extras:

matthew2000tx
sage

Reged: 12/14/06

Loc: San Antonio, TX

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: hansolo]
#2774486 - 11/27/08 11:55 PM Attachment (187 downloads)

Here is a photo of me using a 6inch Dobsonian that I used to borrow from the San Angelo Astronomical Association when I was in Junior High. I was 14 when this was taken about 10 years ago.

Edited by matthew2000tx (11/27/08 11:55 PM)

Post Extras:

Dain
Boogie Man

Reged: 03/24/05

Loc: ADK Mountains/NGC 4565

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: matthew2000tx]
#2775182 - 11/28/08 02:01 PM

Matthew,

I have the 8" version of that same 'scope. I still use it to this day and I love it.

Post Extras:

rathbaster
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 03/21/08

Loc: East Bridgewater, MA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: Dain]
#2776542 - 11/29/08 11:52 AM

My 6" Celestron (Vixen) reflector. I got this new around 1990 or so. I played twister with its German equatorial mount for years. Then I got a helix 8" cradle mount and put that on my steel CG-5 tripod.

The dream of seated astronomy lives!

-Joe

Post Extras:

Scanning4Comets
Markus

Reged: 12/26/04

Loc: Deep Space!

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: rathbaster]
#2776681 - 11/29/08 01:31 PM

Very nice scopes everybody!!!

Post Extras:

stevew
Now I've done it

Reged: 03/03/06

Loc: British Columbia Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: llanitedave]
#2839148 - 01/02/09 06:03 PM Attachment (182 downloads)

Here is my home made 16 inch F-4.5 [white tube], and my buddies home made 16 inch [background] while observing at one of our favourite sites a year or two ago.
Steve

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calibos
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 11/18/07

Loc: Ireland

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: stevew]
#2839336 - 01/02/09 07:40 PM

Steve, you must be pretty p***ed off about the lush forested mountains and snow capped peaks ruining your view of the horizon. Best find a better observing area.

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CHASLX200
Post Laureate

Reged: 09/29/07

Loc: Tampa area Florida

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: calibos]
#2839356 - 01/02/09 07:47 PM

Nice scopes.

Chas

Post Extras:

stevew
Now I've done it

Reged: 03/03/06

Loc: British Columbia Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: calibos]
#2839475 - 01/02/09 08:41 PM Attachment (200 downloads)

Quote:

Steve, you must be pretty p***ed off about the lush forested mountains and snow capped peaks ruining your view of the horizon. Best find a better observing area.

Yea, The lousy mountains block my view of the really low deepsky objects.

Post Extras:

nirvanix
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 06/07/07

Loc: Saskatoon, SK

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: stevew]
#2839694 - 01/02/09 10:27 PM

Quote:

Here is my home made 16 inch F-4.5 [white tube], and my buddies home made 16 inch [background] while observing at one of our favourite sites a year or two ago.
Steve

That looks a bit up the coast, near Horseshoe Bay or further north? 16" solid tubes - you obviously aren't driving a Geo Metro.

Post Extras:

chefdrew
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/02/08

Loc: Marietta, GA

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: stevew]
#2839733 - 01/02/09 10:46 PM

Quote:

Quote:

Steve, you must be pretty p***ed off about the lush forested mountains and snow capped peaks ruining your view of the horizon. Best find a better observing area.

Yea, The lousy mountains block my view of the really low deepsky objects.

Well I guess it looks ok where your at but nothing compares to my light polluted back yard and tall trees blocking half the sky.....try not to be to jealous now...focus on what you have now not on what you don't....I'm sure you can see plenty from where your at

Post Extras:

Dr Benway
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/27/08

Loc: Abilene, TX

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: chefdrew]
#2839856 - 01/02/09 11:42 PM Attachment (188 downloads)

My LightBridge 16 ServoCAT/Argo Navis at the Eldorado Star Party 2008

Post Extras:

stevew
Now I've done it

Reged: 03/03/06

Loc: British Columbia Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: nirvanix]
#2839880 - 01/02/09 11:51 PM

[quote
That looks a bit up the coast, near Horseshoe Bay or further north? 16" solid tubes - you obviously aren't driving a Geo Metro.

Sorry, but the seeing on the coast never really gets good, Nice try though, It's Manning Park, and certainly not a Geo Metro scope

Although both scopes do actually break down to smaller pieces.
Steve

Post Extras:

dave brock
sage

Reged: 06/06/08

Loc: Hamilton, New Zealand

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: stevew]
#2841221 - 01/03/09 04:58 PM

[quote Although both scopes do actually break down to smaller pieces.
Steve

Nice scopes Steve.
The top sections look like they might rotate. Is that right?

Dave

Post Extras:

stevew
Now I've done it

Reged: 03/03/06

Loc: British Columbia Canada

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: dave brock]
#2841621 - 01/03/09 08:13 PM

No unfortunately they do not rotate. My buddy and I made those scopes about 13 years ago, and have not modified them since. Although as we get older we seem to use them less and less. However we do make a point of taking them out when we go to dark sky sites a few times a year.
Steve

Post Extras:

kfrederick
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 02/01/08

Re: Post a picture of your reflector - PART 2 new

[Re: stevew]
#2841705 - 01/03/09 09:00 PM Attachment (211 downloads)

here is my 26.25 f 4.7 i made the primary this summer

Post Extras:

kfrederick
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 02/01/08