Telescope Reviews: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon

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Carl Wright
member

Reged: 08/05/04

Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon
#5624167 - 01/15/13 10:51 AM Attachment (342 downloads)

The first production of many of the newly designed Starstructure Horizon scopes is well under construction. This scope is a 26" F/3.3 that will be fitted with Lockwood Custom Optics.

Post Extras:

FrankG
super member

Reged: 07/13/04

Loc: Richmond, Va.

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5624185 - 01/15/13 11:02 AM

Looks terrific, Carl.

P.S. Is that your SST in current Sky & Telescope?

Edited by FrankG (01/15/13 11:03 AM)

Post Extras:

Carl Wright
member

Reged: 08/05/04

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: FrankG]
#5624223 - 01/15/13 11:29 AM

Yes, Frank that is my scope

Post Extras:

Carl Wright
member

Reged: 08/05/04

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: FrankG]
#5624230 - 01/15/13 11:32 AM Attachment (233 downloads)

Here is another pic of the 26"

Post Extras:

rockethead26
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/21/09

Loc: Indiana, USA

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5624236 - 01/15/13 11:36 AM

Interesting design.

Post Extras:

Fred1
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 09/19/07

Loc: Somewhere in the Orion Spur

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: rockethead26]
#5624248 - 01/15/13 11:44 AM

Congrats, Carl. It looks awesome already, just imagine when it's finished.

Post Extras:

MDavid
member

Reged: 11/15/11

Loc: 29°N (Texas)

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Fred1]
#5624273 - 01/15/13 12:01 PM

Why are the truss tubes shorter on one side? Is it painted or is the box, frame, upper assembly, etc all aluminum? I guess I'm asking if you could, please, elaborate on this interesting looking design?

Post Extras:

Carl Wright
member

Reged: 08/05/04

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: MDavid]
#5624297 - 01/15/13 12:18 PM Attachment (175 downloads)

This pic should show the truss pole configuration better. I only stopped by the shop and shot a couple of pics of the scope in progress. As far as specifics go, it would be better to contact the builder directly.

Post Extras:

MDavid
member

Reged: 11/15/11

Loc: 29°N (Texas)

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5624317 - 01/15/13 12:33 PM

I guess I'll have to wait:

"The HORIZON is the latest innovation from StarStructure Telescopes.

The new design has now been applied to all sizes from 8” to 40” and is ready for production
All information including specs, pricing and scheduling will be online soon."

The Horizon

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: MDavid]
#5624376 - 01/15/13 01:08 PM

hi Dave, I'm real sorry about the lack of information on my site. It's very important to me that the info on the Horizon is 100% correct. I need to wait until the first run is completed before I can put up any info.

Thanks,

Mike Z

Post Extras:

Jarad
Postmaster

Reged: 04/28/03

Loc: Atlanta, GA

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: MDavid]
#5624385 - 01/15/13 01:13 PM

If you look at the side view, the rocker box top is not parallel to the mirror, it is angled as if it were across the tips of the altitude bearings. The front trusses are attached near the top of the bearings. This allows the truss poles to be shorter and wider, and makes the truss more sturdy.

It's the same concept as many ultra-low profile designs that use the altitude bearings themselves as the truss connection points.

Jarad

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Jarad]
#5624594 - 01/15/13 03:01 PM

Carl, Thanks for giving us a sneak peak!!! Michael, congrats on getting the Horizon to the build stage. A 26" f/3.3 Lockwood/Horizon Starstructure is going to be a very special scope I suspect. Can't wait to see it in action. Bob

Post Extras:

Víctor Martínez
sage

Reged: 02/05/07

Loc: Cádiz - Spain

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5624659 - 01/15/13 03:35 PM

I want one.......

Post Extras:

Chucky
sage

Reged: 04/16/10

Loc: Dublin, Ohio

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Víctor Martínez]
#5624705 - 01/15/13 03:59 PM

<< Can't wait to see it in action. Bob >>

As the saying goes 'never say never'.....with respects to saying 'no' to buying more high-end large scopes. So is it possible one of these new Horizon's might be in your future?

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Chucky]
#5624755 - 01/15/13 04:29 PM

Quote:

<< Can't wait to see it in action. Bob >>

As the saying goes 'never say never'.....with respects to saying 'no' to buying more high-end large scopes. So is it possible one of these new Horizon's might be in your future?

Chucky, If I was to get a larger scope which I am not going to, a large Lockwood/Horizon would be on the shortest of lists. If I were going to buy a super-large Newtonian say in the 40"-60" range, I would only consider getting a Lockwood/Horizon. I think Lockwood and Zammit are the only people I would trust to make such a large scope and one that would flat perform. Bob

Post Extras:

Tom Clark
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/14/07

Loc: North of Deming, NM

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5624834 - 01/15/13 05:20 PM

60" Bob? Now you're talking. I'm sure Mike would like the challenge…

Lockwood has finished refiguring my mirror. As Mike says, it had demons in it.

Tom

Post Extras:

MDavid
member

Reged: 11/15/11

Loc: 29°N (Texas)

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Jarad]
#5624875 - 01/15/13 05:50 PM

Jarad,

Ohh! I see now! It's a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma...Just kidding...I've never seen this done and I like the concept mostly cause I'm 5'6" but also for the altitude bearing shaped rocker box...very slick.

Mike Z,

Thanks for the follow-up. I'll look forward to the website update as it will be a few years before I'll be able to consider a purchase. Will you be attending the Texas Star Party?

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Tom Clark]
#5624882 - 01/15/13 05:52 PM

Quote:

60" Bob? Now you're talking. I'm sure Mike would like the challenge…

Lockwood has finished refiguring my mirror. As Mike says, it had demons in it.

Tom

Tom,

You are going to have to rename your 42" f/4 scope. I can't wait to see how that "beast" performs in your New Mexico skies. Thor's Helmet which I know is one of your favorites is going to be eye popping. I can't wait to see the Horse again with your newly figured Lockwood mirror. You now have what is arguably one of the finest 40+" mirrors on the planet. Bob

Post Extras:

alancygnusx2
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/25/08

Loc: CA

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5624958 - 01/15/13 06:47 PM

Looks great. I didn't think the standard starstructure design could get any better, as I think its already the best structure on the market- but Mike keeps pushing the envelope. Let us know the details from its first operation and light. Congrats!!

Post Extras:

klim
member

Reged: 08/24/08

Loc: Matamoras, PA

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5625064 - 01/15/13 07:47 PM

Hi Mike. Could you tell us what the eyepiece height might be for this particular sample? Thanks in advance.

Regards,

Mark

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Peter Natscher
sage

Reged: 03/28/06

Loc: Central California

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5625238 - 01/15/13 09:32 PM

Hi Mike,

Does your new Horizon design trim the box dimensions (HxWxL) vs. your LE design? What about box weight differences between the Horizon and LE? Are you incorporating your new mirror cell design (non-sling) in the Horizon?

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: klim]
#5625344 - 01/15/13 10:28 PM

Hi Mark,

At F3.3 (86.25") this scope has a finished zenith eyepiece height of 82.3". These scopes will typically have zenith heights -4" from the focal length.

Mike

Post Extras:

gb_astro
sage

Reged: 01/01/08

Loc: Sydney, Australia

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5625388 - 01/15/13 10:53 PM

Is that the final position of the focuser ?
In that fifth photo on your website where the scope is about 30 deg off vertical the focuser seems rotated towards the back enough to seem a bit awkward for right eye people to use. Looks like you might have to lean back around the scope a little. Maybe it is just the photo...

http://www.starstructure.com/starstructure3_024.htm

gb.

Edited by gb_astro (01/16/13 05:28 AM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Peter Natscher]
#5625391 - 01/15/13 10:55 PM

Hi Pete,
I'll have specs on the site soon but considering this 26" scope it's dimensionality smaller then a typical 22" LE in all rocker / mirror box dimensions, which is saying a lot. Weight not so much. They are pretty much going to about the same as the LE's. Maybe a little lighter but nothing worth mentioning. The mirror cell is going to be the same as your LE. There are changes to the overall design of the cell to fit into the Horizon but the same edge system. I'll post some pics of the cell as they come available.

Mike

Edited by michael (01/15/13 10:58 PM)

Post Extras:

klim
member

Reged: 08/24/08

Loc: Matamoras, PA

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5625494 - 01/16/13 12:07 AM

Thank you Mike.

Post Extras:

crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 12/16/08

Loc: Miami, Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: klim]
#5625614 - 01/16/13 03:31 AM

Carl, congrats on the new scope, can't wait to take a peek though it. Mike, keep up the good work. All the best.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: gb_astro]
#5625686 - 01/16/13 06:20 AM

Hi Gb,

The scope on my site is only the concept scope. Focused position can pretty much anyway you would like it. Typically it will be up about 10 degrees from the 90.

Mike

Post Extras:

Chucky
sage

Reged: 04/16/10

Loc: Dublin, Ohio

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: klim]
#5625724 - 01/16/13 07:35 AM

Bob, if a 60 might be in your future, possibly the scope atop the San Gabriel Peak near Pasadena would work for you. It's already assembled and ready to use. Who knows, they might sell it to you.

Post Extras:

Carl Wright
member

Reged: 08/05/04

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Chucky]
#5626069 - 01/16/13 11:56 AM Attachment (99 downloads)

With permission from the builder, here is a pic showing the oval opening on the front of the mirror box.

Post Extras:

Carl Wright
member

Reged: 08/05/04

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5627815 - 01/17/13 10:54 AM Attachment (68 downloads)

Here is another pic showing the top of the mirror box looking straight down the OTA.

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5627832 - 01/17/13 11:05 AM

Quote:

Here is another pic showing the top of the mirror box looking straight down the OTA.

Carl, That was the "money shot" many of us were looking for. This scope really represents a shift in Newtonian design. Zammit had said that the design actually scales up better (better performance with larger sizes) than anything he has ever made. This is going to help change the way we view Newtonians. The relationship of the mirror box/rocker box to the truss poles/mirror cell is a real optical fake-out. Thanks again for sharing. Bob

Edited by Bob S. (01/17/13 11:26 AM)

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5628700 - 01/17/13 07:20 PM

I had put a call in to Mike Zammit concerning the new Horizons and he and I chatted this afternoon about many of the new features of the Horizon telescopes. It appears that Mike has really done his homework with this scope and is employing some design features that should really enhance the performance of these new scopes. I will let him discuss these publicly if he chooses to but from what I had heard today, some of the new mods will go a long way toward allowing this scope to outperform most of the scopes on the market. One example I can give is that his 26" Horizon is only 1" wider than my new 20" JPA and is actually 4 inches less tall than my 6" smaller scope. I don't think anyone is going to be able to compete with the amazingly small dimensions that he is putting into these potent packages. As many of you know, Mike enjoys 15 years as a scope maker and well over 20 years in the business of fabricating complex signs out of aluminum and other materials. I was joking with Zammit about how far he has come in the past 11 years that I have been around his scopes. It is really great to see someone continuing to push the envelope. I felt very priviledged many years ago to help him test his first two 28" scopes and have been impressed with all of his scopes up to his 32 inchers that move like ballerinas. These Horizons should make his previous offerings groan just a bit

Bob Schilling

Edited by Bob S. (01/17/13 07:38 PM)

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Jeff Porter
super member

Reged: 09/03/10

Loc: Utah

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5628786 - 01/17/13 08:03 PM

Agreed,

Mike is a great guy and is always looking for ways to innovate and modernize traditional designs.

I look forward to many nights using one of Mike's creations sometime in the future.

Jeff P

Post Extras:

winterprillan
member

Reged: 04/14/11

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5629812 - 01/18/13 11:56 AM

I talked to Mike about a week ago. He said that my 30 rocker /mirrorbox is smaller than his 28 inch LE, amazing!
Maybe i don´t need a trailer after all??

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: winterprillan]
#5629885 - 01/18/13 12:40 PM

Quote:

I talked to Mike about a week ago. He said that my 30 rocker /mirrorbox is smaller than his 28 inch LE, amazing!
Maybe i don´t need a trailer after all??

So you are getting the 30". Wow!!! It is wild that 3 out of the first 4 Horizons are going out of the country. I think you all know something that we are slow to catch on to.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5630269 - 01/18/13 05:13 PM Attachment (52 downloads)

Hi All,
I think the biggest challenge of large fast optical systems falls to mounting and supporting the diagonals. In the photo I’m showing the 26” Horizon 5.5" secondary holder assembly attached to the spider. Note that I have eliminated any axial adjustment (to and from the primary) via the center bolt. The secondary holder is as tight to the spider as possible. Also note how close the adjustment plate is to the base plate of the holder. This helps tremendously with vibration and stability of the secondary assembly and keep the spider / holder profile to a minimum.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5630278 - 01/18/13 05:21 PM Attachment (52 downloads)

This photo shows the 26" Horizon's focuser board with a focuser slide to perform the axial adjustment.
IMO this is not only a much easier way to do the adjustment but a more accurate way as well.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5630300 - 01/18/13 05:36 PM Attachment (58 downloads)

Last...showing the spider mounted in the Horizon's UTA.
The spider vanes are vertical and horizontal not angled. This is the strongest way to support the secondary assembly. Any pull on the secondary, in altitude movement, is always on the vertical axis. By having the vanes in this orientation it gives maximum support.

Mike

Edited by michael (01/18/13 06:53 PM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5630313 - 01/18/13 05:45 PM Attachment (58 downloads)

26" Horizon awaiting the Mike Lockwood Primary mirror which I am told is at the coaters.

Mike

Post Extras:

zjc26138
Loved By All

Reged: 02/24/05

Loc: Mingo Junction, Ohio

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5631872 - 01/19/13 05:03 PM

Looks gorgeous!

Post Extras:

CHASLX200
Post Laureate

Reged: 09/29/07

Loc: Tampa area Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: zjc26138]
#5631935 - 01/19/13 05:45 PM

Looks very well thought out.

Chas

Post Extras:

Peter Natscher
sage

Reged: 03/28/06

Loc: Central California

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5632086 - 01/19/13 07:29 PM

Mike,

Does the primary cell remove the same as in the LE's?

Quote:

26" Horizon awaiting the Mike Lockwood Primary mirror which I am told is at the coaters.

Mike

Post Extras:

Carl Wright
member

Reged: 08/05/04

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Peter Natscher]
#5632205 - 01/19/13 08:56 PM

Peter,

The front of the mirror box is removable. It does not come out the back like the LE model.

Post Extras:

Peter Natscher
sage

Reged: 03/28/06

Loc: Central California

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5632383 - 01/19/13 10:48 PM

So, you can pull the primary out through the front, as I can do also with my 24" LE, but the cell assembly stays screwed in against the four side walls as sort of a bulk head for mirror box strength. Am I correct?

Quote:

Peter,

The front of the mirror box is removable. It does not come out the back like the LE model.

Post Extras:

Project Galileo
professor emeritus

Reged: 11/14/07

Loc: Jefferson County, Colorado

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Peter Natscher]
#5632871 - 01/20/13 10:02 AM

Love it!

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Peter Natscher]
#5633062 - 01/20/13 12:03 PM Attachment (83 downloads)

Hi Pete,
Your correct. The steel inner cell frame is through bolted to the sides of the mirror box adding strength.

Like Carl said, the mirror cell is not removable from the rear of the scope. Instead the top plated of the mirror box is removable (same as your 24”) and the primary is accessed from the top.

Note that the top opening on the Horizon is rectangular not square. The 26” has an opening of 28” wide X 34” long so there is ample room to get your hands in to remove the primary. No worries about hitting something on the way out.

I do understand that people like removable mirror cells so that they don’t have to handle the optics directly. This is the main reason I’ve always designed my scopes with removable mirror cells. In the case of the Horizon, it just couldn’t be.

Looking at it from a user point of view, there are a few benefits to this design. With removable rear set-ups you have to have the entire scope assembled to access the rear cell. Also you have to deal the weight of the mirror and mirror cell when removing.

I guess I look at it this way, The Horizon really shines with larger aperture, 24” and up. Folks buying scopes of these sizes are mostly using ramps to load them and rarely need to pull the primary mirror anyway. When the primary mirror is needed to be removed, for cleaning or whatever, I have always recommended (rear cell or not) that one does not attempt this alone. With optics weighing over 60 pounds it’s not the weight but the awkwardness of the piece that can potentially be a problem.

With care one can clean the optics in the scope anyway, so you can get over with never needing to pull it out.

Here is another picture showing the mirror cell mounted.

Mike

Edited by michael (01/20/13 12:40 PM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5633114 - 01/20/13 12:34 PM Attachment (81 downloads)

Hi All,
Wanted to share this pic showing one of the many jig setups to build the Horizon.

Mike

Edited by michael (01/20/13 01:21 PM)

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5633156 - 01/20/13 12:57 PM

Michael, Going to a steel mirror cell appears to really enhance the capabilities of the new Horizon. I can imagine that as you get commissions to build 40-60" scopes that all of these new enhancements are going to pay big dividends. I have always been amazed that your work is measured in hundreths/thousands of an inch where other scope builders measure/build their structures in much larger size tolerances.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5633218 - 01/20/13 01:27 PM

I've aways known that steel is the way to go. On the LE scopes I've used aluminum to keep weight down but need to do more to keep the aluminum frames ridge. With the Horizon, I've eliminated all the weight of the mirror box so I was able to go to the steel cell with no worries of increasing the total weight of the scope. Basically, the weight of the Horizon is the same as the LE. On the larger sizes 30" plus, the Horizon will be lighter.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5639236 - 01/23/13 04:57 PM Attachment (71 downloads)

Hi All,
New picture showing the mirror box closed up on the radius.

Mike

Post Extras:

GeneT
Ely Kid

Reged: 11/07/08

Loc: South Texas

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5639376 - 01/23/13 06:25 PM

Impressive secondary system.

Post Extras:

Peter Natscher
sage

Reged: 03/28/06

Loc: Central California

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5639533 - 01/23/13 08:31 PM

Mike,

What's that I see at the opposite sides of the rocker box base? Two openings! Are they for a newly designed transport handle?

Quote:

Hi All,
New picture showing the mirror box closed up on the radius.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Peter Natscher]
#5641465 - 01/24/13 08:53 PM

Pete,
That's the front of the scope. Those are for the wheels. But the Horizon has the same in the back so there will be two handles.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5641487 - 01/24/13 09:05 PM Attachment (53 downloads)

Hi all,

I've been getting a lot of PM's / emails with concern about the rear opening for primary mirror. On the concept scope, shown on my site, the opening looks very small. Here is a picture showing the opening on the 26".

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5641497 - 01/24/13 09:07 PM Attachment (49 downloads)

Here is a shot from the front showing that the rear opening is covered by the primary mirror.

Mike

Post Extras:

Carl Wright
member

Reged: 08/05/04

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon *DELETED* new

[Re: michael]
#5648660 - 01/28/13 04:40 PM

Post deleted by Carl Wright

Edited by Carl Wright (01/28/13 06:20 PM)

Post Extras:

starman345
Wait, I'm Thinking

Reged: 07/06/10

Loc: New Brunswick, Canada

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5648772 - 01/28/13 05:26 PM

Mike, it looks like just two collimating knobs? The apex of the triangle is fixed solid?

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon *DELETED* new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5648911 - 01/28/13 06:32 PM Attachment (32 downloads)

Hi All,

A few pictures showing the servocat install.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: starman345]
#5648917 - 01/28/13 06:34 PM

Hi Brian,
Yes fixed but not solid. It's able to pivot on the two lower collimation bolts.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon *DELETED* new

[Re: michael]
#5648929 - 01/28/13 06:37 PM Attachment (34 downloads)

Pic 2

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon *DELETED* new

[Re: michael]
#5648954 - 01/28/13 06:46 PM Attachment (57 downloads)

Last Picture Servocat.

Of all the installs I've done, not only on my scopes but several other brands as well, this one is the cleanest yet. With everything contained to one corner the motor / encoder wires are very short and the engage levers are both on the same side of the scope. Also the install of the altitude cable is a snap. Nothing in the way if you need to remove it for mirror box separation.

The altitude motor is contained inside the rocker so no additional 2.375" added to the width of the scope.

Mike

Edited by michael (01/28/13 06:54 PM)

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon *DELETED* new

[Re: michael]
#5649030 - 01/28/13 07:27 PM

Quote:

Last Picture Servocat.

Of all the installs I've done, not only on my scopes but several other brands as well, this one is the cleanest yet. With everything contained to one corner the motor / encoder wires are very short and the engage levers are both on the same side of the scope. Also the install of the altitude cable is a snap. Nothing in the way if you need to remove it for mirror box separation.

The altitude motor is contained inside the rocker so no additional 2.375" added to the width of the scope.

Mike

Unreal Mike!!! You are solving so many niggling problems that Newtonians have had with this new Horizon! The width of the scope is an absolute big deal and not having a motor hanging out to get banged is an equally big deal. Great job! Bob

Post Extras:

plav1959
sage

Reged: 05/10/07

Loc: Central Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5649079 - 01/28/13 07:48 PM

Very slick Mike! Looks like there will be plenty of rooms for batteries as well.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: plav1959]
#5649144 - 01/28/13 08:10 PM

Paul,

Thanks for bringing that up. There is much more room for batteries in the Horizon design despite the smaller size.

At the lowest point there is 2.5" of clearance. This is on all sizes.

Mike

Post Extras:

PatrickD
newbie

Reged: 11/02/11

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5650531 - 01/29/13 03:08 PM

Hi Mike,

Fantastic pictures of the servocat arrangement. Am I assuming correctly it will be the same compact layout for the smaller Horizons (in particular my future sweet 16'') ? I like in particular the location of this altitude motor...

Patrick

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: PatrickD]
#5650745 - 01/29/13 05:03 PM Attachment (47 downloads)

Hi Parick,
This arrangement will be on all sizes. Smaller sizes may differ slightly.

Picture showing the finished rear of the rocker with Servocat box and wire hook-ups. Note that you can easily reach the collimation bolts even at zenith.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5650749 - 01/29/13 05:04 PM Attachment (41 downloads)

Another view of rear.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5650753 - 01/29/13 05:05 PM Attachment (40 downloads)

View of the front where the batteries will go.

Both front and rear panels are removable to access the innards. Note that service for everything in the rocker can be done without removing the mirror box.

Mike

Edited by michael (01/29/13 05:10 PM)

Post Extras:

John Kuhl
sage

Reged: 11/10/05

Loc: SoCal

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: PatrickD]
#5650756 - 01/29/13 05:06 PM

Mike, This has got to be the best thought out scope I've ever seen. Props to you and keep up the good work.

Best, John

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: John Kuhl]
#5650769 - 01/29/13 05:13 PM

Thanks John.

Mike

Post Extras:

winterprillan
member

Reged: 04/14/11

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5652333 - 01/30/13 01:31 PM

Amazing work Mike. What batterys can be fitted inside the rocker?

Post Extras:

Doug Culbertson
Post Laureate

Reged: 01/06/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: winterprillan]
#5652399 - 01/30/13 01:58 PM

Arrgghhh, please stop posting photos! I am *this* close to mortgaging the house to buy one, much to the wife's disapproval.

Post Extras:

turtle86
Pooh-Bah Everywhere Else

Reged: 10/09/06

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Doug Culbertson]
#5652843 - 01/30/13 05:38 PM

Quote:

Arrgghhh, please stop posting photos! I am *this* close to mortgaging the house to buy one, much to the wife's disapproval.

Post Extras:

plav1959
sage

Reged: 05/10/07

Loc: Central Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Doug Culbertson]
#5652846 - 01/30/13 05:40 PM

Go ahead Doug. You know you want to.....

Post Extras:

rockethead26
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/21/09

Loc: Indiana, USA

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Doug Culbertson]
#5652876 - 01/30/13 05:57 PM

Quote:

Arrgghhh, please stop posting photos! I am *this* close to mortgaging the house to buy one, much to the wife's disapproval.

Doug,

Go ahead and get a 24". Then you could mount your EON 120 ED on it for a finder! Zowie!!!

Post Extras:

Doug Culbertson
Post Laureate

Reged: 01/06/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: plav1959]
#5652918 - 01/30/13 06:15 PM

Quote:

Go ahead Doug. You know you want to.....

I do, I really do. Actually, I could be happy with a 22".

Jim, thanks, but I don't need more encouragement!

Post Extras:

plav1959
sage

Reged: 05/10/07

Loc: Central Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Doug Culbertson]
#5652991 - 01/30/13 06:45 PM

I hear you Doug. I would love to get a 22 or a 24". Problem is I could never part with my 16, so I'd have to find a way to keep two SSTs!

Post Extras:

Doug Culbertson
Post Laureate

Reged: 01/06/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: plav1959]
#5653004 - 01/30/13 06:50 PM

Paul, nothing wrong with 2 STSs, IMO.

I would definitely keep my 14.5" SM too. Gotta have a travel scope.

Post Extras:

CHASLX200
Post Laureate

Reged: 09/29/07

Loc: Tampa area Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Doug Culbertson]
#5653009 - 01/30/13 06:52 PM

I could be happy with a 20" F/6.

Chas

Post Extras:

UmaDog
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 09/15/10

Loc: Long Island, NY

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: CHASLX200]
#5653228 - 01/30/13 09:17 PM

Looking great!

Post Extras:

Fireball
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/24/06

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: UmaDog]
#5653582 - 01/31/13 03:35 AM

The Horizon is definitely good news. A new concept that will address a lot of things we all like. I am looking for a scope 20-26" in a more compact size for some time, which does not need a big ladder.
Hopefully the price will be still reasonable to have a chance to get one.

Post Extras:

Mike B
Starstruck

Reged: 04/06/05

Loc: shake, rattle, & roll, CA

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Fireball]
#5654189 - 01/31/13 11:55 AM

An absolutely thrilling scope! The engineering & detailing are nothing short of inspirational.

Good stuff, Michael- thanks for the guided tour.

Carry on.

Someday, maybe someday... when i grow up.... something like this will grace my Dobservatory!

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5654659 - 01/31/13 04:43 PM Attachment (46 downloads)

Hi All,
A few more pics showing the wiring set-up.

Well...The altitude encoder and arm just had to go on the outside and add .625” to the outside dim. Not Happy at all !!!

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5654674 - 01/31/13 04:50 PM Attachment (33 downloads)

Showing rear panel with servocat box and wiring panel with a single RJ45 DSC encoder plug and 12V supply for Argo, dew system, etc.

The gray wire to the right goes to the altitude encoder

Mike

Edited by michael (01/31/13 05:32 PM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5654678 - 01/31/13 04:51 PM Attachment (41 downloads)

Showing Argo Navis Podium with scope at zenith. Note that the Argo podium mounts in the same place that the rear transport handle will go.

Mike

Edited by michael (01/31/13 05:00 PM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5654680 - 01/31/13 04:52 PM Attachment (44 downloads)

With the Horizon at the horizon.

Edited by michael (01/31/13 05:39 PM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5654685 - 01/31/13 04:56 PM Attachment (41 downloads)

Another view of rear panel.

Edited by michael (01/31/13 05:40 PM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5654712 - 01/31/13 05:12 PM Attachment (39 downloads)

Last picture showing the back of the Argo Navis.

Wanted to say that I FINALY got rid of that 2-4 conductor wires in the RJ45 set-up

Never liked that.

Now have a single cat5e cable for the encoders. Much nicer!

Edited by michael (01/31/13 05:34 PM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Mike B]
#5654757 - 01/31/13 05:37 PM

Thanks Guys...much appreciated.

Mike

Post Extras:

johnnyha
Postmaster

Reged: 11/12/06

Loc: Sherman Oaks, CA

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5654857 - 01/31/13 06:32 PM

Mike - beautiful.

I have a question though - does the AN stalk have to be removed in order to transport the scope?

Post Extras:

John Kuhl
sage

Reged: 11/10/05

Loc: SoCal

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: johnnyha]
#5654917 - 01/31/13 07:14 PM

Hey Mike, is there anything you haven't thought of on this scope? Come on there must be something, although I have yet to find it.

Best, John

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: johnnyha]
#5654936 - 01/31/13 07:38 PM

Hi John.
I wouldn't recommend it. On the Horizon The podium mounts in the handle hole so you can't do that anyway.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: John Kuhl]
#5654972 - 01/31/13 08:04 PM

Hi John,
I'm sure I have.

Time will tell.

I've been working this design for a long time and have really tried my best to think everything through.

After 15 years of building these things I can honestly say there's no such thing as the perfect scope. Probably never will be.

All I know for sure is I'm having a blast with these scopes.

Got some big ones on the horizon (pun). Next is a 30" F3.6 then a 34" F3.6 both with Lockwood optics. Then a 36" F4.

Been talking with Mike L. about designing out a 40 / 42ish F3. This is where this design will really shine

Good Stuff...

Mike

Edited by michael (01/31/13 08:08 PM)

Post Extras:

crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 12/16/08

Loc: Miami, Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5655090 - 01/31/13 09:11 PM

Mike, many astronomers are starting to integrate their iPads, SkyFi and Sky Safari to use with their scopes. Do you think that it would be a good idea to design a podium that can accommodate the Argo as well and an iPad?

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: crazyqban]
#5655592 - 02/01/13 05:10 AM

Quote:

Mike, many astronomers are starting to integrate their iPads, SkyFi and Sky Safari to use with their scopes. Do you think that it would be a good idea to design a podium that can accommodate the Argo as well and an iPad?

Sergio, That is a great suggestion. More of us are using planetarium programs to drive the telescope and operate things such as cameras in our Newtonians. Bob

Post Extras:

Thomas Karpf
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 02/09/09

Loc: Newington, CT

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5655730 - 02/01/13 08:09 AM

Drool...

Post Extras:

johnnyha
Postmaster

Reged: 11/12/06

Loc: Sherman Oaks, CA

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5656821 - 02/01/13 05:33 PM

Quote:

...does the AN stalk have to be removed in order to transport the scope?

Quote:

Hi John.
I wouldn't recommend it. On the Horizon The podium mounts in the handle hole so you can't do that anyway.

Mike

I am still unclear Mike - if the AN stalk or "Podium" mounts in the handle hole, then it seems to me that you would have to remove the Podium each time you want to use the handle?

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: johnnyha]
#5656906 - 02/01/13 06:23 PM

Hi John,
sorry bad words on my part...yes you have to remove the podium to transport the scope.

Mike

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5657312 - 02/01/13 10:46 PM

Mike Z. I know this is a bit off topic but relates to your Starstructure telescopes. I just got clearance this morning to be able to use my right eye that just had cataract surgery last week. I decided that I wanted to use a scope for my first night back that was simple to use but with excellent optics and easy, excellent motion. Well, to make a long story short, I picked my 12.5" f/5 Zambuto/Starstructure for my first starlight with my "new" eye. WOW! Although the LE series is winding down, it is such a friendly and easy scope to use that it was simply a great pleasure tonight like I almost cannot describe. The combination of smooth movements and exceptional views with a very differently performing dominant eye are almost indescribable. People who have not used or looked through one of your scopes need to do it. I personally can't wait to see one of your Horizons performing like I think it will at Chiefland Astronomy Village. Thanks for making a superb 12.5" scope that helped to usher in a new era for me tonight in visual observing. Bob

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5658278 - 02/02/13 02:35 PM Attachment (36 downloads)

Hi All,

Quick pic of the scope with the light shroud installed.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5659673 - 02/03/13 10:26 AM

Quote:

Although the LE series is winding down, it is such a friendly and easy scope to use that it was simply a great pleasure tonight like I almost cannot describe.

Hi Bob, Quick correction...Your 12.5" is a TL. This is the series that, unfortunately, is going to be discontinued, not the LE.

Hope you all have a great time at the WSP, sorry I can't be there.

Mike

Post Extras:

Peter Natscher
sage

Reged: 03/28/06

Loc: Central California

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5659807 - 02/03/13 11:37 AM

Mike,

If discontinuing the TL, are you discontinuing scope sizes less than 16" aperture?

Quote:

Quote:

Although the LE series is winding down, it is such a friendly and easy scope to use that it was simply a great pleasure tonight like I almost cannot describe.

Hi Bob, Quick correction...Your 12.5" is a TL. This is the series that, unfortunately, is going to be discontinued, not the LE.

Hope you all have a great time at the WSP, sorry I can't be there.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Peter Natscher]
#5661558 - 02/04/13 11:16 AM

Hi Pete,

PM sent

Mike

Post Extras:

Jaxdialation
Post Laureate

Reged: 04/01/07

Loc: Northeast, FL

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5664432 - 02/05/13 10:27 PM

That looks fantastic Mike.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5665639 - 02/06/13 04:47 PM Attachment (47 downloads)

Hi All
Wheels and handles are in place.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5665650 - 02/06/13 04:54 PM Attachment (29 downloads)

1" X 14 gauge steel square tube is used for the handles. They insert into the rear openings at the back of the rocker.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5665657 - 02/06/13 04:59 PM Attachment (47 downloads)

Showing the front wheels (separate from the handles) made from the same material as the handles. Inserted into the front openings of the rocker. Because they mount inside the rocker there is no added width to the scope.

Next photos will show the new location for the truss pull down winch set-up. This is used so the UTA can be installed without a ladder on all size scopes where needed.

It is now mounted in the front of the mirror box and pulls the mirror box down rather then pulling the mirror box up as it did on the LE. It may be a little hard to understand how it works from the photos but in actual use it works perfectly. This arrangement is more compact, stable and more user friendly.

Mike

Edited by michael (02/06/13 05:11 PM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5665676 - 02/06/13 05:13 PM Attachment (39 downloads)

Pull down set-up.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5665682 - 02/06/13 05:16 PM Attachment (39 downloads)

Installed into the opening on the mirror box.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5665694 - 02/06/13 05:21 PM Attachment (36 downloads)

The strap goes to an opening located at the front of the wheel assembly. This picture showing the scope with the trusses mounted and scope in zenith position.

Edited by michael (02/06/13 05:26 PM)

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5665705 - 02/06/13 05:29 PM Attachment (37 downloads)

Showing the scope pulled down for UTA installation.

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5665709 - 02/06/13 05:30 PM Attachment (30 downloads)

Closeup of the winch pull down set-up.

Mike

Edited by michael (02/06/13 05:33 PM)

Post Extras:

mark cowan
Vendor (Veritas Optics)

Reged: 06/03/05

Loc: salem, OR

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5665944 - 02/06/13 08:08 PM

Slick.

Best,
Mark

Post Extras:

DHurst
super member

Reged: 03/10/06

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: mark cowan]
#5706029 - 02/28/13 07:24 PM

Will you be powder coating this sweet scope Mike?

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: DHurst]
#5711196 - 03/03/13 06:39 PM Attachment (38 downloads)

Hi All,
All done, here is a finished picture of the first production Starstructure Horizon.

Mike

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: DHurst]
#5711207 - 03/03/13 06:43 PM

Hi Dave,

I would love to get set up for power coating. Just don't have the room for the size oven I would need. Farming out all the parts is just to risky and the shipping back and forth is too expensive.

Mike

Post Extras:

Carl Wright
member

Reged: 08/05/04

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5711351 - 03/03/13 08:00 PM

With permission, here are 2 links of the assembly videos of the new 26" Horizon. I also helped transport the scope in my minivan and commented on how the overall footprint of the scope was no bigger than my 22" when loaded in the van. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgFtEURVppk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndnf_167Xys

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Carl Wright]
#5711419 - 03/03/13 08:32 PM

Absolutely fantastic Mike. The 25 minutes spent watching the two videos was delightful and cleared up a number of questions I had thought about when viewing your still shots of the scope. Congratulations on a spectacular new design. I cannot wait to see one of these scopes in action. Bob Schilling

Post Extras:

Daud
sage

Reged: 08/05/06

Loc: AZ, Scottsdale

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Bob S.]
#5711842 - 03/04/13 01:17 AM

I am thinking how life is short and maybe I shall get this scope next year. But it won't be a change money for me and everything would have to be perfect, incl. the thermal management. Bob, can I hire you as a consultant

Post Extras:

Bob S.
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 07/14/05

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: Daud]
#5711962 - 03/04/13 05:54 AM

David, Mike Zammit is aware of the CBLMS and will be evaluating it sometime at CAV. He is the consultant. I am just an end user. I am sure that when he sees my CBLMS, he will probably come up with ways to improve/tweak the design. He is certainly well-versed in thermal management issues. Now that we have an opportunity to see the scope with some motion, you can imagine why Mike Z. is so excited about the design's ability to scale up to monster size scopes. I think Mike said that this scope's design has been brewing in his thoughts for years and that "aha" moment has really seemed to bear some incredible fruit. I can't get over the relatively small footprint of this very large scope. Bob

Post Extras:

michael
Vendor (Starstructure Telescopes)

Reged: 01/24/04

Loc: Trinity Florida

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5749864 - 03/22/13 02:35 PM Attachment (28 downloads)

Hi All,
Want to show this picture of a 30” F3.6 StarStructure Horizon. This is where IMO the Horizon design really shines…Big scopes !!

With a width of only 35” and a potential load height under 30” this scope is the same size as a typical 25” scope.

Mike

Post Extras:

Chucky
sage

Reged: 04/16/10

Loc: Dublin, Ohio

Re: Starstructure 26" F3.3 Horizon new

[Re: michael]
#5749993 - 03/22/13 03:43 PM

We are clearly moving into the next revolution of large Dobsonians. Mike is taking things to an entirely new level from what I've been following.

Post Extras:

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