9 replies to this topic

[Smith14534]

I'd like to restore the original finder scope on my 60's-era Edmund 3-inch "Space Conqueror."  I have the mountings, still on the OTA, and the cardboard tubes used for the finder.  What's missing are the internal lenses and the end pieces.  I imagine I can fabricate the end pieces satisfactorily.  But what to do for the internal optics?  In advertising and instructions for the Space Conqueror, the finder was described as 3x power with a 7 degree field.  The smaller focusing tube has an internal spacer inside that is inset 1-3/4 inches from the eyepiece end and 5/8 inch from the other end.  Near end of the spacer shown in photo. With the focusing tube inserted into the larger tube as shown in the advertising and in most photos of Space Conquerors I've seen, the whole thing is 9 inches from end to end.  Photos attached.  Any advice welcomed!  Of course I could buy a new and better finder, but I like keeping these old beauties all-original.  

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[Bomber Bob]

IIRC, these used a 30mm aperture cemented doublet.  I modified mine into a Right Angle version, using the reticle eyepiece it came with + a vintage Edmund prism:

 

 

IF I kept it, I have / had a Bausch & Lomb 32mm (30mm CA) cemented doublet.  I'll PM to let you know, if you're interested in it.

 

** I have the B&L Lens:  34mm x 185mm f/6.

Edited by Bomber Bob, 11 January 2025 - 04:47 PM.

[pairofdocs]

This looks like the finder from the 3” space conqueror reflector. If that is the case the objective is a 25mm planoconvex held in place by a metal cap. If need be I will pm you a photo

[Smith14534]

This looks like the finder from the 3” space conqueror reflector. If that is the case the objective is a 25mm planoconvex held in place by a metal cap. If need be I will pm you a photo

Yes.  Please pm a photo.  Much appreciated.  And yes, it is from my 3" Edmund Space Conqueror.

[Smith14534]

IIRC, these used a 30mm aperture cemented doublet.  I modified mine into a Right Angle version, using the reticle eyepiece it came with + a vintage Edmund prism:

 

ATM 150 F4 Newt Restore T02 (30mm RA Finder).jpg

 

IF I kept it, I have / had a Bausch & Lomb 32mm (30mm CA) cemented doublet.  I'll PM to let you know, if you're interested in it.

 

** I have the B&L Lens:  34mm x 185mm f/6.

Sure, Bomber Bob, and thanks.  I'd be interested in it if you still have it.

 

Bill

[mikey cee]

Well here you go Smith. Sorry I can't do better. Edmunds used chipped lenses out of their army surplus piles I'm sure. It's kind of hard to tell but the smaller lens is a double convex The second 1-1/2" cardboard sleeve holds the lens in place. Mike                                                                          

Edited by mikey cee, 13 January 2025 - 01:22 PM.

[Bomber Bob]

Sure, Bomber Bob, and thanks.  I'd be interested in it if you still have it.

 

Bill

No Lens Cell -- can you adapt it to the parts you have?  If not, you could check out some of the 1" to 1.5"  PVC tubing & adapters, and make a simple small finder with it.  I may have an OLD non-standard size barrel B&L Kellner eyepiece (all brass hardware) that would pair well with it.

 

I'll shoot you a PM -- hopefully with pix.

[Smith14534]

No Lens Cell -- can you adapt it to the parts you have?  If not, you could check out some of the 1" to 1.5"  PVC tubing & adapters, and make a simple small finder with it.  I may have an OLD non-standard size barrel B&L Kellner eyepiece (all brass hardware) that would pair well with it.

 

I'll shoot you a PM -- hopefully with pix.

Sounds Good!  Thanks.

[Smith14534]

Well here you go Smith. Sorry I can't do better. Edmunds used chipped lenses out of their army surplus piles I'm sure. It's kind of hard to tell but the smaller lens is a double convex The second 1-1/2" cardboard sleeve holds the lens in place. Mike                                                                           IMG_5755.JPG IMG_5756.jpg IMG_5763.jpg

Thanks, Mike.  Very helpful.

[Bomber Bob]

Sounds Good!  Thanks.

PM Sent.