6inch Telescope

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6" F/8 Equatorial Telescope

The 6" telescope will be able to capture more light than the 4.25" 'scope, and is therefore capable of higher magnifications. (Hopefully in the 120x - 200x.) The higher magnification makes stars in the field of view move out of the image more quickly. For this reason, I have decided to build an equatorial telescope.

An equatorial telescope is aligned with the earths axis of rotation. It turns out that this makes it a bit harder to build, but easier to use, as it is easier to keep the 'scope pointing at a fixed point in the sky whilst the earth is turning. This telescope will have a slow motion control - a little knob you can turn which will keep it tracking a particular star by counteracting the motion of the earth.

This telescope will be a bit larger than the first one, which should make it more comfortable to view objects higher in the sky (because I won't have to crouch down so much). The telescope tube will mount in a cradle, enabling it to rotate around its logitudinal axis. This allows you to position the eye piece in a comfortable viewing position.

Parts List

6" mirror and 1.30" diagonal	Newport Optics, CA	On order
spider vane and diagonal holder	Newport Optics, CA	On order
7" tube x 52" long	Essex Tubes
Low profile focusser
Timing gear and timing belt	McMaster-Carr	On order
Wood	TBD
Hardware	TBD
LED star finder	To be made!