Sign me up! On Tue, Sep 13, 2011 at 7:44 AM, Chuck Hards <chuck.hards@gmail.com> wrote:
I've started collecting hardware and optics for a batch of 50mm white-light solar scopes. These will use Baader mylar, and I may install the filter material internally, immediately behind the objective, to protect it and guarantee that the scope can't accidentally be used on the sun without the filter.
The scope will probably include an inexpensive eyepiece, and 1/4-20 tripod mounting block. You'll be able to use it on a tripod or telescope mount. At this point I'm undecided whether to use an inexpensive 1.25" star diagonal, or simply make the diagonal integral to the OTA.
Image scale will be very similar to the PST. I will probably use a longer FL objective in order to allow using a longer FL eyepiece (better eye relief).
I may also be able to supply a kit or partial kit, for the do-it-yourself ATM, at reduced cost.
Plans are to start getting them into the hands of owners this winter, well in advance of the eclipse in May. Any leftovers will be donated to SLAS, if they want them. The small size will make it an excellent travel-scope for eclipse chasers.
Note that these will also be very handy for the Venus transit, as well as an inexpensive scope you can keep stashed at the office for lunchtime peeks at the sun, without worrying about losing a pricey astro toy to theft.
Let me know if you want to "subscribe" and reserve one. I'm trying to keep the cost at under $25 each but we'll see how generous the Scrounger gods are in coming months, maybe I can do better. I'm only charging what the materials cost me, nothing for labor. No down payment required. But if you want one, reserve it early because the entire production run may only be a dozen or two units. Or just one or two, if nobody wants one. In which case I'll have a bunch of 50mm objectives for the next swap meet, lol.
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