[ATM] 24" f/4 lightweight Dob

["Cord Scholz" <cord@astro-image.com>]

Hi guys,
I just finished (well almost) my 24" f/4. Total weight is ~48kg (106lbs),
the 1.6" thick primary was made by Steve Swayze. I'm happy to report that
the scope is extremely stable and performs in almost every respect at least
as good as I had expected, the exception is the Astrosystems spider which is
a little weak. Fortunately this is mitigated by the CF sandwich ring which
allows to tighten the spider considerably. However, an eccentric design
would have been much better.  If you're interested here are some pictures
from the first light:
http://www.astro-image.com/temp/fl/24_1.jpg
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http://www.astro-image.com/temp/fl/24_2.jpg
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http://www.astro-image.com/temp/fl/unten.jpg
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And some up-close shots:
 
Lateral support via rollers:
http://www.astro-image.com/temp/fl/lateral_support.jpg
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Flex rockerbox: http://www.astro-image.com/temp/fl/flexrocker1.jpg
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Sandwich structure of the alt bearings:
http://www.astro-image.com/temp/fl/alt-bear.jpg
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http://www.astro-image.com/temp/fl/pufoam.jpg
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CF sandwich was used for the cage rings and focuser board:
http://www.astro-image.com/temp/fl/carbon_sandwich.jpg
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http://www.astro-image.com/temp/fl/oaz_halter.jpg
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Regards,
Cord Scholz
 
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