Re: [ATM] Diagonal Size

[Daniel Fundo <fundo@bellsouth.net>]

<<  I think it might be possible that physiological conditions of the
observer might cause some not to see the benefits of un-obstructed over
obstructed.  >>

I have to agree with Mel and others.  If the optics are good, the view
will be good regardless of the central obstruction.

(Brag mode on)  Several years ago at one of our biannual public star
parties in Arkansas, I was able to push my 6" f/5.2 reflector to over
400x because of the extremely stable air.  Even the "civilians" could
see festoons in Jupiter's belts that night.  This telescope was the
second I made way back in 1962.  The primary tests to just short of 1/20
wave, the secondary is from E & W (anyone remember them??)  and is
2.1"....35% obstruction.  That night I was using an 8mm Brandon with a
Dakin Barlow stacked to an Ultima Barlow.  The mounting is equipped with
a Byers drive and was controlled with a Bradford-West (remember that
one?) inverter/controller. (Brag mode off)

These folks had no preconceptions about telescopes, obstructed or
otherwise.  They were able to see the details without any prompting from
me. The transit of one of the Galilean satellites was also clearly
visible to some.  Draw your own conclusions.

*****-----
Dan F.
Former Secretary/MAS
Memphis, TN
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