[ATM] Binocular Telescope

[jonah at eecs.berkeley.edu (Jeff Anderson-Lee)]

Ian McKernan wrote:

> I did a lot of comparing between the 10" of mine, Dave's 16" and the 
> Binosaur on the same objects. The 20" f5 mirrors makes a difference 
> (of course), but most of what i liked about the views came from the 
> Binoc configuration i think. Using both eyes really did it for me.  I 
> think after i have done my current 8" and the 11" glass as telescopes, 
> i may try and do a matching 11" and try out a binoc. I probably would 
> never try and go as big as Clive's though, particularly having seen 
> the set up proceedure. A smaller version that is easier to set up and 
> transport would suit me better, although 20 " mirrors are 
> nice.......??????

You have bino fever.  It *is* contagious!

If you want to try grinding your own, www.mirrorkits.com seems to have 
some good prices on 0.75in and 1in plate glass blanks and kits right 
now.  They will even do diamond generation if you want.  No affiliation 
and I've never bought from them, but the prices look good -- especially 
when you consider buying two of most everything!

I'm still working on designing my own 8in binocs with side focusing, but 
if I do it again I may go for larger glass (at least 12in) and the more 
common backwards viewing between the mirrors.

Jeff Anderson-Lee
Sacaramento, CA