Re: ATM Alternatives to Newtonians

[Michael Coslo <mjc5@psu.edu>]

        At the Mason-Dixon Star Party last weekend I saw a very cool
off-axis reflector scope. It was an f-10 8 inch device that utilized a very
exotic figuring job on the mirror, coupled to a eyepiece holder pointing at
the primary. The eyepiece was supported by a three tube contraption that of
course kept itself out of the light path.

        The part that took some getting used to was you needed to use a
ladder to view everything. But large dob owners shouldn't find that a
problem.

        The views? I was surprised to find them very good indeed. I was
expecting horrible image off center, but the mirror maker pulled some magic
here. The guy won a well deserved prize in the 4-12 inch telescope category.

        And you're not going to get much more alternative than that!

        -  Mike -

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