[ATM] New minimalist single-pole 18" ultralight

[Ross Sackett <rsackett00@yahoo.com>]

Hi, all,

I have posted some photos of my new single-pole 18"
f/4.3 Newt at

http://www.flickr.com/photos/8315630@N04/

The scope weighs 76 pounds, so it can be carried
around the yard.  It has a 3 point hybrid "dob-fork"
mounting, and the rocker latches to the mirror box so
that it can be moved as a unit.  The design evolved
from earlier 8" and 12" scopes I took to Stellafane
and the RTMC.

First light was two nights ago, and it performed
nicely on Saturn, Venus, and M13.  It holds
collimation well, and vibrations settle down in 3-4
seconds.  

I will bring it to the RTMC next weekend, and will
display it at the scope competition on Friday
afternoon/Saturday morning.  If you are there, drop by
and say hi.

Ross




_______________________________________________
ATM mailing list http://www.atmlist.net/