Norman Remer's 12-inch Newtonian telescope design is a masterpiece of amateur telescope construction. The design features a sturdy equatorial mount, a 12-inch diameter mirror, and a focal length of 72 inches. The telescope is built with a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and wood. Remer's design is renowned for its simplicity, stability, and optical performance.
A telescope is only as good as its focuser. For a high-f-ratio refractor, a 2-inch Crayford or Rack-and-Pinion focuser is recommended. Ensure the drawtube is long enough to reach focus with various eyepieces but doesn't vignette the light path. Finding the PDF and Resources
Outstanding, high-contrast views of the Moon, planets, and tight double stars.
While traditional hand grinding is classic, using CNC-guided tools for the initial rough grinding saves immense time and improves precision. making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf 12 new
Using coarse silicon carbide abrasives (like #60 or #80 grit) and a tool disc, you rub the glass blanks together in specific strokes. For a refractor, you must hog out a concave curve on some surfaces and a convex curve on others to match your design radii. 3. Fine Grinding
For many amateur astronomers, the idea of grinding a lens is often dismissed as an "insurmountable task" reserved for professionals. While thousands of hobbyists have successfully polished parabolic mirrors for Newtonian reflectors, the refractor—prized for its unobstructed, high-contrast images—is frequently overlooked in the DIY world. Norman Remer’s seminal work,
The final chapters cover the often-overlooked mechanical aspects of the project: Norman Remer's 12-inch Newtonian telescope design is a
LIGHT [ CROWN LENS ] [ FLINT LENS ] ======> __ __ __ __ ======> ( ) ( ) ( ) ( ) ======> FOCAL POINT ======> ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ (Convex) (Concave) Analyzing Remer's Chapter 12 Prescriptions
Keeping lenses aligned to within thousandths of an inch.
The "12 New" reference often refers to updated chapters or modern revisions found in digital repositories or specific hobbyist forums that adapt Remer’s 20th-century techniques for 21st-century materials like carbon fiber and CNC-machined components. Step 1: Choosing Your Objective Lens Remer's design is renowned for its simplicity, stability,
The lens cell holds the doublet securely without putting pressure on the glass, which can cause strain astigmatism.
Making a refractor telescope can be a rewarding and educational experience, allowing individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the principles of optics and astronomy. Norman Remer's PDF guide, "Making a Refractor Telescope," provides a comprehensive and accessible resource for individuals looking to build their own refractor telescope. With its clear instructions, detailed illustrations, and expert advice, this guide is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in telescope making. Whether you are a seasoned astronomer or a beginner, Remer's guide will help you build a high-quality refractor telescope that will provide years of enjoyment and discovery.