Amateur Telescope Making in the Internet Age

Amateur Telescope Making in the Internet Age
Author: Robert L. Clark
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
Total Pages: 205
Release: 2010-10-14
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1441964150

Building an astronomical telescope offers the amateur astronomer an exciting challenge, with the possibility of ending up with a far bigger and better telescope than could have been afforded otherwise. In the past, the starting point has always been the grinding and polishing of at least the primary mirror, a difficult and immensely time-consuming process. But now that the Internet has brought us together in a global village, purchasing off-the-shelf goods such as parabolic mirrors, eyepieces, lenses, and telescope tubes, is possible. There are also a vast number of used mirrors and lenses out there, and it is now possible to track them down almost anywhere in the world. Online stores and auction houses have facilitated commerce regarding all sorts of useful optical components at a reasonable price. This is a book about making telescopes from available parts. It provides guidance on where to look and what to look for in selecting items useful for telescope making and explains how to assemble these components to produce an excellent instrument on a tight budget. At one time, many amateurs made their own telescopes from home-made parts. In today's rushed world, that has almost become a lost art. The Internet offers a wonderful alternative to either buying a pricey scope fully assembled or making your own from scratch.

Astrophysical Techniques

Astrophysical Techniques
Author: C.R. Kitchin
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
Total Pages: 522
Release: 2013-11-18
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1466511176

Long used in undergraduate and introductory graduate courses, Astrophysical Techniques, Sixth Edition provides a comprehensive account of the instruments, detectors, and techniques employed in astronomy and astrophysics. Emphasizing the underlying unity of all astronomical observations, this popular text provides a coherent state-of-the-art account of the instruments and techniques used in current astronomy and astrophysics. As in earlier editions, the author aims to reduce the trend towards fragmentation of astronomical studies. The underlying unity of all of astronomical observation is emphasized by the layout of the book: the pattern of detection → imaging → ancillary techniques has been adopted so that one stage of an observation is encountered together with the similar stages required for all other information carriers. The book is written in a very accessible manner, and most of the mathematics is accessible to those who have attended a mathematics course in their final years at school. Nevertheless, the treatment of the topics in general is at a sufficiently high level to be of use to those professionals seeking technical information in areas of astronomy with which they might not be completely familiar.

Make Time for the Stars

Make Time for the Stars
Author: Antony Cooke
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
Total Pages: 256
Release: 2009-04-09
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0387893415

Many amateur astronomers are short of time. A full-time career usually takes up most waking hours, and often there simply isn’t time for leisurely observing. Fortunately, modern technologies such as computer-controlled telescopes, GPS, north-seeking and level detection, have made telescope set-up much quicker. Today’s imaging systems enable astronomers to take excellent astrophotographs without the hours-long exposures. Make Time for the Stars explains what to try on a tight schedule, and how to use today’s equipment to get the most astronomy out of the least time. This book showcases a wide array of quickly performed astronomical projects, including various novel or new approaches to observing. There are also practical tips for maximizing time at the telescope, extracting optimal performance, quick and efficient set-up, and easily carried out optical maintenance. Significantly, the book features detailed information on alternative imaging techniques with simple and less time-consuming efforts.

Amateur Telescope Making

Amateur Telescope Making
Author: Stephen Tonkin
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
Total Pages: 257
Release: 2012-12-06
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1447105672

This book provides an introduction to the design of a variety of telescopes, mounts, and drives suitable for the home-constructor. Projects include instruments that range from a shoestring budget to specialist devices that are not commercially available. The skill level of each project is indicated and advice is provided as to what is sensible to construct, given what is commercially available. Hints and tips are included, as well as listings of reputable mail order sources of materials and components.

Space Exploration

Space Exploration
Author: Huxley Rivers
Publisher: Publifye AS
Total Pages: 230
Release: 2024-10-07
Genre: Science
ISBN: 8233932531

""Space Exploration"" takes readers on a captivating journey through the cosmos, exploring the cutting-edge realms of black holes, exoplanets, and future space missions. This comprehensive examination of modern astrophysics and space science delves into the secrets of the universe and humanity's place within it. The book presents complex scientific concepts through accessible language and engaging narratives, making it suitable for both science enthusiasts and general readers. The author skillfully weaves together scientific facts with human stories behind major discoveries, tracing the evolution of astronomy from ancient stargazers to recent breakthroughs like capturing the first image of a black hole. Readers will gain insights into the formation and properties of black holes, the methods used to detect distant exoplanets, and the potential for discovering extraterrestrial life. The book also explores upcoming space missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope and potential crewed missions to Mars, highlighting the ongoing quest to push the boundaries of exploration and technology. Throughout its chapters, ""Space Exploration"" emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of space science, drawing connections between astrophysics, geology, biology, and engineering. By incorporating cutting-edge research data and interviews with leading scientists and astronauts, the book offers a unique insider's perspective on the field. Ultimately, it argues for the continued investment in space exploration, not only to advance our understanding of the universe but also to address challenges on Earth and ensure the long-term survival of our species.

A Question and Answer Guide to Astronomy

A Question and Answer Guide to Astronomy
Author: Pierre-Yves Bely
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Total Pages: 361
Release: 2017-03-23
Genre: Science
ISBN: 131661526X

Contains 250 questions and answers about astronomy, particular for the amateur astronomer.

The Space Age Generation

The Space Age Generation
Author: William Sheehan
Publisher: University of Arizona Press
Total Pages: 337
Release: 2024
Genre: Biography & Autobiography
ISBN: 0816551049

The Space Age Generation shares the lives and careers of a dozen men and women whose passion for science was sparked by an astounding era--the golden age of space science. These scientists, historians, and astronomers lived and participated in an amazing time that not only saw humans step foot on the Moon but also saw human-made spacecraft travel throughout our solar system.

Astro-Imaging Projects for Amateur Astronomers

Astro-Imaging Projects for Amateur Astronomers
Author: Jim Chung
Publisher: Springer
Total Pages: 258
Release: 2015-07-09
Genre: Science
ISBN: 3319185462

This is the must-have guide for all amateur astronomers who double as makers, doers, tinkerers, problem-solvers, and inventors. In a world where an amateur astronomy habit can easily run into the many thousands of dollars, it is still possible for practitioners to get high-quality results and equipment on a budget by utilizing DIY techniques. Surprisingly, it's not that hard to modify existing equipment to get new and improved usability from older or outdated technology, creating an end result that can outshine the pricey higher-end tools. All it takes is some elbow grease, a creative and open mind and the help of Chung's hard-won knowledge on building and modifying telescopes and cameras. With this book, it is possible for readers to improve their craft, making their equipment more user friendly. The tools are at hand, and the advice on how to do it is here. Readers will discover a comprehensive presentation of astronomical projects that any amateur on any budget can replicate – projects that utilize leading edge technology and techniques sure to invigorate the experts and elevate the less experienced. As the "maker" community continues to expand, it has wonderful things to offer amateur astronomers with a willingness to get their hands dirty. Tweaking observing and imaging equipment so that it serves a custom purpose can take your observing options to the next level, while being fun to boot.

Classic Telescopes

Classic Telescopes
Author: Neil English
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
Total Pages: 249
Release: 2012-08-30
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1461444241

Classic telescopes are of interest to amateur astronomers for a variety of reasons. There are the dedicated collectors, but there are also many amateurs who love the nostalgia they inspire. These telescopes "feel" different from any contemporary telescope and perhaps have a unique ability to reconnect the owner to a bygone age of craftmanship. This book takes a look at traditional telescopes built by the great instrument makers of the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly the dynastic telescope makers, including Dollond, Alvan Clark, Thomas Cooke & Sons, and Carl Zeiss. Also included are lesser luminaries such as John Brashear, John Calver, William Wray, Henry Fitz, and William Henry Mogey. 'Classic Telescopes' covers the key features of the telescopes designed by these manufacturers, and shows how a heady combination of market trends, instrument condition, and pedigree will dictate their prices at auction. 'Classic Telescopes' also shows the reader how to find real bargains! Interviews with top classic telescope collectors (and users) provide the best tips of prospecting for a genuine acquisition.