Making A Refractor Telescope Norman Remer Pdf 12 New Jun 2026
If you need a from the book, I can explain the general principle based on known ATM techniques – just ask.
The lens cell holds the doublet securely without putting pressure on the glass, which can cause strain astigmatism.
Making a refractor telescope based on Norman Remer's 12-inch Newtonian design is a challenging and rewarding project. With careful planning, precision, and patience, you can build a high-performance refractor telescope that will provide years of enjoyment and discovery. Whether you are an amateur astronomer or a seasoned telescope maker, Remer's design provides a solid foundation for building a refractor telescope.
The refractor, which uses a large glass lens (the objective ) at the front of the tube, has often been viewed as the "holy grail" of DIY astronomy. There is a general perception that making a lens is an almost insurmountable task, a belief reinforced by the lack of accessible, comprehensive literature on the subject.
Whether you are hunting down an original copy, looking into associated digital design resources, or analyzing the specific telescope blueprints in Chapter 12, understanding Remer’s methods is vital for any modern lens maker. Demystifying the Doublet Lens making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf 12 new
: Remer guides readers through testing their optics and constructing a cell to mount the doublet securely in an optical tube. First Light Optics Relevance to Amateur Makers Community discussions on platforms like Cloudy Nights
THE ACHROMATIC DOUBLET LENS Crown Glass Lens Flint Glass Lens (Low Dispersion) (High Dispersion) /\ /\ /\ /\ / \ R1 / \ / \ R3 / \ | |-----> | | | |--------> | | | | | | | | | | \ / R2 \ / \ / R4 \ / \/ \/ \/ \/ [ Air Gap / Foil Spacers / Optical Oil ]
The common perception is that lens making is infinitely more complex than mirror making. Remer addresses this directly by explaining that making a lens involves the same common tools and simple practices used for mirrors. While it’s true that a doublet lens requires finishing four surfaces instead of one, all four are , which can be easier to master than the parabolization required for high-quality mirrors. Key Features of Remer’s Guide
New copies typically include a CD-ROM with Excel spreadsheets for refractor design programs. Reader Feedback & Performance If you need a from the book, I
: Remer originally packed his book with proprietary spreadsheet programs and OSLO (Optical Software for Layout and Optimization) tutorials. These programs automate complex ray-tracing equations, eliminating tedious math.
The book is structured to lead a hobbyist through the same practices used for mirror-making, applying them to the more complex task of multi-surface lens fabrication.
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Building your own refractor telescope is a journey of dedication, patience, and skill. Norman Remer’s is the definitive roadmap for that journey. It turns a dream into a step-by-step process, equipping you with the knowledge to select glass, grind curves, achieve a perfect polish, and test for optical perfection. With careful planning, precision, and patience, you can
For a DIY refractor, an f/12 to f/15 ratio is ideal. Long focal lengths significantly reduce chromatic aberration (the "purple fringe" around bright objects).
When searching for digital resources, PDFs, or secondary literature to assist with your build, keep the following in mind:
This write-up outlines the process for designing and building a classic achromatic refractor telescope (12-inch objective, “new” implying modern materials/techniques), inspired by traditional guides such as Norman Remer’s practical manuals. It covers goals, optical design choices, parts and materials, mechanical construction, alignment and testing, and suggested improvements. Assumptions: budget-conscious amateur builder aiming for a large, high-quality visual/astrophotography refractor using contemporary glass, coatings, and fabrication methods.
To download Norman Remer's PDF guide, "Making a Refractor Telescope," simply click on the link below. This 12-page guide is available for free, and provides a comprehensive introduction to the process of building a refractor telescope.