By combining Norman Remer’s structured, methodical engineering insights with modern testing shortcuts, any patient astronomy enthusiast can craft an instrument capable of delivering breathtaking, razor-sharp views of the planets and the moon.
The curves of these two lenses must be mathematically calculated to bring two primary wavelengths of light (usually red and blue) to the exact same focal point. 2. Grinding and Polishing the Lenses
A specific aspect of this book that frequently surfaces in amateur forums like Cloudy Nights is , which details seven specific "prescriptions" —pre-calculated optical designs ranging from 3 to 8 inches in aperture. These blueprints allow builders to skip complex optical design software and jump straight into fabrication. The Appeal of the Refractor vs. The Reflector
Remer outlines clear testing methods, including the use of and autocollimation flats . By placing the elements together and observing the interference fringes, you can map surface errors down to a fraction of a wavelength and correct them using targeted polishing strokes. 5. Mechanical Tube Assembly making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf 12 new
: The flint lens selectively cancels out the color dispersion of the crown lens without entirely neutralizing its magnifying power. 2. Grinding the Four Surfaces
Amateurs seeking out of Remer's guide are looking for a structural shortcut. For builders who prefer to skip complex software calculations, Chapter 12 provides seven ready-to-use optical prescriptions . These blueprints range from 3-inch to 8-inch apertures.
Norman Remer's Making a Refractor Telescope: How to Design, Grind, Polish, Test, Correct and Mount a Doublet Lens Grinding and Polishing the Lenses A specific aspect
By carefully managing four distinct optical surfaces (compared to just one surface on a reflector mirror), amateur builders can craft an instrument that delivers razor-sharp, high-contrast views of the moon, planets, and double stars.
Making a Refractor Telescope by Norman Remer is a comprehensive technical guide for amateur telescope makers (ATM), primarily available as a 408-page hardbound book rather than a free public PDF . Published in 2006 by Willmann-Bell, Inc.
: Remer emphasizes that while there are more surfaces to finish than a mirror, all are spherical, making them manageable for a diligent amateur. First Light Optics Availability and Resources all are spherical
Many builders avoid refractors because a standard doublet lens requires finishing , whereas a Newtonian reflector requires only one parabolic surface. However, Remer points out a major manufacturing advantage: a lens surface can be four times less accurate than a mirror surface to achieve the same optical performance.
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