This article explores the core principles of Remer's refractor making process and highlights modern, 12-step refinements—or the "12 new" approaches—that can take your home-built refractor from good to exceptional. Why Build a Refractor?
Because light passes through a lens rather than reflecting off it, minor surface errors have a significantly reduced impact on the final wavefront. Furthermore, all four surfaces on a classic doublet are purely spherical. Spherical surfaces are naturally formed through the grinding process, making them far easier to polish and test than complex parabolas. Inside Chapter 12: The 7 Structural Prescriptions
For many, this book is not just a manual; it is an inspiration. It replaces the myth of an "insurmountable task" with the tangible reality of a hands-on, achievable project. making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf 12 new
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.
suggest it may not be the best first book for absolute beginners in optical design. Practical Warnings This article explores the core principles of Remer's
: Establish a dark, thermally stable room of at least twice your intended focal length to set up your testing benches.
Because , the original publisher of Making a Refractor Telescope , closed its doors and transferred its catalog to the Aas (American Astronomical Society) , finding physical copies can be highly competitive. Books for building REFRACTORS - ATM, Optics and DIY Forum Furthermore, all four surfaces on a classic doublet
: A high-index, high-dispersion element that forms the negative, rear-facing lens.
: Final assembly into a telescope tube, ensuring proper alignment of the doublet elements. Where to Find the Book
This section is a practical guide to lens generation (rough grinding):