TELESCOPES & ASTRONOMY
NEWSLETTERS
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TELESCOPE BASICS Australian
Residents Please Fax 08 8381 3588 Overseas
Residents Please Fax 61+ 8 8381 3588 |
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INFORMATION |
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ASTRONOMY BASICS |
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HOME PAGE Subscribe To Our Email Publication
Newsletter |
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TELESCOPES AND ASTRONOMY
JUNE
NEWSLETTER 2009 NO.48
Phone: (08) 8381 3188
FAX: (08) 8381 3588
VOIP: 087 129 6316
SKYPE: telescopes.and.astronomy
https://twitter.com/telescopes1
OUR WEB SITE:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
EMAIL:
telescopes@adam.com.au
Please let
us know if you do not wish to be on our Newsletter mailing list, or if you
receive this Newsletter by mistake.
Let me know
if you want the February 2009's Newsletter, which was the previous
one. Past Newsletters can be seen here:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/telescope_astronomy_newsletters_advice_products_information.htm
IN
THIS ISSUE:
- EQUATORIAL PLATFORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOBSONIANS
-
ToUcam
- WORLDS RUNNING OUT OF TOUCAMS!
-
INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION (ISS) IMAGES
-
SKYSHED POD - 2ND SHIPMENT
-
AUSSIE WINS PRIZE FOR MEASURING UNIVERSE
-
MEADE LIGHTBRIDGE UPGRADE
-
CHOOSE THE SATELLITE & VIEW THE EARTH
-
WILLIAM OPTICS SPECIAL - A-M88-W MEGREZ 88MM F/5.8 ED DOUBLET
-
NEW ACCESSOIRES FOR THE HEAVY DUTY DOVETAIL & SIDE BY SIDE SET UP
-
HERSCHEL SPACE TELESCOPE LAUNCHED
-
PAST ISSUES OF THE ANNUAL ASTRONOMY BOOK $5
-
TWITTER FOR TELESCOPES & ASTRONOMY
-
PORTABLE TELESCOPE PIERS
-
ASTRODON FILTERS
- APOLLO 11 WORKSHOP MANUAL
-
HIOPTICS 127MM TRIPLET
-
ASTRO TENT
-
PORTAL TO THE UNIVERSE
-
UNIVERSAL MOBILE PHONE CAMERA LENS & ADAPTOR
-
16" F/4.5 MIRRORS
-
NEW DEW HEATER AVAILABLE
-
LOSMANDY PRICE DROP!
-
THE CONTINOUS HUNT FOR EARTH SIZE PLANETS
-
WE ARE NOW A SWAROVSKI DEALER
- I
WANT A METEORITE!
-
VIXEN OPTICS
-
SPECIALS
EQUATORIAL
PLATFORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOBSONIANS
We are now
taking orders for Equatorial Platforms.
- prices range from $550 to $750 depending on the size of your
Dobsonian
- can be
used for Alt/Az Mounts, Binoculars or anything which needs to track the sky
- around 55 minutes guide time
- variable speed control
- smooth
accurate tracking
- instant return, which means the motor does not have to be
driven back to the start
- works for any Latitudes between Melbourne and Brisbane (can
be modified for other latitudes)
We need to
know the distance between the feet of your Dobsonian, not the Base dimensions.
ToUcam
WORLDS
RUNNING OUT OF TOUCAMS!
There
aren't many new ToUcam left in the world. We have a few still at only
$145 plus $55 for the 1.25" Telescope Adaptor. ToUcams Modified for
Long Exposure are $275, and the "Amp Off" Modification is also
available for an extra $45. An LPT-1 Printer Port (21 pin) is needed for
the Long Exposure Modification, or an Adaptor is used instead ($25).
Basically,
there is one setup for the planets and Moon, and another setup for deep
sky objects. If the ToUcam has the Long Exposure Modification,
then both can be done. A physical switch allows the change between Video
and Long Exposure.
The Long
Exposure Modification can also be used for guiding with faint stars for
astrophotography.
Firstly,
it is best to use Focal Projection (no lenses used between the ToUcam CCD
and the telescope) for the planets and Moon. For this the 1.25"
Adaptor with Filter Thread, Annodised is used. A Barlow is used for
extra magnification.
Secondly, a
low, wide field magnification is best suited for deep sky objects. The
Long Exposure Modification is best used for deep sky objects since they are
fainter. This is where the 40mm Plossl with T Thread Adaptor
($130) is used. With this setup, the 40mm Plossl eyepiece is
used between the ToUcam CCD chip and the telescope, and is called Eyepiece
Projection.
There are
other ways to achieve different Magnification and Field of View, although the
information above pretty covers it. The other ways include:
- Eyepiece
Projection Adaptor ($45) which allows different Focal Length eyepieces to be
used. This is done by placing the desired eyepiece inside the Eyepiece
Projection Adaptor. A ToUcam T Ring Adaptor ($45) is needed for
this. This adaptor screws into the ToUcam. It has a T Thread
on the other end which screws into the EPA.
Using the
ToUcam T Thread Adaptor (12mm thread to 43mm thread), you can attach to common
eyepieces which have a removable rubber eyecup. For this, an Eyepiece to
T Thread Ring Adaptor ($45) is used. The Eyepiece to T Thread Ring
Adaptor has a 43mm thread on the outside so it screws into the ToUcam T Thread
Adaptor. This then clamps onto the eyepiece's eyecup groove using 3 allen screws. Standard eyepieces (Plossls etc.) can be
used with removable rubber eyecups with a diameter of around 33mm.
- Focal
Reducers ($95) are available for both camera/camcorder setups. The
whole idea of deep sky photography is to get a wide field of view, brighter
objects through lower magnification. This reduces exposure time making
tracking easier and more accurate. Focal Reducers turn an F/10 into
an
F/6. There is also an Extender ($30) which extends the F Ratio further to
F/4.
Baader
IR/UV Filters ($80) produce a clearer image when used on bright objects
like the planets and Moon. CCD chips received too much IR (infra red),
and so these filters cut it down. If your telescope is a short focal
ratio achromatic refractor, then the filter can also be used to cut
down the coloured blooming (UV - Ultra Violet) which is inherent with
short focal ratio achromats, when used on planets and other bright objects.
Philips
900NC ToUcam $145
Philips 900NC
ToUcam Modified for Long Exposure $275
1.25"
Adaptor with Filter Thread, Annodised, Baffled $55
ToUcam to T
(Mount) Thread Adaptor $45
Universal
1.25" (840K & 900NC) Adaptor with Filter Thread, Baffled, Annodised
$55
40mm Plossl
with T (Mount) Thread $130
T Thread to
Eyepiece Eyecup Groove Adaptor (for eyepieces around 34mm diameter)
Here's our
ToUcam page:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/toucam_philips.htm
Call us for
more information.
Some of the
best deepsky pictures can be seen here:
http://www.geocities.com/hwy37/deepsky.html
Some of the
best planetary and Moon Pictures can be seen here:
http://fiveprime.org/hivemind/Tags/toucam
INTERNATIONAL
SPACE STATION (ISS) IMAGES
Here's some
incredible images showing the International Space Station using
a 10", Hand Guided Newtonian Reflector:
http://alpo-j.asahikawa-med.ac.jp/kk08/o081129z.htm
SKYSHED
POD - 2ND SHIPMENT
We are
now ready to accept orders for the 2nd SkyShed Pod shipment.
PRICE LIST
A new price list is available. Let us know your email address.
YOUR DETAILS
Please forward us the details of the SkyShed Pod you want:
- model
- dome colour
- wall colour
- glow
- number of shelves
http://www.skyshedpod.com/
Please supply your
contact details and delivery address.
We will quote a price including delivery.
DELIVERY
We'll drop the Pods off ourselves, if possible.
Mainly to the eastern states only (
PAYMENT
Payment will need to be upfront for this particular product. An
interested initial deposit of 10% is needed.
A pre-order
50% deposit will be needed (includes the initial 10%), so SkyShed can
manufacturer your Pod. The remanding 50% to be paid once the shipment is
ready to set sail from the
A shipping container needs to be filled first. Container numbers are
dependant on Pod types.
I would like to see the 2nd Container arrive and delivered before the end of
the year.
AUSSIE
WINS PRIZE FOR MEASURING UNIVERSE
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/technology/821628/aussie-wins-prize-for-measuring-universe
MEADE
LIGHTBRIDGE UPGRADE
The
12" and 16" Primary Mirror Collimation Upgrade Kit, from Farpoint
Astronomical Research, replaces the stock knobs and springs with ours. High
quality aircraft aluminum is turned on a state of the art CNC lathe. The
finished knurled knob is anodized in an attractive blue that matches the
official Meade color scheme.
Our replacement
springs are stiffer than the stock springs. With our springs, the use of the
stock "lock bolts " for the mirror becomes a
thing of the past.
The Meade
Lightbridge "Up-grade" uses a newer version, spring and knobs set. As
you may already know, Meade recently changed the Lighbridge knob size, using a
different thread pattern but not with a spring upgrade or an upgrade from
plastic knobs. Along with our previous upgrade, this newer version still uses a
larger spring set, newer sized machined knobs and with the upgraded weight set
these are a must have for any Meade 12" and 16" Lightbridge
Dobsonian:
LightBridge
Counter Weight Add On Weights $85AUD
12"
LightBridge Counter Weight 3lb Set $130AUD
12"
Primary Mirror Collimation Knob and Spring Kit $75AUD
16"
LightBridge Counter Weight 3lb Set $130AUD
16"
Primary Mirror Collimation Knob and Spring Kit $80AUD
https://www.farpointastro.com/store/index.php?categoryID=81
See
Farpoint's other highly advanced products:
http://www.farpointastro.com/farsight.html
CHOOSE
THE SATELLITE & VIEW THE EARTH
To view the
Earth as currently seen from a satellite in Earth orbit, choose the satellite
from the list, and just press the "View Earth from Satellite"
button. The satellite database is updated regularly but may not reflect the
current position of satellites, such as the U.S. Space Shuttle, which maneuver
frequently after reaching orbit.
To view the
Earth from a satellite not included in the database list, paste its orbital
elements, in NASA/NORAD "two line element" format, into the box.
http://www.fourmilab.ch/earthview/satellite.html
WILLIAM
OPTICS SPECIAL - A-M88-W MEGREZ 88MM F/5.8 ED DOUBLET
http://www.williamoptics.com/telescopes/megrez88_features.php
NEW
ACCESSOIRES FOR THE HEAVY DUTY DOVETAIL & SIDE BY SIDE SET UP
Instead of
Piggy Backing a Guide Scope or Camera on your main telescope, consider the
advantages of placing the equipment side by side on a Heavy Duty DoveTail
Plate. Some of the main advantages of a Side By Side setup is more
stability, easier to balance and also easier to work around.
Produced
locally, the Side By Side setup is made up of a Heavy Duty DoveTail Plate
to suit Celestron, Vixen, Skywatcher, Losmandy and other popular Mounts,
and 2 separate detachable Side by Side Mounting Plates.
Detachable
Side by Side Mounting Plates have an extra pre-drilled hole for mounting a
Camera Bracket. The Plates can also be fitted 90°. This enables one
scope to be fitted along the length of the Dovetail Plate, so the Dovetail
Plate doesn't stick out to one side if only one telescope is being used.
All items
are made on a CNC Lathe. Dovetail components will not suffer from
Flexure.
Small Heavy
Duty Dovetails to suit the detachable Side by Side Mounts are also available.
Machined
345mm x 80mm x 15mm Heavy Duty Dovetail Plate - Holds 2 Scopes $135AUD
Machined
500mm x 80mm x 15mm Heavy Duty Dovetail Plate - Holds 3 Scopes $165AUD
Machined
Detachable Side by Side Mounts $90AUD each
Machined Small
Heavy Duty Dovetail Plates to suit Celestron, SkyWatcher etc. 150mm x 15mm
$75AUD each
Machined
Male to Male (standard to Losmandy) Dovetail Plate $120AUD
Extruded
Standard 30cm Dovetail suit Celestron, SkyWatcher etc. $40AUD
Extruded
Standard 20cm Dovetail suit Celestron, SkyWatcher etc. $32AUD
New
Accessories include:
Machined
600mm x 80mm x 24mm Heavy Duty Dovetail Plate - holds 3 scopes $180AUD
Standard Guide
Rings 90mm ($85AUD), 110mm ($95AUD) and 136mm ($110AUD) - Light weight
Refractor Tubes 40mm to 100mm in diameter eg. Celestron, SkyWatcher, Vixen,
Saxon etc.
Heavy Duty
Standard Guide Rings 90mm ($95AUD), 110mm ($105AUD) and 136mm ($125AUD) -
Heavier Refractor Tubes 40mm to 100mm in diameter eg. William Optics, TeleVue,
TAL etc.
Highest
Quality CNC Machined Guide Rings 108mm ($CALL), 140mm ($CALL).
Heavy Duty
EQ5 (HEQ5) and EQ6 Replacement Plate ($55AUD) - Replaces the Mount's top Plate
to allow our Side by Side Saddles Plates to be used to reduce flexure.
Heavy Duty
EQ5 (HEQ5) and EQ6 Losmandy Replacement Plate ($CALL) - Replaces the top of the
Mount to allow Losmandy style Dovetail Plates and accessories.
Complete
Packages available!
HERSCHEL
SPACE TELESCOPE LAUNCHED
The
Herschel Space Telescope was launched on May the 14th 2009. It's 5 year
mission, to boldly go where no man has... Hang
on... Wrong one! The Herschel Telescope will be used to
explore the formation of galaxies and stars. The telescope is a 3.5m
Cassegrain, which is the largest telescope ever launched. It will perform
photometry and spectroscopy in approximately the 55-672 µm range, bridging the
gap between earlier infrared space missions and ground based facilities.
To find out
more, see the web sites:
Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herschel_Space_Observatory
Herschel
Science Centre
PAST
ISSUES OF THE ANNUAL ASTRONOMY BOOK $5AUD
Quasar
Publishing's annual Astronomy book is the most popular publication on astronomy
in
TWITTER
FOR TELESCOPES & ASTRONOMY
We now have
a Twitter page:
https://twitter.com/telescopes1
PORTABLE
TELESCOPE PIERS
Wayne Baker
is producing high quality, Portable Telescope Piers. All the information
and products are available through
http://www.telescopepiers.com.au/
ASTRODON
FILTERS
Astrodon
are renowned for making amongst the finest filters in the world for
astrophotography. A number of the best astrophotographers are using
them. We are now a dealer for Astrodon. All information about their
range can be seen on their web page:
APOLLO
11 WORKSHOP MANUAL
If you've
been hanging out to service or repair your Apollo 11 Space Craft, or if
you are just interested, then Haynes have published the
vehicle's workshop manual. It includes the 1969 (Including Saturn V,
CM-107, SM-107, LM-5). It will be great to see
some more of these craft up and running again! 8-P
http://www.haynes.co.uk:80/Press/Releases_HTML/090601_ApolloPR_haynes_press_release.htm
HIOPTICS
127MM TRIPLET
HiOptic's
127mm Triplet APO is sold under a number of brands including Meade for which it
was never released. It is an incredibly inexpensive fine quality Optical
Tube Assembly. Here is a review from a customer who bought it as a
demo Astro-Tech Telescope. The telescope now has an updated Focuser
replacing the old one, which lacked some:
http://ghonis2.ho8.com/astrotech127mm.html
127mm ED
Triplet Apochromatic Refractor Telescope Optical Tube Assembly
Focal Length 952mm
F/7.5
3 Element/Triplet Objective and Fully Multi Coated
8x50 Finder Scope with Illuminating Reticle
2" (50.8mm) Dual Speed Crayford Focuser
Diagonal
2x Plossl Eyepieces
Tube Rings/Dovetail
Aluminium case
$1950AUD
BAHTONIV MASKS
A Bahtinov
Mask is a focusing aid for astronomy in general, and
astrophotography in particular. It consists of a disk fitted over the telescope
with slots cut out in a specific pattern, devised by amateur astrophotographer
Pavel Bahtinov.
The Disks
are $40AUD for all sizes up to 300mm (12").
More
information can be seen on the Masks here:
ASTRO
TENT
http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/1592156/Main/1584479
$330AUD
PORTAL
TO THE UNIVERSE
Keeping
up-to-date with cutting-edge astronomy and space science breakthroughs has just
become that much easier, thanks to the Portal To The
Universe, the latest Cornerstone project of the International Year of Astronomy
2009 (IYA2009). As a high-tech website embracing Web 2.0 technologies, the
Portal To The Universe aims to become a one-stop-shop
for astronomy news.
Released
during the European Week of Astronomy and Space Science (JENAM 2009), taking
place this week at the University of Hertfordshire, UK, the Portal To The Universe
website has been eagerly anticipated by journalists, science communicators,
scientists, educators and members of the general public alike. The Portal To The Universe provides a global portal for online
astronomy content, serving as an index and aggregator.
The site
itself features news, blogs, video podcasts, audio podcasts, images, videos and
more. Web 2.0 collaborative tools, such as the ranking of different services
according to popularity, help the user to sift constructively through the wealth
of information available and will promote interactions within the astronomy
multimedia community. A range of "widgets" (small applications) have
also been developed to tap into all sorts of existing "live data",
such as near-live pictures of the Sun, live positions of spacecraft or
live observations from telescopes.
http://www.portaltotheuniverse.org/
UNIVERSAL
MOBILE PHONE CAMERA LENS & ADAPTOR
Allows zoom
images from your Mobile Phone or Digital Camera:
Magnification:
8x
Objective
Lens: 18mm
Angle of
View: 16 degree
Exit Pupil
Diameter: 2.3mm
Eye Relief:
10mm
Universal
Bracket
Size:
34x70mm
$38AUD
16"
F/4.5 MIRRORS
A new
shipment of 16" Mirrors will arrive soon. The mirror's accuracy
is very good, considering their size. Let me know you want more details.
$1600AUD
NEW
DEW HEATER AVAILABLE
AWR have
just brought out a new Dew Heater Controller. It has robust battery
measurement / fault indication for easy diagnosis of common problems with input
and output, and it does not let a lead acid battery die!
The Heater
Bands are from OptoOffice in
- Constant
Power at 10 settings
- Fully
protected up to 60 Watts
- Easy
fault diagnosis
- Two LED's
OFF/RED/GREEN/FLASHING
- Input LED
- Out of limits or Reversed
- Output
LED - Setting, Controlled, Uncontrolled, Open Circuit
$149AUD
More
information can be seen on AWR's web site:
http://www.awrtech.co.uk/dew.htm
LOSMANDY
PRICE DROP!
Over the
last few years we have been building up our Losmandy supplies and increasing
our customers. We now manufacturer a number of extra
Losmandy components which compliment the range of Mounts. I
also use a Losmandy which is housed snuggly in my SkyShed Pod Observatory.
Due to the
increasing sales, we have been able to increase the size of our shipments and
therefore reduce the costs associated with transporting the items from the
Contact us
for a price quote for any of the Losmandy range.
THE
CONTINOUS HUNT FOR EARTH SIZE PLANETS
In the
search for Earth-like planets, astronomers zeroed in on two places that look
awfully familiar to home. One is close to the right size. The other is in the
right place:
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/technology/804480/scientists-discover-earth-sized-planet
WE
ARE NOW A SWAROVSKI DEALER
Swarovski
Optics are amongst the finest optics in the
world. Their astronomy related products include binoculars and spotting
scopes. Contact us for a price quote:
I
WANT A METEORITE!
A number of
people have asked me where they can get their own meteorite from. Here
you go!:
http://www.meteorite.com/dealer_list.htm
VIXEN
OPTICS
Vixen
continues to produce high end quality with their range of
products. A number of new products have been released and updated.
The Vixen
VC200L is an exceptional Optical Tube Assembly for visual, and especially for
Astrophotography. It has many, many owner praising reviews on
forums. The quality control is the same high Japanese standard as it has
always been:
SPECIALS
6"
Dobsonian $350AUD
8"
Dobsonian $490AUD
10"
Dobsonian $750AUD
8"
Collapsible Truss Dobsonian $565AUD
10"
Collapsible Truss Dobsonian $865AUD
12"
Collapsible Truss Dobsonian $1520AUD
20x100mm
Binoculars - 20x magnification, 100mm aperture, metal body, porro prisms,
tripod adapter and soft carry case included.
$525AUD
2"
Filter Sets - Red, Blue Yellow and Moon $175AUD
2"
Moon Filters $35AUD
Flip
Mirrors - allows a camera and also an eyepiece to be used together. The
mirror is flipped to use either the camera or eyepiece.
$75AUD
Binocular
Cases - suit 60mm and larger Binoculars up to 80mm
$10AUD
2"
Eyepiece Projection Adaptors - screws into the camera's standard T Mount.
$65AUD
Regards,
Matthew
Lovell
Telescopes and Astronomy
PO BOX 292
OHALLORAN HILL SA 5158
PH: 08 8381 3188
FAX: 08 8381 3588
Skype: telescopes.and.astronomy
telescopes@adam.com.au
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
https://twitter.com/telescopes1
TELESCOPES AND ASTRONOMY
FEBRUARY NEWSLETTER 2009 NO.47
Phone: (08) 8381 3188
FAX: (08) 8381 3588
VOIP: 087 129 6316
SKYPE: telescopes.and.astronomy
OUR WEB SITE:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
EMAIL:
telescopes@adam.com.au
Please let us know if you do not wish to be on our Newsletter mailing list, or if you receive this Newsletter by mistake.
Let me know
if you want the December 2008's Newsletter, which was the previous
one. Past Newsletters can be seen here:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/telescope_astronomy_newsletters_advice_products_information.htm
IN THIS ISSUE:
- 16" (400MM) COMPLETED MIRRORS
- INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF ASTRONOMY
- INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF ASTRONOMY COIN ISSUE
- PHILIPS TOUCAM SPC900NC STILL AVAILABLE
- STELLACAM III COOLED CCD CAMERAS
- VIXEN VC200L OTA
- 2" MOON FILTER SET
- PYREX DIAGONALS/SECONDARY MIRRORS
- WILLIAM OPTICS SPECIALS
- SATELLITE VIEW OF WORLD AIR TRAFFIC IN 24HRS
- HIOPTIC HAS BROUGHT OUT A 152MM REFRACTOR
- MILKY WAY GALAXY BIGGER & FASTER THAN EXPECTED!
- SKYWATCHER SPECIALS
- WHAT HASN'T GONE UP IN PRICE DUE TO THE AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR?
-
TIMER REMOTE SWITCHES BACK ON THE MENU
- TRANSIT OF SATURN'S MOONS
- HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE NEXT TARGET - YOU DECIDE
- NEW DVD FOR 4-9 Y.O - ASTRO PUPPIES IN SPACE
-
IS IT GOING TO BE CLEAR FOR OBSERVING TODAY/TONIGHT? - Update
- SKIPPY SKY ASTRO-WEATHER FORECAST
- APANEL (ASTROWEATHER PANEL) BY 7TIMER
- CLEAR SKY CHART FOR
- CLOUD COVER MAP BY THE MRO NOAA SATELLITE WEATHER LOOP
- SYNOPTIC AND JET STREAM MAP
- MOON PHASE MAP AND PLANNER
- UP TO DATE SOLAR IMAGES FROM
- SKY QUALITY METERS
- UNPRECEDENTED 16-YEAR LONG STUDY TRACKS STARS ORBITING MILKY WAY BLACK HOLE
- NEW POSTERS & DVD'S AVAILABLE
- SPECIALS
- ASTRONOMY 2009 CALENDAR $5AUD
- TELRAD DEW SHIELD $30AUD
- 2" 80° 20mm EYEPIECE $165AUD
-
- C MOUNT TO POPULAR BRANDS $95AUD
- ATIK 5 POSITION FILTER WHEEL $275AUD
- HARRY SIEBERT 2x and 2.5x 2" BARLOWS $245AUD
16" MIRRORS COMPLETED MIRRORS
We are gathering numbers for those who wish to purchase Completed 16" BK7 F/4.5 Mirrors. Why no build a 16" Binocular Telescope! 8-) The Mirrors are $1800AUD plus any postage. This price may go down dependant on numbers. These mirrors test up quite accurate, and are used in many popular telescopes of their size.
Please email for more information.
INTERNATIONAL
YEAR OF ASTRONOMY
The IYA has its own web site with all the details of events, projects and organisations. Visit the web site to subscribe to IYA Newsletters by e-mail, with the latest updates on IYA2009 projects and activities:
http://www.astronomy2009.org/
INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF ASTRONOMY COIN ISSUE
The Australian Mint has a number of Coin Packs issued for the International Year of Astronomy. They can be seen here with online shopping:
http://mintissue.ramint.gov.au/mintissue/eshop_browse.asp
PHILIPS TOUCAM SPC900NC STILL AVAILABLE
The Philips ToUcam SPC900NC is a great camera for use on the planets, DeepSky or as a Guide Camera. There are many examples of great images on the web. Best value for money available - thousands of hours of fun and images!
- Philips
900NC ToUcam $145AUD
-
Philips 900NC ToUcam Modified for Long Exposure $285AUD
-
1.25" Adaptor with Filter Thread, Baffled, Annodised $55AUD
- ToUcam to
T Thread Adaptor $45AUD
- Universal
1.25" (840K & 900NC) Adaptor with Filter Thread, Baffled, Annodised
$55AUD
- 40mm
Plossl with T Thread $130AUD
- Camera
Thread to Eyepiece Adaptor (for eyepieces around 34mm diameter) $55AUD - $60AUD
- 5m USB
Extension Lead $18AUD (camera comes with 2m lead)
http://www.geocities.com/hwy37/deepsky.html
http://www.technoplus.nl/astro/webcam/webcam.htm
http://zimmer.csufresno.edu/~fringwal/moon-gallery.html
http://uk.geocities.com/photoncollector@btinternet.com/jupiter.html
http://www.deep-sky.co.uk/imaging/webcam/toucam.htm
STELLACAM III COOLED CCD CAMERAS
Sky & Telescope's Test Report of the StellaCam III can be seen here:
http://media.skyandtelescope.com/documents/Stellcam3.pdf
The StellaCam range allows the camera to be used on a PC, as well as plugged straight into a television set or monitor!
Stellacam III - $1300AUD
Stellacam III Cooled - $2210AUD
http://www.astrovid.com/products.php?subcat=618
StellaCam EX - $810AUD
http://www.astrovid.com/prod_details.php?pid=140&querystr=stellacam%20ex
VIXEN VC200L OTA SPECIAL
The Vixen VC200L is an exceptional Optical Tube Assembly for visual, and especially for Astrophotography. It has many, many owner praising reviews on forums. The quality control is the same high Japanese standard as it has always been:
http://www.vixenamerica.com/Pdf/Scopes/VixenNorthAmerica_SX_VC200L.pdf
$2780AUD
2" MOON FILTER SET $70AUD
The 2" Moon Filter Set has 0.3, 0.6 & 0.9 Density filters.
PYREX DIAGONALS/SECONDARY MIRRORS
We have received a large shipment of Pyrex Secondary Mirrors for Newtonian Telescopes. The Mirrors are made from the last Pyrex available, since Dow Corning stopped making it. There is limited stock, although a large range. All diagonals are 1/10 wave and have Enhanced Coatings. 28, 31, 50, 63, 70 & 80mm BK7 with 1/6 wave are generally always available. Prices can be seen on our Construction site:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/telescope_build_construction_help_parts_accessories.htm
WILLIAM OPTICS SPECIALS
ZenithStar 70mm OTA $575AUD
SATELLITE VIEW OF WORLD AIR TRAFFIC IN 24HRS
This interesting video shows the air traffic around the world in 24 hrs.:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XBwjQsOEeg
Let us know if you want a higher quality video via email.
HIOPTIC
HAS BROUGHT OUT A 152MM ED
The 152mm ED OTA is $7800:
- Triplet
Elements Objective Lens,
- 2 pieces
of ED glass
- 10:1 Dual
Speed Focuser
- Rings and
Dovetail
- Aluminium Case
- 99% Reflective Diagonal
-
Illuminating Reticle 8x50 Finder Scope
MILKY WAY GALAXY BIGGER & FASTER THAN EXPECTED!
Andromeda Galaxy is no longer the big brother in our group of galaxies:
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/technology/707964/milky-way-galaxy-is-bigger-than-thought
SKYWATCHER SPECIALS
EQ5 Mount with Goto $1100AUD - includes 127mm x 1500mm Maksutov Black Diamond OTA for only $80AUD extra
150mm x 1800mm Maksutov Black Diamond OTA $1230AUD - includes HEQ5 Mount for $385AUD extra
Black Diamond ED100 Refractor (Doublet ED APO) OTA - includes 2" Dielectric Diagonal, 2 Speed Crayford Focuser, 9x50mm Finder & 28mm 2" Eyepiece $1150AUD
Pro Series ED80 Refractor (Doublet ED APO) OTA - includes Rings, Diagonal, Eyepiece, Finderscope & Case $1100AUD
Pro Series
ED120 Refractor (Doublet ED APO) on HEQ5 Pro (Pro-5)
WHAT HASN'T GONE UP IN PRICE DUE TO THE AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR?
Philips ToUcam SP900NC $145AUD
ToUcam Long
Exposure Modification $140AUD - Made in
1.25"
Baffled Adaptor $55AUD - Made in
Dobsonian
Teflon Bearing Kit $36AUD - Made in
Dobsonian
Pivot Bearing Kit $36AUD - Made in
Heavy Duty
Dovetail to suit popular brands $135AUD - Made in
Heavy Duty
Dovetail Side by Side Setup to suit popular brands $315AUD - Made in
0.6x
1.25" Focal Reducer $95AUD - Made in
0.3x
1.25" Focal Reducer Extender $45AUD - Made in
C Mount to
Popular SLR Camera Adaptor $95AUD - Made in
TIMER REMOTE SWITCHES BACK ON THE MENU
Timer
Remote Switches to suit most popular brands of SLR including Nikon, Canon and Pentax.
The Timer Switch, with a built in interval timer, is a premium
electronic remote timer for exact control over exposure time.
Moreover, compared with the original products, it is affordable and is good
quality. The Timer Switch allows the user to choose different functions
like length, interval, delay and total number of exposures. It also has a
speaker to notify the various functions. It uses an LCD background light
for the display. The timer switch has been tested by one of our
astro society member and he recommends it! - Thanks to Alan Brinkworth.
$95AUD
Also available are Non Electronic Remote Timer Switches for $15AUD
TRANSIT OF SATURN'S MOON TITAN (SATELLITES)
These are rare events. It can only been seen with amateur scopes when the Rings of Saturn are on their side, reducing the amount of light and obstruction, allowing us to see the whole planets disk. Most will find a good quality 6" Reflector, or 4" Refractor telescope will do the job. Good Sky Conditions will be a must - see SkippySky below. If you have seen the Satellite Transits of Jupiter before, then this will be harder, due to the Satellites being fainter. The following dates and times are when Titan will be Transiting. The Transit of Titan will appear high on the North Pole of Saturn, and move towards the Equator as the year goes on. This path takes Titan close and through the observable Rings. Also, as the year goes on, the Rings will become more edge on, making Titan and other Satellites easier to see - Take a picture! 8-)
Universal Time Calculator:
http://www.gkindia.com/bitsol_time/
Start of Titan's Shadow - Universal Time:
2009 February 24th 10:49
2009 March 12th 09:32
2009 March 28th 08:21
2009 April 13th 07:22
2009 April 29th 06:23
2009 May 15th 05:28
2009 May 31st 04:34
2009 June 16th 03:42
2009 July 2nd 02:52
2009 July 18th 02:03
2009 August 3rd 01:15
2009 August 19th 00:28
Don't forget to look for the other Moons of Saturn dancing around the planet - up to 8 can be seen.
More information including a month by month account can be found in Australia 2009 Book for $18AUD plus postage - please inquire.
HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE'S NEXT TARGET - YOU DECIDE
A number of objects which Hubble will observe can be voted for. Go to this web site for all the details:
http://youdecide.hubblesite.org/
NEW DVD FOR 4-9 Y.O - ASTRO PUPPIES IN SPACE
Journey through the Solar System with the Astro Puppies. Designed to introduce this age group to astronomy using great NASA Videos, Hubble Space Telescope images and interactive songs:
http://astropuppiesinspace.com/
$32AUD
IS IT GOING TO BE CLEAR FOR OBSERVING TODAY/TONIGHT? - Update
Looking at the night sky on a clear night looks fabulous, but how transparent is it really? When a telescope is used to view the night sky, magnification shows all the problems affecting our viewing between us and the stars. These include dust, cloud, jet streams, humidity, heat, light pollution and wind. The sky may look clear, but try putting the magnification up high, and the telescope becomes impossible to focus. One way to tell, is to observe a planet in fine detail, and compare it to other nights. This could waste valuable time and effort to set up the scope, let it cool down sufficiently, only to find the night is not transparent.
There have been a number of ways astronomers could judge the night sky to determine how good the night is for viewing. One way I use is the UV rating for the day. This has its own problems in regards to time, heat, cloud etc. Another way is to use a Sky Quality Meter (see below), which also has its problems in regards to only showing how dark it is, and not allowing for many of the other factors.
Recently, a
number of amateur astronomers have been using data from the Meteorology
Departments, and other sources, to develop a chart for predicting sky
conditions. One of the best charts has been developed by Attilla
Danko of the
SKIPPY
SKY ASTRO-WEATHER FORECAST
SkippySky
has had many steps forward since its initialisation, including being able to
open the information in Google Earth. The benefit of SkippySky over other
forecasters is the ability to see what is coming from the general path for
which weather travels. For example, the weather here in
http://www.skippysky.com.au/
APANEL (ASTROWEATHER PANEL) BY 7TIMER
Apanel (AstroWeather Panel) is a nurmerical weather forecast which is especially designed if you want to know the astronomical weather in the next 72 hours. APanel updates 4 times a day. The graph is generated in real time, so you have to wait for a few seconds for it to appear, if it is not yet cached by former users.
APanel can be placed on your website by using the HTML found on the web site;
http://7timer.y234.cn/V3/product.php?language=en&product_id=1
CLEAR
SKY CHART FOR
http://www.cleardarksky.com/csk/
CLOUD COVER MAP BY THE MRO NOAA SATELLITE WEATHER LOOP
http://www.darksky.net.au/mroweatherloop.html
SYNOPTIC AND JET STREAM MAP
http://www.weatherzone.com.au/httpdata_r/images/synoptic/wz_syn_aus_d0_640x480.jpg
MOON PHASE MAP AND PLANNER
http://tycho.usno.navy.mil/vphase.html
UP
TO DATE SOLAR IMAGES FROM
http://sohowww.nascom.nasa.gov/data/realtime-images.html
SKY
QUALITY METERS
Sky Quality meters are a tool for determining how dark the sky is by measuring brightness in magnitudes per square arc second. Our own society is currently undertaking a project involving members with sky Quality Meters. Here's more info:
http://unihedron.com/projects/darksky/
$215AUD
UNPRECEDENTED
16-YEAR LONG STUDY TRACKS STARS ORBITING MILKY WAY BLACK HOLE
In a
16-year long study, using several of ESO's flagship telescopes, a team of
German astronomers has produced the most detailed view ever of the surroundings
of the monster lurking at our Galaxy's heart — a super massive black hole. The
research has unravelled the hidden secrets of this tumultuous region by mapping
the orbits of almost 30 stars, a five-fold increase over previous studies. One
of the stars has now completed a full orbit around the black hole... More:
http://www.eso.org/public/outreach/press-rel/pr-2008/pr-46-08.html
NEW
POSTERS & DVD'S AVAILABLE
New and
updated DVD's to 2009:
- Space
Flight $16AUD
- The New
Solar System $16AUD
- The
Universe $16AUD
- Hubble -
15 years of Discovery $16AUD
Posters and
DVD's can been seen here:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/poster-chart-astronomy-star-night-sky.htm
SPECIALS
-
ASTRONOMY CALENDARS 2009 - $5
-
PHILIPS SPC600NC WEBCAMS (NOT FOR ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY) - $40
-
TELRAD DEW SHIELD - $30AUD
- 2" 80° 20mm EYEPIECE - $165AUD
-
- C MOUNT TO POPULAR BRANDS - $95AUD
- ATIK 5 POSITION FILTER WHEEL - $275AUD
- HARRY SIEBERT 2x and 2.5x 2" BARLOWS - $245AUD
Regards,
Matthew
Lovell
Telescopes and Astronomy
PO BOX 292
OHALLORAN HILL SA 5158
PH: 08 8381 3188
FAX: 08 8381 3588
telescopes@adam.com.au
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
TELESCOPES AND ASTRONOMY
DECEMBER
NEWSLETTER 2008 NO.46
Phone: (08) 8381 3188
FAX: (08) 8381 3588
OUR WEB SITE:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
EMAIL:
telescopes@adam.com.au
Please let
us know if you do not wish to be on our Newsletter mailing list, or if you
receive this Newsletter by mistake.
Let me know
if you want the August 2008's Newsletter, which was the previous
one. Past Newsletters can be seen here:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/astronomy129.htm
IN
THIS ISSUE:
-
BRIGHT FIREBALL OVER
-
SKYSHED PODS
-
ASTRONOMY 2009 CALENDARS
-
ASTRONOMY 2009 BOOK
-
ATLAS OF THE UNIVERSE - SIR PATRICK MOORE
-
INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF ASTRONOMY
-
HIOPTIC TELESCOPES & ACCESSORIES
-
TOUCAM - GETTING IT TO WORK IN
-
IS IT GOING TO BE CLEAR FOR OBSERVING TODAY/TONIGHT?
- CLEAR SKY CHART FOR
- SKIPPY SKY CHART FOR LOCAL & AUSTRALIA BY ANDREW COOL
- CLOUD COVER MAP
- SYNOPTIC & JETSTREAM MAP
- MOON PHASE MAP & PLANNER
- SOLAR IMAGES FROM
-
SKY QUALITY METERS
-
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION SPECTRUM CHART
-
FIRST VISUAL PHOTO OF A PLANET OUTSIDE OUR SOLAR SYSTEM
-
FIRST PREDICTED ASTEROID IMPACT
-
INCREDIBLE ECLIPSE PHOTO
-
INCREDIBLE PHOTO
-
SOLAR ECLIPSE
-
TESTING YOUR TELESCOPE'S MIRROR
- FINDING
OBJECTS EASILY IN THE NIGHT SKY
-
HOTECH GEN II & III ASTRO AIMER
-
TAL200K FOCAL REDUCER TIP
-
SNOW ON MARS!
-
EDMUND SCIENTIFIC ASTROSCAN TELESCOPE
-
LHC T SHIRTS
-
LYMAX COOLER FOR SCHMIDT-CASSEGRAIN TELESCOPES
-
AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR DROPS
-
HARRY SIEBERT BARLOWS
-
NEW FREE STACKING PROGRAM FOR IMAGERS
-
PYREX MIRROR BLANKS & SECONDARY MIRRORS
-
SCHMIDT-CASSEGRAIN COLLIMATOR
-
SKYWATCHER GOTO HEQ5 & EQ6 PRO SPECIAL
-
BEWARE DISCOVERY TELESCOPES
-
MORE SECURE TOP PLATE FOR HEQ5 & EQ6 MOUNTS
-
HEAVY DUTY DOVETAIL & SIDE BY SIDE SETUP
BRIGHT
FIREBALL OVER
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=e_2aX-784sw
SKYSHED
PODS
The SkyShed
Pods container is finally here, and I am off to
ASTRONOMY
2009 CALENDARS
The new
2009 Astronomy Calendars are now in stock. They feature:
- monthly star maps
- nightly Moon phases
- positions of the planets
- images from NASA and Australian photographers
$12AUD
ASTRONOMY
2009 BOOK
The
Astronomy 2009 yearbook has been designed for anyone who looks at the
night sky, whether they are using just their eyes, a pair of binoculars or a
telescope. The book has something for everyone, from the basic novice, up to
the advanced amateur astronomer. Astronomy 2009 is an Australian publication
suitable for whole of
For more
information see Quasar's web site:
http://www.quasarastronomy.com.au/yb_09.htm
$18AUD
ATLAS
OF THE UNIVERSE - SIR PATRICK MOORE
Latest
Edition $75AUD
Information
from the publisher can be seen here:
http://www.fireflybooks.com/bookdetail&bookid=7012
INTERNATIONAL
YEAR OF ASTRONOMY
The
Telescope celebrated its 400th birthday this year. Next year will be the International
Year of Astronomy (IYA).
Hans
Lipperhey’s invented the telescope in 1608. The two things
which will not change is the presence of clouds, and its essential part of
observing, no matter how good technology gets (so far!).
The IYA has
its own web site with all the details of events, projects and
organisations. The opening ceromony was held on the 21st of November and
is now in full swing.
Visit the
web site to subscribe to IYA Newsletters by e-mail with the latest
updates on IYA2009 projects and activities:
HIOPTIC
TELESCOPES & ACCESSORIES
A number of
people are now purchasing items from HiOptic's range of products. We have
found the products to be of high quality with full warranty and back up.
Telescopes and Astronomy have been dealers for HiOptic for a number of
years. Although the products are available direct from HiOptic,
substantial savings can be made by purchasing through us. Check out there
range of items at:
TOUCAM
- GETTING IT TO WORK IN
There has been some issues with getting the ToUcam to work with
Windows Vista. Richard Kinsey managed to make it work:
I downloaded the Philips "workaround" driver and followed the
instructions from the Philips internet site. The appropriate driver can be
found by going to www.philips.
NB I have posted the driver for the 840 within the files section of this user
group. Having said that, I am not sure whether the driver is different for the
840/00 and 840/20, so it is perhaps best to select the right camera as
described above.
Having installed the driver, I found
that I could not access the video properties screen. This is obviously a
problem because not being able to do so means that it is not possible to access
the camera settings. I managed to overcome this problem by following steps 18
and 19 from the following internet site:
http://www.azcendant.com/VistaToUcamInstall.htm
My Toucam now works fine in
http://www.astrosurf.com/buil/us/iris/iris.htm
- thanks Richard
IS IT GOING TO BE CLEAR FOR
OBSERVING TODAY/TONIGHT?
Looking at the night sky on a clear night looks
fabulous, but how transparent is it really? When a telescope is used to
view the night sky, magnification shows all the
problems affecting our viewing between us and the stars. These include
dust, cloud, jet streams, humidity, heat, light pollution and wind.
The sky may look clear, but try putting the magnification up high, and the
telescope becomes impossible to focus. One way to tell,
is to observe a planet in fine detail, and compare it to other nights.
This could waste valuable time and effort to set up the scope, let it cool down
sufficiently, only to find the night is not transparent.
There have been a number of ways astronomers could
judge the night sky to determine how good the night is for viewing. One
way I use is the UV rating for the day. This has its own problems in
regards to time, heat, cloud etc. Another way is to use a Sky Quality
Meter (see below), which also has its problems in regards to only showing how
dark it is, and not allowing for many of the other factors.
Recently, a number of amateur astronomers have been
using data from the Meteorology Departments, and other sources, to develop a
chart for predicting sky conditions. One of the best charts has been
developed by Attilla Danko of the
CLEAR SKY CHART FOR
http://www.cleardarksky.com/csk/
SKIPPY SKY ASTRO-WEATHER CHART FOR LOCAL
& AUSTRALIA BY ANDREW COOL
The SkippySky Astro-Weather Forecast is under
development still although, the fully working version
can be seen here:
There are other charts available which are used for
determining when to view:
Cloud Cover Map by the MRO NOAA Satellite Weather
http://www.darksky.net.au/mroweatherloop.html
Synoptic and Jet Stream Map
http://www.weatherzone.com.au/httpdata_r/images/synoptic/wz_syn_aus_d0_640x480.jpg
Moon Phase Map and Planner
http://tycho.usno.navy.mil/vphase.html
Up To Date Solar Images from
http://sohowww.nascom.nasa.gov/data/realtime-images.html
SKY
QUALITY METERS
Sky Quality
meters are a tool for determining how dark the
sky is by measuring brightness in magnitudes per square arc
second. Our own society is currently undertaking a project involving
members with sky Quality Meters. Here's more info:
http://unihedron.com/projects/darksky/
$215AUD
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION SPECTRUM CHART
The Electro Magnetic Radiation Spectrum chart is an
amazing wall poster which deserves to be in every school
or observatory. The poster chart can be seen here:
http://unihedron.com/projects/spectrum/downloads/spectrum_20060222.pdf
$35AUD
FIRST VISUAL PHOTO OF A PLANET OUTSIDE OUR SOLAR
SYSTEM
The Hubble Space Telescope has imaged the first photo
of a planet outside of our own solar system. For the full story visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/hubble/main/index.html
FIRST PREDICTED ASTEROID IMPACT
For the first time, an asteroid has been observed
before hitting Earth. With the assistance of astronomers across
the world, using parallax, the exact path and time was pinpointed in the
final 11 hrs leading up to when Asteroid 2008 TC3 hit. A 1-2 kiloton
blast was estimated, and recorded, in the atmosphere by the Asteroid who size
was estimated as a few metres across.
For the full story see:
http://www.planetary.org/blog/article/00001684/
FINDING OBJECTS EASILY IN THE NIGHT SKY
Sky Commander Encoders turn your Dobsonian or
Equatorial Mount into a object locating Telescope.
Attaching and using the system is easy.
The Sky
Commander is a small self contained computer designed for the specific purpose
of locating and identifying celestial objects with a telescope.
The
computer reads the position of the telescope with the use of two optical
encoder modules. The encoders are attached mechanically to the telescope axes
in such a way that the encoder shaft turns as the telescope is turned. At the
beginning of an observing session, the user initializes the computer by
pointing the telescope at two different stars. By sensing the change in
position between the two stars, the computer is able to fix on the orientation
of the both telescope and sky.
A six
button keypad and LCD display form the easy operator interface. First you
select a catalog, e.g. Messier, NGC or Planet. Then you enter the catalog
number (four digits). Arrow buttons are used for this purpose. Pressing the
ENTER button makes the object current. The user moves the telescope while
watching the LCD. As the scope moves closer to the target object, the display
digits roll down to zero in AZ and EL. Arrows are displayed to indicate
direction.
The Liquid
Crystal Display (LCD for short) shows you the position of the telescope in RA
and declination, or the relative position of the scope to the target object
(display). It also shows you the current catalog and object number (used for
object selection) and some information such as object type, magnitude, and
constellation.
The Sky
Commander works on both Alt-Azimuth (e.g. Dobsonian) and Equatorial type
scopes. Sky Engineering supplies a general purpose encoder mounting kit (pn
ALT-AZ-1000) for Dobsonian type scopes. Since it is a general purpose kit, some
modifications may be required to make it work depending on what scope you have.
Dobsonian type scopes are by far the easiest to fit encoders because there is
generally plenty of room to work with. For other type scopes, the Sky Commander
will work with most commercially available encoder setups. A standard encoder
cable connector (modular RJ45 also used for computer network cables) is used.
Angular
resolution of the system is determined by the encoders themselves. The Sky
Commander can handle a wide range of resolutions. Typical encoders are 4000
step per revolution, but other resolutions are also used, (2160, 4096, 8192,
etc). The important thing is that you enter the encoder information into the
Sky Commander so it knows how many counts per degree of scope rotation. This
information only needs to be entered one time, but can be changed whenever
needed.
Be aware
that the encoders themselves have an inherent error which may exceed the step
size, especially for the higher resolution units.
An RS232 is
a standard for serial communications between computers. In the Sky Commander it
is used to tell a PC the position of the telescope so it can be displayed on
the screen. In this way the user can tap into the huge resources provided by
many Astronomy programs. On the XP4 RS232 is used as a
The Sky
Commander is powered from an internal 9 volt battery which will last a very
long time (about 40 hours) under normal use. There is also an optional 2.1mm
(5.5mm OD) power jack for connection to 12 volt DC.
Contact us
for current pricing.
INCREDIBLE
ECLIPSE PHOTO
http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap080920.html
INCREDIBLE
PHOTO
http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ap080929.html
SOLAR
ECLIPSE
After having organized a
very successful tour to the 2008 Solar Eclipse in Western China on the Silk
Road, Skywings Travel has now put together a 19 day tour to Eastern China to
view the Solar Eclipse on the 22nd July 2009 and including a Grand Tour with
visits to Beijing, Shanghai, Xian (Warriors), Guilin (Scenery) Suzhou (Garden
City) and a 3 Day Yangtze River Cruise. All of this and
perhaps a sighting of the largest Tidal Surge ever to be seen in
The viewing location is at
Wuyuan, which is south of
The tour departs
Details can be viewed
at their Website:
www.skywingstravel.com.au
TESTING
YOUR TELESCOPE'S MIRROR
We
have increased our mirror testing and re-figuring lately. We are
testing many people's mirrors to see what sort of improvement they can expect
from a re-figure, and of course a thorough examination of their current
figure. There is a fee of $35AUD. The main cost is posting the
mirror. The test results will be in a documented form which includes
Ronchi and Foucault images. Results will include Surface Deviation from
the Parabola, Radius of Curvature, Data for Single Zones and a overall Strehl
(most important - determines how much light the mirror returns to a single
point within the airy disk), Root of the Mean of Squares and Peak to Valley
Wavelength. The documentation will also include a summary of what it
all means.
HOTECH GEN II & III ASTRO AIMER
Features:
- High Output 5mW Green Laser with Automatic Power Control Circuit
- Laser ON Light Indicator
- Variable Brightness Modes Red LED
- 3 High Efficient White LEDs
- Knurled LED Flashlight Switch Control
- Easy Telescope Aiming Adjustment
- Universal Mounting
- Precision Machined Quality
- Extra Long
- Generation III is the Water Proof model
Astro Aimer's Green Laser is perfect for pinpointing star locations as
well as any other pointing needs. The two-color LED flashlight
is ideal for any indoor and outdoor illumination. Its multi functions make
Astro Aimer a very useful tool for astronomers, educators, hikers, campers, any outdoor
goers, rescuers, law enforcement, military, CSI laser investigation tools and
many others.
Generation II Astro Aimer $185AUD
Generation III Astro Aimer (Water
Proof) $225AUD
For detailed information visit
HoTech web site:
http://www.hotechusa.com/astro-aimer.html
TAL200K FOCAL REDUCER TIP
People have often asked me about a Focal Reducer the
Novosibirsk TAL200K Klevstov Telescope. According to Bert Bogchelman, an
objective lens from an old 7x50 binocular can be used. This lens fits exactly
under the focusser (inside the primairy mirror hole), which can easily be
removed and replaced, without the danger of miscollimation of the TAL
200K. The only point is that you cannot use the Diagonal anymore.
It only takes a few minutes to add or remove the
lens.
His system, with the 7x50mm lens, produces an F/5 with a 50' Field of
View using a 32mm Plossl eyepiece without vignetting.
Thanks Bert.
SNOW ON MARS
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=639623
EDMUND
SCIENTIFIC ASTROSCAN TELESCOPE
The
original Edmund Scientific Astroscan is an inexpensive, high-performance
telescope that is easy-to-use, maintenance-free and completely portable. Its
wide field of view, beautiful images and ease of use make it an excellent
telescope for beginner and expert stargazers alike.
The heart of the Astroscan is its 1/8 wave, overcoated primary parabolic mirror.
Where other telescopes use an inexpensive spherical mirror, the Astroscan's
parabolic mirror has a deeper, more complex figure that focuses all incoming
light rays to the same point. This results in crisp, clear images without any
of distorting effects of spherical mirror aberration.
The Astroscan is a Newtonian Rich-Field reflector that provides a breathtaking
3 degrees (or six full moons) of field, literally making this instrument an open window to the universe. The wide
field-of-view makes finding astronomical objects far easier than with other
telescopes and allows for the best views of deep sky objects, or groups of
objects, that won't even fit into the fields of other telescopes.
Here's a
review:
http://www.dansdata.com/astroscan.htm
Contact us
for pricing.
LHC
T SHIRTS
In past
Newsletters I mentioned about the availability of T Shirts for the Large Hadron
Collider. There was a number of people
interested, including myself. Unfortuneatly there has been a very limited
number of T Shirts, in limited sizes, and designs. The supplier of the T
Shirts also wanted an ridiculous amount of money for
the postage, and also, payment could only be paid via Swift Transfer.
This has meant buying just 10 T Shirts work out to be around $50-$60AUD each T
Shirt... Abort!!!
LYMAX
COOLER FOR SCHMIDT-CASSEGRAIN TELESCOPES
Have you
ever wondered how its possible to get those fantastic
shots of the planets through your standard Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope?
Some tests have shown Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescopes do not cool down completely
to the outside temperature, even if they are left out all night! The
Lymax "Cat Cooler" is used to ventilate the inside of a
Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope, allowing a faster equilibrium, resulting in
better images, faster! The enclosed design of Schmidt-Cassegrain
Telescopes allows warm air and current to stay inside the Optical Tube for many
hours. Venting can only be achieved using the small
hole where the diagonal goes. Air which goes into the Optical Tube
Assembly is filtered.
Let us know
your telescope brand and size for a price quote.
AUSTRALIAN
DOLLAR DROPS
The plunge
of the Australian dollar against the
Currently, Telescopes and Astronomy manufacturer a number
of goods locally and interstate. This gives many people an opportunity to work
within this exciting and expanding industry. It also raises the bar
in technological know how and allows more amateur astronomers to be involved
with the discovery of our universe.
Currently Telescopes
and Astronomy produce a number of items and services for the amateur
and professional astronomer. Here are a few:
- Complete
Telescope Construction
- Dovetail
Plates and Accessories
- Webcam
Modifications and Repair
- Adaptors
for Astrophotography and Microscopy
- All
Telescope Parts including Mirrors
-
Development of Carbon Fibre Tubing
- Dobsonian
Driven Platforms
-
Observatory Piers
- Tall
Binocular Stands
We would
like to have more people involved in producing the following:
- High quality
Mirror Cells (using PLOP or similar software)
- Repair of
Green Laser Pointers
- Telescope
Cooling Fans
- Classroom
or Home Planetarium Projectors
- High
Performance, Low Profile Crayford Focusers
If
you make any products you think the astronomical community is interested
in, let us know, and we can get the product out to astronomers.
HARRY SIEBERT BARLOWS
Harry Sieberts Eyepieces are amoungst the best available. Their unique design features benefit amateur and professional astronomers without paying an arm. All Barlows have internal baffles including ultra-flat black internal surfaces to eliminate any internal reflections. Lens elements are edge blackened to increase contrast.
Many Barlows use relatively inexpensive optics that are configured out to about 50% of the total diameter. This
is not too bad if you have a slow scope F/7 or longer. If you have an F/6
or shorter, the light cone is much larger and penetrates a larger area of
the optic. Use this area and serious distortion will start to show up.
All Siebert optics lenses are corrected to 90% leaving the place for a
retainer to hold the optics. That means that the field will remain undistorted
in fast scopes.
Siebert Optics does not expect everyone to know many
of these things. That is why we have made sure that when you purchase a
Siebert Optics product, you are getting better quality then you might realise.
Get the magnification you need. Barlows available
in 1.5x, 1.75x, 2x, 2.5x, 3x, 3.5x, 4x, 4.5x, 5x magnifications.
Zoom and Regular
Telecentric Barlows
Lower element is larger then its TeleVue counterparts
- 24mm Diameter compared to 17mm Diameter, although the 17mm will fully
illuminate any 1.25" and 2" eyepiece.
Other then the super high quality Powermates TV makes,
the Zoom and Regular Telecentric Barlows are one of the only other
Barlows which offer the added benefit of a 4 element Telecentric
image. The Barlows also maintain the Field of View and Eye
Relief characteristics of your eyepieces. The 2" 2x units have a Clear
Aperture and magnification ratio to illuminate a 48mm field stop fully.
It will act as a Flattener so no Paracorr should be necessary in faster Newtonians.
You will not be disappointed if you try one of these. Elements are
multicoated. Guaranteed with a 30 day return policy.
Multi Mag Barlow
Multiple Power Barlow. This Barlow uses the best optics and will work in other configurations such as a Corrector Lens for Binoviewers and Camera Focus Corrector. It utilises a standard filter thread so it can be screwed into a standard eyepiece. It can also be used in more then one device at a time. This product has a 60 day money back guarantee.
Power Mag Wheel
Do you like to switch your scopes magnification without having to change eyepieces or switch Barlows? Well here it is - the Power Mag Wheel is the answer. Uses the best optics, and will work in other configurations such as a Corrector Lens for Binoviewers, Camera Focus Corrector. This product has a 60 day money back guarantee.
Focal Length Reducers
No taking things apart to set up the Focal Length Reducer. Mainly for refractors but has Dobsonian uses as well.
2" to 1.25" Zero Profile Step Down
Adapters
All are zero profile adding no height to eyepieces.
Please contact us for pricing. For further
details, view Harry's Web site:
http://www.siebertoptics.com/SiebertOptics-barlows.html
NEW FREE STACKING PROGRAM FOR IMAGERS
Here's an extensive review of the new free AviStack
program which looks pretty impressive!:
http://joe.zawodny.com/index.php/2008/11/15/registax-vs-avi-stack/
PYREX
MIRROR BLANKS & SECONDARY MIRRORS
Dow Corning
no longer produces Pyrex. We have managed to secure a shipment of Pyrex
Primary Mirror Blanks and also Completed Secondary Mirrors. Let us know
if you're interested in any of the items as they will be the last of the Pyrex
available.
SCHMIDT-CASSEGRAIN
COLLIMATOR
As
mentioned in the last Newsletter, we were looking for someone to make up SCT
Collimators. This is no longer necessary as we have a found a high
quality SCT Laser Collimator made by HoTech:
1.25"
SCT Laser Collimator $135AUD
2" SCT
Laser Collimator $180AUD
http://www.hotechusa.com/catalog.php?action=124&item_id=14
SKYWATCHER
GOTO HEQ5 & EQ6 PRO SPECIAL
PRO5MNT-SKY
(HEQ5 PRO) $1690AUD
http://www.skywatchertelescope.net/swtinc/product.php?id=76&class1=3&class2=304
EQ6PRO-MNT
(EQ6 PRO) $2290AUD
http://www.skywatchertelescope.net/swtinc/product.php?id=75&class1=3&class2=304
BEWARE
DISCOVERY TELESCOPES
We ordered
2x 17.5" Dobsonian Telescopes from Discovery. We were promised
shipping up to 45 days. After many, many follow ups, the telescopes
finally arrived 15 months later!
Items were
missing from the shipment, for which we had to spend lots of time and effort to
get a credit for them. Discovery did not oblige, we had to go through the
authorities to force Discovery to credit us the money owed.
The
17.5" mirrors were packed in carboard boxes! One of the
mirrors was cracked!!! We have been unsuccessful in getting the
mirror replaced.
As you may
have guessed, we no longer deal with Discovery Telescopes.
MORE
SECURE TOP PLATE FOR HEQ5 & EQ6 MOUNTS
To enhance
our range of Heavy Duty Dovetail Plates (see below), we now have a
replacement Top Plate ($55AUD) for the HEQ5 and EQ6 Mounts. The
replacement Top Plate allows one of our detachable Side by Side Saddles to be
attached to it, making the setup more secure.
HEAVY
DUTY DOVETAIL & SIDE BY SIDE SETUP
Instead of
Piggy Backing a Guide Scope or Camera on your main telescope, consider the
advantages of placing the equipment side by side on a Heavy Duty DoveTail
Plate. Some of the main advantages of a Side By Side setup is more
stability, easier to balance and also easier to work around.
Produced
locally, the Side By Side setup is made up of a Heavy Duty DoveTail Plate
to suit Celestron, Vixen, Skywatcher, Losmandy and other popular Mounts,
and 2 separate detachable Side by Side Mounting Plates.
Detachable
Side by Side Mounting Plates have an extra pre-drilled hole for mounting a
Camera Bracket. The Plates can also be fitted 90°. This enables one
scope to be fitted along the length of the Dovetail Plate, so the Dovetail
Plate doesn't stick out to one side.
Small Heavy
Duty Dovetails to suit the detachable Side by Side Mounts are also available.
345mm x
80mm x 15mm Heavy Duty Dovetail Plate $135AUD
500mm x
80mm x 15mm Heavy Duty Dovetail Plate $165AUD
Detachable
Side by Side Mounts $90AUD each
Small Heavy
Duty Dovetail Plates $75AUD each
Male to
Male (standard to Losmandy) Dovetail Plate $120AUD
Regards,
Matthew
Lovell
Telescopes and Astronomy
PO BOX 292
O'HALLORAN HILL SA 5158
PH: 61+ 8 8381 3188
FAX: 61+ 8 8381 3588
MOBILE:
O416 123 096
telescopes@adam.com.au
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
TELESCOPES AND ASTRONOMY
AUGUST
NEWSLETTER 2008 NO.45
Our new
International FAX: 61+ 8 8381 3588
OUR WEB SITE:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
EMAIL:
telescopes@adam.com.au
Please let
us know if you do not wish to be on our Newsletter mailing list, or if you
receive this Newsletter by mistake.
The
Newsletter is a little early this month due to the Total Solar Eclipse on
August 1st.
Let me know
if you want the July 2008's Newsletter, which was the previous
one. Past Newsletters can be seen here:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/astronomy129.htm
IN
THIS ISSUE:
-
MARS
-
ASTRONOMY 2009 CALENDAR
-
TEST REPORT ON THE IMAGING SOURCE CAMERAS
- BEST
IMAGE OF PLUTO TAKEN SO FAR
-
SKYSHED POD UPDATE
-
TIMER SWITCH FOR PENTAX & CANON CAMERAS
- HOW
MANY ARMS DOES OUR GALAXY HAVE...? WRONG!
-
SCT COLLIMATION TOOL - SOMEONE TO MAKE THEM
- PAUL HAESE'S NEW WEB SITE
- SERIAL
PRINTER CABLE ADAPTORS DB25 PIN FEMALE TO USB A01
- WHAT
HAPPENED TO "STAR STUFF" ON ABC RADIO?
-
WRATTEN RED FILTER 25A FOR CCD IMAGING
-
SEE THE 2008 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE FROM THE COMFORT OF YOU OWN COMPUTER
-
WHITE & RED LED HEAD LIGHT
-
-
-
GREEN LASER POINTERS
-
2" ULTRA WIDE ANGLE 80° 20mm EYEPIECES
-
BINOCULAR ASTRONOMY - 2ND EDITION - CROSSEN & TIRION
- 90° MIRROR DIAGONALS
- 5
POSTION FILTER WHEELS
-
UHC 1.25" NEBULAE FILTERS
-
EQ5 EQUATORIAL MOUNTS
-
EQ5, GP, GP/DX, CG-5,
-
MEADE/CELESTRON FOCAL REDUCER F/3.3 & F/6.3
-
40mm AND 30mm PLOSSL EYEPIECES
MARS
If you're
interested in the Phoenix Mars Mission, then all the latest photos can be seen
here:
http://phoenix.lpl.arizona.edu/imageCategories_lander.php
and here
is a particularly good shot of the
http://hirise.lpl.arizona.edu/HiBlog/wp-content/uploads/PSP_008579_9020_descent.jpg
ASTRONOMY
2009 CALENDAR
The 2009
calendar features information on the International Year of Astronomy and has
Nightly Moon phases, and improved Skymaps. The calendar cover can be seen
here:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/poster-chart-astronomy-star-night-sky.htm
TEST
REPORT ON THE IMAGING SOURCE CAMERAS
The German
magazine Sterne und Weltraum has just published an extremely detailed
comparative test report (10 pages) on eight of The Imaging Source astronomy
cameras. The report was written by Peter and Christian Wellmann over the course
of several months:
http://www.astronomycamerasblog.com/2008/05/22/test-report-in-german-magazine-sterne-und-weltraum/
More
Information and pricing for The Imaging Source's Camera range can be seen on
our web page:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/imaging_source_the_camera_ccd_astro_pricelist.htm
BEST
IMAGE OF PLUTO TAKEN SO FAR
The Keck
Telescope in
http://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/press-releases/PlutoPictures/Pluto-Tholen-10-07.html
SKYSHED
POD UPDATE
POD orders
are currently being processed by SkyShed. We are still able to add to the
current container as it is getting ready for shipping. Only 1 or 2 more
orders will fit. Lots of reasons to join the first container load:
- New
container quotes to
- POD
prices do not include the recent increases as outlined on the SkyShed site
(contact us for a quote).
- first container load customers will receive a 5% discount on
the current price list.
- first container load customers will receive a 5% discount on
the delivery to their location. Delivery price is based on
half the amount quoted by
- first container load customers will receive a further 3%
discount due to the Australian Dollar staying stable, above 90 cents.
TIMER
SWITCH FOR PENTAX & CANON CAMERAS
We now have
available Timer Switches to suit Canon and Pentax Cameras. The Timer
Switch, with a built in interval timer, is a premium electronic remote
timer for exact control over exposure time. Moreover, compared with the
original products, it is affordable and is good quality. The Timer Switch
allows the user to choose different functions like length, interval, delay and
total number of exposures. It also has a speaker to notify the various
functions. It uses an LCD background light for the display. The
timer switch has been tested by one of our astro society member and
he recommends it! - Thanks to Alan Brinkworth.
$55AUD
HOW
MANY ARMS DOES OUR GALAXY HAVE...? WRONG!
Up until
now, it has been thought that our own galaxy had 4 Spiral Arms circling us like
a Pinwheel. This has been proven to be incorrect, and has now been
reduced to only 2 Spiral Arms. The Spitzer Space Telescope made the
discovery. Information on the find can be seen here:
http://www.spitzer.caltech.edu/Media/releases/ssc2008-10/release.shtml
Our
Galaxy's Spiral Arms can been seen from dark skies, edge on, overlapping each
other all year round. They can be distinctively seen as one protrudes
wider than the other.
SCT
COLLIMATION TOOL - SOMEONE TO MAKE THEM
We received
a lot of feedback concerning the SCT Collimation Tool
outlined below. The manufacturer is no longer making the Tool, so we
are now looking for someone to make them.
A lot of
people have been testing their Schmidt-Cassegrain Collimation, and
have found it to be out of alignment. An accurate way of testing and
correcting the alignment has been sort after by a number of people. After
having a look at the problem, we came across this product and its information.
Anyone interested should contact us. Any comments welcome:
http://astrovid.com/technical_documents/OPTICAL%20COLLIMATION%20AIDS.pdf
PAUL
HAESE'S NEW WEB SITE
Paul Haese has
become renowned as
Paul also
runs a workshop in
SERIAL
PRINTER CABLE ADAPTORS DB25 PIN FEMALE TO USB A01
If you don't have a
$25AUD
WHAT
HAPPENED TO "STAR STUFF" ON ABC RADIO?
Well, it
was axed, despite the objection of many. It was the only representation
of astronomical news on ABC Radio. Luckily, Star Stuff can still be
downloaded as a Pod Cast!:
http://www.abc.net.au/science/podcast/starstuff.xml
WRATTEN
RED FILTER 25A FOR CCD IMAGING
Red
Emission Nebulae images and observing can be improved just by using the correct
Wratten Red Filter 25A. There are some Wratten Filter copies, so be
aware!
$20AUD
SEE
THE 2008 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE FROM THE COMFORT OF YOU OWN COMPUTER
Direct feed
from
http://www.exploratorium.edu/eclipse/2008/index.html
WHITE
& RED LED HEAD LIGHT
This light
is very handy for setting up and maintaining your telescope. It has both
Red and White LED lights, and sits on you forehead with a nice wide, adjustable
head strap.
$25
Rundle Mall
will have up to 8 Telescopes for the general public to look through.
Science
Alive marks the start of National Science Week in
http://www.adelaideshowground.com.au/showground/event-calendar.jsp?event=27
GREEN
LASER POINTERS
We are
licensed importers and retailers of Green, Red and Blue Lasers. All
Lasers have a 3 month warranty. We offer a repair service for all Laser
Pointers. We exchange your broken Laser for a new one if kept in good
condition and purchased from us:
JLP Series
Green Laser Pointer
JLP-1mW - $80AUD
JLP-5mW - $115AUD
JLP-10mW - $170AUD
JLP-20mW - $240AUD
JLP-30mW - $280AUD
JLP-50mW - $340AUD
JLP-100mW - $490AUD
JLP-350mW - $990AUD
JLP-400mW - $1190AUD
Astronomy 1mW Green Laser Pointer $100AUD
Various
Laser Modules available
2"
ULTRA WIDE ANGLE 80° 20mm EYEPIECES
7 Elements, 4 Groups, Fully Multi Coated, Fold Down Rubber Eyecup, Blackened Lens Edges, Blackened Filter
Thread, Black Anodised, includes Bolt Case.
$145AUD
BINOCULAR
ASTRONOMY - 2ND EDITION - CROSSEN & TIRION
Binocular
Astronomy and a
pair of binoculars are all you need to begin observing the night sky — stars,
open and globular clusters, bright and dark nebulae, galaxies, and much more.
The binoculars need not be expensive! The majority of the objects described in
this book were viewed by the author using a pair of $40 binoculars he purchased
from Sears & Roebuck in 1978. The chances are good that you now have or can
borrow a pair of binoculars that will do very nicely. More information:
http://www.willbell.com/HANDBOOK/HAND2.htm
$49AUD
90°
MIRROR DIAGONALS
Premium enhanced
aluminum coating with 1/8 Lamda surface accuracy and 95% Reflectivity
including 1.25" adapter. The Diagonal has SCT and
push-fit. High performance improvement compared to standard
diagonals.
$110AUD
5
POSTION FILTER WHEELS
5 Position Manual Filter Wheel with 3 different Adaptors (1.25"
Adaptor, T Thread Adaptor, 1.25" Female Adaptor). All produced on a CNC Lathe.
$140AUD
UHC
1.25" NEBULAE FILTERS
There have
been a number of UHC Filters coming out of
$85AUD
EQ5
EQUATORIAL MOUNTS
Complete
EQ5 Mounts including Polar Scope and Tripod.
$350AUD
EQ5,
GP, GP/DX, CG-5,
Includes
Motors, Tools,
$170AUD
MEADE/CELESTRON
FOCAL REDUCER F/3.3 & F/6.3
The F/3.3
and F/6.3 combination Focal Reducer and Field Corrector lenses are
designed for all Celestron and Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes.
The F/6.3 and F/3.3 Reducer/Corrector design is a four-element, fully
multicoated focal reducer and field flattener. It effectively reduces the focal
length of an F/10 telescope to F/6.3 or F/3.3. Through the use of a
Variable T-Adapter, the focal length can be varied from F/3.3 to F/5.7.
The F/3.3
is mainly for photography work due to the field of view being unacceptable near
the edge during visual use.
F/6.3
$130AUD
F/3.3
$160AUD
40mm AND
30mm PLOSSL EYEPIECES
These
Eyepieces are great for wide field, low magnification searches of the night
sky. Quality is very good. A star will not alter shape across
the entire field of view.
$50AUD each
Regards,
Matthew
Lovell
Telescopes and Astronomy
PO BOX 292
O'HALLORAN HILL SA 5158
PH: 61+ 8 8381 3188
FAX: 61+ 8 8381 3588
telescopes@adam.com.au
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
TELESCOPES AND ASTRONOMY
JULY
NEWSLETTER 2008 NO.44
Our new
International FAX: 61+ 8 8381 3588
OUR WEB SITE:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
EMAIL:
telescopes@adam.com.au
Please let
us know if you do not wish to be on our Newsletter mailing list, or if you
receive this Newsletter by mistake.
Let me know
if you want the May 2008's Newsletter, which was the previous one.
Past Newsletters can be seen here:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/astronomy129.htm
IN
THIS ISSUE:
- TOUCAM
- BLACK & WHITE CCD CHIP MODIFICATION
- TOUCAM REPLACEMENT CCD CHIP
-
SKYSHED POD UPDATE
-
POWERING YOUR LAPTOP FROM A
- MOST DETAILED
IMAGES OF THE HORSE HEAD NEBULA EVER
- TOTAL
SOLAR ECLIPSE 2008
-
CELESTRON SCT FOCUS LOCK
- HOT
HANDS
- PAST NEWSLETTERS
- LATEST
BACKLASH OVER LASER BAN
- MEADE/CELESTRON
FOCAL REDUCER F/6.3
- RIGEL
SYSTEMS ASTRONOMY LED TORCHES
-
-
2" DIAMETER EXTENSION TUBES
-
EYEPIECE BOLT CASES
-
CURRENT TELESCOPE MIRRORS AVAILABLE
- EYEPIECE T
-
EYEPIECE TO DIGITAL CAMERA ADAPTOR
- SKY
QUALITY METERS
-
ADAPTORS, ADAPTORS, ADAPTORS
-
WORLD CLOCK - INTERESTING
-
ASTRO TENT
-
DUAL AXIS DRIVE KIT TO SUIT EQ5/VIXEN GP/GP-DX
STYLE/CG-5 ETC.
-
HERE'S A GOOD ONE!
TOUCAM
BLACK
& WHITE CCD CHIP MODIFICATION
One of the
popular modifications to the ToUcam is the change to a Black and White CCD
Chip. The B&W chip provides higher resolution. The
B&W Chips are available for $80AUD
TOUCAM
REPLACEMENT CCD CHIP
Replacement
CCD Chips for the ToUcam are $45AUD or we can replace the chip for $65AUD
SKYSHED
POD UPDATE
Here's a
great review of the Pod with lots of questions answered:
http://www.cloudynights.com/item.php?item_id=1717
We now have
enough people to make the container viable. The order will be placed with
SkyShed Pod in around 2 weeks. There is still room in the container for
more Pods. Let us know if you want a quote or the price list.
There has
been some mention about the price increase in the
- first container load customers will receive a 5% discount on
the current price list.
- first container load customers will receive a 5% discount on
the delivery to their location. Delivery price is based on
half the amount quoted by
- first container load customers will receive a further 3% discount
due to the Australian Dollar staying stable, above 90 cents.
POWERING
YOUR LAPTOP FROM A
Some
laptops draw a large amount of current and/or require a higher voltage to
run. A 15v to 24v Cigarette Lighter Port DC Adaptor is needed.
Check the voltage on the bottom of your laptop, or see the instruction
manual. A larger ampere per hour (Ah) car battery or 12v DC
Power Source is needed to run a telescope and laptop for extended times
(or the battery will go dead!).
Always
check the polarity on your equipment before using. Check with us if
you're not sure. Information about polarity is also on the Adaptor.
There is a selection of different Tips to suit different laptops.
15v to 24v
DC Adaptor $35AUD
MOST DETAILED IMAGES
OF THE HORSE HEAD NEBULA EVER
http://www.eso.org/public/outreach/press-rel/pr-2002/phot-02-02.html
TOTAL
SOLAR ECLIPSE 2008
Although
the Total Solar Eclipse of 2008 will be in the northern hemisphere, the event
still generates a lot of interest. Anyone who is going can
organise their Solar
Filter systems with us before departing. We have in stock a number of
Solar Films like Baader, Black Polymer and R-G. We also have Glass
Filters for telescopes and of course Solar Eclipse Sun Glasses for $5AUD each.
Information
and techniques used for viewing eclipses is still applicable on our 2002 Total
Solar Eclipse (seen in
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/eclipse152
CELESTRON
SCT FOCUS LOCK
Hutech's Focus Locks for
Celestron SCT's are designed to minimize frustrating shifts in focus while
imaging by positively locking the focuser in position. For more
information:
http://www.sciencecenter.net/hutech/misc/focuslk/index.htm
$95AUD
HOT HANDS
Designed for skiers, hunters,
fishermen, golfers, or people who work or play in the cold for long hours.
HotHands-2® hand warmers are air-activated and will provide up to 10 hours of
soothing warmth inside gloves, pockets, shoes, or wherever you feel a
chill. Great for undewing eyepieces and Finderscopes etc.:
http://www.heatmax.com/HotHands/hothands2.htm
$5AUD
PAST
NEWSLETTERS
All past Newsletters can been seen on the following page. Most information, advice and
products are still applicable. Windows users can use Control + F on their
keyboard to search for keywords:
LATEST
BACKLASH OVER LASER BAN:
http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2008/04/07/2209657.htm
MEADE/CELESTRON
FOCAL REDUCER F/6.3
This
combination Focal Reducer and Field Corrector lens accessory works with all
Celestron and Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes. The design is a
four-element, fully multicoated Focal Reducer and Field Flattener. It's
possible to have a dual focal ratio instrument, without sacrificing image
quality. The Reducer/Corrector is F/6.3 for all scopes except F/7 for the
14" telescope.
The Focal
Reducer provides wide fields of view with any Schmidt-Cassegrain
telescope. Used for astrophotography, it reduces exposure time by a factor of
3.
$160AUD
MEADE/CELESTRON
FOCAL REDUCER F/3.3
This
combination Focal Reducer and Field Corrector lens accessory works with all
Celestron and Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes. The F/3.3
Reducer/Corrector design is a four-element, fully multicoated focal reducer and
field flattener. It effectively reduces the focal length of an F/10 telescope
to F/3.3, through the use of a Variable T-Adapter the focal length can be
varied from F/3.3 to F/5.7.
The design
is mainly for photography work due to the field of view being unacceptable near
the edge during visual use.
$160AUD
RIGEL
SYSTEMS ASTRONOMY LED TORCHES
SkyLite
Black Mini - 2 Red and 2 White LEDs - Variable brightness (Brighter) $50AUD
SkyLite
Mini - 2 Red and 2 White LEDs - Variable brightness (Not as bright as SkyLite
Black) $40AUD
5 Year
Warranty! Made in the
Reviews:
"This is the
most deluxe flashlight of its type I've seen..."
Dennis di Cicco in Sky and Telescope Magazine
"Many astronomical suppliers sell LED astronomy flashlights, with one of
the favorites being the Starlite by Rigel Systems."
Philip S. Harrington in Star Ware
Standard
Red Light Torches (Red only) - $25AUD
A very
popular Collimation Tool is the Cheshire Eyepiece. They are also
inexpensive.
$30AUD
Here's Sky
& Telescope's page on How to Collimation your Newtonian Reflector:
http://www.skyandtelescope.com/howto/diy/3306876.html
2"
DIAMETER EXTENSION TUBES
Can't get
the right length you need for focus? Various Extension Tubes:
-
Telescopes and Astronomy 35mm Long - Brass Ring Clamp $30AUD
-
Telescopes and Astronomy 45mm Long - Brass Ring Clamp $30AUD
- William
Optics 60mm Long - Brass Ring Clamp $75AUD
- Various
others
EYEPIECE
BOLT CASES
To suit standard 1.25” Eyepieces
$2AUD
To suit standard 2” Eyepieces $5AUD
CURRENT
TELESCOPE MIRRORS AVAILABLE
We have a
number of high accuracy, hand polished and corrected
telescope mirrors available. All mirrors use Texereau's Test
Sheets (How to make a Telescope book $70AUD) and methods for figuring.
All mirrors are accompanied with the Test Sheets.
To ways of
measuring a telescope's accuracy is by Wave Front Error and Strehl. Both
ways can be related to each other.
Wave front
Error measures how flat the surface of the mirror is from trough to peak (hill
to valley). This measurement is measured in light waves. One wave
is equal to 5.588 x 104 mm (0.000022"). Whenever a Wave front error is
given in a magazine or website advertising, it can generally be halved to give
a true indication of the error. This figure has been proven to be
overstated by many manufacturers. A 1/8 Wave front Error is more like
1/4.
A more accurate way of showing how accurate a telescope mirror is by
Strehl.
The strehl percentage indicates the amount of light which is returned by the
mirror. One of the most expensive mirror makers around is R. F.
Royce. R. F. Royce does not let his mirrors out unless they have a strehl
of at least 96%. During mirror making, a very high strehl
measurement can be case of luck. Testing and correcting the mirror until
the sweet spot is achieved.
A
GEM OF A MIRROR
Glass 200mm
x 25mm F/6
Average
Maximum Wave Front Error 1/23.6
Average
Strehl Ratio 0.983
$650AUD
Pyrex 200mm
x 34mm F/6
Average
Maximum Wave Front Error 1/12
Average
Strehl Ratio 0.94
$550AUD
Near
completion - Glass 450mm x 25mm F/5.5. Interested parties can send us an
email.
Average
Maximum Wave Front Error - TBA
Average
Strehl Ratio - TBA
Other
Mirrors available - Tested as an average between 88 - 92% Strehl and 1/8 Wave
front Error.
114mm
(4.5") Glass f/8 Parabolic Mirror $110AUD
114mm
(4.5") BK7 f/8 Parabolic Mirror $120AUD
153mm (6") BK7 f/7.8 Parabolic Mirror $215AUD
153mm (6") Soda Lime f/7.8 Parabolic Mirror $215AUD
200mm (8") Soda Lime f/4 Parabolic Mirror $340AUD
200mm (8") BK7 f/4 Parabolic Mirror $360AUD
200mm (8") Soda Lime f/6 Parabolic Mirror $340AUD
200mm (8") BK7 f/6 Parabolic Mirror $360AUD
250mm (10") BK7 f/5 Parabolic Mirror $470AUD
300mm (12") BK7 f/5 Parabolic Mirror $650AUD
400mm (16") BK7 f/5 Parabolic Mirror $950AUD
All Pyrex Mirrors by order.
All Larger
size Mirrors by order.
EYEPIECE
T
Attach your
camera to the Eyepiece for Eyepiece Projection Photography.
Fits many brands of eyepiece, or we can supply the eyepieces. Includes screws and Allen key.
$55AUD
EYEPIECE
TO DIGITAL CAMERA ADAPTOR
Fits the
following camera threads - 28mm, 37mm, 43mm, 52mm, 55mm, 58mm.
$45AUD
SKY
QUALITY METERS
Sky Quality
meters are an affordable tool for determining how dark
the sky is by measuring brightness in magnitudes per square arc
second. Our own society is currently undertaking a project involving
members with sky Quality Meters. Here's more info:
http://unihedron.com/projects/darksky/
$155AUD
ADAPTORS,
ADAPTORS, ADAPTORS
-
1.25" to C Mount $45AUD
- Adjustable
Laser Holder $65AUD
- 2"
SCT Male Adaptor $55AUD
- Variable
T Adaptor $65AUD - used with a F/3.3 Focal
Reducer the Focal Length can be varied from F/3.3 to F/5.7.
- 2" Adjustable
Camera Adaptor $95AUD - travel length 5cm, fits to 2” focuser, T Thread on
rear. Lunar, planetary and deep-space photography.
- T Thread
spacer (M42) $35AUD - Length 6mm, 10mm, 20mm and 40mm.
- 2"
SCT Eyepiece Holder $55AUD - SCT thread at rear which will fit any telescope
that has an SCT 2" back. If you have a 2" standard diagonal for
your refractor, you won’t need a new one for your SCT! Uses
a brass compression ring.
- 2"
to Thread (M42) Adaptor $55AUD
- Many
more!
WORLD CLOCK - INTERESTING
http://www.chippynews.com/worldclock.htm
ASTRO
TENT
http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/1592156/Main/1584479
$185AUD
DUAL
AXIS DRIVE KIT TO SUIT EQ5/VIXEN GP/GP-DX STYLE/CG-5
ETC.
Motors for both Axes, Clutches, Cables, Hand Controller, and
$170AUD
HERE'S A GOOD ONE!
Check out this list of
astronomy software! 8-)
Thanks Blair!
http://www.midnightkite.com/software.html
Regards,
Matthew
Lovell
Telescopes and Astronomy
PO BOX 292
O'HALLORAN HILL SA 5158
PH: 61+ 8 8381 3188
FAX: 61+ 8 8381 3588
telescopes@adam.com.au
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
TELESCOPES AND ASTRONOMY
MAY NEWSLETTER
2008 NO.43
Our new
International FAX: 61+ 8 8381 3588
OUR WEB SITE:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
EMAIL:
telescopes@adam.com.au
Please let
us know if you do not wish to be on our Newsletter mailing list, or if you
receive this Newsletter by mistake.
Let me know
if you want April 2008's Newsletter, which was the previous one.
Past Newsletters can be seen here:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/astronomy129.htm
IN
THIS ISSUE:
-
LUMENERA ASTRONOMY CAMERAS
- HUTECH
FILTERS/BORG TELESCOPES
- MOTORISED
BINOCULAR CHAIR FOR
-
STELLACAM III COOLED CCD CAMERAS
-
YOUTUBE POPULARITY FOR ASTRONOMERS - FREE DOWNLOAD SOFTWARE
- R-G SOLAR
FILM - 1000 OAKS OPTICAL
-
NASA'S NEW EDUCATIONAL WEB SITE
- NEW LASER POINTER FOR BINOCULARS
- ICE IN SPACE ASTRO CAMP
- WILLIAM OPTICS PRICES DROP DRAMATICALLY
- THE NEW, NEW, NEW TELEVUE ETHOS EYEPIECE
- NEW SIEBERT MODULAR TELECENTRIC ZOOM BARLOW EYEPIECE - REVIEW
- THE IMAGING SOURCE CCD CAMERA PRICES DROP
- BOB'S KNOBS
- NEW MARS
- EXOPLANET OBSERVING FOR AMATEURS
LUMENERA ASTRONOMY CAMERAS
Lumenera are amongst the best astronomy cameras available. We are now dealers for Lumenera. Please inquire for information. Here are some prices until our Lumenera web site is finished:
Lumenera
Infinity2-1 Color CCD Camera [AV-I21C] $3890
Lumenera Infinity 2-1 Monochrome CCD Camera [AV-I21M] $3890
Lumenera Infinity 2-2 Color CCD Camera [AV-I22C] $2860
Lumenera Infinity 2-2 Monochrome CCD Camera [AV-I22M] $2860
Lumenera Infinity 3-1 Color CCD Camera [AV-I31C] $8650
Lumenera Infinity 3-1 Monochrome CCD Camera [AV-I31M] $8650
Lumenera LU075 Color CCD Camera [AV-LU075C] $1275
Lumenera LU075 Monochrome CCD Camera [AV-LU075M] $1275
Lumenera LU135 Color CCD Camera [AV-LU135C] $2030
Lumenera LU135 Monochrome CCD Camera [AV-LU135M ] $2030
Lumenera LU165 Color CCD Camera [AV-LU165C] $3675
Lumenera LU165 Monochrome CCD Camera [AV-LU165M] $3675
Lumenera SKYnyx 2-0 Color CCD Camera [AV-LUSKY20C] $1275
Lumenera SKYnyx 2-0 Monochrome CCD Camera [AV-LUSKY20M] $1275
Lumenera SKYnyx 2-1 Color CCD Camera [AV-LUSKY21C] $2160
Lumenera SKYnyx 2-1 Monochrome CCD Camera [AV-LUSKY21M] $2160
Lumenera SKYnyx 2-2 Color CCD Camera [AV-LUSKY22C] $3170
Lumenera SKYnyx 2-2 Monochrome CCD Camera [AV-LUSKY22M] $3170
HUTECH FILTERS/BORG TELESCOPES
The quality and usefulness of Hutech Filters and Borg Telescopes is starting to get around the forums. We put together a price list for the Astronomical Filters. Let us know if you want pricing on telescopes and other accessories:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/hutech_astro_borg_telescopes_filter_imaging.htm
MOTORISED
BINOCULAR CHAIR FOR
Motorised in both directions, or handcrank. Comes with 25x100mm Binoculars. Please email for details.
STELLACAM III COOLED CCD CAMERAS
New stock of the Cooled StellaCam III for $1850AUD have arrived. Specifications can be seen on the manufacturer's web site:
http://www.astrovid.com/prod_details.php?pid=3406
Sky & Telescope's Test Report of the StellaCam III can be seen here:
http://media.skyandtelescope.com/documents/Stellcam3.pdf
The StellaCam range allows the camera to be used on a PC, as well as plugged straight into a television set or monitor!
StellaCam EX - $810AUD
http://www.astrovid.com/prod_details.php?pid=7&querystr=stellacam%20ex
Stellacam III - $1300AUD
http://www.astrovid.com/prod_details.php?pid=3357
YOUTUBE POPULARITY FOR ASTRONOMERS - FREE DOWNLOAD SOFTWARE
YouTube is a great way to view all the astronomy programs ever produced! The following software will allow you to download the video to your hard drive:
http://www.fileaward.com/Download/free_youtube_download.html
R-G SOLAR FILM - 1000 OAKS OPTICAL
Designed with quality and cost in mind, our R-G solar film provides a superior image of the sun that rivals our glass solar filters at a lower price. Unlike other solar filter, the R-G solar film will provide a more pleasing and natural Yellow- Orange image of the sun our customers have come to know and love through our Solar Glass Filter product line. The R-G film will also be available in sheets for those who like to make their own solar filters. Please email us for Safety and other information, or see it here:
http://www.thousandoaksoptical.com/www/Products/Solar%20filter.html
180mm x 180mm (7" x 7") $25
300mm x 300mm (12" x 12") $40
NASA'S NEW EDUCATIONAL WEB SITE
Nasa has a new educational web site. It includes all aspects of astronomy including science, questions, image of the day, missions and much, much more!:
NEW GREEN LASER POINTER FOR BINOCULARS
A new 20mW Green Laser Pointer designed to fit straight onto Astronomical Binoculars is available for the special price of $190AUD. Let us know if you want a picture of the new device.
ICE IN SPACE ASTRO CAMP
* IISAC2008 - IceInSpace AstroCamp
2008 : Countdown Launch
The IceInSpace AstroCamp is the official IceInSpace star party and will take
place from the 30th October to 2nd November, 2008 - just over 6 months away. It
will be our 3rd IISAC event, and after a very successful event in 2007 (with
Comet McNaught gracing our skies!), we're planning to make the 2008 event just
as great! (We're trying to get Eta Carinae to explode..
we'll see :))
Please check out the IISAC page for some preliminary details - of course it
will be continually updated over the next 6 months as more information and
detail is confirmed - so check back regularly, and put in your annual leave
forms now!
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/iisac
WILLIAM OPTICS PRICES DROP DRAMATICALLY
A-F132-B-2Q/A-F132-W-2Q FLT 132mm
F/7 FPL-53 with 2" Quartz Diagonal, mounting rings, high-quality aluminum
case (dedicated TMB field flattener OPTIONAL see P-FLAT68) $4999AUD!!!
There are some new William Optics
Optical Tube Assemblies. If you mention our Newsletter, then a special
reduced price is available:
- Megrez88 - M88
FD Air-Spaced Doublet f/5.6 $999AUD
- M102 Lamborghini Yellow Doublet
F/7 with Rings, Dovetail, Case $1290AUD
- M102 Lamborghini Yellow Doublet
F/7 with Rings, Dovetail, Case, 2" CF Dielectric Diagonal, ZoomII Eyepiece
$1450AUD
- FLT98 Triplet with Carbon Fiber
Tube and claimed as best lens William
Optics ever made! - available June
Smaller APO Telescopes are great
for faint deep sky imaging and Guide Scopes. Check out the new price
list:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/william_optics_telescope_usa_astronomy.htm
THE NEW, NEW, NEW TELEVUE ETHOS EYEPIECE
Two new developments with
the Ethos 100° Field Eyepieces.
Firstly, the newer models can be used on BinoViewers. Secondly, the
eyepiece is now available as an 8mm Focal Length.
Some attractions of the Ethos
Eyepieces:
- 100° Field of View
- parfocal
with TeleVue 1.25" Eyepieces
- fits both 1.25" and 2"
barrels
Differences between the 13mm Ethos
and the new 8mm:
- smaller
- lighter
- less
expensive
TeleVue Ethos 13mm $822AUD
TeleVue Ethos 8mm $785AUD
Sky & Telescope Review
http://www.televue.com/engine/page.asp?ID=344
NEW SIEBERT MODULAR TELECENTRIC ZOOM BARLOW EYEPIECE
- REVIEW
The Siebert Modular Telecentric
Zoom Barlow comes in two varieties, an "AZ" model which provides a
zooming Barlow capability of 3x-6x, and the "BZ" model which provides
a Barlow range of 4x-8x (pictured). Both of these units are made for 2"
focusers and have within the main 2" tube a smaller sliding tube which
holds only 1.25" format eyepieces. Cost of the unit is $299US$, and
estimate it weighs in at approximately 9 to 10 ounces, or a tad lighter
than a 24mm Hyperion, which weighs in at a little over 11 ounces. To vary
the Barlow's power, you simply loosen the set screws on the side which holds
the slide tube in place, then pull the tube upward, then re-tighten the set
screws. This gives the user an infinite range of Barlow magnifications to best
tune your eyepiece to the prevailing seeing conditions. To achieve the fairly
significant range of magnification these units provide,
more extension than the sliding tube allows is needed. Therefore, an add-on
lens (a doublet), is provided that screws onto the bottom of the Barlow to
extend its power zoom range.
Harry's web page:
http://www.siebertoptics.com/Zoom%20barlow%20page.html
See the full review:
http://www.cloudynights.com/item.php?item_id=1784
AZ Modular Telecentric Zoom Barlow
3x to 6x $390AUD
BZ Modular Telecentric Zoom Barlow
4x to 8x $390AUD
THE IMAGING SOURCE CCD CAMERA PRICES DROP
The Imaging Source have announced a price reduction in their range of Astronomy
CCD Cameras. We have also uploaded a new price list including information
and accessories:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/imaging_source_the_camera_ccd_astro_pricelist.htm
BOB'S KNOBS!
Bob's Knobs are popular the world over. Bob makes a number of
accessories to make life easier using a telescope. Bob's Knobs prevent
the use of tools for many telescope adjustments.
It’s easy... just grab a Bob's Knob and turn. You can even do
it while looking through the eyepiece on most scopes. And you'll never drop
that pesky little Allen wrench or screwdriver into the grass again.
Installation is a snap with the included instructions, and you can undo the
modification at any time.
Some of his most popular products include:
Celestron Nexstar
Telescopes;
Bob’s Knobs no-tools tripod bolts are available for the Celestron
NexStar. These replace the factory Allen bolts so the telescope can be attached
to the tripod without tools. They can also replace the factory plastic hand
bolts that came with some NexStar 5 and NexStar 8 models. Our bolts are longer
and have a larger knob, making installation and correct tightening much easier.
The 5-point knobs are about 2.1 inches in diameter and have a non-slip surface
for a secure grip. These will mount the Starizona Landing Pad without
modification.
Meade Lightbridge
10” and 12” primary and secondary collimation knobs;
These replace factory screws so that collimation of both primary and
secondary mirrors can take place without tools. They also offer stronger
primary mirror support springs for the Lightbridge 12" that will not sag
like the factory springs.
Losmandy GM-8 and
G-11 Mount no tools Tripod and Elevation Lock Knobs;
These replace factory Allen bolts so the mount can be set up and adjusted
without tools. The tripod bolts mount the GM-8 and G-11 equatorial head
to the Losmandy tripod top piece. The elevation lock bolts and washers
secure the elevation adjustment on the GM-8 and G-11. Bolts are stainless
steel, and each has a plastic Tee handle that is 1-3/4" in diameter to
provide adequate holding power when hand tightened.
Bob's Website:
NEW
MARS
NASA scientists hope to crack some of the secrets of Mars this weekend,
when they will try to land a robot on the planet's unexplored arctic region.
The three-legged Phoenix Mars, with
its backhoe arm, is equipped for a 90-day digging mission to examine the
region, where a reservoir of ice is believed to lurk beneath the surface.
more...
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=565358
EXOPLANET OBSERVING FOR AMATEURS
How do they find
those planets around other stars? This PDF file shows amateurs how they
can also find other planets orbiting distant stars. The author's
telescope is a Meade 14" RCX. This exciting research can be under
taken by your average astronomer with the average telescope:
http://brucegary.net/book_EOA/EOA.pdf
Regards,
Matthew Lovell
Telescopes and Astronomy
PO BOX 292
O'HALLORAN HILL SA 5158
PH: 61+ 8 8381 3188
FAX: 61+ 8 8381 3588
telescopes@adam.com.au
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
TELESCOPES AND ASTRONOMY
APRIL NEWSLETTER 2008 NO.42
Our new
International FAX: 61+ 8 8381 3588
OUR WEB SITE:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
EMAIL:
telescopes@adam.com.au
Please let
us know if you do not wish to be on our Newsletter mailing list, or if you
receive this Newsletter by mistake.
Let me know
if you want March 2008's Newsletter, which was the previous one.
Past Newsletters can be seen here:
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/astronomy129.htm
IN THIS ISSUE:
- LHC "ALICE" T-SHIRTS
- BOINC PARTICIPANTS FOR
- PROGRESS ON NEW "LEGAL" 1MW GREEN LASER POINTER
- UPDATED PRICE LISTS
- NOVOSIBRISK
- LOSMANDY
- SKYWATCHER
- PENTAX
- CELESTRON
- SECONDHAND
- TELESCOPE CONSTRUCTION
- SILICON POWER
- LASER POINTERS
- TOUCAMS
- TOUCAM
- 900NC BACK IN STOCK
- NEW PRICNG FOR 840K MODIFIED FOR LONG EXPOSURE
- GETTING THE PHILIPS TOUCAM 740K TO WORK ON
-
-
- OCEAN OPTICS ZERODUR OPTICAL MIRROR FLATS NOW AVAILABLE
- GOTOSTAR - GOTO UPGRADE FOR EQ5/LXD55/GP/CG5 ETC. MOUNTS
- SKYSHED POD OBSERVATORY UPDATE
- LUNAR ECLIPSE FROM ORBIT
- JOIN THE SEARCH FOR METEORITE IMPACTS USING GOOGLE EARTH
- RIGEL SYSTEMS NEW MOTOR FOCUSERS
- LOSMANDY MOUNT PRICING
- WE ARE NOW A SWAROVSKI DEALER
- NEW DEEPSKY CAMERAS
- WILLIAM OPTICS BINOVIEWER SPECIAL
- EXTRA TALL, STURDY BINOCULAR TRIPODS
LHC "ALICE" T-SHIRTS
The LHC (Large Hadron Collider), a Particle Accelerator, hopefully goes online later this year. There are a number of experiments planned for the facility.
The LHC is being funded and built in collaboration with over two thousand physicists from thirty-four countries as well as hundreds of universities and laboratories. When activated, it is theorised that the collider will produce the elusive Higgs boson, the observation of which could confirm the predictions and 'missing links' in the Standard Model of physics and could explain how other elementary particles acquire properties such as mass. The verification of the existence of the Higgs boson would be a significant step in the search for a Grand Unified Theory, which seeks to unify all of the four fundamental forces: electromagnetism, the strong nuclear force, the weak nuclear force and gravitation.
Wikipedia Explanation of the LHC:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Large_Hadron_Collider
LHC Home Page:
http://lhc.web.cern.ch/lhc/
One of the
experiments is called "
The reason
for the
http://aliceinfo.cern.ch/
What's all this
got to do with T-Shirts? The
The T-Shirts are $20AUD each. Let us know your size and also whether you would like Round or V-Neck. T-Shirts are White only. The T-Shirts can be seen here:
http://aliceinfo.cern.ch/Public/aliceshirts.html
BOINC PARTICIPANTS FOR
Data produced by the LHC can be processed by BOINC users.