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TELESCOPES AND ASTRONOMY

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER 2009 NO.49

Phone: (08) 8381 3188

FAX: (08) 8381 3588

Mobile: 0416 123 096

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 June 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:

- BEWARE BUYING FROM OPT (Oceanside Photographic and Telescope)

- PHILIPS SPC600NC GAMING WEBCAM SPECIAL

- UPDATED PRICE LISTS

- 90° 8x50mm FINDERSCOPES $60AUD

- DELUXE 4 TARGET RED DOT FINDERSCOPES $75AUD

- LOSMANDY WEIGHT FIX

- NEW SUPPLIERS

- STARLIGHT INSTRUMENTS

- ASTRODON FILTERS

- iOPTRON

- CONVERT YOUR MOUNT TO LOSMANDY TYPE "D" DOVETAILS

- THE WORLD AT NIGHT UPDATE

- ALUMINIUM CASES

- "I DIDN'T KNOW YOU SOLD MAPS!"

- HEMA NAVIGATOR 5" GPS - ON & OFF ROAD NAVIGATION

- REPLICA GALILEO TELESCOPES

- 16" MIRRORS COMPLETED MIRRORS

- UNIVERSAL 1.3x OCA (OPTICAL CORRECTOR ADAPTOR) FOR BINOVIEWERS

- ZOOMABLE 360° PANORAMA OF THE NIGHT SKY

- REVAMPED HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE BETTER THAN EVER

- BAHTONIV MASKS

- ASTRONOMY 2010 CALENDARS $12AUD

- ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY LIGHT BOXES

- UPDATED DVDs $16AUD

- THE NEW UNIVERSE

- THE NEW SOLAR SYSTEM

- TELESCOPE SPECIALS

- 6" DOBSONIAN $360AUD

- 8" DOBSONIAN $490AUD

- 10" DOBSONIAN $740AUD

- 12" DOBSONIAN $1230AUD

- COLLAPSIBLE 8" DOBSONIAN $545AUD

- COLLAPSIBLE 10" DOBSONIAN $880AUD

- COLLAPSIBLE 12" DOBSONIAN $1490AUD

- EXTRA TALL, STURDY BINOCULAR TRIPODS

BEWARE BUYING FROM OPT (Oceanside Photographic and Telescope)

In June 2005 we purchased a Celestron 11" Nexstar XLT GPS (#CE-11053-XLT-S) from OPT (Oceanside Photo & Telescope) who reside at:

918 Mission Avenue
Oceanside, CA 92054

USA

It was supposed to have GPS (Global Positioning System) built into the telescope. We later discovered OPT had sent an old telescope from 2001/2002 which did not have the features we paid for. Features missing included GPS. Obviously, the telescope sent, was either old floor stock, or a demonstration model. The telescope did not have any wrapping around the tube or instruction manual. The telescope did not even look new!

The age of the telescope was verified by the manufacturer, Celestron, using the dates of the firmware and software it carried. The last one of its type was shipped in late 2001/early 2002. Two other newer versions had been released before our purchase in 2005.

The telescope was bought on behalf of our local university. OPT at first insisted that it was the user and not the telescope that was at fault. Our local university tried establishing the GPS for over 2 years before realising the telescope did not even have GPS! During this time, we corresponded with OPT who insisted there was nothing wrong with the telescope. The telescope was sent back to OPT in 2007.

We had always been happy to have a replacement, to the current model, although this never happened.

We had contacted the BBB (Better Business Bureau) in the USA. There was no resolve, although they were helpful. We were also in contact with Celestron who were helpful, but still no resolve. We were in contact with Michael Swanson (Nexstar Site) who, once again was very helpful, but still no resolve.

The saga had gone on for 4 years and has caused much distress to me, the university, and the participants who wanted to use the telescope for educational purposes.

We finally had closure when we took OPT to court in the USA, for which they paid us the amount claimed, as a settlement out of court. The amount did not reflect the amount paid for the telescope due to the exchange rate being 30% different at the time.

PHILIPS SPC600NC GAMING WEBCAM SPECIAL

These cameras are not designed for astrophotography. They were delivered by mistake by Philips. We have 2 left, brand new, and will make excellent Christmas presents for the teenage gamer. Here is a review:

http://www.v3.co.uk/computeractive/hardware/2142711/philips-spc-600nc

$40AUD

UPDATED PRICE LISTS

http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/imaging_source_the_camera_ccd_astro_pricelist.htm

http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/baader-planetarium-astro-accessories-pricelist.htm

http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/celestron-pricelist.htm

http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/skywatcher-pricelist.htm

http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/bushnell-pricelist.htm

90° 8x50mm FINDERSCOPES $60AUD

Have your Finderscope at the same angle as your Focuser for comfortable viewing. No more back breaking!

DELUXE 4 TARGET RED DOT FINDERSCOPES $75AUD

4-reticle red dot finder. Features brightness level and positioning adjustments. Anodised black aluminium. Complete with Metal Block Base.

LOSMANDY WEIGHT FIX

Losmandy owners may be aware of the Plastic Knobs for tightening the Weights often break, when tightened. We now supply Heavy Duty Metal Screws for the weights. These new screws are metric, so the weight must be re-taped to suit the new metric thread. The Heavy Duty Metal Screw has a brass insert, so it doesn't damage the Weight Shaft.

NEW SUPPLIERS

- StarLight Instruments - makers of the FeatherTouch® Focusers. Next to having great optics, eyepieces and excellent collimation, focusing is equally as important. In general, focusing needs to be precise and allow positioning of the eyepiece or imaging equipment within .002 inches. Not only should the focuser provide precision positioning and be easy to use, it should also permit effortless focusing without shaking the telescope. The 10:1 reduction ratio and the precision of the design make this possible. Since there is virtually “ZERO BACKLASH”, focusing at even very high power, is done with ease.

Even though FeatherTouch® Focusers are slightly more expensive keep in mind that we have designed and built this unit to last a lifetime. You have probably invested much more in your eyepieces and use each of these eyepieces with the focuser, so why not buy a FeatherTouch® Focuser that will permit the full performance of your telescope.

There should be no backlash in the focuser and the focuser should be very free to move. Since FeatherTocuh® Focusers uses a precision 10:1 planetary reduction assembly, this makes focusing extremely easy. Positioning of the draw tube and eyepiece within .0005 inches can easily be achieved. Not only is the positioning of the eyepiece extremely precise but because our focusers are so smooth, the slightest touch on our 10:1 reduction fine focus knob will allow focusing without shaking of the telescope tube.

StarLight Instruments Home Page:

http://www.starlightinstruments.com/index.php

- AstroDon Tru-Balance Filters - are the first Filters designed to match the sensitivity of the modern CCD cameras (patent pending) that simplifies all aspects of tri-colour imaging of deep-space objects for vibrant "true-colour".

Astrodon Tru-Balance filters simplify RGB imaging by equalizing the flux for general classes of CCD detectors, that allows you to combine your RGB color data with nearly equal weights. This allows you to take your color images and their corresponding dark frames with the same exposure time, while achieving a G2V white point balance for correct star colors and balanced OIII teal color in emission objects (patent pending).

Astrodon narrowband filters for H-a, OIII and SII provide the highest performance available for bringing out structure in emission objects, and allow you to image when the moon is up and image from light polluted environments.

Astrodon research grade Sloan (u',g',r',i',z') and Johnson/Bessell (UVBRIc) all-dielectric-coated filters provide the highest performance and durability available for photometric research.

Astrodon off-axis guiders allow you to guide your telescope in the same optical path as your imaging camera, thereby eliminating the cost for a separate guide scope and the potential for differential flexure.

Astrodon remotely-controlled camera rotators allow you to frame your object exactly the way you want and help to find guide stars.

Designed for astrophotographers by astrophophotographers.

AstroDon Home Page:

http://www.astrodon.com/

AstroDon Australian Price List:

http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/astrodon-filters-ccd-tru-balance-camera-pricelist.htm

- iOptron - iOptron have a number of products which are becoming popular amongst amateur astronomers:

The iOptron Cube - "GOTO" Alt-Azimuth Mount is a highly portable Cube mount weighs just 8.2 pounds (3.7 kg), including tripod and hand unit, and can carry small telescopes equipped with Vixen-style dovetail shoes. The melding of motorized GoTo pointing and tracking with a standalone alt-azimuth mount is unique in today’s market. But the real eye opener is that the Cube costs less than many non-motorized altazimuth mounts, and its price includes the tripod! The Cube was announced just as I was looking for portable tracking mount to use with my William Optics 66mm refractor. It seemed like the ideal match, so I ordered one as soon as they became available last September.

Mini Tower - The MiniTower is the perfect combination of capacity and portability.

25 lbs. of Payload Born out of the popular iOptron Cube^TM, MiniTower^TM is the ultimate observing solution for people who are searching for a capable and portable GoTo telescope mount to counter light pollution in their backyards and for travel convenience. With a standard payload of 25 lbs, a rock solid 1.5”alloy/stainless steel tripod, metal worm and gear and two dovetail adaptors-- The MiniTower^TM is capable of handling most OTAs.

Extremely Portable With all the standard components (excluding the tripod) packaged in an alloy metal case, MiniTower^TM can easily be carried around in a car trunk or as an airline luggage. The whole system takes only 10 minutes to assemble. This unlimited portability, combined with the internal GPS, gives amateur astronomers extreme flexibility in selecting an observing location.

Accurate GoTo and Tracking Equipped with the most advanced SmartStar^Ò GoTo technology, MiniTower^TM is one of the most powerful and accurate GoTo mounts. The standard 8401 hand controller offers the superb navigation experience with an 8 line LCD back-lit display, a 130,000 object database and a USB port for easy connection with ASCOM compliant PC planetarium programs. With a typical GoTo accuracy of 1 arc minute and the SmartStar^Ò precision auto-tracking, MiniTower^TM will consistently bring the celestial object of your choice to the center of the eye-piece and keep tracking for hours.

Additional Unique Features Powered with other features such as automatic over-current protection, automatic clutch protection for both axes, easy 3-point level adjustment, dual scope setup with two dovetails and much more, MiniTower is one of the most user-friendly GoTo mounts available today.

iOptron Web Site:

http://www.ioptron.com/index.htm

iOptron PriceList:

http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/ioptron-astro-mini-tower-cubepro-smart-star-pricelist.htm

CONVERT YOUR MOUNT TO LOSMANDY TYPE "D" DOVETAILS

Convert your SkyWatcher, Celestron, Vixen etc. Mount to Losmandy style "D" Dovetail Plates. This conversion improves the rigidity of the Dovetails used from the narrow "V" Tails to the extra sturdy "D" Tails. Particularly good for Astrophotography. The conversion uses a new Replacement Head for the Mount, and the new Female "D" Dovetail. The Female Dovetail can accomodate Losmandy, CGE and William Optics Dovetail Plates.

Replacement Heads $55

Female "D" Dovetail $95

THE WORLD AT NIGHT UPDATE

The World at Night, in collaboration with Dark Skies Awareness project, organize the International Year of Astronomy 2009 Earth and Sky Photo Contest on the importance of dark skies. It is open to anyone of any age, anywhere in the world. For more information visit:

http://www.astronomy2009.org/news/updates/404/

The latest images can be seen here:

http://www.twanight.org/newTWAN/galleries_latest.asp?Sort=All&page=1

ALUMINIUM CASES

Aluminum Cases are particularly expensive to purchase. A Telescope Case can cost up to $800 for an 8" Telescope Optical Tube.

We are preparing another shipment of Aluminum Cases. The cases come complete with Block Foam which breaks away in small cubes to form the shape of the item used in the case. The cases are particularly cheap and are brought in by sea. Let us know the size of the case you'd like, and we can quote a price.

"I DIDN'T KNOW YOU SOLD MAPS!"

We have been selling all types of Maps for a number of years now. Here are the most popular Wall Maps:

As seen in Flight Center Offices around Australia. The World Map Wallpaper for $275AUD plus postage is 3.96m x 2.64m (huge!). It's 8 glued sheets.

The next size down is more expensive ($340AUD plus postage), although it is the most comprehensive large world map available. It comes in 3 sheets. It is not wallpaper, rather, fairly thick paper. It is produced by National Geographic and measures 2.75m x 1.90m.

After this is our biggest seller - The World SuperMap Laminated for $68AUD plus postage. It is 1.9m x 1.1m.

Finally we also have The Australia SuperMap Laminated for $68AUD plus postage. It is 137cm x 120cm

Let me know if you want an image of the maps.

HEMA NAVIGATOR 5" GPS - ON & OFF ROAD NAVIGATION

This is the latest model offered by Hema. It surpasses the older 4.3" Screen Model. Let us know if you want an information flyer.

- 5" Screen

- SiRFatlasIV 64-Channel GPS

- 2GB memory plus Micro SD Card

- Bluetooth & FM Transmitter

- Rear view camera ready

STREET NAV - ROUTE 66

The intelligent voice guidance software uses the latest NAVTEQ streets and back roads making it easy to navigate to a street address, your accommodation or another point of interest.

4WD NAV - OziExplorer

Switch to 4WD NAV to use all the latest HEMA 4WD maps, plus complete topo coverage at 1:250,000 scale. Record your journey and add your own waypoints, routes and maps.

TOPO NAV - Memory Map

Going bush? Use Memory Map to access Australia's widest range of high resolution raster topo maps and marine charts.

$799AUD RRP is $990AUD

REPLICA GALILEO TELESCOPES

Some people were after the International Year of Astronomy's Galileo Telescope Replica. The Scope has educational information for schools as well. We have some in stock for $65AUD:

https://www.galileoscope.org/gs/

http://astronomy2009.us/optics/galileoscope/

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 $1700AUD 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.

UNIVERSAL 1.3x OCA (OPTICAL CORRECTOR ADAPTOR) FOR BINOVIEWERS

The 1.3x OCA is an advanced corrector in its composition. Less magnification and slightly better correction than any other correctors on the market today made for the PST. They are also less expensive. $170AUD. It uses a Barlow like adapter to re-space the binoviewer and is parfocal with any single eyepiece. You can use it with any Binoviewer - Televue, AP Badder, BW-Optics, Denkmeier, Siebert Black Night Series and any lower priced category Binoviewers such as Burgess, William Optics, Stellarvue etc......

Cloudy Nights Review:

http://www.cloudynights.com/item.php?item_id=1229

ZOOMABLE 360° PANORAMA OF THE NIGHT SKY

ESO unveils an amazing, interactive, 360-degree panoramic view of the entire night sky.

The first of three images of ESO's GigaGalaxy Zoom project — a new magnificent 800-million-pixel panorama of the entire sky as seen from ESO’s observing sites in Chile — has just been released online. The project allows stargazers to explore, and experience the Universe as it is seen with the unaided eye, from the darkest and best viewing locations in the world.

This 360-degree panoramic image, covering the entire celestial sphere, reveals the cosmic landscape that surrounds our tiny blue planet. This gorgeous starscape serves as the first of three extremely high-resolution images featured in the GigaGalaxy Zoom Project, launched by ESO within the framework of the International Year of Astronomy 2009 (IYA2009). GigaGalaxy Zoom features a web tool that allows users to take a breathtaking dive into our Milky Way. With this tool users can learn more about many different and exciting objects in the image, such as multicoloured nebulae and exploding stars, just by clicking on them. In this way, the project seeks to link the sky we can all see with the deep, “hidden” cosmos that astronomers study on a daily basis. The wonderful quality of the images is a testament to the splendour of the night sky at ESO’s sites in Chile, which are the most productive astronomical observatories in the world.... more.:

http://www.eso.org/public/outreach/press-rel/pr-2009/pr-32-09.html

Interactive 360° Panoramic View:

http://www.gigagalaxyzoom.org/

REVAMPED HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE BETTER THAN EVER

Have a look at some of the first stunning shots from the newly overhauled Hubble Space Telescope. It includes the recaptured M100, which was the first image ever taken by Hubble, the stunning Butterfly Planetary Nebula (NGC 6302), and the Gravitational Lensing Effect, first predicted by Einstein, which allows us to see further into the universe due to the distortion of space by massive galaxies.

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/glance/860292/pimped-hubble-snaps-interstellar-magic

BAHTONIV MASKS

These have been very popular.

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:

http://www.spike-a.com/

http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/2544487/page/0/view/collapsed/sb/5/o/all/fpart/1/vc/1

ASTRONOMY 2010 CALENDARS

The 2010 Astronomy Calendars are now available for $12AUD. They are slightly larger than last year.

ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY LIGHT BOXES

During Astrophotography, "Flat Frames" will counteract problems in the camera like dust particles, field vignetting and moisture smudges. Flat Frames are added to the stacking of your images, and are produced by using a Light Box. A Light Box fits over the end of the telescope and produces a uniformly lit, neutral surface.

Let us know your telescope's dimensions for a Light Box quote. For more information on Light Boxes and their construction see:

http://scp3.org/forum/index.php?topic=13783.0

UPDATED DVDs $16AUD

THE NEW UNIVERSE

The Universe DVD has been updated with the latest discoveries about the Cosmos. It includes 6 narrated programs and also 3 bonus programs with background music showing the best animations and images by Hubble and others.

THE NEW SOLAR SYSTEM

The New Solar System DVD includes the latest discoveries from the NASA and ESA probes. The DVD has 13 programs including the Huygens Lander on Titan.

TELESCOPE SPECIALS

- 6" DOBSONIAN $360AUD

- 8" DOBSONIAN $490AUD

- 10" DOBSONIAN $740AUD

- 12" DOBSONIAN $1230AUD

- COLLAPSIBLE 8" DOBSONIAN $545AUD

- COLLAPSIBLE 10" DOBSONIAN $880AUD

- COLLAPSIBLE 12" DOBSONIAN $1490AUD

EXTRA TALL, STURDY BINOCULAR TRIPODS

These tripods handle 20x80mm binoculars very easily. Their height can be raised to 190cm (6' 3"). Although 25x100mm (6kg) can be used on the tripod, we still recommend using a Manfrotto Tripod for Giant Binoculars over 5kg.

Tall, Sturdy Tripod $180AUD

Manfrotto Tripod $396AUD

Tripod to Binocular Adaptors $15AUD (if needed)

Regards,

Matthew Lovell
Telescopes and Astronomy
PO BOX 292
OHALLORAN HILL SA 5158
PH: 08 8381 3188
FAX: 08 8381 3588
MOBILE: 0416 123 096
Skype: telescopes.and.astronomy
telescopes@adam.com.au
http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au
https://twitter.com/telescopes1

TELESCOPES AND ASTRONOMY

JUNE NEWSLETTER 2009 NO.48

Phone: (08) 8381 3188

FAX: (08) 8381 3588

Mobile: 0416 123 096

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 APO $999

- 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 APO OTA

- 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 (Brisbane,
Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide at this stage), to help save on delivery costs. We half the delivery costs based on a quote from Toll/Ipec, your average interstate truck courier. An example of the delivery costs are from Adelaide to Brisbane of $1100 for the Standard POD and $1300 for the XL-3 Pod by Toll/Ipec. This amount is halved.

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 USA. Usually 5-6 weeks at sea, then we pass them through customs etc. and deliver.

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 APO $999

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

http://herschel.esac.esa.int/

PAST ISSUES OF THE ANNUAL ASTRONOMY BOOK $5AUD

Quasar Publishing's annual Astronomy book is the most popular publication on astronomy in Australia. Past issues are available for $5 for collectors.

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 Wayne's web site, or through us:

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:

http://www.astrodon.com/

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 APO OTA

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

The Disks are $40AUD for all sizes up to 300mm (12").

More information can be seen on the Masks here:

http://www.spike-a.com/

http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/2544487/page/0/view/collapsed/sb/5/o/all/fpart/1/vc/1

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 Germany, which are of the highest quality.

- 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 USA. In turn we are passing the saving onto our customers.

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:

http://www.swarovskioptik.at/

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:

http://www.vixenoptics.com/

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

Mobile: 0416 123 096

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 USA BY ATTILLA DANKO

- 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 SOHO

- 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

- CHESHIRE COLLIMATION TOOL $55AUD

- 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

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 APO REFRACTOR

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) Mount Goto - $2920AUD

WHAT HASN'T GONE UP IN PRICE DUE TO THE AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR?

Philips ToUcam SP900NC $145AUD

ToUcam Long Exposure Modification $140AUD - Made in Australia

1.25" Baffled Adaptor $55AUD - Made in Australia

Dobsonian Teflon Bearing Kit $36AUD - Made in Australia

Dobsonian Pivot Bearing Kit $36AUD - Made in Australia

Heavy Duty Dovetail to suit popular brands $135AUD - Made in Australia

Heavy Duty Dovetail Side by Side Setup to suit popular brands $315AUD - Made in Australia

0.6x 1.25" Focal Reducer $95AUD - Made in Australia

0.3x 1.25" Focal Reducer Extender $45AUD - Made in Australia

C Mount to Popular SLR Camera Adaptor $95AUD - Made in Australia

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 USA. Currently in development is a chart for our local and Australian conditions developed by Andrew Cool:

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 Adelaide, Australia, generally comes from between west and south. The Anglo-Australian Observatory is currently using Skippy Sky.

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 USA BY ATTILLA DANKO

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 SOHO

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

- CHESHIRE COLLIMATION TOOL - $55AUD

- 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

Mobile: 0416 123 096

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 CANADA

- 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 VISTA

- IS IT GOING TO BE CLEAR FOR OBSERVING TODAY/TONIGHT?

- CLEAR SKY CHART FOR USA BY ATTILLA DANKO

- SKIPPY SKY CHART FOR LOCAL & AUSTRALIA BY ANDREW COOL

- CLOUD COVER MAP

- SYNOPTIC & JETSTREAM MAP

- MOON PHASE MAP & PLANNER

- SOLAR IMAGES FROM SOHO

- 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 CHINA JULY 2009

- 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 CANADA

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=e_2aX-784sw

SKYSHED PODS

The SkyShed Pods container is finally here, and I am off to Sydney to pick them up and deliver them this week to our drooling customers. I can still be contacted by email and mobile phone.

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 Australia. It is intended to give a tourist's view of the sky as a 'use anytime' reference with realistic views identifying the positions of each object. It is also the easiest reference to use to find a planet's position in the night sky. The 2009 Edition contains extra pages on special events and deep sky objects.

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:

http://www.astronomy2009.org/

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:

http://www.hioptic.com/

TOUCAM - GETTING IT TO WORK IN VISTA

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.com/. Select your country, select Contact and Support, select PC Products, select webcams and then select the appropriate model. Within frequently asked questions/set up and installation, select "where are the vista drivers for this webcam". You will then be provided with a zip file containing the driver and full instructions for installation.

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 Vista apart from one thing. When using the Philips V Lounge software to capture a video, the frame rate appears to be stuck on 15 fps. This is not too much of a problem and the camera will operate at all frame rates when using the free Iris software:

http://www.astrosurf.com/buil/us/iris/iris.htm

- thanks Richard

IS IT GOING TO BE CLEAR FOR OBSERVING TODAY/TONIGHT?

CLEAR SKY CHART FOR USA BY ATTILLA DANKO

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:

http://www.skippysky.com.au/

There are other charts available which are used for determining when to view:

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 SOHO

http://sohowww.nascom.nasa.gov/data/realtime-images.html

SKY QUALITY METERS

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 Flash Port when updating the software or internal database.

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.

INCREDIBLE ECLIPSE PHOTO

http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap080920.html

INCREDIBLE PHOTO

http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ap080929.html

SOLAR ECLIPSE CHINA JULY 2009

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 China.

The viewing location is at Wuyuan, which is south of Shanghai

The tour departs Sydney on July 8 2009 and returns July 26. A total of 19 days for an all inclusive cost of $4880 plus Taxes and Visa fees

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 Battery Life

- 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

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 US$ has put the prices of most imported products up by around 20-30%, at this stage. It has also the meant the freight of products has increased by this amount as well. Although oil prices have dropped recently, the trend is for all freight prices to increase. Due to these increases, we will be manufacturing more products locally, and will be competitively priced against imports. This will of course increase the amount of goods we sell overseas.

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

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
AUSTRALIA
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 Australia FAX: 08 8381 3588

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 HOLIDAY SNAPS

- 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

- ADELAIDE RESIDENTS "MOON IN THE MALL" EVENT FRIDAY 8TH AUGUST 6-9PM

- ADELAIDE RESIDENTS "SCIENCE ALIVE" WAYVILLE SHOWGROUND'S ANGUS STIRLING HALL 9TH & 10TH AUGUST

- 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, LXD-55 DUAL AXIS MOTOR DRIVE

- MEADE/CELESTRON FOCAL REDUCER F/3.3 & F/6.3

- 40mm AND 30mm PLOSSL EYEPIECES

MARS HOLIDAY SNAPS

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 Phoenix making its decent onto the surface of Mars, as taken from another orbiting spacecraft:

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 Hawaii has taken the clearest, most detailed image of Pluto so far. The image includes Pluto's other 2 moons (satellites) besides Charon clearly. The image was made possible by using Adaptive Optics which compensates for the Earth's turbulent atmosphere:

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 Europe are going up by 30%, and we expect the same here.

- 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 Toll Ipec Road, to anyone in the eastern states below Gladstone.

- first container load customers will receive a further 3% discount due to the Australian Dollar staying stable, above 90 cents.

http://www.skyshedpod.com/

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 Australia's best planetary photographer. He's been working hard lately, getting his hard earned images onto the web. For the uninitiated, the images taken are far better than images taken 10 years ago, using the best equipment and telescopes on the planet! If anyone is interested in what can be done from your own backyard, or nearby, with equipment worth around $3000AUD to $5000AUD - take a look:

http://paulhaese.net/

Paul also runs a workshop in Adelaide, South Australia to share his techniques.

SERIAL PRINTER CABLE ADAPTORS DB25 PIN FEMALE TO USB A01

If you don't have a Serial Port on your newer computer. This Adaptor will do the trick! It converts the Serial Cable to USB.

$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 China of the 2008 Total Solar Eclipse:

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

ADELAIDE RESIDENTS "MOON IN THE MALL" EVENT FRIDAY 8TH AUGUST 6-9PM

Rundle Mall will have up to 8 Telescopes for the general public to look through.

ADELAIDE RESIDENTS "SCIENCE ALIVE" WAYVILLE SHOWGROUND'S ANGUS STIRLING HALL 9TH & 10TH AUGUST

Science Alive marks the start of National Science Week in Australia. For more information:

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 China lately. I've try a few, and this one is the best. Very good for a budget filter. Reveals much more nebulosity than any eyepiece. Works well for blocking out light pollution. Good transmission. Let us know if you require the transmission spectrum.

$85AUD

EQ5 EQUATORIAL MOUNTS

Complete EQ5 Mounts including Polar Scope and Tripod.

$350AUD

EQ5, GP, GP/DX, CG-5, LXD-55 DUAL AXIS MOTOR DRIVE

Includes Motors, Tools, Universal Drive Gears and 3 Speed Hand Controller. Suitable for Northern or Southern Hemispheres.

$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
AUSTRALIA
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 Australia FAX: 08 8381 3588

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 CIGARETTE LIGHTER PORT

- 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

- CHESHIRE COLLIMATION EYEPIECES

- 2" DIAMETER EXTENSION TUBES

- EYEPIECE BOLT CASES

- CURRENT TELESCOPE MIRRORS AVAILABLE

- EYEPIECE T MOUNT ADAPTOR

- 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 USA. This will not affect our first container. There is also the following discounts available:

- first container load customers will receive a 5% discount on the current price list.

- first container load customers will receive a further 3% discount due to the Australian Dollar staying stable, above 90 cents.

http://www.skyshedpod.com/

POWERING YOUR LAPTOP FROM A CIGARETTE LIGHTER PORT

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 Australia) web page available at:

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:

http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/telescope_astronomy_newsletters_advice_products_information.htm

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 USA

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

CHESHIRE COLLIMATION EYEPIECES

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 10⁴mm (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 MOUNT ADAPTOR

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 Battery Case. We also have Deep Cycle Batteries, AC and DC Adaptors so you can replace the ever wasteful Battery Case.

$170AUD

HERE'S A GOOD ONE!

Check out this list of astronomy software! 8-)

Thanks Blair!

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