highlight that Remer’s book is the go-to resource for those transitioning from mirror-making to lens-making. It is particularly noted for its practical approach, such as using specialized software like alongside the book’s prescriptions to verify designs.
The crown and flint elements must be held in perfect alignment without being pinched, which causes optical distortion ("astigmatism"). Builders often use a lathe to machine an aluminum cell, but as veterans on the Cloudy Nights ATM Forum point out, you can construct functional, adjustable cells by sawing precise rings out of high-grade marine plywood. The elements are separated either by three tiny plastic spacer tabs (for air-spaced doublets) or joined together using optical cement or a thin layer of specialized oil. The Optical Tube Assembly (OTA)
. While amateurs have crafted thousands of reflecting telescopes using mirrors, many have long viewed lens-making as an insurmountable task due to the perceived complexity of grinding multiple surfaces. Remer’s work demystifies this process, proving that making a high-quality doublet lens involves the same fundamental tools and techniques used in mirror-making. Amazon.com Overview of the Book The book spans approximately 391 to 408 pages making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf 12 new
Variant 5 — Advanced 100/800 Fast Refractor
Building your own optical instruments is a deeply rewarding pursuit for amateur astronomers. For decades, DIY telescope makers have sought reliable, step-by-step documentation to guide their craft. One of the most sought-after resources in this community is Norman Remer’s foundational work on refractor design. highlight that Remer’s book is the go-to resource
Since its publication, Remer's book has become the standard reference for serious ATM projects. It has been enthusiastically adopted by groups like the of the Stellafane club, who use it as their primary guide for workshops. The book is a constant topic of discussion among builders on forums like Cloudy Nights, where amateurs share their successes, ask questions, and even trade the precious optical blanks mentioned in the book.
Whether you are a seasoned telescope maker or a curious newcomer, Norman Remer’s book provides the roadmap needed to move beyond mirrors and master the art of the lens. Builders often use a lathe to machine an
The Ultimate Guide to Amateur Telescope Making: Exploring Norman Remer’s Classic Blueprint