Using CAD software to design precise lens cells that allow for fine, individual adjustments of air-spacing and centering.
The ultimate authority on building high-performance glass optics from scratch is . First published by Willmann-Bell, Inc. , this highly sought-after 408-page text bridges the gap between basic reflector mirror grinding and advanced multi-surface lens fabrication.
Once you find the PDF, here is why it’s considered an interesting essay rather than just a manual:
: Community forums such as Cloudy Nights are excellent places to find advice from other builders who have used the book and may share resources or design spreadsheets. making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf 12 new
Remer was passionate about de-mystifying the process of making glass lenses. Rather than treating optical fabrication as a dark art, he broke it down into repeatable, predictable engineering steps. His writings and teaching materials became a cornerstone for anyone looking to move past simple reflector mirrors and tackle the more complex challenge of refractor lenses. Inside the Blueprint: Making a Refractor Telescope
Using simple Fizeau interferometers to map the surface error of the lens, providing a numerical PV (Peak-to-Valley) or RMS value of the lens quality.
Variant 1 — Beginner 60/700 Achromat
: Attaching the finished lens into a cell and mounting the entire assembly on a stable base, such as an Altazimuth (AZ) mount for simple left-right and up-down movement. Availability: Finding the Book and Resources
: He provides step-by-step coaching on using rudimentary tools and common abrasives to grind the glass into the correct spherical shape.
Grinding tools for the specific curvatures required. 3. Grinding: Shaping the glass blanks. Using CAD software to design precise lens cells
Look for authorized digital distributions through the American Astronomical Society (AAS) Sky Publishing catalog.
Utilizing newer, readily available glass combinations (e.g., Ohara or Schott glass) that provide better color correction (less chromatic aberration) than older specifications.
