Dec 12, 2007 -
Telescopes for Amateur Astronomy - Jim Stilburn
With the availability on the market of many affordable telescopes for
amateur astronomy, the amateur is faced with many choices regarding the best
type of telescope to use for various types of observing. I will be
explaining the basic principles of telescope optics and how they relate to
telescope performance. Also I will discuss how a telescope can be used to
maximum effect, and also how to clean and care for telescope optics.
Presentation ( 1.7Mb pdf)
Bio:
Jim Stilburn recently retired from the DAO after 25 years of service, which
was preceded by 9 years with the UVic Dept. of Astronomy and Physics. Jim's
work at the DAO entailed designing and testing new instruments for the major
observing sites used by the Canadian astronomers. He has built several
amateur telescopes, including 6-inch and 12-1/2 inch reflectors, a 5-inch
refractor, and most recently binoculars with 4-inch lenses. He now spends
his time working at the DAO as a visiting worker continuing research on
anti-reflection coatings, as well as working on various projects in his home
workshop.
