Again, for those interested in adventures of Mr Fixit: I had a chance at somewhat clear viewing last night here in Illinois. I scrounged up a led head lamp with the red option, and then used a bright star to further fiddle with the collimation. I noted that very careful pressure on the secondary adjusting screws is called for. Placing too much pressure on one screw will result in an out-of-round doughnut, and I assume that this asymetrical pressure distorts the (cheap) mirror. Anyway, after some more enjoyable fiddling, I obtained reasonably round bagels one either side of focus. I swung around to view Jupiter, and could see the major bands. Still not a great instrument, but a fun project. Next step is to firm up the tripod.
Equipmentally speaking, I had a link sent to me by a brother-in-law who is also interested in repair and fabrication. Hoping links are permitted here, perhaps many will enjoy the intellectual and mechanical prowess of this woman:
http://www.tatjavanvark.nl/index.html
And some more:
http://www.craftsmanshipmuseum.com/vanVark.htm
Clear skies,
David B
Equipmentally speaking, I had a link sent to me by a brother-in-law who is also interested in repair and fabrication. Hoping links are permitted here, perhaps many will enjoy the intellectual and mechanical prowess of this woman:
http://www.tatjavanvark.nl/index.html
And some more:
http://www.craftsmanshipmuseum.com/vanVark.htm
Clear skies,
David B
