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16"
Dream Astrograph - filtered tube offering (16DAtube) |
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The first small batch of 16.5" OD filters have
arrived. These are used at the back of the telescope to force
clean, filtered air into the new tube version of the 16"
Dream Astrograph. |
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This type of filter allows high volumes of air to
pass through it without decreasing the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
rating of the fans. |
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This original Dream design will keep the optics clean
and, due to the high volume of air, allow both the primary and
the secondary mirrors to reach and then follow ambient temperatures
much more rapidly than other designs. An added benefit is that
it prevents dew formation on both of the mirrors. Moving air
does not allow dew to form. |
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All of this adds up to unprecedented throughput and
overall performance. |
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The first, raw carbon fiber/sandwich core filter cap
can be seen to the right. It is held to the back of the OTA (Optical
Tube Assembly) with two lightweight composite bolts. |
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The large carbon fiber cap and composite bolts weigh
only 385 grams/0.85 lbs. |
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The first large batch of 5.75" cellular secondary
mirrors is currently being polished (September, 2007). The new
5.75" fully illuminates CCD chips as large as 36mm square
and weighs 2.0 lbs. It is the "little brother" of the
7.75" cellular secondary, which can be seen by clicking
on the link to the left. |
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Click on the image to the right to go back to the
16" Dream Astrograph page. |
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The first small production run of filter caps can
be seen to the left. They are ready for paint (September, 2007).
Four can be seen in the photo, with two filters shown near the
top half of the image. |
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Click
the image to the right to see a carbon fiber tube for a 16"
f5 IR Cassegrain. |
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