Vega Sky Center

Finally, here is a look at the template I made to aid in evenly spacing the OTA handles on opposite sides of the main tube. The sheet's narrow side length matches the long side length of the oak wood OTA handles. So using this template draped across the focuser end of the tube allowed me to visually establish the location of the OTA handles.

In the picture above, please make note that the black Sharpie marks visible in four spots on the edge of the focuser end are the actual marks made using the template. I just rotated the template 90-degrees so that you could easily see them.

With the holes accurately marked, I will drill 1/8" (.125") holes through all four (4) holes for attaching the OTA handles to the 6" f/10 "Gelinda J. Dawson" refractor. But before the handle can be installed, I will have to install the ProtoStar FlockBoard in conjunction with the baffle rack inside of the main tube.

Please email me if you have any questions.

With that, believe it or not, we are not read to begin assembly of the OTA!!! Looking back on the build thus far, I can not be any happier with the results. Here is a synopsis:

After purchasing the optics from SurplusShed, I had them coated by Jeff at Majestic. Then, I commissioned Eric Moermann to fabricate the objective cell and focuser backplate pieces from my own design. Next, we trimmed flock material to size and followed up by cutting the tubes to proper size and later applied a beautiful finish to them and to the components made by Eric. I then constructed the unique baffle rack, and ended with making the OTA handles.

The Jaeger 6" f/10 "Gelinda J. Dawson" refractor is soon about to become a reality. A fully functioning scientific instrument that I will cherish and use for the rest of my life. I truly believe Gelinda would have been very pleased.

Now, let's get this fine telescope assembled!!!