Making A Refractor Telescope Norman Remer Pdf 12 New ((exclusive)) -

Making a Refractor Telescope: How to Design, Grind, Polish, Test, Correct and Mount a Doublet Lens

by Norman Remer is an essential guide for amateur astronomers who want to move beyond mirror-based telescopes. Published in 2006 by Willmann-Bell, Inc., this 391-page hardcover book serves as a "coach" for making high-quality doublet lenses. Core Content & Scope

The book demystifies the perceived difficulty of lens making by demonstrating that it uses many of the same tools and techniques as mirror grinding. Key topics covered include:

Lens Theory: Characteristics of optical glass, abrasives, and pitch.

Design & Fabrication: Step-by-step instructions for designing, grinding, and polishing a doublet lens.

Testing & Correction: Detailed methods for testing the lens's accuracy and making corrections.

Mechanical Construction: Guidance on mounting the finished lens and constructing the telescope.

CD-ROM Content: New copies typically include a CD-ROM with Excel spreadsheets for refractor design programs. Reader Feedback & Performance

Skill Level: While beginner-friendly in its "step-by-step" approach, experts at Stellafane suggest it may not be the ideal first book for absolute beginners without some prior optical knowledge.

Practicality: Reviewers on Cloudy Nights highlight that mirror-making skills translate well to this book, though lens making requires finishing more surfaces (all of which are spherical).

Design Specifics: Users have used the book to design custom achromats, such as 102mm or 130mm refractors, though some notes warn about the softness of specific glass types like SF1 when polishing.

Limitations: Some readers noted that while it is excellent for lens design and fabrication, they sought additional outside resources for advanced OTA (Optical Tube Assembly) construction details like baffle placement and complex mounts. Summary of Ratings Goodreads Goodreads Open Library Open Library

If you are looking for a copy, it is frequently found through specialized sellers like First Light Optics or secondhand marketplaces like AbeBooks. Books for building REFRACTORS - ATM, Optics and DIY Forum

Making a Refractor Telescope Norman Remer (published by Willmann-Bell, Inc. in 2006) is widely considered the definitive modern guide for amateur telescope makers (ATM) interested in lens-making

. While amateurs have crafted thousands of reflecting telescopes using mirrors, many have long viewed lens-making as an insurmountable task due to the perceived complexity of grinding multiple surfaces. Remer’s work demystifies this process, proving that making a high-quality doublet lens involves the same fundamental tools and techniques used in mirror-making. Amazon.com Overview of the Book The book spans approximately 391 to 408 pages

and provides a comprehensive, coach-like guide through every step of creating a doublet lens—from raw glass selection to mounting the final product. A standout feature is the inclusion of Excel spreadsheet programs

(originally provided on CD-ROM) that allow amateurs to design well-corrected lenses without advanced optical engineering degrees. First Light Optics Key Content and Methodologies Design & Prescriptions

: Remer covers the design of two-element lenses corrected for color, coma, and spherical aberration. For those who prefer to skip the design phase, the book includes proven "prescriptions" for lenses ranging from 3 to 8 inches in aperture. Grinding & Polishing

: The author explains that while a lens has four surfaces to finish instead of one, all are

, which can be easier to achieve than the parabolic curve required for mirrors. He further explores why mirror surfaces must be figured four times as accurately as a lens, providing deep technical "whys" behind the "hows".

: The text provides detailed info on glass characteristics, abrasives, and pitch. Testing & Mounting

: Remer guides readers through testing their optics and constructing a cell to mount the doublet securely in an optical tube. First Light Optics Relevance to Amateur Makers Community discussions on platforms like Cloudy Nights

highlight that Remer’s book is the go-to resource for those transitioning from mirror-making to lens-making. It is particularly noted for its practical approach, such as using specialized software like alongside the book’s prescriptions to verify designs. making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf 12 new

For enthusiasts looking to purchase or learn more about the book, it is available through specialty retailers like First Light Optics La Maison de l'Astronomie specific lens prescriptions mentioned in the book or learn about the software tools used for lens design?

Making a high-quality astronomical instrument by hand is a rite of passage for many amateur astronomers. While Newtonian reflectors are often the go-to for beginners, the Norman Remer approach to building a refractor telescope remains the gold standard for those seeking crisp, high-contrast planetary views.

If you are searching for the "Making a Refractor Telescope" Norman Remer PDF (12 New) edition or similar resources, you are likely looking for a technical blueprint to create a professional-grade achromatic refractor. Here is a comprehensive guide to why Remer's methods are still vital today and how you can get started. Why Norman Remer’s Guide is Essential

Norman Remer’s book, Making a Refractor Telescope, published by Willmann-Bell, is widely considered the definitive manual for the "ATM" (Amateur Telescope Maker) community. Unlike generic guides, Remer focuses on the specific mechanical and optical challenges of refractors, such as:

Lens Cell Design: Keeping lenses aligned to within thousandths of an inch.

Baffling: Managing internal light reflections to ensure "jet black" backgrounds. Tube Assembly: Balancing weight with structural rigidity.

The "12 New" reference often refers to updated chapters or modern revisions found in digital repositories or specific hobbyist forums that adapt Remer’s 20th-century techniques for 21st-century materials like carbon fiber and CNC-machined components. Step 1: Choosing Your Objective Lens

The heart of your telescope is the objective lens. Most DIY builders choose an Achromatic Doublet (usually a Crown and Flint glass combination).

The F-Ratio: For a DIY refractor, an f/12 to f/15 ratio is ideal. Long focal lengths significantly reduce chromatic aberration (the "purple fringe" around bright objects).

Sourcing: While Remer’s book discusses grinding your own glass, many modern makers purchase a pre-finished lens (like a 4-inch or 6-inch doublet) and focus on building the high-precision housing. Step 2: The Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) Remer emphasizes the importance of the tube’s interior.

Materials: Aluminum is standard, but some modern builders use PVC for smaller projects or Carbon Fiber for larger ones.

Baffles: This is where the Remer guide excels. You must calculate the placement of internal rings (baffles) to block stray light without clipping the light cone coming from the lens. Step 3: The Lens Cell and Collimation

The most difficult part of a refractor is the Lens Cell. If the lenses are tilted even slightly, the image will suffer from coma or astigmatism.

Push-Pull Screws: A proper Remer-style cell uses a "push-pull" screw system, allowing you to tilt the lens assembly until it is perfectly squared to the focuser. Step 4: The Focuser and Back-End

A telescope is only as good as its focuser. For a high-f-ratio refractor, a 2-inch Crayford or Rack-and-Pinion focuser is recommended. Ensure the drawtube is long enough to reach focus with various eyepieces but doesn't vignette the light path. Finding the PDF and Resources

While the physical book is a collector's item since the closure of Willmann-Bell (though now managed by the American Astronomical Society), many hobbyists look for digital versions for easy reference in the workshop.

Cloudy Nights Forums: This is the best place to find modern "Errata" and updated "12 New" style tips from experienced builders who have followed Remer’s plans.

Stellafane: The ultimate resource for amateur telescope making, providing calculators that complement Remer’s math. Conclusion

Building an f/12 refractor using Norman Remer's principles is a rewarding challenge. The result is an instrument that often outperforms mass-produced telescopes, offering the "sharp as a tack" stars that only a well-made refractor can provide.

Making a Refractor Telescope by Norman Remer is a comprehensive technical guide for amateur telescope makers (ATM), primarily available as a 408-page hardbound book rather than a free public PDF . Published in 2006 by Willmann-Bell, Inc.

, it covers the entire process of designing, grinding, and mounting a doublet lens. Amazon.com Book Overview

The text is known for demystifying lens making, which many amateurs traditionally avoid in favor of mirror-based Newtonian telescopes. First Light Optics Key Topics Making a Refractor Telescope: How to Design, Grind,

: Design, grinding, polishing, testing, and mounting doublet lenses. Supplemental Material : Original editions included a with Excel spreadsheets for refractor design programs. Difficulty

: Described as a "hands-on" book that simplifies complex optical theory into practical steps using common tools. Where to Find It

While a full PDF is not legally hosted on common public sites, you can find the physical book and its catalog records through these sources: Digital Lending

: You can check for availability to "borrow" a digital copy at Open Library New & Used Copies : Available through retailers like First Light Optics Specialized Resources

: Often listed as a top resource for lens making on amateur astronomy hubs like Stellafane Publication Details : Norman Remer : 978-0943396620 : 094339662X : Willmann-Bell, Inc. (2006) Amazon.com specific lens design programs or spreadsheets that were originally on the CD-ROM?

Weaknesses:

❌ No longer in print – physical copies are rare and expensive ($100–200 used).
❌ Outdated supplier list – many surplus lens sources are gone.
❌ No digital edition – so any PDF is a bootleg scan (often poor quality).
❌ Assumes advanced machining skills – not for the casual hobbyist.
❌ Heavy focus on 60–100mm objectives – larger sizes get less detail.

If you cannot find the PDF

Search for these directly related works (they often contain Remer’s essay as a chapter or appendix):

• “Amateur Telescope Making” Vol. 1-3 (Scientific American / Munn & Co.) – Remer contributed to later editions.
• “The Best of Amateur Telescope Making Journal” Vol. 2 (Willmann-Bell).

Summary: Go to archive.org and search “Norman Remer making a refractor” without the PDF extension. Look for files with “12” in the description or page count. That is almost certainly the “12 new” version you want.

The Amateur’s Guide to Building Refractors: Insights from Norman Remer

Making a refractor telescope is often seen as a daunting task compared to building reflectors, but Norman Remer’s seminal book,

, proves otherwise. If you've ever wanted to tackle the "superior image forming capability" of an unobstructed refractor, this guide is your essential roadmap. Why Choose the Remer Method?

Most amateur telescope makers (ATMs) stick to parabolic mirrors because lens making is perceived as insurmountable. Remer acts as a "coach," guiding readers through every step using common tools similar to those used in mirror making.

Spherical Simplicity: Unlike complex parabolic mirrors, all surfaces in a doublet lens are spherical, making them easier to manage with the right patience.

Design Tools: The book originally included a CD-ROM with Excel spreadsheets to help design lenses corrected for color, coma, and spherical aberration.

Ready-to-Use Plans: For those who want to skip the math, Chapter 12 provides seven specific "prescriptions" for doublet lenses ranging from 3 to 8 inches in aperture. Key Stages of Lens Fabrication

According to Remer’s step-by-step approach, the process is broken down into clear, manageable phases:

Material Selection: Understanding glass characteristics, abrasives, and pitch.

Grinding: Shaping the lens surfaces. A crucial tip for beginners is to practice on "scrap glass" or cheap glass blocks before moving to expensive optical glass.

Polishing & Testing: Bringing the surfaces to a high-quality finish and using specific tests to check for errors.

Correction: Fine-tuning the lens to ensure optimal image quality.

Mounting: Final assembly into a telescope tube, ensuring proper alignment of the doublet elements. Where to Find the Book “Amateur Telescope Making” Vol

Since its publication in 2006 by Willmann-Bell, this book has become a staple for DIY astronomers.

Retailers: You can find new or used copies at stores like Agena Astro, First Light Optics, and Amazon.

Secondary Markets: Reliable used options are often available from AbeBooks or Biblio.com.

Previews: Some sites, such as First Light Optics, offer PDF previews of the table of contents and introduction to give you a feel for the material before purchasing.

Demystifying the Lens: Making a Refractor Telescope with Norman Remer

For many amateur astronomers, the idea of grinding a lens is often dismissed as an "insurmountable task" reserved for professionals. While thousands of hobbyists have successfully polished parabolic mirrors for Newtonian reflectors, the refractor—prized for its unobstructed, high-contrast images—is frequently overlooked in the DIY world. Norman Remer’s seminal work,

, aims to change that narrative. First published in 2006 by Willmann-Bell, this 391-page guide serves as a comprehensive "coach" for anyone looking to build an achromatic doublet from scratch. Breaking the Mirror-Making Monopoly

The common perception is that lens making is infinitely more complex than mirror making. Remer addresses this directly by explaining that making a lens involves the same common tools and simple practices used for mirrors. While it’s true that a doublet lens requires finishing four surfaces instead of one, all four are spherical, which can be easier to master than the parabolization required for high-quality mirrors. Key Features of Remer’s Guide

Step-by-Step Instruction: The book covers everything from selecting glass and abrasives to the final mounting of the lens.

Design Tools: It includes specialized Excel spreadsheet programs on a CD-ROM to help builders design lenses corrected for color, coma, and spherical aberration.

Ready-to-Use Prescriptions: For those who prefer not to design their own, Remer provides specific prescriptions for lenses ranging from 3 to 8 inches in aperture.

The "Why" and the "How": Remer explains the physics behind the craft, such as why a mirror surface must be figured four times as accurately as a lens surface to achieve the same optical quality. Why Choose a Refractor?

Despite the extra surfaces, the refractor offers significant advantages:

Superior Contrast: Without a secondary mirror obstructing the light path, refractors provide sharper views of planets and double stars.

Durability: Lenses are sealed in a tube, protecting them from dust and reducing the need for frequent cleaning compared to open-tube reflectors.

Maintenance: Once aligned and mounted correctly, refractors typically hold their collimation far better than other telescope types.

Whether you are a seasoned telescope maker or a curious newcomer, Norman Remer’s book provides the roadmap needed to move beyond mirrors and master the art of the lens.

1. No legitimate PDF of this book is legally available for free online. It is a copyrighted work (published by Willmann-Bell, now part of Springer/ATMB). Any PDF you find is almost certainly an unauthorized scan.
2. “12 new” might refer to a 12-step summary, a 12-page excerpt, or possibly a misremembered edition/printing number. The known edition is from 1995 (ISBN 978-0943396231).

That said, here is a review of the book itself based on the actual content and reputation among amateur telescope makers (ATMs).

Strengths:

✅ Only dedicated refractor-building book of its era – fills a huge gap.
✅ Extremely detailed machining drawings – if you have a lathe, you can follow them.
✅ Covers lens testing (Ronchi, Foucault) as applied to refractors.
✅ No fluff – dense, technical, and practical.
✅ Timeless techniques – still relevant today.

What’s inside (key topics):

• Selecting surplus or custom-made objective lenses (achromatic or apochromatic).
• Designing and machining the lens cell for proper alignment and thermal relief.
• Constructing the tube, baffles, and dew shield.
• Building a rack-and-pinion focuser from scratch.
• Collimation and testing methods specific to refractors.
• Mounting considerations (though mount construction is minimal).

Overview

This write-up outlines the process for designing and building a classic achromatic refractor telescope (12-inch objective, “new” implying modern materials/techniques), inspired by traditional guides such as Norman Remer’s practical manuals. It covers goals, optical design choices, parts and materials, mechanical construction, alignment and testing, and suggested improvements. Assumptions: budget-conscious amateur builder aiming for a large, high-quality visual/astrophotography refractor using contemporary glass, coatings, and fabrication methods.