Category: Astronomy

Exploring the cosmos

Rotating Tube Rings

No project is ever completely done, even one “finished” decades ago… My 6″ f/5 RFT is the current incarnation of my first telescope, Primero. Built into an 8″ irrigation pipe this ‘scope is a rich field ‘scope that is just fun to use. And yes, I worked on this telescope again.

A set of new 3D printed tube rings for Primero, the 6" f/5 RFT
A set of new 3D printed tube rings for Primero, the 6″ f/5 RFT

One feature I have always meant to change is the tube rings. Simple aluminum straps that I kept loose enough to allow the ‘scope to be rotated to keep the eyepiece at a convenient angle for viewing. The issue is that in use the tube would constantly slide down through the rings throwing the mount off-balance.

I finally got around to fixing that. A set of 3D printed rings along with a stop mounted to the tube that prevented this sliding, keeping everything centered and balanced. The rings are attached to each other by the two dovetails and a handle forming a cage.

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Treasured Tools

I find I have a number of tools about that have a name on them, a name that is not mine.

A treasured tool in my toolbox, a hacksaw that once belonged to Robert Goff
A treasured tool in my toolbox, a hacksaw that once belonged to Robert Goff

No, I did not steal them!!

A couple of these names belong to people I once knew, guys that are no longer here to argue about ownership of these tools.

Yes, I have tools with the names of dead guys.

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