Short Summary
Who isn't blown away when they see images made of the heavens? We are a small astronomical instrument maker based in the Netherlands, our hook is that we open up this hobby to ordinary people. With modified webcams, DSLR cameras (Canon/Nikon/etc) we allow our customers to break in to a hobby that could easily cost a lot more. The image below was made with a 400$ camera, and this image rivals images made using dedicated astronomical cameras costing 4000$!
![Rosette Nebula]( "Rosette Nebula")
Webcams and DSLR cameras cost a fraction of what a dedicated astronomical instrument costs. A quick price comparison shows modified webcams and DSLR cameras to be anywhere from 1/5 to 1/10th of the price of a dedicated instrument. Our project is simple - a telescope for astrophotography that is optimised for use with cameras that most people already own, and eliminate the compromises in such systems.
The main drawback with these cameras is their weight, which places an additional load on the focuser causing all manner of imaging defects. The sensor is also deep into the camera which can cause difficulties with focus, especially when guiding and filterwheels are in use.
Seeing as this system is dedicated to lowering the price of high quality imaging we also made some other tweaks to the design. As well as negating the usual problems mentioned above. We also made the scope super light. This is because heavy scopes need expensive mounts to be used properly.
- CCD cameras are expensive, you can get started with a DSLR camera for a huge reduction in price but there are compromises. Such as weight and focusing issues. This telescope does not suffer from these problems.
- Lightweight enough to be carried by a small inexpensive mount, yet still large and powerful enough to be a serious instrument.
- High quality mirror to give high quality images, top of the range models will have scientific grade mirrors
- High end versions will include a field flattener for truely world class images
- Laminar flow mirror cooling as seen on professional grade instruments
- High speed f/4 mirror will mean images can be made in just one night of data collection
- Truely a unique concept, for the telescope and the entire system.
This system will allow someone entry into this great hobby for a fraction of the cost of the traditional route. For less than the price of a typical CCD camera, you can get the whole system - telescope, a mid range Canon camera and a mount to carry it.
![Rho Ophiuchi]( "Rho Ophiuchi")
We are running a photography contest on our Facebook page, here you can see for yourself what is possible with a humble household camera when in correct hands. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.422189401169970.101580.174295462626033&type=1
We do not expect that the average person reading this will have much of an idea how unique this telescope design is, so please message us and we will set your questions straight and put the answers here.
What We Need & What You Get
We are looking for funding to invest in a CNC turning machine so we can keep manufacturing in house. We already have in-house CNC milling and anodising. This machine will enable us to keep production costs to a minimum, as well as more chance to develop the ideas in house without expensive reworks.
- $40000 will buy us a good CNC lathe that we can use for production as well as other products, it can also be used for contract work for other companies.
- $10000 will cover the other costs, tooling, fixtures, material, advertising
- All our perks are for useful equipment, and cost more in the store than we are offering them for here! Take advantage of our contacts in the business, help a unique project and profit from it!
Should we not reach our goal of a new machine, the raised funds will be used to get the work fabricated externally. Although less cost effective, this will lead to the same result, and once the telescopes are selling, some of the profits will be going towards paying for this machine we so urgently need.
The Impact
Not many things make you feel as humble and in tune with the world as when you are looking at images made by world class imagers, using world class equipment. A look in our gallery will prove that these stunning images are no longer solely in the realm of professionals. So many people are captivated by the news from various space telescopes and astro-imagers. By funding this project you will be contributing to expansion of this science/hobby.
These instruments will provide means into this area for people who would otherwise have no chance. In many cases made by students and minors. Captivating the imagination is one of the keystones of progress, and images of the heavens have proven to be great for this.
By helping with this project, you will also benefit yourself, as well as helping a family business continue and expand it's operations. We went from modifying webcams on the kitchen table to be sold on ebay to opening our own workshop in under 2 years.
Other Ways You Can Help
Please spread the word about this project. Not only is it an unusual area, but this is a truly unique design that will provide both enjoyment and profits to eveyone involved. Please remember to use the indigo share tools!
