Yes, we agree it’s cute and while it can be used for display it is a fully functional Newtonian truss tube telescope.
Typically,
someone following the instructions will assemble the MiniDob in about a weeks
worth of evenings (12 – 16 hours). Once
assembled, you will also need to apply a finish, which depending on the
individual could take as long as another week or even longer.
That depends. Assembling
the MiniDob requires average skills. If
you’ve ever assembled a model airplane kit, you can probably assemble the
MiniDob. However, if you’ve ever
assembled a model airplane kit with two left wings, and it wasn’t supposed to
have two left wings, then you might need some assistance.
With the exception of the truss tubes (dowel rods), all wood and
metal parts are pre-cut, pre-drilled, pre-formed, and should require only minor
fitting. Having said that, a few basic
hand tools will be required:
Razor saw (cutting truss rods)
X-Acto knife with #11 blade
Hammer
Sandpaper
Phillips head screw driver
Diagonal cutting pliers
Needle nose pliers
File
C-clamps
Quick clamps
3/8” box end wrench
1/16” and 5/64” Allen wrenches
Square
Brown felt tip marker
The MiniDob is almost part for
part like the large aperture telescopes that it’s modeled after. It is also just as complex and requires an
understanding of the Newtonian optical system that is not covered in the
instruction manual. If you’re looking
for a maintenance free telescope, and have no interest in learning how to
maintain a Newtonian telescope, then the MiniDob probably isn’t your best
choice. On the other hand, if the
prospective beginner has the guidance of an experienced amateur astronomer,
then yes, this could be a great entry-level telescope.
With good optics, the MiniDob is a fantastic wide field instrument. The mount is solid and the movements are smooth and predictable. With a Tele Vue 24mm Panoptic eyepiece, a 4” f/5 MiniDob provides a breathtaking 3 degree field of view. Add a UHC filter and the North American and Pelican Nebula becomes a striking visual target.
Yes, we intend to add larger telescopes to our line that may or may not look like the MiniDob. It’s hard to predict which size is next or when it will be available. If there’s a particular size telescope you’re looking for, we’d like to hear from you. Contact us.
We have two sources for primary mirrors for the MiniDob. Optical Mechanics Inc. has agreed to generate 4” mirrors especially for the MiniDob. These mirrors will be made to OMI’s high standards and will come with enhanced aluminum coatings and interferometric certification, just like the big mirrors. We have also found a source for Ostahowski 4.25” f/4 primary mirrors with enhanced aluminum coatings but no certification. Both of these primary mirror options will be delivered with an Ostahowski Optics 1.30” 1/10th wave P-V diagonal mirror with enhanced coatings. Please check our price list for current prices and availability. There is a wait list for the OMI mirrors so if you would like to order a telescope with these optics, please contact us.
Last revised: 6/24/2008
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