"To know that we know what we know, and to know that we do not know what we do not know, that is true knowledge."
Nicolaus Copernicus

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Build Your Own Telescope

Several ASLC members have built their own telescopes ranging from 4.5" to 17.5". Building your own scope is an excellent way to begin your amateur astronomy experience. Not only will you gain intimate knowledge about the workings of telescopes, but your product will likely be worth several times the money you spent building it.

Once or twice each year, the club conducts a telescope making workshop under the direction of our resident telescope-making expert, Nils Allen. Participants build a 4.5" dobsonian telescope using a cardboard mailing tube, precut plywood and supplied optics. A nominal fee is charged to cover supplies. Nils also works with club members on larger telescope making projects as well as on repairs or upgrades to their scopes. Contact Nils if you are interested in the dates of the next clinic.

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Our Next Workshop

We just concluded a workshop in early-mid April (2008). Five scopes were costructed. A few photos from this workshop have been postted here.

Dates have not yet been set for the next workshop. It will likely be in the Fall (2008) if there is sufficient intrest. Check this site regularly for the latest news and information.

For more info (or to express interest in the next workshop), please contact Nils Allen, nils_a@comcast.net (575-522-1456).