Springfield SCT (SSCT), a compact fixed eyepiece telescope

A later version of this document is on-line, with pictures. http://edhiker.50webs.com/SSCT_flyer/SSCT_flyer_of_100918.htm
This project is to modernize the Springfield telescope design for portability, with light pollution being a motivating factor.
This is the the ultimate user friendly telescope having a fixed eyepiece and capable of having the observer in a warmed room. A real godsend to those in wheelchair or with muscle deficiencies. Very relaxing to use as hanging onto the eyepiece makes things steader, not the reverse.  The joys of being seated, holding comfortably onto the eyepiece can't be overstated.
The modern SCT makes this possible. Quick, tool-free setup is a design goal. Removing the commonly used overhead counterweight is important for safety reasons.
ssct drawing
Springfield SCT (SSCT) achieved first light on power pole insulator 6/18/10, on sky 6/21/10.

Much tidy-up to do, like exchanging Amici prism for 99% diagonal.

The main thing is IT WORKS.
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Russell Porter invented the Springfield telescope design about 1920, using the term "fixed eyepiece". The development of the SCT happened after Porter's writings.
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More background in private email to Rob Johnson, 11/18/08 "Schmidt-Cassegrain Springfield Telescope" ... ultimate user friendly telescope, fixed eyepiece and capable of having the observer in a warmed room
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SSCTelescope, Johnson SSCT , Springfield Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, SSCT , edhiker, "Russell Porter" , "fixed eyepiece", "Springfield SCT"

Telescopes - http://flickr.com/photos/edhiker/search/tags:Telescope/

photon - A small packet of light. May these packets shed some light about the world about us. 6/27/2010