Search for these directly related works (they often contain Remer’s essay as a chapter or appendix):
Summary: Go to archive.org and search “Norman Remer making a refractor” without the PDF extension. Look for files with “12” in the description or page count. That is almost certainly the “12 new” version you want.
Here’s a draft for a forum or social media post (e.g., Cloudy Nights, Reddit r/telescopes, or an astronomy group) regarding the Norman Remer refractor telescope PDF.
Title: Found it: Norman Remer – Making a Refractor Telescope (PDF, 12th New Edition)
Post Body:
For anyone who’s been searching for a digital copy of the classic amateur telescope making (ATM) guide, I finally tracked down Norman Remer’s "Making a Refractor Telescope" – 12th New Edition in PDF format.
Quick details:
Why this book still matters (1970s–80s era but gold):
What’s different in the 12th New Edition?
Where to get it:
Heads-up:
If you’ve built a refractor from Remer’s book, post your photos below. I’m currently grinding a 4″ f/12 and the Ronchi test section alone was worth the search.
Clear skies, [Your name/callsign]
Making a Refractor Telescope Norman Remer (published by Willmann-Bell, Inc. in 2006) is widely considered the definitive modern guide for amateur telescope makers (ATM) interested in lens-making
. While amateurs have crafted thousands of reflecting telescopes using mirrors, many have long viewed lens-making as an insurmountable task due to the perceived complexity of grinding multiple surfaces. Remer’s work demystifies this process, proving that making a high-quality doublet lens involves the same fundamental tools and techniques used in mirror-making. Amazon.com Overview of the Book The book spans approximately 391 to 408 pages
and provides a comprehensive, coach-like guide through every step of creating a doublet lens—from raw glass selection to mounting the final product. A standout feature is the inclusion of Excel spreadsheet programs making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf 12 new
(originally provided on CD-ROM) that allow amateurs to design well-corrected lenses without advanced optical engineering degrees. First Light Optics Key Content and Methodologies Design & Prescriptions
: Remer covers the design of two-element lenses corrected for color, coma, and spherical aberration. For those who prefer to skip the design phase, the book includes proven "prescriptions" for lenses ranging from 3 to 8 inches in aperture. Grinding & Polishing
: The author explains that while a lens has four surfaces to finish instead of one, all are
, which can be easier to achieve than the parabolic curve required for mirrors. He further explores why mirror surfaces must be figured four times as accurately as a lens, providing deep technical "whys" behind the "hows".
: The text provides detailed info on glass characteristics, abrasives, and pitch. Testing & Mounting
: Remer guides readers through testing their optics and constructing a cell to mount the doublet securely in an optical tube. First Light Optics Relevance to Amateur Makers Community discussions on platforms like Cloudy Nights
highlight that Remer’s book is the go-to resource for those transitioning from mirror-making to lens-making. It is particularly noted for its practical approach, such as using specialized software like alongside the book’s prescriptions to verify designs.
For enthusiasts looking to purchase or learn more about the book, it is available through specialty retailers like First Light Optics La Maison de l'Astronomie specific lens prescriptions mentioned in the book or learn about the software tools used for lens design?
That said, here is a review of the book itself based on the actual content and reputation among amateur telescope makers (ATMs).
I cannot provide, link to, or help locate unauthorized PDF copies of this book. If you want the content:
If you need a specific diagram or procedure from the book, I can explain the general principle based on known ATM techniques – just ask.
Making a Refractor Telescope by Norman Remer is a comprehensive technical guide for amateur telescope makers (ATM), primarily available as a 408-page hardbound book rather than a free public PDF . Published in 2006 by Willmann-Bell, Inc.
, it covers the entire process of designing, grinding, and mounting a doublet lens. Amazon.com Book Overview
The text is known for demystifying lens making, which many amateurs traditionally avoid in favor of mirror-based Newtonian telescopes. First Light Optics Key Topics
: Design, grinding, polishing, testing, and mounting doublet lenses. Supplemental Material : Original editions included a with Excel spreadsheets for refractor design programs. Difficulty Search for these directly related works (they often
: Described as a "hands-on" book that simplifies complex optical theory into practical steps using common tools. Where to Find It
While a full PDF is not legally hosted on common public sites, you can find the physical book and its catalog records through these sources: Digital Lending
: You can check for availability to "borrow" a digital copy at Open Library New & Used Copies : Available through retailers like First Light Optics Specialized Resources
: Often listed as a top resource for lens making on amateur astronomy hubs like Stellafane Publication Details : Norman Remer : 978-0943396620 : 094339662X : Willmann-Bell, Inc. (2006) Amazon.com specific lens design programs or spreadsheets that were originally on the CD-ROM?
Norman Remer's Design
Norman Remer's design is a classic example of a simple refractor telescope. His design features:
Tips and Variations
Conclusion
Building a refractor telescope can be a fun and rewarding project. With careful planning and execution, you can create a functional and enjoyable telescope for stargazing. Norman Remer's design serves as a great starting point, and with these instructions, you can create your own refractor telescope.
PDF Resources
For a more detailed guide, you can find Norman Remer's plans and instructions in PDF format online. Some popular resources include:
New and Improved Designs
If you're looking for new and improved designs, consider the following:
By following these steps and tips, you can create a functional and enjoyable refractor telescope, inspired by Norman Remer's classic design. Happy building!
Making a Refractor Telescope: How to Design, Grind, Polish, Test, Correct and Mount a Doublet Lens Summary: Go to archive
by Norman Remer is an essential guide for amateur astronomers who want to move beyond mirror-based telescopes. Published in 2006 by Willmann-Bell, Inc., this 391-page hardcover book serves as a "coach" for making high-quality doublet lenses. Core Content & Scope
The book demystifies the perceived difficulty of lens making by demonstrating that it uses many of the same tools and techniques as mirror grinding. Key topics covered include:
Lens Theory: Characteristics of optical glass, abrasives, and pitch.
Design & Fabrication: Step-by-step instructions for designing, grinding, and polishing a doublet lens.
Testing & Correction: Detailed methods for testing the lens's accuracy and making corrections.
Mechanical Construction: Guidance on mounting the finished lens and constructing the telescope.
CD-ROM Content: New copies typically include a CD-ROM with Excel spreadsheets for refractor design programs. Reader Feedback & Performance
Skill Level: While beginner-friendly in its "step-by-step" approach, experts at Stellafane suggest it may not be the ideal first book for absolute beginners without some prior optical knowledge.
Practicality: Reviewers on Cloudy Nights highlight that mirror-making skills translate well to this book, though lens making requires finishing more surfaces (all of which are spherical).
Design Specifics: Users have used the book to design custom achromats, such as 102mm or 130mm refractors, though some notes warn about the softness of specific glass types like SF1 when polishing.
Limitations: Some readers noted that while it is excellent for lens design and fabrication, they sought additional outside resources for advanced OTA (Optical Tube Assembly) construction details like baffle placement and complex mounts. Summary of Ratings Goodreads Goodreads Open Library Open Library
If you are looking for a copy, it is frequently found through specialized sellers like First Light Optics or secondhand marketplaces like AbeBooks. Books for building REFRACTORS - ATM, Optics and DIY Forum
It sounds like you are looking for a specific document: "Making a Refractor Telescope" by Norman Remer, likely a PDF, and you’ve added the phrases “12 new” and “interesting essay.”
Here is a direct breakdown of what this refers to and how you can locate it.