The tiny telescope observatory is a dream for 16 years. The goal is to take a tiny telescope of precision optical quality, about 2 to 6 inches in
diameter, and magically stretch it into a 20 to 60-inch telescope using high technology.
This
is a fantastic story that's just beginning because a tiny telescope can now make big discoveries, after having aperture stretching. Studying the planets and moons, or deep sky, can lead to profound observational data and breathtaking imagery.Fake big ETX Source |
Several techniques were invented, some which are additive, to make a small telescope into a large telescope.
The first technique converted the 4.25 inch
telescope into a 42.5-inch telescope using non digital means. As an example of this performance, when photographing Jupiter, the
moon Ganymede came into view so it was captured too. To unbelievable
surprise, Ganymede had surface structure visible in the photos and the stretching technique was etched in stone.
Meade ETX-60AT & ETX-70AT Telecopes |
The second technique uses an electronic invention to double the size of the telescope. This digital technique completely replaces the first non-digital technique which has its roots in chemical film based processing.
The third technique depends on the telescope design. A
refractor is generally known to perform like a reflector telescope twice its size,
because it has no central obstruction. The reflector telescope will be the base criteria.
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Why the Meade ETX-60AT When Larger Scopes Are Available?
The telescope was chosen because it's a high resolution refractor without a central obstruction that can make it perform like a reflector telescope with twice the aperture. It was chosen for its diminutive size, perfect for a tiny observatory, or a tiny car observatory. It was also chosen for its computerized GOTO functions and simplistic ALT-AZ mounting and drive.