Helios scope, continued.
When the gears are meshed properly, notice the existing holes are misaligned. If the screws are tightened while the parts are held together, the gears mesh enough to get around. But it is likely to slip back. The hole will have to be opened up for a permanent solution.
The source of the mystery cap. It covers the diagonal adjustment screws. Note the thickness of the spidervanes.
This is what makes me think this scope is not related to the UK Helios Explorers.
The mirror obstructions. As stated previously, the viewfinder drawtube should retract out of the way with most eyepieces.
The completed scope, ready to go. While not a high-end scope, it is not a plastic cheapie, either. It weighs close to 50lbs assembled.
The telescope can be disassembled back into its box in about 10 minutes.
The second box makes a good temporary carrying case. Hand holes can be cut above these arrows.
Easy enough to do.
The collimation is a mile off. With an f/4, it must be exact. The manual recommends eyeballing the collimation, but that is not good enough at short focal lengths. I have ordered a collimator. Final judgment on this telescope is suspended until I collimate it.
*Update* 03 JAN 2003
Having received the laser collimator and performed a precise alignment, the images viewed through this telescope still will not come into focus. The problem appears to be somewhere in the OTA, perhaps in the design of the primary mirror. Therefore, this telescope cannot be recommended except to the most advanced astronomer who has the ability to economically fix the problem in the OTA.
*Update* 19 JAN 2003
With some simple repairs and part replacements, we now have a fine 8" reflector in service. Continue to page 5 for details.