Norman Remer’s self-published work, Making a Refractor Telescope , is a cult classic among ATMs. Written in a direct, no-nonsense style, Remer demystifies the process, showing that with patience, simple tools, and careful attention, a hobbyist can produce a diffraction-limited achromatic refractor.
“The stars do not care who made the lens. But you will.” – Norman Remer (paraphrased from his preface) If you’d like a simplified one-page checklist of steps or a list of tools needed based on Remer’s method, let me know and I can provide that separately. making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf
In the world of amateur telescope making (ATM), the refractor often takes a backseat to the more common Newtonian reflector. Reflectors are simpler to build because you only need to grind one optical surface (the primary mirror). A refractor, however, demands perfection on four surfaces: the two on the objective lens (crown glass) and two on the flint glass element. Yet, the allure of the refractor—its sharp, contrasty, color-corrected views, lack of central obstruction, and classic elegance—remains irresistible. But you will
I’m unable to provide a direct PDF file or a full copy of Making a Refractor Telescope by Norman Remer, as it is likely still under copyright protection. However, I can offer a detailed article summarizing the key principles and steps from Remer’s classic work, which is highly regarded among amateur telescope makers. Introduction: Why a Refractor? A refractor, however, demands perfection on four surfaces:
This article distills the core philosophy and steps from Remer’s guide. Remer’s central thesis is that success in refractor making is 90% preparation and jig-making . Unlike a mirror, which you can test and correct iteratively, a refractor objective lens is a cemented or air-spaced doublet. Once you grind, polish, and figure the two elements to match, there is little room for major correction afterward.
