Refracting vs Reflecting Telescopes: Which is Easier to Build?

  • Context: Stargazing 
  • Thread starter Thread starter holliee
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Project Telescope
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the construction of telescopes, specifically comparing refracting and reflecting designs. Reflecting telescopes are established as easier to build due to their single surface requirement for grinding and polishing, as well as simpler mounting processes. In contrast, refracting telescopes necessitate multiple lenses made from specific types of glass, complicating the construction. Participants recommend consulting Astronomy magazines for detailed guides on building telescopes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic optics principles
  • Familiarity with telescope components (lenses and mirrors)
  • Knowledge of materials suitable for telescope construction
  • Basic skills in grinding and polishing surfaces
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "How to Build a Reflecting Telescope" guides
  • Explore Astronomy magazine archives for telescope construction articles
  • Learn about mirror grinding techniques for telescope making
  • Investigate suitable materials for lens crafting in refracting telescopes
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy enthusiasts, physics students, hobbyists interested in telescope construction, and educators seeking practical projects for teaching optics.

holliee
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
(ah, sorry I was not 100% sure were i should post this in the homework help or here, =/)

I am building a telescope for a physics project and was wondering if anyone would be willing to help. I'm not sure were to begin but i do know (or think that I know) that I should build a refracting telescope versus a reflecting telescope, which would be much larger and more difficult.

If anyone thinks they could help or if you know any good websites for making telescopes it would be much appreciated!

Thanks=)
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
You should look into some Astronomy magazines, most of the major publications have at one point run through a "make your own telescope" guide. I'll try and find some issue numbers of ones I have.
 
Reflecting (mirror) telescopes are easier to build.
You only have one surface to grind/polish.
Concave surfaces are easier to test.
Much easier to mount the mirror than a set of lenses.
You can make the mirror out of pretty much anything stiff enough to be polished, lenses have to be made from specific glasses.
 

Similar threads

Stargazing Understanding the Field of View of Reflecting and Refracting Telescopes
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
7K
Stargazing How to measure a magnifying glass (I want to build a telescope)
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Stargazing Problem in making a small refracting Telescope
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Stargazing Remote Controlling Truss Dobsonian Telescope?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Stargazing Telescope or Binoculars for First Astronomy Device?
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
Stargazing Reflecting Telescope or Refracting Telescope?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
10K
Stargazing Which is better, a refracting or a reflecting telescope?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
53K
Stargazing Is this a realistic design for a kilometer wide telescope?
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
4K
Undergrad Condition for Centering Starlight in a Water-Filled Telescope?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Stargazing 60-80 mm refracting telescope for beginners
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K