Tele Vue / Meade laser test: question

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion focuses on the performance comparison between a Meade 2x telextender and a Tele Vue 4x Powermate using a laser collimator. The user observed a well-formed laser point with the Meade telextender, while the Tele Vue Powermate produced an elongated laser point, indicating potential miscollimation. The discussion raises questions about the source of this miscollimation and the impact of optical quality on user experience, particularly regarding eye strain during use.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of optical devices, specifically barlows and powermates
  • Familiarity with laser collimation techniques
  • Basic knowledge of collimation and its importance in telescope performance
  • Experience with observing optical distortions in telescopes
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between Meade and Tele Vue optical designs
  • Learn about laser collimation methods and best practices
  • Investigate common issues with powermate optics and their effects on image quality
  • Explore user reviews and performance comparisons of different barlow lenses
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy enthusiasts, telescope users, and optical engineers interested in understanding the effects of different barlow lenses on image quality and collimation accuracy.

cyber3d
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Hi newbe here.

Can someone confirm an experiment I just made on a Meade 2x telextener (tele extender) and a Tele Vue 4x Powermate?

I placed a laser collimator into the barlow and observed a nicely formed laser point exiting the lens. Then I placed the same laser collimator into the Tele Vue 4x Powermate and the laser point was totally elongated revealing almost 3 distinct points in a straight line (fairly close together but most definitely elongated).
 
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I assume you are fining tuning your collimation
See: http://www.cameraconcepts.com/barlowed%20laser%20collimation.pdf
 
Confirm what? That you were experimenting with barlows?

Anyway, do you think you might see miscollimation more easily with a 4X or a 2X barlow? What do you think is the source of your miscollimation? Have you tried rotating the laser in the fixture?
 
Actually no.
I just got the powermate but noticed my eye was really getting tired compared to the Barlow. The power difference could not account for that, right?

So, as an experiment, I inserted the laser into each and observed the output against a clean wall. I was surprised to see how distorted the beam was with the powermate. Could the optics be out of wack?

I was hoping someone could try it on their powermate.

Victor
 
I was just curious. I did rotate the laser and it is definitely the powermate and not the laser.

I'm not saying this is a scientific bench test. I'm just curious if others see the same results.

Victor
 
That was my suspicion, just didnt want to ruin the fun exploring options. It's all about learning.
 

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