Kit to build an astronomical telescope as described by Johannes Kepler
The surprisingly sharp and bright image is upside-down as usual with astronomical telescopes. The factor of magnification is 10x, ideal for moon craters and even the moons of Jupiter.
The lenses of a Kepler telescope are both convex, producing an upside-down image, which is no problem for astronomical observations. At the same time the field of view is MUCH larger than the one of a Galilean telescope, which uses a convex objective lens and a concave eyepiece lens. This has the advantage of producing an upright image, but it also limits the field of view significantly.
With our kit for a GalileoTelescope, you can make the comparison yourself!
An Extra Lens
Johannes Kepler developed and improved the Galilean telescope. Instead of just one converging lens, he took two and thus enabled much higher magnifications. The upside-down image does not interfere with astronomical observations, which is why almost all lens telescopes are still built according to this construction principle today. Thanks to the additional field lens, it has an astonishingly large, bright image at ten times magnification.
Suggestion
The performance of the telescope can be further improved by reducing the opening of the objective lens with a round diaphragm. The image will then be less bright, but sharper. Using our inexpensive tripod adapter, the telescope can be mounted on any standard photo or video tripod. This stops the small vibrations from being handheld and the telescope gives a clearer picture.
For Teaching
The Kepler telescope is easy to build and is ideal teaching material at Secondary School level. It is also ideal for Scout Groups and project work on the subject of astronomy and physics.
The kit includes:
Two printed A4 sheets of construction cardboard
Three OptiMedia lenses 3, 7, and 9 with focal lengths +30mm, +106mm, and +360mm
Detailed instructions printed on the sheets
Magnification: 10x
Dimensions of the built item: Diameter approx. 5 cm, length 30 - 42 cm
Construction time: approx. 1 hour
Producer: AstroMedia GmbH, Im Wirrigen 30, 45731 Waltrop, Germany, astromedia.de
The instructions are printed on the back of the cardboard sheet.
Things you’ll need for assembly, or which might be useful:
- a firm, flat work surface – a cutting mat, for example, is useful
- a sharp craft knife or scalpel
- a blunt knife or a bone folder
- a good all-purpose glue
Adult supervision:
Children under the age of 14 should use the kit under adult supervision to avoid risks arising from improper handling.
Danger from sunlight:
Never look directly at the Sun through the telescope without using a suitable solar filter, as this can cause serious eye damage.
Caution regarding small parts:
Choking hazard! Keep small parts out of the reach of young children.
Risk of injury:
Take particular care when handling pointed and sharp parts! Use sharp tools with care and, where necessary, take appropriate safety precautions to prevent injury.
Fire hazard:
Keep away from open flames and sources of heat. The product contains highly flammable materials.
Caution regarding light concentration: Do not leave lenses exposed to direct sunlight without supervision, as they may create a focal point.
Use of adhesives:
When using adhesives, follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Work in well-ventilated areas and avoid contact with skin or eyes.
Intended use:
The kit should be used in accordance with the enclosed instructions. Unauthorised modifications may compromise the functionality and safety of the assembled model.
