So you want to build a telescope. Good. So did I.

Optics Options Grind Buy The calculations

The Tube

I used 6 inch PVC pipe.

Get one end square. Check it by using a combination square to verify that the face of the tube is perpendicular to the walls of the tube.

Mark the diameter with one of those v-shaped center finders that go on the rulers of the combination square.

Get some dividers and walk the end of the pipe to divide it into six segments. Yes, six. This will all work out later.

Extend the marks down the side of the tube.

Pick a mark to start from.

Now, locate the center for the hole for the focuser. This is typically a mirror diameter from the end of the tube. In my case, 4.5 inches. For my focuser, I needed a 2.25 inch hole. In my case I had to file a notch in one side of my hole to clear the focuser rack. To do it over again, I would probably drill a 3/8 hole at the edge of the circle, then cut the focuser hole. Either way works.

Install the focuser and mark the bolt holes. Drill and tap for 10-32 screws.

On the line above and below the one you installed the focuser on, mark and drill for the spider mounts. Do the same on the line oposite the focuser.

Also on the line above the focuser, mark and install the finder scope (big end to the sky!)

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