Foldable Ultra-Portable D150F750 Newtonian Reflector Telescope

Newtonian reflector telescopes, while simple to DIY, offer surprisingly good image quality, making them popular among aspiring astronomers. However, portability is often lacking, hence the creation of this ultra-portable folding D150F750 Newtonian reflector. When folded, the main body, excluding the mount, measures a mere 65mm in thickness.

The main body utilizes a 150mm diameter primary mirror, actually measuring 153mm; the diagrams reflect this 153mm dimension. The secondary mirror is a 35mm unit; note the secondary mirror's thickness. The eyepiece is a 1.25-inch (32mm) eyepiece; I've included 20mm, 10mm, and 4mm options.

The main structure employs 10x25mm aluminum extrusions. Adjust component dimensions according to your actual measurements. I used a tight fit, requiring forceful insertion—a testament to the adage, "Might makes right." Lacking tools? Consider tightening with rope.

The distance between the primary mirror mounting block and the secondary mirror/eyepiece mounting block is 475mm. The distance between the mount mounting block and the primary mirror mounting block is 55mm.

Adhesive is required to bond the eyepiece focusing tube and rack.

Drawbacks:

1. I only had 3.4mm carbon fiber rods for the secondary mirror; movement results in some wobble. Using thicker rods would improve stability.

2. The secondary mirror lacks a light shield; stray light may enter during daytime use.

3. No provision for camera attachment is included.