How To Build A Telescope

Are you curious how to build a telescope? Many people are interested in making their own at home and it certainly can be done. When learning how to build a telescope, you need to think about what you actually have in mind before you start. Do you want one on par with those you can buy, or would you just like a simple one that you can say you did yourself just for the pride?

In its essence, a telescope is an instrument that makes a far away object look closer. To do this, a telescope has a device that collects light from a distant object (objective lens or primary mirror) and brings that light (image) to a focus where a second device (eyepiece lens) magnifies the image and brings it to your eye. We can show you how to build a basic telescope using simple objects. Here’s what you will need:

* Two magnifying glasses – one to one and a half inches in diameter. Your telescope will work best if one is slightly larger than the other. * A cardboard tube - paper towel roll or gift-wrapping paper roll * Duct tape * Scissors * A ruler, yard stick, or tape measure * Sheet of printed paper - newspaper or magazine will do

First, you will take the magnifying glasses and paper and hold the bigger glass between you and the paper so that the image of the print will look blurry. Place the second magnifying glass between your eye and the first magnifying glass. Move the second glass forward or backward until the print comes into focus. The print will appear larger and upside down.

The next step in how to make a telescope will require another person. Have them measure the distance between the two magnifying glasses and write it down. Cut a slot in the cardboard tube near the front opening about an inch away. Do not cut all the way through the tube. The slot should be able to hold the large magnifying glass.

Cut a second slot in the tube the same distance from the first slot. This is where the second magnifying glass will go. Place the glasses in their slots – the big one at the front, the little one at the back and tape them with duct tape. Leave about ½ to 1 inch of tube behind the small glass and cut off any excess tube remaining.

Check to see that it works by looking at the printed page. You may have to play around slightly to get the exact distances between the two glasses right so that the images comes into focus. And that’s how to make a simple telescope!

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