David and Goliath (round II)

SDM022It’s hard do believe that it would be possible to enjoy the exquisitely detailed images of a premium grade 32″ Dobsonian without sustaining an altitude induced nose-bleed. Well, it’s time to think again and take a look at this paradigm shifting beauty.

SDM022 is a 32″ f/3.6 scope with a mirror made by Steve Kennedy. This is the 14th 32″ mirror Steve has made and at this focal ratio the scope is only 6″ longer to the eyepiece than a 20″ f/5. And those who have frequented one of Australia’s many star-parties with big dobs in attendance know, that height only requires a modest stepladder to reach the eyepiece when it is near the zenith.

For those of a more nervous disposition, the scope on the right is a somewhat safer, but no less exquisite, SDM054 at 12″ f/5.