Posts Made By: Gary Vigorito

I have a Herron Optical Co. 9" f/12 objective. The Herron Part number 509-0003 with an efl of 108". It was manufactured in the early 70's. I know Herron had some great craftsman/optical designers in the early days but am not sure about the 70's.It is my understanding that Herron was aquired and integrated into B&L in the 80's. I can tell you that it is a doublet with a large air space and appears to be a Baker design.It is mounted in the original anodized aluminum cell and has several calibration /certification stickers from the government test lab.I bought it several years ago from a Gov. optics lab and they showed the acquisition cost in 1973 to be $4,250. Does anyone have any old Herron catalogs or know anything about the lens?Any leads will be appreciated. Happy NEW YEAR

I have a telescope with a Herron Optical Co. 9" f/12 objective. It is a doublet with a large air space and appears to be a Baker design. The lens is mounted in the original anodized aluminum cell and has several calibration /certification stickers from the government test lab, the Herron logo,part number 509-0003 and efl of 108". .It was manufactured in the early 70's. Herron Optical was integrated into the B&L family in the 80's My internet search has not yielded any other info except references to research abstracts of Herron scientists or that Tom Cave(Cave Optical) got his start there . The instrument was declared surplus by the Federal Gov. (US Naval Observatory) and we bought it from them several years ago. My guess is that the instrment was assembled by the the USNO or contractor since I dont think Herron made completed OTA's.The focuser or other instrument was removed before they declared it surplus so it has no other markings on it. Does anyone have any old Herron catalogs or know anything about the lens? I am thinking about having the negative lens coated (only the positive lens is coated)so my concern is with the type of glass used for the negative element. Because of the very large (about 3/4") air space ghosting is not the issue only optimizing throughput . I also need to get the scope appraised for insurace coverage so any lead to an qualified appraiser would be helpful. Thanks

This is my first WSP and wanted to sell some stuff. .Is the swap meet held in one area? Can you drive up to that area and set up by your car or do I need to bring a cart to haul my mounts and heavy stuff. Do they have tables ,chairs,shade? Thanks

Does anyone have any firsthand experiance with the Chinese f/12 ,8 1/2" Fraunhofer objectives being sold on Ebay? I was able to contact one buyer but they had not eveluated the lens yet.The seller has very good feedback especially with the triplets He is selling. Thanks

Isn't Ralph Nader and the Libertarian on the ballot in your state?

I am a lifelong Democrat.I was an aide/senior exec. to several governors,US senators, was an advance man to four Democratic presidents and a family member was a long term Congressman. The Democratic party that I grew up with is gone at the national level. It is ruled by left wing intellectuals that honestly feel they know whats best for the rest of us. Much of what Beck says is correct in spirit. He is a self proclaimed Libertarian.I have seen the erosion of individual rights at all levels of government.The agenda that is currently promoted by our president and the majority of congress will certainly add another nail to the coffin.