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Futuristic computer-controlled tripod for old telescope with acrylic

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Tom has crafted a futuristic, computer-controlled stand for his 20-year-old telescope using acrylic. Previously, his manually operated telescope struggled to track stars accurately due to the Earth's rotation. With this new setup, that's no longer an issue. The telescope now moves smoothly with the stars, keeping them clearly in view. The acrylic not only strengthens the stand but also gives it a modern flair.

The Project

Tom has built a computer-controlled stand for his older telescope, which can magnify up to 700 times. The telescope frequently lost sight of stars because of the Earth's rotation. To solve this, he constructed a metal stand with computer-controlled guidance. He used acrylic for the housings of the stepper motors and electronics. Thanks to the transparent acrylic, the entire setup looks both modern and futuristic.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making This

1

Design your project

First, design your project using a technical drawing program like CorelDraw. This helps you know exactly what you need.
2

Cut the acrylic

Use a computer-controlled routing table machine to cut the acrylic. This ensures clean parts.
3

Sand the sawn edges

Sand the sawn edges with various grades of sandpaper (120, 240, and 400) to achieve a smoother finish.
4

Mount the stepper

Mount the stepper motors and electronics onto the metal stand. Make sure everything is securely fastened.
10mm fluorescent blue acrylic
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10mm fluorescent blue acrylic
10mm fluorescent yellow acrylic
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10mm fluorescent yellow acrylic
10mm fluorescent red acrylic
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10mm fluorescent red acrylic

Tools

  • Waterproof sandpaper 120, 240, 400
  • Computer-controlled routing table machine (CNC Router)
  • Sawing machine
  • Stepper motors
  • Control electronics
  • Hand tools

Other requirements

  • Worm gear transmission
  • Chain transmission

Tom's Tips for Others

Ensure you first create a solid design in a technical drawing package like CorelDraw. Sawing causes irregularities, so lightly sanding with progressively finer grain sandpaper makes polishing to a shine a breeze. If you start with polish, it will shine, but you might end up with surface irregularities. Also, avoid budget acrylic if you plan to process it!
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