We are selling our beloved Starmaster 24" Dobsonian telescope. It's mirror is a Swaze Optical F/4.2 The telescope was used for outreach many years ago but Jen attends star parties alone and can't lift it unassisted. We have many other (same / larger aperture) scopes at the ICSTARS Ranch.
Key Features
Premium Optics: The 24-inch Swaze Optical primary mirror is known for its excellent performance, with a near-perfect star test and rapid cooling for exceptional planetary and deep-sky viewing. Starmaster fans know Rick individually tested and qualified each mirror to an exacting standard.
Starmaster Build: The Starmaster truss-tube Dobsonian design is engineered for portability and robust stability, making it manageable to transport and set up for such a large instrument.
Easy Handling: The scope is designed for comfortable observing, even near the zenith. With its compact and optimized design, you won't need an excessively tall ladder. The instrument packs down compactly and could fit in a truck, van or SUV with fold flat seats.
Set-up/Tear down procedure: First, remove GOTO components from the inside and plug in the power supply to the electronics. Set the turn table directly on a flat area of ground. Then set the rocker box into the turn table. with the electronics on the rocker and turntable both aligned. Next, install the 4 truss tube segments and bolt them in with included universal thumb screws. Each tube is individually marked for collimation purposes and marked with velcro dots for easy assembly in the dark. Then install the basket atop the truss segments, again using universal thumbscrews. Align the focuser to the same side as the electronics on the rocker box. Now it is time to rock the telescope down to a 90° position. Rest the basket end on a chair or block. This allows the mirror to be installed into the rear of the rocker box. Remove the mirror from the wooden box and present it with 2 mirror pins down and 1 mirror pin up. the lower bar of its frame will seat on the bottom edge, then tip the mirror up to seat it. 4 more universal thumbscrews will secure the cell to the rocker box. The scope will balance best with a Paracorr Coma corrector and eyepiece (not included), so it is common for the instrument to be slightly back-heavy without them. Plug in electronics connectors for Goto. (or don't) - Observe
Included Accessories
Feathertouch Focuser
Sky Commander based Sky Tracker GOTO system
Finder Scope: Telrad
Includes wheelbarrow transport handles
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent
Primary Mirror: The Swaze Optical mirror is in superb condition, with no notable scratches or streaks. Less than 10 mm scale cosmetic dots.
Cosmetic Blemishes: The telescope has minor cosmetic blemishes such as slightly worn paint, but generally very low wear or scuffs for its age.
Mechanical Integrity: The motion is smooth, and all mechanical components are in perfect working order.
This instrument is for the serious visual observer who wants to step up to a large aperture for incredible contrast and breathtaking deep-sky views. The combination of a Starmaster build and a premium Swaze mirror delivers performance unrivaled in modern equipment. The ability to transport and set up a 24-inch scope is a huge advantage for chasing extreme magnitude objects.
Due to the size and delicate nature of this instrument, local pickup is strongly preferred. Possible meeting point or star party meeting considered depending on range and timing to schedule. Located in our warehouse in Warrensburg, Missouri (Midwest area between Kansas City and St. Louis). Serious inquiries are welcome to inspect the telescope in person.
