Hi all,
I've had this 6" f/8 refractor for some time. For most of that time it was a scope I found difficult - it's big, heavy and bulky. However, the image it throws up is actually really good, and it is what the uninitiated in astronomy consider what a "big telescope looks like". So even though it is not my own first choice scope, it is actually the perfect outreach scope when there are many other scopes around. Newcomers to astro flock around it before anything else, but they soon learn that not only do scopes come in different designs, but how that strange looking 12" dob gives a better image than this "big refractor telescope".
All the same, this big lump of a scope looked too "tame". It didn't have a certain "big scope look". It needed some more bells and whistles.
So, time to pull out the Steampunk stick and pimp up the old scope
The oversize focuser knob is functional and works as a fine focus control. The scope mounted unit is mostly decorative, but it does not impede function, and it will scare the heck out of newbies!
And yes, the long brass rod does spin the wheel at the front with the lens looking tubes - this feature is my brand new invention! Behold, the "Alien Detection Device"! The whole lot comes resplendent with 8 RGB flashing LEDs. It's wired to work from the 12V that my EQ6 mount works with. The brass studded leather band is Kangaroo Leather too - had to go with the best!
Alex.