UK Schmidt Film
“Own a bit of astronomy history”
For sale are numerous large astronomy negatives from the UK Schmidt Telescope, NSW from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The objects on the film are very detail and small, and are best viewed with a loupe on a light box. If you are interested, please send me an email (naomiian@bigpond.net.au) and I will send you the list of available film.
“First in, best dressed.” On the order of requests, I will reserve the film and send you the details of the postage options or free pick-up from Brisbane.
The film is amazing and I used them as teaching aids. I have had a career change and therefore don’t need the film but I know that they would be valued by other astronomers and science educators. Some sample of images are attached.
The story …
The Royal Observatory Edinburgh was discarding their library of UK Schmidt film. I was fortunate to acquire some before they were thrown out.
The images are transparencies produced by the Royal Observatory Edinburgh taken from glass plates taken at the UK Schmidt Telescope at Siding Spring, near Coonabarabran, NSW. The faint stars on the negative film are 2 million times fainter than the eye can see (Mag. 23/24). Each negative image is 34 cm x 34 cm but is on a plastic sheet that is 35 cm x 43 cm (and in a protective sleeve that is slightly bigger again). The images are 6.5 degrees by 6.5 degrees: a wide field of view.
To enquire about availability, postage costs and further information, please email
naomiian@bigpond.net.au. P&H includes a small amount for packaging (typically $10 for up to 3 transparencies and the tube to Australian addresses).
The film typically sells for $15 - $35 per image (some cheaper, some more expensive). If purchasing for an institution, a tax invoice can be organised.
Please contact me on
naomiian@bigpond.net.au if you have any questions.
