For all up to date info on current builds visit our facebook page. Click the Facebook symbol above.
The latest comments on work produced by us goes as follows.......................
Allan N Dee Catterall I SIR...would trample several small children and a couple of elderly Nuns to get my paws on this most desirable device....!
Moonraker Telescopes A couple of Nuns Sir!! You Sir do me a great disservice, I suggest that your wanton lust to caress this device, which I may add, in my humble opinion, is the epitome of sartorial splendor, would not even warrent a peek!...I demand satisfaction, at least four Nuns. With wimples. As I cannot possibly allow myself to get into any more clandestine habits, it's so difficult to get the sizes these days........
Allan N Dee Catterall You Sir are not only a Genius...but a Master wordsmith....we are sure you can hear the laughter from the other side of the globe.....keep up the awesome work Sir !
Visit https://www.facebook.com/Moonraker-Telescopes-1194809513867970/
to get all the comments from over 80,000 viewings of this creation.
Allan N Dee Catterall I SIR...would trample several small children and a couple of elderly Nuns to get my paws on this most desirable device....!
Moonraker Telescopes A couple of Nuns Sir!! You Sir do me a great disservice, I suggest that your wanton lust to caress this device, which I may add, in my humble opinion, is the epitome of sartorial splendor, would not even warrent a peek!...I demand satisfaction, at least four Nuns. With wimples. As I cannot possibly allow myself to get into any more clandestine habits, it's so difficult to get the sizes these days........
Allan N Dee Catterall You Sir are not only a Genius...but a Master wordsmith....we are sure you can hear the laughter from the other side of the globe.....keep up the awesome work Sir !
Visit https://www.facebook.com/Moonraker-Telescopes-1194809513867970/
to get all the comments from over 80,000 viewings of this creation.
Comments from Paul Money's blog from Sky at Night Magazine.
In these modern times manufacturers are constantly striving to improve short focal length APO refractors, to increase the sensitivity of CCDs/webcams and taking new approaches to GoTo mounts. So it’s refreshing to see that there are still a few hardy souls producing hand crafted equipment for the discerning amateur or collector of astronomical equipment.
One such company is Moonraker Telescopes ,whose Nebula Class 4-inch f/12 refractor features in this month's reviews. They're not just attractive to behold however. They are fully functional instruments in their own right and can deliver crisp views of the night sky as our latest addition to the reviews team, Steve Collingwood, can attest to.
Each scope is hand crafted, allowing for a lot of customisation if the purchaser desires, something many commercially made instruments can't really offer. But looking at the sleek lines of the Moonraker, I would fancy setting it up in my living room just to show off its elegant lines! Of course that's if the better half would let me... or if we had room for it.
One such company is Moonraker Telescopes ,whose Nebula Class 4-inch f/12 refractor features in this month's reviews. They're not just attractive to behold however. They are fully functional instruments in their own right and can deliver crisp views of the night sky as our latest addition to the reviews team, Steve Collingwood, can attest to.
Each scope is hand crafted, allowing for a lot of customisation if the purchaser desires, something many commercially made instruments can't really offer. But looking at the sleek lines of the Moonraker, I would fancy setting it up in my living room just to show off its elegant lines! Of course that's if the better half would let me... or if we had room for it.
Moonraker 102 f12 refractor.
Two more comments received.....
Hi Mark,
Sorry I was rushed before when we talked.
I can't thank you enough for turning round a first rate job as quickly as you did.
Fits perfect, looks original, super service.
Nice doing business with you - I will give you more notice in future.......
Cheers,
John, P2V
Corporate client.
Finally got some feedback from our clients about the scope itself after all the pics we’ve been sharing, short & sweet but big thumbs up! -"Mate the telescope looks incredible.” Thanks, Jim.
Hi Mark,
Sorry I was rushed before when we talked.
I can't thank you enough for turning round a first rate job as quickly as you did.
Fits perfect, looks original, super service.
Nice doing business with you - I will give you more notice in future.......
Cheers,
John, P2V
Corporate client.
Finally got some feedback from our clients about the scope itself after all the pics we’ve been sharing, short & sweet but big thumbs up! -"Mate the telescope looks incredible.” Thanks, Jim.
First test images with two new Darkmatter Moonrakers.
+ images of another happy customers scope with new knob set.
Sketch using Terminator 60mm f16.7 refractor.
"Mark,
Greetings! I hope that all is well with you. I purchased a 60 mm Terminator from you in February 2015. I really enjoy the telescope. It has turned into my favorite telescope. I use it daily to make drawings of the sun. At night I use it for the moon and planets, and sometimes double stars. Thanks much for building such a great telescope."
Greetings! I hope that all is well with you. I purchased a 60 mm Terminator from you in February 2015. I really enjoy the telescope. It has turned into my favorite telescope. I use it daily to make drawings of the sun. At night I use it for the moon and planets, and sometimes double stars. Thanks much for building such a great telescope."
Another happy customer............
‘Not only has Moonraker made me two of the most beautiful telescopes in the world, the quality of the optics is the best and most pin-sharp that I have ever seen, by miles. A big thanks to Mark Turner for his incredible standard of workmanship, attention to detail and painstaking devotion to his customers’ needs. Nobody else delivers service in this class.’
Gael and Martin.
Instillation in an observatory in Wales, two finders 30mm and 50mm, a 60mm apo triplet and Nebular Class in Nickel with 150mm Istar f10 and 3" rack and pinion matching focuser. Thank you Gael & Martin. It was a real pleasure meeting you both and fantastic location and hospitality.
Gael and Martin.
Instillation in an observatory in Wales, two finders 30mm and 50mm, a 60mm apo triplet and Nebular Class in Nickel with 150mm Istar f10 and 3" rack and pinion matching focuser. Thank you Gael & Martin. It was a real pleasure meeting you both and fantastic location and hospitality.
Ales at Istar USA and FLO in the UK, what do they think about Moonraker...
"WOW
This is one of the most beautiful long focus refractors Ive ever seen. This scope was made with a lot of love. Im so glad to see our iStar achromatic doublet mounted in it.
.... now compare this hand crafted beauty with any mass produced, big name brand refractor.... pretty sad sight, right?
I sure hope to see more scopes like these in the future. My congratulations to the guy who designed it and produced it.
regards,"
Ales
That'll be me.....Thanks Ales.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"FWIW I am genuinely impressed at the way you have forged a unique identity. I salute you sir :-)
Regards, "
SteveG FLO
This is one of the most beautiful long focus refractors Ive ever seen. This scope was made with a lot of love. Im so glad to see our iStar achromatic doublet mounted in it.
.... now compare this hand crafted beauty with any mass produced, big name brand refractor.... pretty sad sight, right?
I sure hope to see more scopes like these in the future. My congratulations to the guy who designed it and produced it.
regards,"
Ales
That'll be me.....Thanks Ales.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"FWIW I am genuinely impressed at the way you have forged a unique identity. I salute you sir :-)
Regards, "
SteveG FLO
"Moonraker Telescopes beautiful and a delight to behold. I am envious of few people, but those lucky enough to own a Moonraker telescope number among them. I one day hope to join them, not because I am wealthy and want to show off at star parties, but because I appreciate the imagination, design and engineering brilliance that is embodied in each one of these marvellous creations Why should I not treat myself to the best if I am prepared to work for it?"....Bryan Fanson.
Latest verdict on a clients 80mm Dark Matter ed doublet...
Short and sweet............. We like happy customers..............
Hi Mark,
what a feckin scope it performed amazingly.
even without the flattener the stars were sharp and round.
I am well chuffed!
Thanks,
Simon.
Liverpool.
Followed by.................
"I was lucky enough to take an up-close look at the Moonraker scope owned by Simon Fletcher over the weekend. Also had the chance to view Saturn through it. I must say I have never seen such quality engineering is a scope by any other manufacturer. The look, feel and beauty of the scope is totally second to none."
Steve, editor at Amateur Astrophotography Ezine
Hi Mark,
what a feckin scope it performed amazingly.
even without the flattener the stars were sharp and round.
I am well chuffed!
Thanks,
Simon.
Liverpool.
Followed by.................
"I was lucky enough to take an up-close look at the Moonraker scope owned by Simon Fletcher over the weekend. Also had the chance to view Saturn through it. I must say I have never seen such quality engineering is a scope by any other manufacturer. The look, feel and beauty of the scope is totally second to none."
Steve, editor at Amateur Astrophotography Ezine
Now in June 2015 Astronomy magazine.
After a really successful show in the USA, Astronomy Now magazine have included some images of Moonraker telescopes and commented on the quality and design in telescope innovation. For those who desire bespoke, truly unique telescopes that not only compliment and reflect the owners lifestyle and interior decor, but provide outstanding vistas of the heavens. And, with the correct diagonal, stunning views of cityscapes and the countryside. Moonraker are rapidly becoming an architects and designers first port of call for scientific instruments and tripods that compliment new and old buildings. Now working on a project for an award winning Scottish design company for an exclusive client here and far far away. Exciting times...........
A couple of more comments from happy clients.....
Terminator f16.7 in Mississippi............
Mark,
Greetings. First light was yesterday. First I looked at the sun with a lunt 1.25 inch herschel wedge. It was a good view, though seeing was a bit turbulent. At night I looked at the waxing gibbous moon. It was a very sharp view with good seeing.
I used magnifications between 56 and 125x. After moongazing for a while, I moved onto Jupiter.
At the time, two moons were very near each other and I could watch them separate in a few minutes.
On Jupiter, the two equatorial bands were crisp, with details visible north and south of these bands. Lastly, I looked at gamma Leo.
The two stars resolved easily at 125x, both with a rich yellow color. The first light of the Terminator was a great success.
Thanks for building this telescope and putting up with my endless questions! I will write an in-depth review this spring. One major problem. I need you to build a 60mm cloud filter. As far as I can see on the forecast, there is rain and clouds here. The telescope fails without the before said cloud filter :o) Thanks again for your work.
Good luck in all of your endeavors.
Please keep in touch. Best regards, David
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moonraker Darkmatter ED80 Doublet Prototype.
Finally my dream arrived well packed in a wooden scope box which was well packed in a box and surrounded by bubble wrap and polystyrene pieces.
I savered the moment took a deep breath then proceeded to open up the scope box.
Wow! this thing is a work of art and shiny. for a prototype you can see how much love and attention has gone into the design. Everything from the OTA down to the hand made thumbscrews just look stunning!
As it was cloudy it has spent most of its time sitting atop of a NEQ6 awaiting first light.
Finally the skies have cleared scope all set up on its mount under a cloudless night.
As this scope is going to be used primarily for imaging i decided to check focusing with a dslr and a QHY5L II colour planetary cam. To my amazement the focuser tube had that much inward/outward travel both camera's are able to focus with a 55mm extension tube fitted and without. Also focus using a EP inserted directly into the focuser tube or by using a diagonal is achievable. The travel in the focuser must be a good 4-5 inches, well impressive.
On using the standard SW 25mm ep the visual quality of the scopes primary lens is superb the view of the moon is stunning. Sharp and crisp and not a trace of fringing around the edge of the object. the hand finished dual speed Crawford focuser is a joy to use and extremely precise.
I can't praise Moonraker Telescopes highly enough. It's hard to believe that this scope and all of the Moonraker range are handcrafted and created from concept drawing to finished product by one guy in a workshop at the bottom of his garden.
Want to turn some heads at a society meet, or at a Starparty?
then get yourself a Moonraker Telescope
If Terminator was a Astronomer it's what he would have.
Simon.
Mark,
Greetings. First light was yesterday. First I looked at the sun with a lunt 1.25 inch herschel wedge. It was a good view, though seeing was a bit turbulent. At night I looked at the waxing gibbous moon. It was a very sharp view with good seeing.
I used magnifications between 56 and 125x. After moongazing for a while, I moved onto Jupiter.
At the time, two moons were very near each other and I could watch them separate in a few minutes.
On Jupiter, the two equatorial bands were crisp, with details visible north and south of these bands. Lastly, I looked at gamma Leo.
The two stars resolved easily at 125x, both with a rich yellow color. The first light of the Terminator was a great success.
Thanks for building this telescope and putting up with my endless questions! I will write an in-depth review this spring. One major problem. I need you to build a 60mm cloud filter. As far as I can see on the forecast, there is rain and clouds here. The telescope fails without the before said cloud filter :o) Thanks again for your work.
Good luck in all of your endeavors.
Please keep in touch. Best regards, David
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moonraker Darkmatter ED80 Doublet Prototype.
Finally my dream arrived well packed in a wooden scope box which was well packed in a box and surrounded by bubble wrap and polystyrene pieces.
I savered the moment took a deep breath then proceeded to open up the scope box.
Wow! this thing is a work of art and shiny. for a prototype you can see how much love and attention has gone into the design. Everything from the OTA down to the hand made thumbscrews just look stunning!
As it was cloudy it has spent most of its time sitting atop of a NEQ6 awaiting first light.
Finally the skies have cleared scope all set up on its mount under a cloudless night.
As this scope is going to be used primarily for imaging i decided to check focusing with a dslr and a QHY5L II colour planetary cam. To my amazement the focuser tube had that much inward/outward travel both camera's are able to focus with a 55mm extension tube fitted and without. Also focus using a EP inserted directly into the focuser tube or by using a diagonal is achievable. The travel in the focuser must be a good 4-5 inches, well impressive.
On using the standard SW 25mm ep the visual quality of the scopes primary lens is superb the view of the moon is stunning. Sharp and crisp and not a trace of fringing around the edge of the object. the hand finished dual speed Crawford focuser is a joy to use and extremely precise.
I can't praise Moonraker Telescopes highly enough. It's hard to believe that this scope and all of the Moonraker range are handcrafted and created from concept drawing to finished product by one guy in a workshop at the bottom of his garden.
Want to turn some heads at a society meet, or at a Starparty?
then get yourself a Moonraker Telescope
If Terminator was a Astronomer it's what he would have.
Simon.
A little snippet about Moonraker by Mike Smithwick Oct 14.
There were a number of vendors there, but none so amazing as that from a gentleman named Mark Turner. He makes telescopes. Not just telescopes, but custom designed instruments to order. Not just custom designed instruments to order, but perhaps the most beautiful custom designed instruments to order. How are they beautiful? Until you’ve seen a 4” refractor with a gold-anodized tube and chrome mounting fixtures you will then know that you are in the presence of a real artist. He is currently selling them at cost (about a third of what I had expected) so as to build up a clientele list that can act as his marketing arm. You can go here to see more of his handiwork. Note, that he never learned metal working until 18 months ago.
Write up taken from Distant Suns
.Starmus, 2014Posted by Mike Smithwick on October 1, 2014 in Event, NASA Space stuff, Observatory, Space Travel,
A great guy I met at Starmus and hopefully still ordering a gold 80mm f15.. The pricing and time frame have now changed. Thank you for the mention Mike. Check out his amazing products athttp://www.distantsuns.com/products/
Write up taken from Distant Suns
.Starmus, 2014Posted by Mike Smithwick on October 1, 2014 in Event, NASA Space stuff, Observatory, Space Travel,
A great guy I met at Starmus and hopefully still ordering a gold 80mm f15.. The pricing and time frame have now changed. Thank you for the mention Mike. Check out his amazing products athttp://www.distantsuns.com/products/
"Sky at Night" magazine gives Moonraker Nebula 100mm f12
FIVE Stars in February 2015 issue.
Click on the text below to view Sky at Night magazine 360 degree rotatable image.
FIVE Stars in February 2015 issue.
Click on the text below to view Sky at Night magazine 360 degree rotatable image.
F13 Nebula performing as expected................another happy client.
"Hi Mark,
Good clear night last night, for a while. So, first up was the Trapezium in M42 which was a lovely crisp view. Next, a great view of Comet Lovejoy, then Jupiter, which was absolutely superb - I have never seen so much detail, and unless I was mistaken, the Galilean moons appeared as small discs, so all is very well indeed with the optics.
This is exactly what I was hoping the telescope would do! Oh yes, and I was very impressed with the clarity of the spotting scope.
I think the plan should be to have a good go with the 2" diagonal for the next couple of months, then in the spring or summer maybe I will drop it to you for the focus tube extension, just so I have all the options available with my equipment. This might be a good opportunity to make the box as well.
I am very interested to have a guide-scope after all. What you you suggest in terms of specifications and what would the cost be? And..,please keep me posted on the tripod, I wouldn't mind being order number 3. What do you reckon the cost will be?
All the best,
John"
Good clear night last night, for a while. So, first up was the Trapezium in M42 which was a lovely crisp view. Next, a great view of Comet Lovejoy, then Jupiter, which was absolutely superb - I have never seen so much detail, and unless I was mistaken, the Galilean moons appeared as small discs, so all is very well indeed with the optics.
This is exactly what I was hoping the telescope would do! Oh yes, and I was very impressed with the clarity of the spotting scope.
I think the plan should be to have a good go with the 2" diagonal for the next couple of months, then in the spring or summer maybe I will drop it to you for the focus tube extension, just so I have all the options available with my equipment. This might be a good opportunity to make the box as well.
I am very interested to have a guide-scope after all. What you you suggest in terms of specifications and what would the cost be? And..,please keep me posted on the tripod, I wouldn't mind being order number 3. What do you reckon the cost will be?
All the best,
John"
Moonraker on the Grand Tour...Now in Italy
F15 custom D&G customer image.
"I've said this before, but Mark Turner at Moonraker is really a top guy, can't recommend him highly enough. Great communication and a real artisan with his hands and a lathe!" Dave.
Just a few comments etc from clients and those who love the unique look of Moonraker.
These comments come from Cloudy Nights. Thank you for your positive comments........
http://www.cloudynights.com/topic/484885-custom-made-refractors-new-moonraker/?hl=%2Bmoonraker#entry6348628
As per the previous thread on custom refractor builds, here are some pictures of my new Christen-Moonraker 94mm f/7 refractor. As way of background, I got a couple of Brandon 94mm triplets from CN member Peter Bealo earlier in the year and thought of asking Mark Turner to make me a refractor around them (got a pair, unfortunately one was chipped during transfer from the US to the UK ). He quickly agreed but it took me a while to have the lens sent to him to get started. Mark was a delight to deal with and accommodated all my demands to make the OTA in way that I could use it with binoviewers even with a 2" Baader Herschel wedge. He also made me a coupler ring to mount on it a double stacked Coronado SM60 unit. The Christen lens also got the full treatment with a custom machined collimatable cell.
I am thrilled with the new scope. It will be my dedicated wide field and solar observing/imaging scope. It now sits in tandem with my 10" f/20 TEC on a SW Eq8 in a newly built observatory in my backgarden.
Just as a disclaimer: I am in no way associated with Moonraker - just a very happy customer.
Cheers
Roberto
"This morning I had a quick peek at Jupiter in between the clouds and the scope worked great - no reflections - very well baffled."
Altair Astro."Hi Mark the customer loved the adapter and the scope looks better than ever and customer said he now has a "Keeper" so many thanks for your help.
"Roberto, simply stunning work from Moonraker and love it when the Brits innovate."
"Wow, just a wonderful looking scope! "
"Awesome scope, love the brass finish and the long dew shield! What is so great about Mark is that he can make the scope so much more functional, whether it is for binoviewer use, adapters for special filters, and mount adapters. These are the scopes that the spouses love as well; when I decided to sell a bunch of stuff it was the one scope that my wife made sure I was keeping!"
"The perfect marriage of art and function in a telescope...as it should be!"
"That's not a scope, it's a work of art!!!Roberto, I'm very happy for you and wish you many great nights under the stars with your beautiful masterpiece."
"That scope looks amazing. It just has that certain indescribable look to it. Very very nice looking indeed! "
"OMG! Craftsmanship is not dead."
"Talented machinist just doesn't cover it. You sir, are an artist! Beautiful just beautiful work........."
http://www.cloudynights.com/topic/484885-custom-made-refractors-new-moonraker/?hl=%2Bmoonraker#entry6348628
As per the previous thread on custom refractor builds, here are some pictures of my new Christen-Moonraker 94mm f/7 refractor. As way of background, I got a couple of Brandon 94mm triplets from CN member Peter Bealo earlier in the year and thought of asking Mark Turner to make me a refractor around them (got a pair, unfortunately one was chipped during transfer from the US to the UK ). He quickly agreed but it took me a while to have the lens sent to him to get started. Mark was a delight to deal with and accommodated all my demands to make the OTA in way that I could use it with binoviewers even with a 2" Baader Herschel wedge. He also made me a coupler ring to mount on it a double stacked Coronado SM60 unit. The Christen lens also got the full treatment with a custom machined collimatable cell.
I am thrilled with the new scope. It will be my dedicated wide field and solar observing/imaging scope. It now sits in tandem with my 10" f/20 TEC on a SW Eq8 in a newly built observatory in my backgarden.
Just as a disclaimer: I am in no way associated with Moonraker - just a very happy customer.
Cheers
Roberto
"This morning I had a quick peek at Jupiter in between the clouds and the scope worked great - no reflections - very well baffled."
Altair Astro."Hi Mark the customer loved the adapter and the scope looks better than ever and customer said he now has a "Keeper" so many thanks for your help.
"Roberto, simply stunning work from Moonraker and love it when the Brits innovate."
"Wow, just a wonderful looking scope! "
"Awesome scope, love the brass finish and the long dew shield! What is so great about Mark is that he can make the scope so much more functional, whether it is for binoviewer use, adapters for special filters, and mount adapters. These are the scopes that the spouses love as well; when I decided to sell a bunch of stuff it was the one scope that my wife made sure I was keeping!"
"The perfect marriage of art and function in a telescope...as it should be!"
"That's not a scope, it's a work of art!!!Roberto, I'm very happy for you and wish you many great nights under the stars with your beautiful masterpiece."
"That scope looks amazing. It just has that certain indescribable look to it. Very very nice looking indeed! "
"OMG! Craftsmanship is not dead."
"Talented machinist just doesn't cover it. You sir, are an artist! Beautiful just beautiful work........."
Two more happy clients one Tak FS150 and a 5" D&G
Another two more projects finished and a few comments below. more info and pictures to follow. More info on SGL.
"Hi Mark, Always a pleasure to meet an Artisan. Thank You very much Mark Im very pleased with the results, it deserved the best being what it is. … Shall be putting it all together tomorrow, will forward on any pictures for your site (need a background to showcase it … and hump the mount in from the garage) Kind Regards Mark "
"Hi Mark,
Just coming back to you as promised.
I've got the scope back together and could you believe it, it's clear tonight! So have had a very fast first peek using the binoviewers and it's.....FANTASTIC!!
The contrast is superb, the viewers focus with room to spare and I can merge the images no problem, can't wait to see the moon and planets through these!
The flocking has really made a difference to the contrast, I'm sure the new baffles have too.I will get some pics ready soon and do a write up on SGL too, giving you full credit for the scopes new clothes .
Thanks again for a lovely bit of work Mark, and let me know if I can give a testimonial to anyone on your behalf..
kind regards,
Dave "
You Just did Dave, Thank you.
"Hi Mark,
Just coming back to you as promised.
I've got the scope back together and could you believe it, it's clear tonight! So have had a very fast first peek using the binoviewers and it's.....FANTASTIC!!
The contrast is superb, the viewers focus with room to spare and I can merge the images no problem, can't wait to see the moon and planets through these!
The flocking has really made a difference to the contrast, I'm sure the new baffles have too.I will get some pics ready soon and do a write up on SGL too, giving you full credit for the scopes new clothes .
Thanks again for a lovely bit of work Mark, and let me know if I can give a testimonial to anyone on your behalf..
kind regards,
Dave "
You Just did Dave, Thank you.
Client image of another triplet in it's new home.
Kind words
"I'm so overwhelmed by the workmanship and beauty of each instrument you create.You stirred up memories of my youth I was 9 years old in New York City when I looked thru a telescope for the first time I thought I landed on the moon .Then my first trip to the New York Hayden Planetarium I was hooked . After the show next to a meteorite, I saw it , a 6" reflector I stood there many time thinking how beautiful it was. .Four years later I earned enough to buy a 4" reflector .Fast forward.At 61 I'm lucky enough to hear about you and see your creations it made me feel like that 9 years old again looking at your work .You are very gifted craftsmen.I hope there's one or two with my name on them! It's wonderful when one finds his bliss everyone feels it.
Regards,"
Alan
Regards,"
Alan
Client mini review of 80mm zeiss f15.
I wanted to relay my experiences with Moonraker Telescopes. I had a Zeiss AS 80/1200 lens in cell that needed an OTA. The project took about 4 months, and Mark Turner was a pleasure to deal with all the way. He is a bit crazy in a creative/good way and is nice person, extremely hard worker, and a perfectionist. Mine is the gold scope that is currently featured on the Moonraker page. The craftsmanship is wonderful and everything just works. It looks even better in person than it does in the photos. The enhancements to my scope include “aero” rings, a counterweight, a handle, and an extension to allow binoviewer use as well as regular prism diagonal use. Mark can customize each scope from the focuser knobs to the shape of the screws. The dovetail bar was made to AP instead of Vixen specifications. I wanted to use the scope on an FTX mount, but due to my stupidity I gave Mark the wrong screw hole measurements, and that is why it sits on a 400 GTO for now. I am going to have more screw holes bored into the dovetail at a later time.
My work schedule has prevented extensive testing, but of course this has nothing to do with Mark’s craftsmanship other than the fact that everything is in perfect collimation. The star test on this lens shows an outstanding figure (nearly identical to the test on a similar lens shown here), and there is mild out of focus purple/green color. In focus, the Moon is very sharp, and there is only a very slight color cast, not bothersome at all. Stars are tack sharp with a faint first diffraction ring. I am too tired for Jupiter but I will compare it in a few months to other 80mm lenses.
The best thing I can say about the scope is that my wife told me that I should not have it in the observatory for fear that it will get weathered! It is going to hang in the house when not in use. No other scope has gotten such treatment; in fact my wife wishes that several other scopes would never be seen again! I know of at least one other person who is thrilled with his Moonraker.
I have no financial or other relationship with Moonraker other than I am a happy customer.
My work schedule has prevented extensive testing, but of course this has nothing to do with Mark’s craftsmanship other than the fact that everything is in perfect collimation. The star test on this lens shows an outstanding figure (nearly identical to the test on a similar lens shown here), and there is mild out of focus purple/green color. In focus, the Moon is very sharp, and there is only a very slight color cast, not bothersome at all. Stars are tack sharp with a faint first diffraction ring. I am too tired for Jupiter but I will compare it in a few months to other 80mm lenses.
The best thing I can say about the scope is that my wife told me that I should not have it in the observatory for fear that it will get weathered! It is going to hang in the house when not in use. No other scope has gotten such treatment; in fact my wife wishes that several other scopes would never be seen again! I know of at least one other person who is thrilled with his Moonraker.
I have no financial or other relationship with Moonraker other than I am a happy customer.
Landed in the USA. 90mm Teslascope.
Just a few words form the happy client..........
"The telescope arrived in excellent shape, and looks simply wonderful. My wife and I ... indeed, the whole family (we had 9 people with us on holiday) ... loves it. The "oohs" and "aahs" were universal. "
More images coming soon of the scope in it's new home.
"The telescope arrived in excellent shape, and looks simply wonderful. My wife and I ... indeed, the whole family (we had 9 people with us on holiday) ... loves it. The "oohs" and "aahs" were universal. "
More images coming soon of the scope in it's new home.
Arrived safe and sound.
The client had this to say upon unpacking........ the gold f17 custom Zeiss 80mm
"Dear Mark:
My scope arrived today safe and sound and I just finished unpacking it. I was stunned, speechless. Although a lot of the beauty of your scopes can be seen in the photos, there is nothing like seeing the real thing in person. The scope is a “modern heirloom” art piece that looks like in belongs in a space museum. Instead of storing it in a box, I am going to hang it on a wall of my house when it is not in use. I can’t wait to look through it under the stars.
Thank you so much for sharing your work with me.
Sincerely,
Derek"
"Dear Mark:
My scope arrived today safe and sound and I just finished unpacking it. I was stunned, speechless. Although a lot of the beauty of your scopes can be seen in the photos, there is nothing like seeing the real thing in person. The scope is a “modern heirloom” art piece that looks like in belongs in a space museum. Instead of storing it in a box, I am going to hang it on a wall of my house when it is not in use. I can’t wait to look through it under the stars.
Thank you so much for sharing your work with me.
Sincerely,
Derek"
Dark Matter triplet arrives in the USA.
Dark Matter has landed in Southern Maryland!
Attached are a couple of images taken last night - as it was a very bright full moon didn't get much else to choose from. The moonshot is taken with an Orion Starshoot Pro ccd, direct focus - not suited to this sort of work, but a good test of the basic setup.
Thanks to both you and Highpoint Scientific for the service and communications - it has been a pleasure purchasing my unique telescope!
I've no doubt I'll need to fine tune the setup, maybe adding a long focal length planet watching tube with a 60 or 80mm aperture - any advice on this would be most appreciated.
Will also be working on the imaging end of the scope with Robert at Highpoint, more of that once I get familiar with 'Dale' (Arden, obviously, name chosen by Mrs H!)
I've a case coming on Tuesday (Pelican) will let Robert know if it works for advice to future Moon Raker purchasers in the US.
Clear Skies, thanks for your advice and have a pint of 6X on me!
Jon
Attached are a couple of images taken last night - as it was a very bright full moon didn't get much else to choose from. The moonshot is taken with an Orion Starshoot Pro ccd, direct focus - not suited to this sort of work, but a good test of the basic setup.
Thanks to both you and Highpoint Scientific for the service and communications - it has been a pleasure purchasing my unique telescope!
I've no doubt I'll need to fine tune the setup, maybe adding a long focal length planet watching tube with a 60 or 80mm aperture - any advice on this would be most appreciated.
Will also be working on the imaging end of the scope with Robert at Highpoint, more of that once I get familiar with 'Dale' (Arden, obviously, name chosen by Mrs H!)
I've a case coming on Tuesday (Pelican) will let Robert know if it works for advice to future Moon Raker purchasers in the US.
Clear Skies, thanks for your advice and have a pint of 6X on me!
Jon
Happy landings in the USA for an f13. Just like being a kid on His Birthday. I'm glad to contribute.
"Scope came today! Mount and stuff will be here Wednesday........urghhhh.
It is a magnificent feat of engineering and art ! The engraving is more beautiful than the pictures showed. We are so excited to open everything. The precision of everything is just beautiful and the quality, skill, passion and love of astronomy shine throughout the scope and accouterments. Words can't really express how impressed we are.
Greg showed me all the pieces one by one and some I recognized and some I didn't get the significance of like he did. He knew what everything was of course.
I'll send some photos."
It is a magnificent feat of engineering and art ! The engraving is more beautiful than the pictures showed. We are so excited to open everything. The precision of everything is just beautiful and the quality, skill, passion and love of astronomy shine throughout the scope and accouterments. Words can't really express how impressed we are.
Greg showed me all the pieces one by one and some I recognized and some I didn't get the significance of like he did. He knew what everything was of course.
I'll send some photos."
Another happy customer.........
Mr Leech, kindly sent me these few words.....
More images on the custom page and blog.
"In this age of mass production it’s a refreshing change to find suppliers of excellence.
Mark has just finished reworking my vintage Irving refractor and to say I am delighted with both the quality and the service is a massive understatement.
Mark has resurrected the classical refractor and brought it into the 21 st Century.
It was said that HR Irving was the last in the line of people capable of working with Victorian telescopes.
Mark has very successfully continued this line, and long may it continue.
In conclusion, if you could morph Alvin Clarke- Irving and Zeiss you would get a Mark Turnerr.
Can’t wait to send him another project to work on.
Watch this space……………."
Lincoln Leech
Preston
England.
Lincoln kindly sent me these two short emails, which have been edited!!
1. wow !
2.
Amendment to recent review.
it arrived this morning very securely parcelled.
To put it bluntly, its S**T HOT!!!
It feels like Christmas morning when i was six.
Thank you once again.
Lincoln.
More images on the custom page and blog.
"In this age of mass production it’s a refreshing change to find suppliers of excellence.
Mark has just finished reworking my vintage Irving refractor and to say I am delighted with both the quality and the service is a massive understatement.
Mark has resurrected the classical refractor and brought it into the 21 st Century.
It was said that HR Irving was the last in the line of people capable of working with Victorian telescopes.
Mark has very successfully continued this line, and long may it continue.
In conclusion, if you could morph Alvin Clarke- Irving and Zeiss you would get a Mark Turnerr.
Can’t wait to send him another project to work on.
Watch this space……………."
Lincoln Leech
Preston
England.
Lincoln kindly sent me these two short emails, which have been edited!!
1. wow !
2.
Amendment to recent review.
it arrived this morning very securely parcelled.
To put it bluntly, its S**T HOT!!!
It feels like Christmas morning when i was six.
Thank you once again.
Lincoln.
International Astronomy Show, June 2014
A BIG "thank you" to all the astronomers/engineers with whom I chatted with at the show, for their kind words and encouragement and totally positive feed back about my Telescopes and their designs. I even shared a few secrets with some about different designs in the pipe line ready for the coming season, and following an agreement with a certain manufacturer I will take my first tentative steps in to designing and creating a doublet or triplet binoscope!
Here are a few images of the scopes on display at set up. Thank you one again. A fantastic show.................Now back to the lathe/ milling machine,band saw, grinder, polisher, pillar drill, lens bench, etc, etc.....................................................
Here are a few images of the scopes on display at set up. Thank you one again. A fantastic show.................Now back to the lathe/ milling machine,band saw, grinder, polisher, pillar drill, lens bench, etc, etc.....................................................
Arrived in the US safe and sound.......... and working to perfection.
Dear Mark,
I've unpacked the scope and everything appears to be sound. In fact, it looks spectacular. Everything fits beautifully and the focuser is very smooth. A quick peek last night showed some nice Airy disks and very good out-of-focus patterns. Just what I would expect from a Carton lens.
In sum, I am very pleased. I expect that this will be one of my most used scopes. And that's high praise because it's competing with some excellent scopes from Tele Vue, Astro-Physics and TEC, ranging from 76mm to 160mm.
Best wishes,
Michael
I've unpacked the scope and everything appears to be sound. In fact, it looks spectacular. Everything fits beautifully and the focuser is very smooth. A quick peek last night showed some nice Airy disks and very good out-of-focus patterns. Just what I would expect from a Carton lens.
In sum, I am very pleased. I expect that this will be one of my most used scopes. And that's high praise because it's competing with some excellent scopes from Tele Vue, Astro-Physics and TEC, ranging from 76mm to 160mm.
Best wishes,
Michael
Another satisfied client..........
I bought a 60mm, F16.7 Moonraker Terminator from Mark back in late fall of '13. It is a real stunner. I already have it posted on CN here:http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/5767429/page...
It is about half way down the page.
These scopes are works of art, by the hand of a true craftsman with a vision. The lens is a Carton 1,000mm focal length - and it is a great lens. Anyone who has used a Carton can attest to that. And going out in the evening with this Moonraker is an experience unto itself. The ambiance, the mood of the evening - are what makes a night under the stars for me. It is a part of the joie de vierve of life. And I truly enjoy my observing, else - why bother?
Inside, the scope is a real beauty to just look at, no one can not take notice of these beauties. That they actually perform so well is wonderful too. My scope is #3 of the Terminator series.. a real, instant classic! All the best for you Mr Turner!
It is about half way down the page.
These scopes are works of art, by the hand of a true craftsman with a vision. The lens is a Carton 1,000mm focal length - and it is a great lens. Anyone who has used a Carton can attest to that. And going out in the evening with this Moonraker is an experience unto itself. The ambiance, the mood of the evening - are what makes a night under the stars for me. It is a part of the joie de vierve of life. And I truly enjoy my observing, else - why bother?
Inside, the scope is a real beauty to just look at, no one can not take notice of these beauties. That they actually perform so well is wonderful too. My scope is #3 of the Terminator series.. a real, instant classic! All the best for you Mr Turner!
Steve Ringwood from Astronomy Now magazine is seduced by the Galaxy 90mm at Astrofest 2014
Thanks to Steve Ringwood & Astronomy Now magazine for the mini review.
Taken from "Sky at Night" Magazine. Article by Martin Lewis. "Dealing with DEW"
This is why most Moonraker telescopes come in polished aluminium, not just because they look good, but because they are more efficient in dealing with dew than most telescopes. When others need dew heaters, with a Moonraker, you can keep imaging/viewing for longer with less concern for the dreaded dew.............................
This is why most Moonraker telescopes come in polished aluminium, not just because they look good, but because they are more efficient in dealing with dew than most telescopes. When others need dew heaters, with a Moonraker, you can keep imaging/viewing for longer with less concern for the dreaded dew.............................
This is what Mr Yates had to say about the f5 Wideboy RF Moonraker telescope..........
"Well what can i say about the 6" Moonraker F5 Refractor Well the first thing is it's fit and finish screams quality and outstanding craftsmanship the attention to detail is second to none this kind of craftsmanship seems to be from a bygone era when making money was not the main aim Mark in my opinion is a man who Love's to make telescopes first and foremost and wants to supply a quality product.
THE SCOPE IN USE IN THE FIELD. I used the 6" f5 Rich field refractor over a few nights at Kielder star party and found that it gave stunning views of many deep sky objects (with and without filters) M31 was a sight to behold the double cluster shone out like diamonds on a jet black background M57 was fantastic at different magnifications the dumbbell nebular again stunning i would say that the scope gave me some of the best views i have ever seen.through a telescope of this type and size." Tom Yates
"Well what can i say about the 6" Moonraker F5 Refractor Well the first thing is it's fit and finish screams quality and outstanding craftsmanship the attention to detail is second to none this kind of craftsmanship seems to be from a bygone era when making money was not the main aim Mark in my opinion is a man who Love's to make telescopes first and foremost and wants to supply a quality product.
THE SCOPE IN USE IN THE FIELD. I used the 6" f5 Rich field refractor over a few nights at Kielder star party and found that it gave stunning views of many deep sky objects (with and without filters) M31 was a sight to behold the double cluster shone out like diamonds on a jet black background M57 was fantastic at different magnifications the dumbbell nebular again stunning i would say that the scope gave me some of the best views i have ever seen.through a telescope of this type and size." Tom Yates
Images of the moon taken with a Moonraker f13. More info at
http://www.astronomyshed.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=19238
Images taken by Mr Bannister.
http://www.astronomyshed.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=19238
Images taken by Mr Bannister.
6th September 2013
" A Tribute to the maker of the finest classic handmade telescopes ".
Handmade Moonraker Galaxy.
Well It's been a week or so since I picked up Galaxy 002. I first thought of obtaining a handmade telescope back in May this year. But never thought for a minute that it would turn out to be as beautiful and well engineered. Every bit of detail on this telescope is amazing, right down to the script mark on the knurled fasteners which attach the dew shield. I had a few ideas on what I wanted the scope to look like but Mark just took them on board and improved on them and produced this fantastic scope. This telescope really is a work of art, so much attention to detail and a great deal of care has been taken to produce a beautifully polished finish all over. It shines.........even the wife was impressed.
And what can I say about the custom box! The scope fits in it perfectly I did not expect this to be so well put together and once again care has been taken to make sure the whole of the telescope fits. Yes, the whole of the scope! This includes the finder scope still attached to the telescope along with the tube rings, vixen bar, handle, dew shield, focuser and the end caps all attached. It just comes out of the box in one piece, brilliant. There are not many telescope manufactures that supply a case that can claim this.
So how does it view. Tried it the other night for a test and the low power views are very clear and detailed and stars are pin sharp. But before I could get going the English weather intervened. The following day I did a daylight check and set up the finder scope the views are very detailed and crisp sharp. Looking forward to doing some high powered viewing when the weather gives clear nights.
This is the best telescope I have ever had the privilege to own it's unique and personal.
Many thanks Mark for producing this exceptional instrument.
Kind Regards,
Alan.
"in depth review to come soon.................................
"What is the most beautiful looking telescope you have ever seen ? A good question ! Whatever your answer was - it's incorrect - this unit IS the best looking telescope you have ever seen - and also one of the highest performing - now you can own one yourself !!"
Cris Ellis, Owner of Astronomy Alive, Australia's Premier Telescope outlet.
To find out more about the Moonraker f5 150mm RFT visit
http://neilenglish.net/a-wideboy-comes-calling-ii/
This scope is a prototype and Mr English has kindly given a few pointers to improve the telescopes functionality which will be taken on board.
"Bearing these concerns in mind, the 6” f/5 Wideboy is a joyous telescope to use. Beautifully crafted out of high quality materials, it is easy to use and transport. Although highly successfully as a rich field telescope, my experiences of this instrument leave me in no doubt that it can perform adequately as a double star ‘scope and, with appropriate filtration, a fairly decent planetary scope, extending its utility well beyond those usually attributed to instruments of this specification.
I am very grateful to Mark Turner, proprietor of Moonraker Telescopes, London, for giving me the opportunity to experience this high quality, large aperture rich field refractor ."
Dr. Neil English is author of Choosing and Using a Refracting Telescope.
Finderscope for a MR 90mm f8 in production.
Oh WOW! Mark that is absolutely fabulous.
Love the combination of the brass and aluminium and sliding focus.
Really blown away by the attention to detail.
It all looks like it is coming together brilliantly, cannot wait to get my hands on it.
Thanks for the detailed pictures, and the time and trouble you have spent sending me
Photos and updates.
Cannot get over that finder scope Great absolutely fabulous.
Many thanks.
Best regards,
Alan.
Love the combination of the brass and aluminium and sliding focus.
Really blown away by the attention to detail.
It all looks like it is coming together brilliantly, cannot wait to get my hands on it.
Thanks for the detailed pictures, and the time and trouble you have spent sending me
Photos and updates.
Cannot get over that finder scope Great absolutely fabulous.
Many thanks.
Best regards,
Alan.
A short review from another happy customer.
I already had a Carton 4" f13 when I came across Moonraker and decided to sell the other scope. I fell in love with the Sci-fi aesthetic and had to have one. Mark delivered it personally {nice one} and WOW! The photos just didn't do it justice. I was stunned by it's sheer beauty and the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail and it's awesome statue due in some measure to the long dewshield. I have had it a week now and still can't get over how beautiful it is.
First light came last night and it achieved 433x magnification while viewing the moon in less than ideal seeing conditions. The conmination of 1/8th wave optics and f13 focal length ratio combined to deliver razor sharp contrast without a single hint of CA.
So I now have a scope I could gladly sit and look at all day long and happily look THROUGH all NIGHT {and day} long. The world of amature astronomy is a richer place with Mark Turner in it and a lovely guy too. It was a pleasure doing business with him. I'm sure he'll be very successful in his new venture- he certainly deserves it. Respect!
Rob
Brighton.
15th June 2013.
"How cool is that...blush, blush! Thank's Rob. The pleasure was all mine." Mark.
I already had a Carton 4" f13 when I came across Moonraker and decided to sell the other scope. I fell in love with the Sci-fi aesthetic and had to have one. Mark delivered it personally {nice one} and WOW! The photos just didn't do it justice. I was stunned by it's sheer beauty and the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail and it's awesome statue due in some measure to the long dewshield. I have had it a week now and still can't get over how beautiful it is.
First light came last night and it achieved 433x magnification while viewing the moon in less than ideal seeing conditions. The conmination of 1/8th wave optics and f13 focal length ratio combined to deliver razor sharp contrast without a single hint of CA.
So I now have a scope I could gladly sit and look at all day long and happily look THROUGH all NIGHT {and day} long. The world of amature astronomy is a richer place with Mark Turner in it and a lovely guy too. It was a pleasure doing business with him. I'm sure he'll be very successful in his new venture- he certainly deserves it. Respect!
Rob
Brighton.
15th June 2013.
"How cool is that...blush, blush! Thank's Rob. The pleasure was all mine." Mark.
Major review of Moonraker Telescopes is out now http://www.astronomynow.com/magazine.shtml
The good news is they ARE as good to look through as they are to look at.
I have recently been commissioned to created an 80mm refractor for Neil English well known author of books such as Classic Telescopes; A Guide to Collecting, Restoring, and Using Telescopes of Yesteryear
Please visit his website for a review on the 80mm which is now his pride and joy.
http://neilenglish.net/preparing-a-classical-refractor-for-the-21st-century/
"No other instrument in my armory can imbue that palpable sense of continuity, a duty to protect astronomical tradition as it were, like Bessy can. In a very real sense, she is a classical figure. For she extols the sentiments of that timeless age; those things that pertain to the eternal within us."
A more thorough testing this evening (February 20) shows that Bessy {80mm Moonraker} is the finest telescope millimetre for millimetre that I have in my possession. So, all’s well that ends well. What convinced me of that is the detection of the faint companion to Theta Aurigae seen at 240x. I don’t think I’ve managed that before in an 80mm class instrument!
Neil English (80mm f15 designed and made by Moonraker Telescopes}
First impression mini review by Nick Cox.
“I have just had the pleasure of observing through a prototype range of refractors made by Teddington Based Mark Turner. Mark is using a selection of quality sourced Japanese optics such as vixen and Carton. The OTA’s have collimateable cells with custom two speed rotating focusers and come complete with tube rings and vixen mounting bar. The tubes are finished in hand polished aluminium. Each scope comes with a dew shield and finder scope.
The finish and style is breathtaking, reminiscent of 1950’s science fiction designs. All the fittings are nicely engineered by Mark to the highest standard. This gives the scopes a unique and classic look. The optics are superb achromats, giving plenty of contrast across the range. What was particularly pleasing was the style and design of the scopes carried through to every detail.
The 90mm f9 gives tremendous contrast as does the 60mm f6 finder/guide scope. I also greatly appreciated the fine views through the 60mm f16 and 76mm f16, not to mention the stunning 100mm f13.
This range is already looking like a modern classic, put together by a thoughtful and stylish maker.
It is rare that such equipment of such a bespoke nature is available to the observer. I believe Mark will soon be working on imaging scopes.”
Read the continuing adventures of Bessy, the 80mm refractor by Neil English at the link below.
http://neilenglish.net/bessys-blog/