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How to Take Apart a Galileo Reflector Telescope

Copernicus Optics manufacturers the Galileo line of reflector telescopes. Each uses a two-mirror optical system to gather light and reflect it to a magnifying eyepiece. You can disassemble your Galileo reflector to clean or upgrade the telescope. The mirrors on reflector telescopes require occasional cleaning for optimal performance. You also need to take apart your Galileo reflector if you intend to "flock" the telescope by lining the tube with ultra-black material to improve image contrast.

Things You'll Need

Philips head screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the retaining screws securing the telescope tube to the Dobsonian mount. Lift the tube carefully from the mount and lay it on a flat surface.
- 2
  Remove the four screws attaching the focuser to the tube. Slide the focuser out of the tube.
- 3
  Stand the telescope tube upright on a flat surface, with the open end pointing up. Remove the four screws at the bottom of the telescope connecting the primary mirror cell to the tube.
- 4
  Lift up the tube slowly to separate it from the mirror cell. Do not let the end of the tube come into contact with the primary mirror. Lay the tube on a flat surface.
- 5
  Remove the three screws on the mirror cell to loosen the mirror clamps. Touching the sides of the mirror only, lift the primary mirror out of the mirror cell.
- 6
  Remove the four screws holding the tube ring at the top of the telescope tube. Disconnect the tube ring from the tube.
- 7
  Remove the three thumbscrews from the tube holding the secondary mirror in place. Use one hand to hold the secondary mirror mount as you loosen each thumbscrew with your other hand. Lift the secondary mirror mount out of the tube. Do not touch the surface of the secondary mirror as you remove it from the tube.

Astronomy