• Remembering Bruce Roy Wrinkle (b. 7 August 1945, d. 28 April 2013). Bruce was the soul of our showroom; kind, witty, intelligent, and able to greet you with a funny (or corny) joke and great advice. Bruce was was amazingly well read, able to hold conversations with doctors and scientists on matters as diverse as prions or the physics of dark matter. He was our friend, a true friend in every sense of the word and every day without him lacks some luster. Here we also posted information about funeral arrangements for those who wish to help send him off.

• We have updated our Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability information page and commenced sending out invitations to those lucky people who wish to buy the 130mm f6.3 EDF Gran Turismo Triplet Apochromat telescope.

  Company Seven has one last new 1200GTO German Equatorial Mount and one new Model 900GTO mounts (from the last production lots) on static display at our showroom. We will rotate out the 1200GTO and 900GTO mounts to replace them with the 1600GTO and the new 1100GTO mounts. It is possible that we may be receiving some 900GTO and 1200GTO mounts in trade or on consignment as some customers will want to upgrade their observatory, so this may help customers seeking a more 'transportable' alternative to the 1600GTO and a lower cost alternative to the 1100GTO with the 900GTO.

• Hosting news article that is gradually circulating around US Government circles and leaking to the news media about the recent (formerly) secret visit of a head of state to Company Seven. We will have no further comments about this but instead encourage inquiries to the respective police and government agencies that are investigating.

Changes in March 2013:

• Introduced a new product to the American markets, that will be for North and South America: the instructional DVD How To Become and Expert Solar Imager. This instructional DVD resulted from a collaborative effort by Ninian Boyle and Pete Lawrence, two experienced amateurs who are using solar filtered telescopes the same as those you can buy from Company Seven. Their DVD presents information in a comprehensible manner explaining what types of imaging you can do whether it be white light imaging of the Sun or using the more interesting modern hydrogen-alpha filters and telescopes; they conduct you through the entire process step by step. Their work has featured prominently in works by the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation), astronomy publications, as well as in advertisements for companies that manufacture equipment for amateurs and professionals including Coronado and Solarscope Ltd. for example.

  The DVD is authored to be read only by a personal computer, not by a conventional DVD video player, and as such has no Region restrictions as do conventionally authored DVDs. This content includes:

  • More than two and one-half (2-½) hours of instructional video covering topics including what to use, how to capture images, and the final post-processing of the image data to produce stunning pictures.
  • FREE image processing software*: all that you'll need to commence processing and finalizing your images.
  • Sample processed images and videos supplied by Pete for you to refer to, and
  • unprocessed images and videos supplied by Pete so that you may practice processing; you can make your mistakes in safety!
  

  This item is so well proved and received by those in Europe who can order it directly that Company Seven has elected to distribute this for the Americas. Customers in Europe can continue to order direct from the authors in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, this is the first item that we will allow to be ordered on-line directly from Company7.com. Deliveries will commence at the end of this month and you will be able to buy a copy at our showroom in Maryland too.

• Commenced hosting our section describing the Solarscope Ltd. Hydrogen-Alpha (Hå) solar filters and filtered telescopes from the Isle of Man, in the United Kingdom. This choice makes Company Seven only the second retailer and most likely to be the only showroom environment where one can visit to see Solarscope Ltd., DayStar, Lunt, Solar Spectrum, and other top line solar observing and imaging products routinely on display in the Americas and also meet with competent experienced sales representatives. Of course we will invite feedback and images from our Solarscope customers too! Company Seven commenced deliveries this month and we anticipate the arrival of the first of systems for display and use at our activities about in time for the Easter 2013 holiday season - how appropriate with which to enjoy sunny Spring days!

• Added another title to our list of our most recommended books; the book Eyes To See: Observing the Nearest Stars is written by a customer of Company Seven, who got his start into visual astronomy not too many years ago. So this is an excellent read not only for those seeking a guide to how to find some interesting stars in the night sky and their history, but about how astronomy just might help you to find yourself.

  Looking up into the Heavens on a clear night under a dark sky, we can easily fool ourselves into thinking that the brightest stars we see are those closest to us. The reality could not be more different! In fact, 19 of the 25 closest stars to the Sun are invisible to our naked eye, and many are actually so faint that even with the modest equipment owned by most amateur astronomers, they can be supremely difficult to find. "Eyes To See: Observing the Nearest Stars" takes the reader on a one-year guided tour through the regions of the Milky Way galaxy closest to our own solar system, concentrating on practical hints at observing this region for one's self.

  This is another of those wonderful books that are difficult to find in a store. Company Seven found it to be such a practical and enjoyable read and reference work, that is also thought-provoking on several other levels too so that we wish to share this with our friends. We will make a special effort to stock this title, and to make it available as a .pdf title for those who seek such portability and convenience.

Changes in February 2013:

• Put on line a new section describing the Lunt Solar Systems Hydrogen-Alpha (Hå) solar filters and filtered telescopes. Company Seven picked up the Lunt product line in 2012 at the suggestion of some of our customers who were impressed with their handiness, and remarkable images; they provide a great return especially given their cost is not all that beyond reach of die hard amateurs or schools. The Lunt Hydrogen-Alpha (Hå) file red telescopes have since become regular show-stoppers at the Solar Saturday observing sessions by our showroom in Maryland.

Changes in January 2013:

• As we pointed out in other sections of Company7.com, our credentials include support of many fascinating projects over the years, including some high profile missions such as the NASA Hubble Space Telescope Repair Mission. We close 2012 and begin 2013, our thirty third year as a licensed business, by providing support for the next major space telescope project - the NASA James Webb Space Telescope some 20 years after our work on the Hubble project. Exactly what are we doing and what will we be doing? Well, as Martin likes to say: "that would be telling".

Changes in November 2012:

• Added additional information and images detailing the Ultra Violet Products Ultraviolet Cabinets. These are compact enclosures designed specifically to provide a portable cabinet for the inspection of samples illuminated under ultraviolet emissions. We emphasized the UVP C-65 Chromato-Vue® observing cabinet, a model so versatile and of high performance that the owner of Company Seven bought one.

• Added additional information and images explaining the history of Unitron telescopes, this included expanding our write ups of the Unitron Model 142 - 3" and "Unitron Model 114 - 2.4" achromatic refracting telescopes that Company Seven acquired for our museum collection and display.

• Expanded our introductory article explaining the history of Questar Corporation and their telescopes at Questar Index page. This included images of their first advertisement scanned from our archives.

• Added additional information and images detailing the Zeiss Sports Optics Warranty, Repair & Service that apply to most binoculars, riflescopes, and electro optics (Range Finders, Night Vision Optics). Also commenced gradual updating and expansion of our article Carl Zeiss - A History Of A Most Respected Name In Optics; this article is among the older ones at Company7.com and as such is comparatively text-heavy so will will refine the article layout and add photos, mostly of Zeiss artifacts in our collection, to make the article more pleasing to the casual reader. Refined infrastructure to accommodate future expansion of our Carl Zeiss section at will.

Changes in October 2012:

• Solarscope Ltd. from the Isle of Man, in the United Kingdom have agreed to distribute their amazing Hydrogen-Alpha Solar Filters and Solar Telescopes through Company Seven. This choice makes Company Seven only the second retailer and most likely to be the only showroom environment where one can visit to see Solarscope Ltd., DayStar, Lunt, Solar Spectrum, and other top line solar observing and imaging products routinely on display in the United States (if not all the Americas) and also meet with competent experienced sales representatives. Furthermore, in keeping with our Solar Saturday's social gatherings, our customers and visitors will have opportunities to see the top of the line Solarscope DSF-70 and Solarscope DSF-100 double stack systems (selectable 0.7Å or 0.5Å bandpass) at work outside our showroom. As we become better acquainted with the Solarscope products we intend to dedicate some effort to host illustrated articles explaining these rarely seen systems at Company7.com. Of course we will invite feedback and images from our Solarscope customers too! Company Seven already has some systems in the production queue, and so we anticipate the arrival of the first of these systems about in time for the Easter 2013 holiday season - how appropriate with which to enjoy sunny Spring days!
  

  We have dramatically beefed up our book selection with many of the most recent titles that pertain to: observing and imaging the Sun, latest knowledge about features on and within the Sun (including the sunspots, prominences, and the solar tachocline), as well as some reprints of much older books that demonstrate the history of solar studies and the perceptions of those who preceded us in solar studies.

  

• We updated our TeleVue News and TeleVue Pricing pages to reflect the factory authorized sale in effect between 1 October and 28 December 2012. This will be a great opportunity for customers, especially those seeking to build a new eyepiece selection or upgrade their existing set, to acquire the latest offerings from TeleVue.

  The sale applies to all current production eyepieces* (including new Delos), Barlows, Powermates and Paracorr. Commencing Monday 1 October through Wednesday 28 December 2012, save ten percent off our normal pricing on all current production TeleVue eyepieces and most auxiliary optics. Yes, this is a factory authorized sale that includes all the latest production TeleVue Ethos and Ethos SX, and Delos eyepieces. This will include the newest Delos 3.5, 4.5, 8.0, 12, and 14 mm eyepieces that will be introduced later this month. The sale also includes all the TeleVue Nagler series (Type 4, Type 5, Type 6) eyepieces including the Nagler Zoom, Panoptic, and Plossl eyepieces. Also included in the sale are the TeleVue coma-correcting visual and imaging Paracorr 2 lens, and their Barlow and Powermate lenses.

  *The Radian eyepieces are not included in this sale as they are being gradually phased out, and stock remains only of some focal lengths.

• Near the close of our business day some week or so ago Company Seven answered an urgent telephone call from a hospital Emergency Room in Texas, a doctor was inquiring about poison control procedures for our Carl Zeiss Lens Cleaning Fluid; this is one of only two products of its kind that we endorse. Apparently some small child ingested the contents of a small bottle of the lens cleaning fluid, and there was nowhere else for the doctor to obtain information quickly about how to deal with this. In response to that incident we have taken it upon ourselves to assure the Materials Safety Data Sheet for not only the bottled solution but also for the lens cleaning toilettes are hosted in our Zeiss Library section.

  In addition to describing these articles in our Library index, we also mention them here with the hope that the information may more quickly be picked up by the Search Engines for dissemination:

  "Company Seven: Zeiss Lens Cleaning Fluid Materials Safety Data Sheet", our six (6) page color illustrated document explaining the health and safety implications of the Carl Zeiss Lens Cleaning Fluid distributed by Company Seven, and as is referred to in our article "Cleaning Telescopes And Most Consumer Optics". This document includes advice for medical professionals regarding treatment of accidental exposure to the eyes or ingestion. From Company Seven's Archives. Download size is 10,109,563 bytes (in Acrobat Reader ".pdf" format).

  "Company Seven: Zeiss Lens Cleaning Towelette Materials Safety Data Sheet", our six (6) page color illustrated document explaining the health and safety implications of the Zeiss Lens Cleaning Towlettes distributed by Company Seven and as is referred to in our article "Cleaning Telescopes And Most Consumer Optics". This document includes advice for medical professionals regarding treatment of accidental exposure to the eyes or ingestion. From Company Seven's Archives. Download size is 9,669,387 bytes (in Acrobat Reader ".pdf" format).

• Made some other minor updates to various pages within our site, including a bit of Internet social commentary at our How To Contact Company Seven page.

• Look forward to an interesting announcement about a change at Company Seven coming soon - a first in our nearly 33 years of operation!

Changes in August 2012:

• Commenced sending invitations for registered customers to order from the first production run of the new Astro-Physics 1600GTO German Equatorial Mounts that are well underway too. We expect to commence making deliveries of these mounts in October of 2012 through March or April 2013.

  The 1600GTO replaces the 1200GTO in the product lineup, featuring 1. an increased payload handling capacity of up to about 200 lbs. to manage RC telescope with working payloads up to about 20 inch aperture for example, with 2. the option to have new or added later one or both 'absolute' encoders - particularly beneficial for remote observatory control, and 3. the Periodic Error spec of 5 arc seconds (+/- 2.5 arc sec.) is the maximum native mechanical error inherent in the mount's RA axis WITHOUT any software correction. In order optimize performance even further, the factory employs a special version of Ray Gralak's PEMPro developed specifically for their test equipment so that they will generate a unique PE curve for each mount and program it into each GTOCP3 Control Box. Simply use the Keypad or your Astro-Physics software (ASCOM V2 driver, PulseGuide or APCC) to turn the PE Correction "on" and you will see results significantly better than our published 5 arc second spec without additional PEMPro runs! However, you may use PEMPro to further refine your PE, if you chose to do so. The 1600GTO features the capability to align at anywhere between 0 to 78 degree latitudes without an optional Wedge; that spans from Antarctica to the arctic circle! The 1600GTO head has extensive milling to keep the basic head weight to about 115.5 lbs (52.5 kg). The head will stand about 4 to 4-1/2 inches taller (depending not the selected Park Position) than the 1200GTO, and most hardware options remain interchangeable. There are new, larger 7.65 inch wide "P" series Saddle and 23 inch long Dovetail Plate choices coming available, and a new larger 24 lb. Counterweight. Another nice aspect of the 1600GTO is that the Rotating Pier Adapter, formerly an option for the 1200GTO, is standard with the 1600GTO.

  For these products we will first refer to our waiting lists, sending invitations to notify people who have registered, then we will assign spare production slots to new customers. Accordingly we have updated our Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability information page and commenced sending out invitations to those lucky people. Company Seven has one last new 1200GTO German Equatorial Mount (from the last production lot) on static display at our showroom. We have not yet decided whether or not to keep it on display and add the 1600GTO alongside it for comparison, or sell the 1200GTO to make room for the 1600GTO. Of course we will prefer to give priority on assigning this last 1200GTO to those who have historically chosen to buy from Company Seven. Either way, the display will continue to be impressive and unrivaled. It is possible that we may be receiving some 1200GTO mounts in trade or on consignment as some customers will want to upgrade their observatory, so this may help customers seeking a more 'transportable' alternative to the 1600GTO.

• We added additional information to our article Nikon 300mm f/2.0 ED IF and Tochigi Nikon 300mm T2.2, our tribute to these rare and amazing large aperture and super-fast ultratelephoto lenses that remain unrivaled even today. And since photos and text are simply not enough, Company Seven acquired a new Nikon 300mm T2.2 (300mm f/2 - imagine a 6 inch /2 Apo!) lens for our collection, one of only twenty-some made by Nikon, and that too is now on static display in our museum collection. More reasons for you to make the pilgrimage.

• Commencing delivery to customers who ordered from the Summer 2012 production run of the Astro-Physics 175mm f/8 EDF Apo refracting telescopes. We expect to have all our new AP 175 EDF telescopes delivered to our customers within two or three weeks!

• Added additional information about the Nikon UV-105 F4.5, a fascinating multispectral lens distributed to most of the world by Company Seven. This rare lens is suitable for work with modern digital SLR cameras for work in the visual to infrared spectrum, but with specialized cameras or sensors or with film cameras and appropriate films the lens permits high resolution work well into the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum - transitioning at 220nm! The lens was originally envisioned for uses including: law enforcement forensic work (popularized by recent television shows), industrial and biomedical applications, as well as uses by artists and the more enthusiastic amateur. The lens is now employed not only in those fields but also studies in: agriculture, environmental monitoring, mineralogy, chemical analysis, surveillance, physics, manufacturing and process control.

• Made some other minor updates to various pages within our site.

Changes in June 2012:

• Commenced sending invitations for registered customers to order from the Summer 2012 production run of the Astro-Physics 175mm f/8 EDF Apo refracting telescopes that are well underway. We expect to commence making deliveries of these telescopes in July-August 2012. For these products we refer to our waiting lists, sending invitations to notify people who have registered and who have a good relationship with Company Seven and their area astronomy communities. Accordingly, we have updated our Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability information page.

Changes in January 2012:

• Today on 8 January 2012 we look at our first Business License and think back to our start 32 years ago. Since then we have been operating as a licensed business under the same ownership and while defining competence and integrity in our community, with 28 of these years in our two Laurel, MD showrooms. In looking back we suppose it is a massive accident that we are still in business serving the amateur community given market pressures and the state of the economy moreso since we tend to expend our efforts more often to promote our hobby and not ourselves.

  We thank those customers and friends who have been astute and demanding enough to choose to buy from Company Seven, and to otherwise support our goals. It has been a true pleasure and privilege to have made so many friends around the world.

  In January we resume updating articles at our Internet site.

• Giving Company Seven's customers something more to read about for the New Year, we expanded our index/introduction page about the Astro-Physics Company. The expanded index page now includes some background about how the founders started in the astronomy equipment business, what prompted Roland Christen to pursue making his own refracting telescopes, his early telescope models, and the growth of the company into the current modern production facility. We also added several photos from our archives.

• We updated our write-ups about several TeleVue products including:
  • the TeleVue Starbeam Sight. This is a most compact and rugged red dot sight that was developed by TeleVue in 1991. The Starbeam remains unrivaled for the qualities of the pinpoint dot that appears suspended over the night sky, helping the telescope user to star-hop or point their telescope onto any visible target or area of the sky. In 2011 TeleVue revised the illuminator, now using one provided by Rigel, an American company. As described by Bruce Wrinkle our lead technician with about fifty years experience in our hobby, Starbeam is "the only red dot pointer worth owning".

  • the TeleVue 85 telescope. This not only adds better quality, larger images of the current production models, as visitors Internet access speeds have improved, but also illustrates and explains how commencing in April 2011 the TeleVue focuser of the TeleVue 85 telescope incorporates the well regarded Feather Touch^®, a dual-speed geared pinion assembly made by Starlight Instruments, offered or standard on many telescopes today. This allows very precise manual focusing on our relatively fast Apo lenses, this can be helpful if you are trying to obtain that last fractional improvement of image definition when looking at a planet, the moon, the Sun, etc. The coarse-focus knobs allow you to rack the drawtube out quickly, and then the fine knob is used to find and hold the final focus point. Ideal for very high powers with short focus oculars and Barlow amplifiers. It will also allow quick, precise manual focusing with CCD cameras.

• We added additional information to our article Nikon 300mm f/2.0 ED IF and Tochigi Nikon 300mm T2.2, our tribute to these rare and amazing large aperture and super-fast ultratelephoto lenses that remain unrivaled even today. The predecessors of these are the Nikon 200mm f/2.0 ED IF and 400mm f/2.8 ED IF, the first lenses of their kind too. This information includes new photographs and specifications of the Tochigi Nikon 300mm T2.2 lens in our collection, one of only twenty-some made by Nikon. We also show all the components (now in our collection) removed by Panavision from an original Nikkor 300mm f/2.0 EDIF as they converted the lens to better suit the needs of the cinematography community.

  We started thinking about how the article might be interesting to those in Japan who work at Nikon or others who are fond of Nikon or optics history, so we employed the on-line Google Translator to convert the text to Japanese Kanji and host it here. We have no idea how well this translated into Japanese, so we apologize in advance if our efforts have set back US-Japan relations by 50 years.

Changes in November 2011:

• On 15 November the formal public announcement and ribbon-cutting ceremony were held for the MCCM observatory telescope at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL) in Laurel, Maryland. This project was commenced in 2007 by the owner of Company Seven with the acquisition of the Optical Guidance Systems (OGS) RC24, a modern 24 inch (0.61 m) aperture Ritchey-Chrétien professional-grade computer controlled telescope complete with Fork Mount, and a 5 meter diameter observatory dome with welded steel base structure. This culminated in 2010 with an agreement to loan the telescope to the JHU/APL for a several years term.

  There was an unusually good omen for the new observatory. As the date of the ribbon-cutting approached the days were more and more cloudy until on the day of the event the coverage of clouds was complete from horizon to horizon. When the event commenced at 7 pm the skies were still completely cloudy. At 8:38 pm, as the ribbon was cut opening the observatory dome, someone called out "a star". We looked to see a small area of cloud cover had thinned just enough to reveal Jupiter, but no other stars or Moon across the sky could be seen. We powered up the telescope and its control systems, opened the dome, then turned the telescope onto the giant planet - now about 49 Arc. Secs. in diameter and about as well positioned as it gets for us on Earth. Amazingly enough, Jupiter remained visible for all to see. Even though the facility had only one eyepiece, a TeleVue 41mm Panoptic providing only a modest 119x, over the next twenty minutes or more Jupiter put on a great show and all who walked up the steps to the eyepiece of the telescope and enjoy that sight.

  Accordingly we have updated our 'MCCM' Observatory Project index page to reflect the announcement and progress of the plans so far.

Changes in October 2011:

• added review of Turn Left at Orion: Hundreds of Night Sky Objects To See In A Home Telescope - And How to Find Them, by Guy Consolmagno and Dan M. Davis. This is the newly revised fourth edition now made available in a softcover spiral bound format. This nicely illustrated guide may just be the budding astronomer's best first guide to finding their way through the night sky. It is now available at our showroom or by mail order.

• on 29 October our fearless leader attended a concert by Sting at the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Constitution Hall, in Washington, DC. He took with him a Leica 8 x 20 BL ULTRAVID compact binocular, a Leica 10 x 42 ULTRAVID HD binocular, and a pocket camera. The seats, even at $120 each, were in the far back of the hall, the top and rearmost seats but directly at the center. He came away amazed again at how Company Seven's technology and teaching can put one in the front row; he wondered how much life have those others, who were not similarly equipped, been missing so far?

  DAR Constitution Hall at Washington DC. Stage viewed from our seats. Image by M. Cohen with Apple iPhone camera (62,929 bytes). Click on image to see enlarged view (362,758 bytes).	Sting with band onstage at DAR Constitution Hall. Image by M. Cohen with pocket digital camera at maximum 3.8x zoom (62,929 bytes). Click on image to see enlarged view (174,077 bytes).
  Sting as we saw him on stage at DAR Constitution Hall. Image by M. Cohen with pocket digital camera and Leica 10x 42 binocular (90,458 bytes). Click on image to see enlarged view (109,794 bytes).	Sting closing the show at DAR Constitution Hall. Image by M. Cohen with pocket digital camera and Leica 10x 42 binocular (22,462 bytes). Click on image to see enlarged view (221,592 bytes).

  The concert photos above were all taken hand-held with available light, no tripod or other portable support was used.
  

• Commenced sending invitations for registered customers to order from the Summer 2011 production run of the Astro-Physics 900GTO German Equatorial Mounts that are well underway too, we expect to commence making deliveries of these mounts in the Fall of 2011 through March 2012. For these products we refer to our waiting lists, sending invitations to notify people who have registered. Accordingly we have updated our Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability information page.

• Wrote a new article explaining how our Astro-Physics German Equatorial Mounts control system can be controlled either by its' provided Keypad, or by included and by third party software, and even by Smart Phones. This is explained briefly at the new article Control of The Astro-Physics GTO Systems.

Changes in August 2011:

• Since we have had so much new work related to sales, installation and support of observatories over the past year, including the work with two large Optical Guidance Systems telescopes we decided to expand upon our mention of this work at our Products & Services index page to explain more about the sales and services we offer involving Astronomical Observatories Design and Installation Services.

  

• Company Seven apologizes to our fellow astronomers in the mid-Atlantic region, it seems our new Lunt LS80/DSII/B1800/PT/FT Hydrogen-Alpha (Hå) solar telescope arrived on 5 August, and since then the formerly beautiful weekends have turned from clear, sunny and dry to overcast, raining and wet. It was only on 13 August that we were able to sneak the Lunt 80 alongside a Lunt 60mm Double-Stack Hå telescope (LS60/DS/B1200/PT/FT) for brief moments of solar observing between the newly arriving thunderstorm cloud banks.

  Right: Lunt 80 DSII alongside a Lunt 60 DS Hå telescope atop optional German Equatorial Mounts observing the Sun by Company Seven's showroom (130,026 bytes).
  Click on image to see enlarged view (446,834 bytes).

  These Lunt telescopes are purpose built solely for studies of the Sun. Our new LS80 model is for display and joins our inventory of Daystar Hå filters too for Saturday solar observing sessions at Company Seven. This telescope provides an 80mm aperture with an 18mm diameter blocking component in the diagonal at rear. These systems filter sunlight so that one sees the Sun as a deep red disc contrasted against the blackness of space. The image of the Sun is brought to focus at a point beyond the focuser. An eyepiece for viewing or a camera for photography can be attached to the focuser.

  The filter components are so precisely made that any change of ambient temperature alters the bandpass, so in order to compensate, a piston attached to the filter housing is adjusted to 'pressure tune' the bandpass by dialing in or out to bring the filter to its best performance setting. With a primary filter alone the bandpass is between 0.7 to 0.8Å (Angstroms) centered at 653nm; so details on the surface of the Sun and surrounding prominences are seen. Ours is among the first of the new Lunt DSII series telescopes indicating 'double stack at the rear' so one can attach a second filter component in the black housing just behind the red collar to further narrow the bandpass to 0.5Å or less. This provides added contrast of details on the Sun's disc and of the more massive ejections and prominences, at times appearing three-dimensional. These are rugged and compact telescopes, easy to travel with. We placed the LS60 alongside the LS80 with 1.25 inch diameter diagonal attached for scale, note the focusers are 2 inch 'FeatherTouch' models with braking made by Starlight Instruments.

  In time Company Seven may develop new sections in our web site featuring the Lunt and Starlight Instruments products at least for as long as we do not provide so much content that it tempts 'E-Tails' to steal our content.

  

• Helping to bring a new Optical Guidance Systems telescope on line; another masterpiece from John Stiles and the team at OGS in Pennsylvannia. This new OGS fork-mounted 32 inch (0.81 m) aperture Ritchey-Chrétien telescope was sold to George Mason University in Virginia by Company Seven and OGS. The Ritchey-Chrétien optics set was made by Paul Jones of Star Instruments; these were originally ordered for this project by Observatory Scope, a defunct Georgia-based company who originally won the bidding but then failed to complete the task. The OGS designed Secondary Mirror Focus mechanism employs a "RoboFocus" for remote control, this is made by Technical Innovations. The optical tube axial port is provided with the well regarded Astro-Physics 4 inch rack an pinion focuser. We will continue to provide assistance to GMU, and will be pretty familiar with this system since it is in effect the big brother of our own OGS 24 inch telescope. The GMU telescope will be completed with the SBIG STX-16803 CCD system, also provided by Company Seven.

  Right: Optical Guidance Systems 32 inch Ritchey-Chrétien telescope on OGS140 Fork Mount at George Mason University, in Fairfax, Virginia on 27 July 2011 (26,729 bytes).
  For some sense of scale the Finderscopes are two Baader Planetarium 10x 60mm (2.4 inch aperture) models, as sold by Company Seven, with PC computers in background.
  Click on image to see enlarged view (123,390 bytes).

  The purpose-built cylindrical observatory building with 6 meter diameter Ash Dome housing the new telescope were designed by GMU and their contractors.

  It was the early discussions for this task, and our offer to acquire and refurbish the Biosphere Observatory telescope as one of the options, that first brought that OGS 24 inch telescope to our attention. It was in time acquired by our owner, and activated late in 2010 nearby in Maryland. So now GMU's telescope is larger than ours by 0.2 meter, and their dome is 1 meter larger in diameter than our Ash Dome. We'll do better with our next telescope - the 'MCCMOv2.0'!

• Announced Leica Binoculars 'Trade up' Program. A promotion effective 1 August through 31 October 2011 that allows anyone to trade-in ANY BRAND OR MODEL of working binocular for a $200 instant credit against the purchase of 32, 42 and 50mm Leica Ultravid HD binoculars. This is one of the few opportunities to obtain a break on a new, fully US and international warranted Leica product as this is a factory-authorised program available only at authorized retailers including Company Seven of course.

• Updated our review of a wonderful adjustable-height periscoping pier, the 2011 production Pier-Tech 3. This review now shows one of these newly redesigned piers installed by Company Seven at the private observatory of a client for whom we also installed a new Astro-Physics Model 1200GTO German Equatorial Mount with a Celestron C-14 telescope optical tube assembly, also provided by us.

Changes in July 2011:

• Updated the review of a wonderful adjustable-height periscoping pier, the 2011 production Pier-Tech 3. This review now shows one of these newly redesigned piers installed by Company Seven at the private observatory of a client for whom we also installed a new Astro-Physics Model 1200GTO German Equatorial Mount with a Celestron C-14 telescope optical tube assembly, also provided by us.

• Company Seven updated two reviews of our most popular selling TeleVue telescopes, the 2011 production TeleVue NP101is and the recently upgraded TeleVue NP127is telescopes. Then added an entirely new review of the 2011 production model TeleVue NP101is, the latest of the upgraded Imaging Systems photo-visual telescopes.

  The NP101 and NP101is are the first TeleVue 4" Apos that we rate as the equal of the worlds best in optics and mechanics featuring upgraded focuser that not only manages heavier payloads, but incorporates the Feather Touch^® two speed, 9:1 geared focuser pinion assembly. This focuser accepts optional motorized control permitting local control of focus by the user, remote control via wired or wireless, or automated focus control by computer. While the handy NP127is remains the fastest, flat-field Apo telescope in production - also incorporates the Feather Touch^® focuser.

  Since TeleVue has made numerous changes to their telescopes over the past year we updated our TeleVue Imaging System Accessories index page so that our customers will be able to better understand which accessory is compatible with which model of current and older discontinued models as well.

• Company Seven posted a new illustrated article about the Unitron Model 220 - ASTRO-CAMERA. This describes an original Unitron sheet film camera specifically sold for astrophotography, but also capable of terrestrial work with these telescopes. This is among the optional accessories that accompanied the Unitron Model 142, a 3 inch (75mm) f/15 achromatic photo-equatorial telescope acquired for Company Seven's Museum Collection earlier in 2011.

Changes in June 2011:

• Posted our illustrated review of the beautiful TeleVue "102 Renaissance", brass 4 inch multi-purpose refracting telescope. Sometimes called the Renaissance 102, this third generation brass telescope of TeleVue is a first-rate four inch aperture telescope that happens to be beautifully made in brass...as striking to look at as through.

• Added scanned copies of instruction manuals for accessories included with the Unitron Model 142 telescope that Company Seven acquired for our museum collection and display. We already host an article about this Model 142 telescope, and today we added scanned downloadable .pdf copies of the Unitron instruction manuals for both the UNIHEX and for their ASTRO CAMERA Model 220. These are available at our Unitron Notes & Interesting Articles index page. Over time we will add more articles dedicated to some of the more interesting accessories, as we progress with the conservation and cleaning of this telescope.

• Commenced sending invitations for registered customers to order from the Summer 2011 production run of the Astro-Physics Mach1GTO German Equatorial Mounts that are well underway too, we expect to commence making deliveries of these mounts in July 2011. For these products we refer to our waiting lists, sending invitations to notify people who have registered. Accordingly we have updated our Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability information page.

• Posted a new article Binocular Care And Service Interval Advice: Suggestions by Company Seven. An illustrated overview discussing the mechanisms that compromise the performance or longevity of binoculars. We provide some tips about preventive maintenance, identifying problems, and what to do when your binocular is damage or in need of servicing.

• Company Seven posted a new review of one of our most popular selling telescope, the 2011 production TeleVue NP101. The NP101 is the first TeleVue 4" Apo that we rate as the equal of the worlds best in optics and mechanics featuring upgraded focuser that not only manages heavier payloads, but incorporates the Feather Touch^® two speed, 9:1 geared focuser pinion assembly. This replaces the prior version NP101 telescope.

Changes in May 2011:

• Company Seven delivered another new interesting optical system to NASA. While there are many projects we do not publicize, on 10 May Company Seven delivered another interesting optical system to Goddard Space Flight Center for NASA to fly later in 2011. This is a ruggedized and shock/vibration resistant catadioptric system with all optical components made fully quartz (fused silica), and with superbly engineered and applied high transmission coatings optimized for its designed transmission application. In order to maintain perfect focus at all operating temperatures the construction of the tube assembly and many mechanical components are largely of Invar, an ultra-low expansion aerospace grade alloy.

• Company Seven acquired a Unitron equatorial refractor telescope to add to our museum collection and display. The basis of this cased set is a Unitron Model 142 telescope, a 3 inch (75mm) f/15 achromatic refractor sold on 20 May 1975. However, this Model 142 equatorial telescope has been upgraded to beyond the level of the Unitron Model 145, a 3 inch Photo-Equatorial telescope, with almost every conceivable option of the day. Not only is this provided with Unitron accessories including the AC powered Clock Drive with an optional AccuTrack Drive Corrector, but it also has a Unitron Astro Camera, a Criterion Coronagraph, and two Unitron Herschel Wedges. The condition of the set is uncommonly good and the documentation that came with it is comprehensive - many days of scanning in literature for our archives are ahead of us! We have placed the telescope on display in our showroom, and added an article about this Model 142 telescope to our on-line 'virtual museum'. Over time we will add more to the article and probably host separate articles dedicated to some of the more interesting accessories, as we progress with the conservation and cleaning of this telescope.

  The caption for the article might be "Our Unitron Has More Stuff Hanging Off It Than Your Telescope".

Changes in March 2011:

• Posted a special appeal to Assist Japan's Earthquake And Tsunami Victims that struck Japan on 11 March 2011. We have many friends and customers in Japan as well as suppliers to whom our hobby is indebted, so we will assist the citizens of Japan to recover from this disaster. Accordingly we are hosting information about how you too may help, though we are not collecting donations directly, for this effort.

  Prayers may comfort the souls of the departed, but donations of money will more immediately comfort the survivors and might save lives too. We urge you to contact legitimate relief organizations and to contribute, any amount will help. You may donate to assist Japan through this American Red Cross on-line link

  
  

  Above: Logos of American Red Cross, Japanese Red Cross, International Red Cross

• We added additional information to our article Nikon 300mm f/2.0 ED IF and Tochigi Nikon 300mm T2.2, our tribute to these rare and amazing large aperture and super-fast Nikon ultratelephoto lenses that remain unrivaled even today. This information includes new photographs and specifications of the Tochigi Nikon 300mm T2.2 lens, one of only twenty (20) made by Nikon, in our collection.

Changes in February 2011:

• Announced the TeleVue Factory Authorized 20/20 Sale!. Commencing on Friday 4 February concluding on Sunday 17 April 2011, save twenty percent off our normal pricing on all TeleVue eyepieces. Yes, this factory authorized sale includes all the latest TeleVue Ethos and Ethos SX, all TeleVue Nagler series (Type 4, Type 5, and Type 6), Panoptic, Plossl, and Radian. Also included are the TeleVue coma-correcting visual and imaging Paracorr lenses, Barlow lenses.

• Added new page detailing the Ultra Violet Products Model C-10P, this is the first of our UVP Mini Chromato-Vue® observing cabinets detailed in our UVP products section. These are compact enclosures designed specifically to provide a portable cabinet for the inspection of samples illuminated under ultraviolet emissions.

• Continued sending invitations for registered customers to order from the Spring 2011 production run of the Astro-Physics 130mm f6.3 Starfire EDF telescopes, and for the 1200GTO German Equatorial Mounts that are well underway too, we expect to commence making deliveries of these mounts in March 2011. For these products we refer to our waiting lists, sending invitations to notify people who have registered. Accordingly we have updated our Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability information page.

• Added additional information about Zeiss ULTRAFLUAR microscope objectives to our article "Ultraviolet Spectrum Primer". This illustrated article by Company Seven explains the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum as it applies to photographing or imaging objects in the UV. The article explains the UV spectrum including UV-A, UV-B and UV-C. Imaging gear including lenses such as the Nikon Rayfact UV-105 F4.5, films and filters. We will continue to add more information about suitable CCD cameras and films for work in the UV.

Changes in January 2011:

• Announced the Spring 2011 production run of the Astro-Physics 130mm f6.3 Starfire EDF telescopes, we are accepting orders for delivery through the Summer. Our Spring production of the 1200GTO German Equatorial Mounts are well underway too, we expect to commence making deliveries in March 2011. For these products we refer to our waiting lists, sending invitations to notify people who have registered. Accordingly we have updated our Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability information page.

• We kick off the new year by hosting a new article about amazing optics: Nikon Nikkor 300mm f/2 ED IF and Tochigi Nikon 300mm T2.2, our tribute to these rare and amazing 160mm aperture Nikon ultra-telephoto lenses that remain unrivaled even today. This is hosted at our Nikon Notes & Interesting Articles section of our Library.

  In this article we think back to the 1970's and 1980's when Nikon dominated professional 35mm single lens reflex (SLR) camera and lens technology, and their logo was known to almost anyone world-wide. This was a time when a corporation like Nikon would put its best minds to work at developing truly amazing products in addition to those that simply made good commercial sense. Their innovations include producing the the world's first high performance 200mm f/2 telephoto lens, and the world's first and only high performance 300mm f/2 ED IF telephoto lenses, the cousin of the world's first 400mm f/2.8 ED IF lenses. Here we provide a well illustrated overview of the history and development of these lenses, three variants of which are described in this article, complete with Patent papers and other information. We will most likely add more information to the article over time as new information comes to light.

  Yeah, we know Nikon has not made these lenses for years and probably never will do so again, so this has nothing to do with Company Seven earning any income or paying bills. We put great effort to researched, collect, and conserve these lenses because of our respect for the achievements by Soichi Nakamura and Kiyoshi Hayashi. Furthermore, we like to inform and entertain our customers who make it possible for us to stay in business.

Changes in December 2010:

• Began to host the first pages of a new section, this describes products sold by Company Seven by UVP - Ultra Violet Products. The UVP company has seventy-eight (78) year long tradition of manufacturing products for industry, government, and academia. Known for decades as Ultra Violet Products Co., UVP manufactures bioimaging systems for for genomic, proteomic and invivo applications. UVP bioimaging systems are used for DNA gel documentation and image acquisition, analysis of gels, blots, fluorescence, chemiluminescence, western blots, northern blots, southern blots, luminescence, colorimetric, chromagenic, densitometry, in vivo and in vitro, plates, and film. While their laboratory instruments and ultraviolet products are employed for academic, pharmaceutical, forensic, industrial and biotechnology applications. These products compliment the well regarded UV capable optics systems that Company Seven's industrial side offers.

Changes in November 2010:

• Posted updates describing the unofficial first light with the The MCCM Astronomical Observatory & Telescope as work continued on the installation over the evening of 11 November (Veteran's Day) and into 12 November. We looked at Jupiter, the Moon, and The Great Nebula in Orion (M42).

• Announced we are accepting orders for the new Astro-Physics 900GTO mounts. These will be delivered from the 2010 production lot scheduled to commence deliveries in December 2010 and continue through February 2011 until this lot is sold. Accordingly we have updated our Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability information page.

Changes in October 2010:

• Posted updates with photos showing the The MCCM Astronomical Observatory & Telescope. This telescope and observatory have been relocated to Maryland by the owner of Company Seven for the ultimate benefit of science education in our region. The Dome was installed along with the telescope concrete foundation, wiring conduits for utilities (power and signal). On 28 October the telescope Wedge, Fork Mount, and Optical Tube Assembly were lifted into the dome by a large crane. We expect the final adjustments on the system to be completed, with the system ready for service in a matter of weeks.

• Posted announcement about the newly released 2010 model TeleVue NP127is telescope. The first of these new telescopes arrived at Company Seven on 8 October. We understood the new telescope would have improved color correction, but were pleasantly surprised by the final new production telescopes. The improvements provided with this third generation NP127is include:

  • color correction of this NP127is system has been improved so that it equals the TeleVue NP101 4 inch Apo telescope. The telescopes show no trace of false color, and textbook diffraction patterns even at silly high magnifications on the most demanding artificial star and sub-micron resolution tests that we routinely use to evaluate every newly arrived telescope destined for our customers.

  • the focuser has been completely redesigned, sculpted to form a more beautiful and curvaceous appearance - just like Marlene!. As a part of this process a substantial improvement has been made to the TeleVue FocusMate dual speed geared focusing mechanism replacing this with a 10:1 focuser pinion assembly made for Tele Vue by Starlight Instruments!

  • the front lens cell and lens shade/dew cap have been redesigned; we find this aesthetically and practically an improvement. With the lens shade extended the telescope is about the same overall length as its predecessor, but it no longer appears so 'stubby'. With no machined lens cell protruding back beyond the extended lens shade there is a greater span of tube length onto which one may attach options.

    Our overview of this telescope is now on line at TeleVue NP127is 2010 Model. Feel free to contact Company Seven for additional details, or to place an order for delivery as these become available.

• Posted new review about the Baader Planetarium Methane (889nm) Filter a specialized imaging filter stocked at Company Seven. The Methane (CH4) filters have been popularized by numerous space missions for imaging gaseous objects including Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Earth, and our Sun. This is a 1.25 inch threaded filter designed for CCD imaging with suitable infrared sensitive telescopes and cameras. Passing only an 8nm wide sliver of light in the infrared, this filter is not suitable for visual use.

• Expanded our discussions about Nikon, focusing more on the history of Nikon with mentions of the lenses that particularly highlight the history of optical innovation by this company.

• Added additional information to our article "Ultraviolet Spectrum Primer". This illustrated article by Company Seven explains the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum as it applies to photographing or imaging objects in the UV. The article explains the UV spectrum including UV-A, UV-B and UV-C. Imaging gear including lenses such as the Nikon Rayfact UV-105 F4.5, films and filters. We will continue to add more information about suitable CCD cameras and films for work in the UV.

Changes in September 2010:

• Posted new article "Ultraviolet Spectrum Primer".

• Posted the first pages of a new section describing our Nikon special products; items of limited production not routinely available in the Americas. The index page features an overview of Nikon including some history of this company. Of course we hit on the highlights pointing out some of their most astounding optical lenses, and telescopes too.

  The first item we feature is the famous Nikon Rayfact UV-105 F4.5 Lens that is offered in the Americas through Company Seven by special order. This lens bears the 'NikonRayfact' designation, but it is a current Nikon production lens that replaces the original UV-Nikkor (PN 1453) that was introduced in September 1985. The UV-105 lens is an exceptionally sharp 105mm f4.5 conventional lens with macro (2:1) capability too. However, this lens is most acclaimed for its usefulness from 220nm in the ultraviolet up through the visual spectrum and into the near IR at 900nm. This this is a preferred lens for forensics, medical studies, electric discharge studies, research, or for the more dedicated amateur who seeks to explore portions of the world invisible to the eye. This lens is provided with the Nikon F mount and as such can be attached onto any Nikon SLR film or digital camera, or onto a Bellows or other fixtures. We will gradually describe more and more of the limited production Nikon products as we develop our Nikon section on line.

  This Nikon UV Lens is complemented by our afused silica Long Distance Microscopes that can provide resolution in the visual and UV spectrum down to the sub-micron level.

Changes in August 2010:

Much has been going on at Company Seven over the recent months, but since we are foremost showroom oriented and not primarily an 'E-tail' based shop and since our people have been spread thin overseas on other work we do, we have not been able to provide much attention to our Internet site as we would like to. You can contact or visit our showroom to see these, and in time we may post detailed illustrated reviews of these 'hot' new products on line. But for a taste of some of our most favorite recent news here goes:

• Announced we are accepting new orders for the new 305mm f3.8 Riccardi-Honders Astrograph, a telescope designed primarily for wide area photography. This is the first production lot of the new high performance 12 inch telescope. The system includes a 3.5 inch diameter focuser, Dewcap (Lens Shade), Dust Cover, pair of Mounting Rings, and Carrying Case. Company Seven will offer an optional Airline Transport Association Approved (ATA) shipping case for this instrument. Announced on 18 April 2009, the prototype has been shown at some events and taken numerous amazing astrophotos. This telescope features diffraction-limited performance over a huge three (3) degree field, which is ideal for capturing large faint nebulae over a wide wavelength range. The design has essentially perfect color correction from 400 to 1000 nanometers (UV to IR), is fully corrected for all five Seidel aberrations (spherical, coma, astigmatism, field curvature and distortion), as well as longitudinal and lateral chromatic aberration. Being a nearly 70 lb (30 kg) working payload, this will require a suitable mount to do it justice. Although it was shown installed side by side with the Astro-Physics 12-inch Maksutov on the massive Astro-Physics 3600GTO 'El Capitan' mount, we will prefer the Astro-Physics 900GTO or Astro-Physics 1200GTO mounts for transportable operations.

  The Pricing of the instrument set is $17,500.00. We have updated our availability information for this product on line reflecting we are accepting orders for deliveries starting in Fall 2010 and continuing into 2011.

• Announced we are accepting new orders for the Astro-Physics 3600GTO 'El Capitan', a high performance German Equatorial Mount. Announced in October 2007, the mount features a working payload capacity of about 250 lbs. / 114 kg. It is transportable, with Astro-Physics recommending at least two able bodies to attend to it. This mount is designed to follow several other Astro-Physics 900GTO and Astro-Physics 1200GTO mounts that have performed remarkably well in climates as harsh as Antarctica! You will like what you see and read about these mounts.

  The Pricing has not changed. We have updated our availability information for this product on line reflecting we are accepting orders for deliveries starting in late October and continuing into the Fall 2010.

• We made available at our Questar Library the complete "QUESTAR 700", a moderate resolution scanned copy of an original complete twelve (12) page typed instruction manual for the Questar 700 ultra telephoto lens as was provided with each new lens sold from 1979 up to when the lens was discontinued in 1986. Someday we may add one of these lenses to our Museum display. Content Copyright 1979 Questar Corp. Scanned copy of original from Company Seven's Archives, hosted by permission.

• We completed an illustrated article "Unitron Model 114 - 2.4" Achromatic Telescope" describing the telescope that was acquired and is now on permanent display in our collection. This addition helps to build on our actual and 'virtual museum'. We provide an overview of the history of Unitron telescopes including where they were made, and ultimately how the marketplace changes led to their demise.

• Company Seven was granted permission to scan and host "The Green Lights Are Flashing For Johnny Carson", an article by Gilbert Millstein with photograph by Curt Gunther in the 8 June 1963 issue of the weekly TV Guide Magazine. The late Johnny Carson came to the hobby of astronomy and accumulated several telescopes including a Unitron Model 114 60mm Achromatic Refracting telescope, pictured in this interview. Over his tenure as host of "The Tonight Show" and in other ways he popularized the science of astronomy. He was formally recognized by the professional astronomy community when the asteroid "3252 Johnny" was named after him. This article is protected by Copyright, we obtained permission from TV Guide Magazine, LLC to scan and host this article from the original in our archives for the benefit of our readers and for display alongside the Unitron 114 (mentioned below) in our museum collection. Please do not distribute this without permission. Download size is 5,675,333 bytes as an Acrobat Reader ".pdf" file.

Changes up to July 2010:

Much has been going on at Company Seven over the recent months, but since we are foremost showroom oriented and not primarily an 'E-tail' based shop and since our people have been spread thin overseas on other work we do, we have not been able to provide much attention to our Internet site as we would like to. You can contact or visit our showroom to see these, and in time we may post detailed illustrated reviews of these 'hot' new products on line. But for a taste of some of our most favorite recent news here goes:

• We acquired our first Unitron achromatic refracting telescope for permanent display in our museum collection. Ours is a Model 114, the 60mm x 900mm focal length telescope with the matching alt-azimuth mount and wood tripod. The instrument merits a place in our collection since these were among the best made and most desired (if not affordable) first astronomical telescopes for many who grew up through the 1950's and 1960's. We also recall one of our favorite customers, Johnny Carson was drawn further into the hobby in the early 1960's with his Unitron 224. This telescope is uncommonly complete, with few signs it was ever used (unfortunately for the owner?) and with the wood carrying case, and UNIHEX multiple eyepiece holder. The system has been cleaned and added to the display at our showroom. We intend to write about this telescope, hosting it at our 'virtual museum'.

• Posted updates regarding the status of The MCCM Astronomical Observatory. This telescope and observatory has been acquired and since relocated to Maryland by the owner of Company Seven for the ultimate benefit of science education in our region. The primary goal remains to provide local elementary and junior high school age children with the occasional opportunity to look through the eyepiece of a notable telescope and wonder at those amazing sights that inspired us to pursue science.

  We have signed an agreement that will result in the installation of the The MCCM Astronomical Observatory in Maryland. A formal announcement will be forthcoming. Note, all of this has been accomplished with not a single dollar being donated (even in response to our invitation), with no public funding (even though desired by them, local governments have become cash strapped and could not assist), and with no formal organizing effort. The final arrangement for the operation of the observatory makes even better sense than simply donating it to one or another school district since our choice will provide years of continuous competent support of the observatory, and development of outreach programs.

  We are grateful to Doug Humphrey and to John Stiles the owner of Optical Guidance Systems (who built the telescope). This might not have happened without the help from Doug, he provided sound advice and a warehouse in which to stage the telescope and parts of the observatory while we and John worked to put it back into service. And of course we are happy to be working with the organization that will host the observatory, but more about them later.

• Added a new page to our Fujinon binoculars section describing the 7x 50 FMTR-SX binocular. This pretty well completes our goal of providing reviews for our customers explaining the better Fujinon 50mm binoculars.

• Added new information at our Questar index page explaining the development and production of the QUESTAR 700 ultra telephoto lens and the Questar 12 telescope. Both of these instruments were announced in 1976 but are no longer in production. This includes the posting the patented optical design of the QUESTAR 700 at our Questar original patents section.

• Added information and more recent illustrations to our Airline Transport Association Approved (ATA) shipping cases description page. This page describes and shows examples of the custom transport/shipping cases offered by Company Seven for the protection of telescopes, mounts, and other sensitive equipment.

• Added more recent examples of findings to our in-house quality control description page. This explains another of the reasons why Company Seven remains unique in our community: our quality control, testing, and certification services. We periodically will add to this page as we receive telescopes that have unusual discrepancies that we may find amusing. OK, we're having some fun here.

Changes in May 2010:

• Added new informative articles to our on line Questar Archives. This includes adding a new article explaining and illustrating the development of early production Questar telescopes, those made from 1954 through 1955. Another new article went on line explaining the 'mid production' telescopes as produced from 1956 through the late 1960's. These articles include detailed images of antique Questar 3-½ telescopes on display in our showroom; this is a part of our mission to make instruments in our museum collection accessible on line.

Changes in March 2010:

• Added additional section and articles to our on line Questar Archives. This includes copies of the original patents pertaining to the development of the Questar 3-½ telescopes. Also posted the "Questar" booklet, a moderate resolution reprint of original Questar 28 page illustrated booklet provided with new Questar telescopes, dated May 1954. File is 2,387,280 Bytes (in Acrobat Reader ".pdf" format). This copy was scanned from the original in Company Seven's Archives.

• Over the past two months we added several new Orion telescopes to our showroom display including the new Orion XX-14, a 14 inch aperture f4/9 truss tube Dobson style telescope. The XX-14 now sits alongside the popular XX-12 in our showroom; these are among the best well thought out and largest easily one man transportable reflecting telescopes made - and for the price nobody can touch them for best value. The XX-14 brings with it more than double the light gathering power of our very popular SkyQuest™ XT10 IntelliScope™ 10"/25.4cm f4.7 Dobson style telescopes and so the XX-14 provides a logical and transportable next step up for our customers who have developed "aperture fever". Showing actual fields of view of up to 1.45 degrees of sky (with TeleVue's 31mm Nagler Type 5) the XX-14 can show nearly four times the area of sky (with a 6.7mm Exit Pupil) than our popular Celestron or Meade 14 inch catadioptric models, and at about 1/3 the cost of these catadioptric telescopes.

  We also added the Orion EON 80ED, an affordable (~$600) compact and multipurpose f/6.3 apochromatic refracting telescope that has become quite a popular and handy compact telescope at Company Seven. With actual fields of view with eyepieces of up to 5.4 degrees at magnifications as low as 12X; this is suitable even for panoramic work, wide sky applications including use as a superb finder telescope. Furthermore, its overall good qualities allow higher magnification work that provides clearly identifiable views of the major changing features on the planets.

  Being so impressed with the value of the EON 80ED we also put on display the EON 120 ED, a 120mm (4.7 inch) aperture f/7.5 apochromatic refractor. The EON 120ED with its noteworthy increase in light gathering power over most 4 inch Apos, but selling for about 1/2 the price tends to make up with size what the lens may lack in overall performance and as such will attract many people back to Apos who seek a 4" Apo but can not afford our top line 4" apos. Furthermore, at low to mid magnifications this ~$1800 telesocope brings in visual deep sky images better than even our better 4" apos owing to the 22% increase in light throughput of the 120mm lens compared to most better 102-105mm class apos. And at f/7.5 the telescope remains handy, and can work well with a broad selection of less costly eyepiece designs even though most customers buying this telescope do recognize the value of investing in premium eyepieces. The EON 120 ED includes hinged Hex mounting rings and a V series mounting plate; these make it suitable for many applications even as a guide telescope or it can easily accept an optional photo-guide telescope.

  The EON 80ED and the EON 120ED are fully machined well thought out telescopes. Each is provided with a 2 inch diameter Crayford style focuser, with dual speed geared focus control - and the entire focuser can be rotated to facilitate composition when imaging with film/digital or CCD cameras. An optional field flattener lens (for imaging applications) is among the available options. Each of these telescopes is furnished in a nicely made, comparatively light weight metal-clad and foam lined carrying case.

• The Spring 2010 production run of the Astro-Physics 130mm f6.3 Starfire EDF telescopes is sold out. Our Winter 2009-2010 production of the 1200GTO German Equatorial Mounts are sold out.

  Company Seven is now accepting orders for the portable Mach1GTO mounts. These will be completed for delivery between April and July 2010. We have been working on the custom design of a new Airline Transport Association Approved carrying/shipping case for the Mach1GTO head and accessories since September 2009! But it is only in recent days after making several prototypes that we have settled on the optimum arrangement for this new case. We hope to have the first case completed in another week or so by mid March. Once we sort out what our costs have been to get this far then we will be able to quote a price for this new product.

  We updated our Astro-Physics Products Availability information page to reflect this and other developments.

Changes in October 2009:

• The sole 2009 production run of the Astro-Physics 900GTO German Equatorial Mount is sold out at the factory. However, Company Seven has one new uncommitted 90GTO mount available from this Fall 2009 production run for sale, these will arrive in November or early December. Furthermore, Company Seven is now accepting orders for the larger 1200 GTO mounts for delivery between late December 2009 into April 2010. We updated our Astro-Physics Products Availability information page to reflect this and other developments.

• 20 March 2010 Event: Company Seven Supporting NASA Sun-Earth Day educational activity. This year's theme will take us on a journey into the heart of the electromagnetic force.

• Posted updates regarding the status of the former Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory, since relocated to Maryland as we work to establish our own Astronomical Observatory to promote science education for primary and middle school children. We explain how we are also in discussions to house the telescope nearby Company Seven at a research laboratory.

Changes in September 2009:

• Added another example to explain why Company Seven performs in-house quality control acceptance testing and evaluation of new incoming telescopes. Today we added interesting test results of 16 inch primary mirrors that failed our evaluation process this month.

• 25 & 29: In April of 2009 Company Seven passed the 29th anniversary of our founding as a legally licensed tax paying business in 1980. In 1980 Company Seven was originally established at a business location in Bladensburg, Maryland about a 25 minutes drive south of our current location. Now we celebrate having opened our first full time dedicated telescope store on 1 October 1984 at 930 Fairlawn Avenue in the the old 'Laurel Center'. We have since operated a showroom in Laurel continuously for 25 years, and since October 1986 we have been in our present showroom at 14300 Cherry Lane Court in Laurel.

  When we opened there was a telescope shop operated by an enthusiast ("Tuthill the astronomer's friend", etc.) in almost every major city. However, by 2009 Company Seven finds itself among the very few and longest lived competent astronomical telescope oriented specialty showrooms left in the Americas. Throughout this time while others promoted themselves ('bigger', 'cheaper', 'snazzier', 'order now on-line') we outlasted most of them by simply promoting our hobby. We have helped to establish astronomy clubs in schools and communities in the USA and overseas as well. The name 'Company Seven' is synonymous with uncommonly high standards of integrity and competence, and for unflinching loyalty to those who have elected to associate themselves with us.

  We are not sure who should thank who the most: our customers thanking us or us thanking our customers but every new acquaintance has been a privilege for us and we are happy to know we can travel the world and meet friends who share our passions. Thank you!

  Unfortunately for us there is too much work to do, and so do not look for any parties or back slapping at Company Seven this month.

Changes in August 2009:

• Updated our Consigned/Used Astronomical And Terrestrial Telescopes And Mounts page listing several spare used, demo or consigned telescopes and mounts for sale by Company Seven.

• Posted updates regarding the status of the former Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory, since relocated to Maryland as we work to establish our own Astronomical Observatory to promote science education for primary and middle school children. We explain how George Mason University is working to have the telescope installed at their new observatory building topped with an Ash 6 meter diameter dome (1 meter larger than our own) at their Fairfax campus for a one or two year loan.

• Posted to our Questar Section Library another document from our Archives: "Instructions for Questar Powerguide". A moderate resolution scanned copy of original Questar complete three page typed instructions for the version of the Powerguide AC-DC powered Drive Corrector as was provided up to about 1985. The copy shows fold marks and its age resulting from how it was stored in a Powerguide lid. Scanned copy of original from Company Seven's Archives. Download size is 230,133 bytes (in Acrobat Reader ".pdf" format).
  

• Added information to our article "Questar Service, Upgrades or Conversions, And Repair" about servicing Questar telescopes. In particular we explain and illustrate how fungus can damage telescope optics over time including images of a Questar 3-½ which arrived recently for service with advanced optics damage.

• Added illustrated article "Questar 1.25" Brandon Vernonscope Eyepiece Canisters" describing the original 1970's protective metal cylindrical canisters sold as accessories for the Questar eyepieces in the early 1970's. From Company Seven's Museum Collection.

• Added illustrated article "Questar Eyepiece Canisters" Article describing new protective metal cylindrical canisters sold as accessories for the Questar eyepieces.

• Added illustrated article "Questar 3-½ Counterweight" Article describing sold as accessories for all Questar 3-½ inch field or astronomical telescopes.

Changes in July 2009:

• Posted updates regarding the status of the former Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory, since relocated to Maryland as we work to establish our own Astronomical Observatory to promote science education for primary and middle school children. We explain how the telescope was shown at NEAF, an astronomy show this Spring, and how the telescope is being updated to represent the state of the art in RC tech.

• Posted "Introducing The Questar 12", a moderate resolution reprint of original two-third page advertisement from October 1979 issue of Scientific American magazine. Content Copyright 1979 Questar Corp. Scanned copy of original from Company Seven's Archives.

• Announced the sole 2009 production run of the Astro-Physics 900GTO German Equatorial Mount. We updated our Astro-Physics Products Availability information page to reflect this and other developments. Company Seven is accepting orders now for the 900 GTO for delivery from August to about October 2009.

• Posted review of Baader Color Filter Set, 2 Inch Diameter. This selection of filters include lighter and darker variations of red, green, yellow and blue in 2 inch diameter (50.8 mm) thread-on housings. These are particularly desirable for:
  • use on telescopes with longer focal lengths on the order of >2,800 mm, where 2 inch diameter eyepieces may make sense when viewing the entire Moon or planets,
  • use with binocular viewing attachments with two inch diameter eyepiece holders,
  • with 2 inch diameter nosepiece or field fittings,
  • tacking with other color or nebular filters to narrow the band pass. And for special effects or compensation when imaging with film or CCD cameras.

• While working on our Baader filters section we expanded our review of Baader Oxygen III IR Cut 8.5nm Narrowband CCD/Visual Pass Filter. The Baader Planetarium has developed several of the most precisely engineered very narrow bandpass Nebula Filters, and this Oxygen III IR (Infrared) Cut is our best 8.5nm Narrowband Pass filter. Evolved from the original Oxygen III filters, this is made with features that are desirable for CCD imaging as well as for visual applications.

Changes in May 2009:

• On 15 May Leica Camera announced Save MORE Green a new Binocular $350 Rebate program. This provides a rare discount in the form of a $350 rebate directly to the customer from Leica Camera, Inc. after buying any new full size Leica Ultravid HD or Ultravid, Geovid or Geovid HD* Binocular between 15 May and 30 September 2009 from Company Seven, an Authorized North American Leica Retailer. This $350 program was organized since the original program (ending last month) was never well advertised, or announced in a timely manner, and was too limited - so Leica simplified and made it even better!

  * The original announcement included the Geovid HD models however, Leica later issued a correction notice stating these would not be in the rebate. As a tangible expression of their regret Leica agreed to honor rebates for Geovid HD but only of sold by Company Seven through 25 May.

  Save MORE Money!

  To claim your rebate simply fill out the Mail in rebate redemption form, include a copy of the Company Seven sales receipt along with a completed copy of your product warranty registration card (included in every new Leica product box), then mail it in.
  

Changes in April 2009:

• Posted new illustrated article Accessory Cases: Suggestions by Company Seven explaining why accessory carrying cases are really important and with a discussion about what cases we do recommend and some don'ts too.

• Posted review of Star Testing Astronomical Telescopes: A Manual for Optical Evaluation and Adjustment, Second Edition. A hardcover book written by Harold Richard Suiter. Released this month, this is The Bible of telescope star testing and adjustment. This continues the fine tradition set by the first edition, but this adds even more information and presents it in ways that are more readily comprehended by a broader readership. It is a great choice for those who wish to better understand their telescopes, and possibly improve the performance of that telescope. Company Seven recommends this title for those persons who have decided to buy an astronomical telescope, or for those who are now considering the choice of astronomical telescope. This can be most helpful when you receive a new telescope since it will teach you how to perform a simple "Star Test", a test method that can be used at the observing site, so that all the problems that impact on a telescope's optical performance can be diagnosed. And since most telescopes are roughly handled during shipping and they often arrive out of proper alignment, "Star Testing Astronomical Telescopes" teaches one how identify if a telescope is out of adjustment ("collimation"), and it will provide insights into how to remedy it.

• Posted our review of the Leica GEOVID 8x 42 and 10x 42 BRF distance measuring binoculars. These combine precision optics with laser range finder to not only see distant objects in great detail but also to know their distance from you.

  

• Announced the Leica GEOVID LUX 8x 56 BRF Range Finding /Data-Voice Transmitting Binoculars. A cousin of the innovative Leica GEOVID series of range measuring binoculars, these combine precision light gathering optics with an integral electronic communications module and a sophisticated system of prisms to enable a totally new form of audiovisual communication. Besides viewing distant objects the user of these binoculars can also talk to other binocular users via a headset.

  Using light waves the LightSpeed technology transmits voices in the field of view of the binoculars up to a distance of 1-½ miles (2-½ km) crystal-clear, without any interference, day and night. Even data such as text or images can be fed in via the USB port and transmitted at a rate of up to 1 Mbps. This development has evolved from a cooperation arrangement with the well-known secure electronics development company in the USA. This form of bug-proof communication offers special police and military units a wealth of tactical advantages. The extremely compact yet powerful LEICA GEOVID LUX 8x 56 also has further application potential in stalking, industry and rescue services. US and allied governments agencies should contact Company Seven to obtain our DLA or ORCA information.

  What will they think of next?
  

Changes in March 2009:

• On 3 March Leica Camera announced Save Some Green a new $250 Spring Rebate. This provides a rare discount in the form of a $250 rebate directly to the customer from Leica Camera, Inc. after buying any new Leica Ultravid HD 8x or 10x 42mm Binocular between 3 March and 30 April 2009 from Company Seven, an Authorized North American Leica Retailer.
  Save Money!

  To claim your rebate simply fill out the redemption form, include a copy of the Company Seven sales receipt along with a completed copy of your product warranty registration card (included in every new Leica product box), then mail it in.

• Started work on an entirely new section describing the high-technology superbly well engineered tripods and other accessories made by Particle Wave Technologies. Company Seven particularly recommends the Pinnacle and Monolith series tripods for the most demanding (and more affluent) customers who buy mounts including our Astro-Physics GTO series, Losmandy G-11 and Titan mounts. We finally came around to write about the DDCAP desiccant containing covers for telescopes even though we have been selling the Astro-Physics engraved version (P/N PWDDC2) since 2005. We will add more and more to this section over coming weeks, including reviews of our experiences with these products.

• Posted announcement at Company Seven's Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability page that we are now accepting orders for the Astro-Physics Mach1 GTO Go To computer controlled mount. We also completely revised our write up of the Mach1GTO to reflect latest news, and choices of options including the custom tripods made by Particle Wave for Company Seven. The article about this mount now goes into more advice about how to pick the components necessary to make a complete system.

• Posted our long overdue write up about the Orion DeepMap 600, a durable folding plasticized Star Chart. This is among those indispensable publications that Company Seven recommends to those who are interested in learning their way around the night sky. Steve Peters, the editor of DeepMap 600, conceived of this chart of the night sky geared for customers who are new or moderately experienced to the hobby and who buy a telescope or binocular and now seek out what to see and when. Fully color illustrated, the DeepMap 600 shows the positions of more than six hundred of the finest celestial objects visible from the Northern Hemisphere. Each of these objects are plotted on a giant 33 x 21 inch full-color star chart by world-renowned celestial cartographer Wil Tirion. The chart is easy to read, and you will see more of the night sky when reading this with an optional red flashlight. But what really makes this star chart invaluable is its convenience, it folds "accordion style" into a thin pocket-size 4-¾ x 10-½ inches format - just like a road map!

  To learn more about how impressive this handy chart is, browse the DeepMap's more than 600 contents: Deep-Sky Objects Catalog, Double and Multiple Stars, Steve Gottlieb's Top Variable Stars. These can be found in our Library Orion Notes & Interesting Articles page. For the inexperienced beginner we also recommend acquiring the large David H. Levy Guide to the Stars Planisphere.

• Much new Leica activity at this site, this was motivated by the arrival of a really amazing new APO-TELEVID spotting telescope from Leica Camera AG. We posted a detailed review of the Leica APO-TELEVID 82 Spotting Telescopes that we are finally stocking. This is not a rehash of manufacturer literature, instead Company Seven waits to evaluate new line production samples firsthand before we decide whether or not to offer them; this may explain why we are often among the last retailers to market newly announced products - we wait until they are a reality. So this review is based on direct experience, and is a well illustrated article describing this state of the art durable spotting telescope. We also explain it's first new eyepiece the VARIO 20 - 50x WW ASPH a Aspeheric wide angle zoom lens with continuous 60 degree apparent field of view. This new VARIO eyepiece is to be followed by a new 32x WW and by a VARIO 20 - 60x Zoom. We review and explain the optional Leica APO-TELEVID 82 Ever Ready Case pros and some cons too which we conveyed to Leica Camera AG. In these economic hard times this may be out of reach for most mere mortals, but we can at least wonder about this incredible accomplishment of technology.

  Also added on our site an improved Leica Accessories for Binoculars and Spotting Telescopes index page. This links to several new articles: Leica Binocular Tripod Adapter, Polarizing Filters for the TELEVID, UV Protective Filters for the TELEVID, a well illustrated discussion of the brilliantly engineered and simple to use Leica Digital Camera Adapter used for 'digiscopy' (or 'digiscoping') with compact digital cameras or cell phones ('phonescopy'?). Of course, those demanding the best results with digital or film SLR camera can use the Leica SLR Photographic Camera Adapter.

  While we were adding information about the new Leica APO-TELEVID 82 we dramatically revised and expanded our reviews of the Leica Leica Binoculars. And unfortunately, we also revised Leica Pricing section to reflect 1 January 2009 changes and new products.

• Added new page describing a new accessory we are offering for Telrads sold by Company Seven, the 2 and 4 Inch Riser for the Telrad Sight. This is an insert that is bolted onto the Telrad Sight Base adding height so that the sight radius clears obstructions on telescopes (dew shield/lens shade, mounting rings, etc.). For use with stage lighting, this can place the Telrad higher off the heat generating surface, or put the Telrad Sight window at a more convenient orientation for the technician.

Changes in February 2009:

• Posted updates regarding the status of the former Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory, since relocated to Maryland as we work to establish our own Astronomical Observatory to promote science education for primary and middle school children.

• Posted announcement by SBIG of the new AllSky-340 CCD System, their third generation of imaging system that permits the continuous acquisition of high quality 180 degree views of the sky. Originally the AllSky camera concept was developed so that remotely operated astronomical observatories could monitor the changing sky and weather conditions. Since their introduction some remarkable accomplishments have been made with these instruments including the detection of meteors streaking across the sky; the images from these first generation systems were so good that scientists could use the data gathered by several of these systems in adjoining states to determine the trajectory and other information about these alien visitors!

Changes in January 2009:

• Posted illustrated article explaining Hubble Space Telescope and work performed by Martin Cohen and Company Seven as contractors on the NASA First Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission / NASA STS-61 Mission. The repair mission to fix the Hubble was launched aboard Space Shuttle Endeavor on 2 December 1993. This article contains the only known photograph of our Beneficent Dictator!

• Posted review of discussion and following laboratory session by Martin Cohen of Company Seven at Worchester Polytechnic Institute "Integrative Materials Design Center" on 4 to 5 December 2008. He spoke on the subject of "Long Distance Microscopy for Materials Evaluation". Read more about the iMdc and an overview of the presentation.

• Posted revised our Consigned/Used Astronomical And Terrestrial Telescopes And Mounts page listing several spare used, demo or consigned telescopes and mounts for sale by Company Seven.

Changes in November 2008:

• Posted announcement at Company Seven's Astro-Physics Telescope and Mount Availability page that we are now accepting orders for the Astro-Physics 13cm EDF f/6.3 "Gran Tourismo" telescope and 1200 GTO German Equatorial "Go To" mount.

• Posted revised our Consigned/Used Astronomical And Terrestrial Telescopes And Mounts page listing several spare used, demo or consigned telescopes and mounts for sale by Company Seven.

• Updated Company Seven index and home pages to reflect change to Standard Time.

Changes in October 2008:

• Posted announcement of the coming event on 20 March 2009 when Company Seven will again support the NASA Sun-Earth Day educational activities. This coming year's theme will be a celebration of the International Year of Astronomy.

Changes in September 2008:

• Posted the announcement with specifications about the new TeleVue 6mm Ethos and 17mm Ethos eyepieces. These are the third and fourth of their newest eyepiece design series, and are previewed at our TeleVue News & Developments page. Since the TeleVue 13mm Ethos eyepiece was introduced in 2007 we have enjoyed the opportunity to experience the amazing 100 degree apparent field of view. And we anticipate a similar experience while we accept orders for the new 6mm Ethos and 17mm Ethos, with deliveries planned to commence in January or February 2009.

• Revised our articles describing two of our favorite books for the beginning to intermediate amateur astronomer: Backyard Astronomer's Guide: 3rd Edition Revised and Expanded in 2008 by Terrence Dickinson and Alan Dyer. And Nightwatch Revised 2006 Edition reprinted in 2008, a softcover spiral bound book also by Terrence Dickinson that is a among the best laid out and best written budding amateur astronomer's guides to understanding the night sky.

  Also published our review of the Astronomy 2009 color illustrated wall calendar edited by Terrence Dickinson.

Changes in August 2008:

• Published prices for the new Astro-Physics 3600GTO 'El Capitan' high performance German Equatorial Mount. Announced in October 2007 and in production throughout most of 288, the mount features a working payload capacity of about 250 lbs. / 114 kg. It is transportable, with Astro-Physics recommending at least two able bodies to attend to it. This mount is designed to follow several other Astro-Physics 900GTO and Astro-Physics 1200GTO mounts that have performed remarkably well in climates as harsh as Antarctica! You will like what you see and read about these mounts.

  Pricing and availability information for this product are now on line, and we are accepting orders for deliveries starting in late September and continuing into the Fall 2008. It is planned that Company Seven will order one for display in our showroom and so you will be able to see it here. However, we are not certain how many more of these mounts will be made in the near future, so we encourage those who seek a premium mount at an unrivaled price order from this current production run.

Changes in July 2008:

• Posted updates regarding the status of the Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory and our plans to relocate it to Maryland to establish our own MCCM Observatory.

  For readers interest, and to aid clubs who plan to build an observatory we added another Image Gallery illustrating the Disassembly of the Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory Telescope and Dome from 22 to 25 June 2008. We then loaded the facility and transported it to Maryland, arriving on 27 June. The shipment was unloaded into a storage facility on 30 June.

  So now we own and posses the Observatory telescopes, Dome, facilities, blueprints, and images that document this process. This documentation should make the disassembly and reassembly go much more quickly and uneventfully.

• Posted the first several pages of a new product line at Company Seven. The US based manufacturer Pier-Tech, Inc. has engineered several remarkable solutions for those who need a professional quality Observatory but at a cost that most amateurs can justify. Company Seven has been recommending the product line to some of our customers, even before we agreed to distribute them. In particular we are drawn to the Tele-Station series of observatories with their sliding roof arrangements, and also to their series of Piers including motorized elevating models. We are also gradually adding drawings and instruction manuals for Pier-Tech products at our Pier-Tech 'Notes & Interesting Articles' page.

Changes in June 2008:

• Posted updates regarding the status of the Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory and our plans to relocate it to Maryland to establish our own MCCM Observatory.

  For readers interest, and to aid clubs who plan to build an observatory we added Image Galleries sections illustrating the 1999 Construction Of The Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory Facilities, and Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory RC-24 Telescope Installation.

  So now we own the Observatory telescopes, facilities, blueprints, and images that document this process. This documentation should make the disassembly and reassembly go much more quickly and uneventfully.

• Updated our Astro-Physics Product Availability Page to reflect the announcement of the new 130mm f6.3 Starfire EDF Apochromatic refracting telescope. The first of two production runs is well underway, and we anticipate starting to make deliveries in July continuing through November 2008. Company Seven will be referring to our waiting list to determine to whom our allocation will be offered, as such we will be selling these by invitation only.

• Posted an entirely new product line to Company Seven. We explain the EXFO Fluorescence Illumination systems. These are sold in support of our UV capable microscopes for use in research, industry, and law enforcement studies conducted below 400nm. The line features the EXFO X-Cite 120 XL, EXFO X-Cite 120PC XL, and the new EXFO X-Cite exacte illumination systems and the optional X-Cite Radiometer.

Changes in May 2008:

• Posted new page describing the Optec TCF-S3 Temperature Compensating Focuser, the new larger version of their pioneering TCF-S Temperature Compensating Focuser. The TCF-S3 can be controlled locally or remotely. And it features a clear aperture of 3 inches (76.2 mm) thereby accommodating the larger format (and heavier) CCD cameras including those Large Format models we offer by SBIG.

Changes in April 2008:

• Posted introductory information about the Astro-Physics 12 inch f/12.5 Mak-Cass telescope optical tube assembly at our pages Latest News and Developments from Astro-Physics and at Astro-Physics Telescopes and Mounts Availability. Company Seven expects to refer to our waiting lists and extend invitations when orders are being accepted. MARTY ASKED FOR "12 EDF" - not another scope with a hole in it!

• Posted the announcement with specifications about the new TeleVue 8mm Ethos eyepiece. This is the second of their newest eyepiece design series and is explained at our TeleVue News & Developments page. Since the TeleVue 13mm Ethos eyepiece was introduced in 2007 we have enjoyed the opportunity to experience the amazing 100 degree apparent field of view. And we anticipate a similar experience while we accept orders for the new 8mm Ethos, with deliveries planned to commence in July or August 2008.

• Posted pricing and availability information about the Astro-Physics Mach1 GTO German Equatorial Mount at our page Astro-Physics Telescopes and Mounts Availability. Company Seven expects to start referring to our waiting list and extend invitations to order within days.

• Heading off investigative efforts by the Washington Post and New York Times, Company Seven formally confirmed its participation in the 'MCCM' project. It goes against our nature to divulge any mention of these types of activities, but we weighed the merits against the consequences before arriving at this conclusion. We rarely act out of fear, but it would have been only a matter of days before Mike Wallace and the '60 Minutes' news team would probably have appeared at our doorstep.

• In January 2008 Company Seven decided to acquire a used Criterion RV-6 Dynascope. This is a 6 inch f/8 equatorial reflecting telescope originally sold new in December 1962. It is uncommonly complete and original, with original sales invoice and some documentation. The RV-6 represents to us one of that class of amateur telescopes that from the 1950's into the 1970's gave many amateurs their first good glimpse of the celestial wonders, and inspired the passion in us for the hobby. We consider this class of telescope to be so significant that we have incorporated it into our Museum Collection, and now display it alongside an original Celestron 8 from the 1970's and one of the last well made 8 inch f/6 equatorial reflecting telescope from the 1980's a Meade Model 826C.

  In keeping with our goals of conservation and documentation we have prepared an article Criterion RV-6 Dynascope: these introduced many of us to visual astronomy. The article describes the RV-6 acquired by Company Seven, the RV-6 as it changed over the decades, and some history of the Criterion Manufacturing Co. who made this telescope, and provides insight into the evolution and marketing of these types of instruments from the 1950's through the peak of the Apollo space program, and into the 1980's. The telescope is likely to be conserved and not restored to like new, but over time as we learn more about it then we will edit the articles to share the information.

  Furthermore, in a rare collaboration we have arranged permission to use images taken by Tom McDonough of the restoration of a Criterion RV-6 at Criterion RV-6 Dynascope Restoration Gallery. This was a lot of hard work but for a subject close to the heart, it is worthwhile.

• Posted article about the new Baader Planetarium U-Filter (UV & Venus Filter). Nicknamed "UG11xx" by some in the photo industry, the BPU2 is a specialized UV pass filter made only in 2 inch diameter for use on a telescope or UV capable lens attached to a webcam/CCD, digital SLR, or other sensor. It has produced some remarkable images of Venus, the Sun, and word is spreading fast among amateur and professional photographer who are discovering the world of UV imaging thanks to sensitive digital SLR cameras.

• Posted a new article in our Questar Library section. The Questar 3-½ Star Chart & Moon Map provides an illustrated description of the beautiful devices that have since 1954 been recognized as trademark examples of the innovation and convenience that is the Questar telescope. We also explain how these may be employed to facilitate navigating the night sky and the Moon.

• Updated our TeleVue Product Prices page to reflect the end of the TeleVue Factory Authorized Sale - "13/13", this was a successful and rare opportunity for people to have meaningful savings on their purchases. Note however the TeleVue Factory Authorized Telescopes 10% Price Reduction that provides a 10% reduction in prices for all TeleVue telescope sets, optical tube assemblies, and the spotting scope package remains in effect for the time being.

• Announced the TeleVue Factory Authorized Telescopes 10% Price Reduction that provides a 10% reduction in prices for all TeleVue telescope sets, optical tube assemblies, and the spotting scope package. For detailed price listings please read our TeleVue Product Prices page.

• Added additional information to our Geochron World Clock section. And on Technical Info page we feature images of a custom Cherry wood Boardroom Model made by Geochron for the owner of Company Seven. Also added additional information about how these units are constructed. Published an article at Geochron News to discuss the change of ownership where Geochron Enterprises Inc. was sold to an investor group, and the resulting relocation of the factory from Redwood City, CA.

• Added the Fujinon 10x 70mm MT-SX and the Fujinon 10x 50mm FMTR-SX binocular to our Fujinon Binoculars section. This pretty much completes our reviews of their 50mm to 70mm, and some 150mm aperture models - just in time for Comet Holmes 17P!

  Incidentally, the Fujinon 10x 70mm MT-SX binocular illustrated by us in our review actually FAILED Company Seven's in house inspection process, and it was returned to the manufacturer. Look at the image, can you find the anomaly? We are amused that most E-tailers never even see the box, while a few other shops claim they check what they sell yet few return anything to the distributor. Now, where will you buy your own binocular or telescope?

• Completed and posted article describing the Piggyback Mount for Questar 3-½ Astronomical Models. This is another one of the numerous specialized accessories developed by Questar decades ago when they were pretty much alone in providing such comprehensive solutions for so many pursuits in the hobby.

• Completed and posted article describing the optional Losmandy GPS, a receiver that is made to attach to the control panel of the Losmandy Gemini mount control system to automatically provide the system with location, date and UTC Time.

• Reverted the Company 7 index page to read Eastern Standard Time.

• Published a preview of a new coming high performance German Equatorial Mount: the Astro-Physics Model 3600GTO German Equatorial Mount. Nicknamed 'el Capitan', this mount features a working payload capacity of about 250 lbs. / 114 kg. It is transportable, with Astro-Physics recommending at least two able bodies to attend to it. This mount is designed to follow several other Astro-Physics 900GTO and Astro-Physics 1200GTO mounts that have performed remarkably well in climates as harsh as Antarctica! You will like what you see and read here. Pricing and exact availability have not yet been determined so we are establishing a wait list of candidates for this product.

• We produced a detailed and well ordered series of articles explaining and illustrating the NP127is, TeleVue's 5 inch Imaging System telescope, and their Imaging System collection of accessories. The Imaging System (or 'is') was introduced in the Spring of 2006 consisting of a selection of new accessories developed by TeleVue specifically to complement their 'is' series telescopes including: Telecompressor or Field Corrector lenses, adapters for a variety of CCD and film imaging uses, the Focusmate™ two speed focus mechanism with control options including digital readout, remote control, and more. While intrigued, we were simultaneously disappointed by TeleVue's decision to drop the original TeleVue NP127 5 inch Apo from production. And we held concerns that some that some of the 'is' accessories resembled poorly executed afterthoughts. Furthermore, TeleVue made a decision as a manufacturer to promote only a handful of E-Tailers as 'featured dealers'; this practice while not unprecedented in this industry undermines what remains of the few competent, service oriented specialty telescope showrooms. So in 2006 and into 2007 Company Seven determined there was no need to divert our resources to support the 'is' effort.

  Over 2007 our opinion of the 'is' accessory products changed as we observed the system become more refined and expand into a more comprehensive and better performing solution. And frankly, several of these telescope are just too good not to feature for our clientele. And so in the interest of supporting C7's customers who are buying 'is' telescopes, we made the effort to demystify the system. Writing these illustrated articles was a bit of a Herculean task since the system is at first glance confusing, and even the initial materials provided to us by TeleVue were simply overwhelming. Regardless, our result will be helpful to our customers.

• Posted new articles of historic interest: Original Leather Case for the Questar 3-½ Telescope describing the English made saddle leather case provided by Questar with their new 3-½ telescopes sold from 1954 to 1962. We also completed Leather Case For Questar 3-½ Telescopes 1962-1970s describing the rigid leather case provided by Questar with their 3-½ telescopes sold from 1962 into the 1970s. Both cases illustrated are in Company Seven's Museum Collection.

  And another article that is more relevant to today describes the Deluxe Leather Case which may be ordered as an upgrade in place of the standard Vinyl-Clad Case when ordering a new Questar Questar Standard or Duplex astronomical telescope. The leather case is provided as part of the standard equipment with the limited production Questar 50th Anniversary Model telescope.

• Announced the TeleVue Factory Authorized Sale - "13/13" that provides a 13% Savings for 13 Weeks from 1 October through 28 December 2007 at Company Seven! This event celebrates the release of the TeleVue 13mm Ethos Eyepiece and it applies to ALL their other highly desirable eyepieces. The price reduction includes TeleVue DIOPTRX™ Astigmatism Correction Lenses, Barlow lenses, Nagler eyepieces, Plossl eyepieces, Powermate lenses, and Radian eyepieces. For detailed price listings please read our TeleVue Product Prices page.

• Updated Leica Prices page to reflect the latest increases necessitated by the devaluation of the US Dollar against the European currencies.

Changes in September 2007:

• Published our review of the new TeleVue 'Ethos' eyepiece. This new eyepiece design was previously announced at our TeleVue News & Developments page. But it was only in this month that we had the opportunity to experience it's 100 degree apparent field of view.

• The introductory pricing and availability for the new TeleVue 'Ethos' eyepieces has been announced. This new eyepiece design was announced by TeleVue at an astronomy convention, while Company Seven was first to publicize it at our TeleVue News & Developments page. This stunning new eyepiece features a 100 degree apparent field of view. The Ethos series of eyepieces are coming available at Company Seven in September and since we have been accepting orders against our first shipment of 13mm Ethos, and now that we can actually say what these will cost we are proceeding to contacting those who are on our list to finalize the sales. The cost incidentally is somewhat less that we guess it would be, with an introductory price of $620. The cost is along the lines of the other TeleVue "Über Eyepieces" including the 31mm Nagler Type 5, nicknamed "The TermiNagler". Come visit one of the last remaining showroom oriented telescope specialty shops in the Americas to see the new 13mm Ethos.

• Updated our Astro-Physics Product Availability Page to reflect the announcement of the new 140mm f7.5 Starfire EDF Apochromatic refracting telescope. These are available with the customer's choice of either 2.7 or 4 inch diameter focuser, and both of these are equipped with the popular FeatherTouch dual geared (1 to 1, and 9 to 1 reduction) focuser. The first production run is well underway, and we anticipate starting to make deliveries in September and October 2007! Company Seven will be referring to our waiting list to determine to whom our allocation will be offered, as such we will be selling these by invitation only.

Changes in July 2007:

• We started to accept new orders for the 2007 Model Astro-Physics 1200GTO German Equatorial Mounts on 12 July, anticipating delivery of the first mounts in the August through November 2007. Company Seven will refer first to our waiting lists of people who previously expressed their interest in these mounts, and we should have enough slots to accommodate all on our waiting list and some new comers too. You may refer to Astro-Physics 1200GTO and Astro-Physics GTO Control System pages for the most up to date information about these mounts.

Changes in June 2007:

• Added article "Arthur C. Clarke's comments about his Questar 3-1/2". An excerpt from the nonfiction book "The Treasure of the Great Barrier Reef" by Arthur C. Clarke (b. 1917) where he described his Questar 3-1/2 as "the finest small telescope ever built--the 3-1/2 inch Questar, a jewel of precision optics which has produced close-ups of the moon that could easily be mistaken for Mount Wilson photographs". We also add some notes that we found interesting about the the locations upon which the book is based. From Company Seven's archives.

Changes in May 2007:

• Updated our Geochron world time display section to show the various vinyl, wood, and leather finishes in which the Geochron can me made, and to clean up appearance and logical arrangement of the site. Also added articles to our Geochron Library describing how to install the Geochron with either the Surface Mount or Flush Mount hardware. The Geochron remains one of the most stunning and educational mechanical devices that can grace a home or office.

• Updated our Universal Astronomics Price page to bring it in line with 2007 changes. This product line offers quite well engineered alt-azimuth mount systems for telescopes and wonderful parallelogram mounts for binoculars. But there are many choices with many names of products that are similar, so that it is daunting for the mere mortal to deconvolute the product descriptions and understand what really works with what. So we added illustrations to this page, and describe the items a bit better to help our own staff as well as our customers understand it better. In time we are likely to expand the UA area of our web site to include more of their interesting mount systems.

• Added even more information about the new TeleVue 'Ethos' eyepieces at our TeleVue News & Developments page. This stunning new eyepiece features a 100 degree apparent field of view. The prototype 13mm model was announced to the public on 28 April and demonstrated on the TeleVue NP101 attaining immediate critical acclaim. The Ethos series of eyepieces are expected to start coming available at Company Seven late in the Summer of 2007 and we are already accepting orders against our first shipments.

• Company Seven made the earthshaking decision to accept PayPal form of payment. We are traditionally excruciatingly cautious not only about what we offer to our clientele, but also about new business methods. And so our accepted forms of payment now include:

  Check or Money Order

  Mastercard

  Traveler Check

  PayPal

  VISA

  Western Union

  Wire Transfer

  For additional information refer to our Ordering Information page. But our clients should not be too concerned about this trend at Company Seven to operate something like a business; we will retain our unique character.

Changes in April 2007:

• Added new illustrated article in our Questar Library section describing the Questar Declination Vernier Manual Drive which was made through the 1980's for the Questar Standard and Questar Duplex 3-1/2 telescopes. Unit illustrated is from Company Seven's Museum Collection. Also added to our Questar Library Questar Powerguide Drive & Corrector describing an original AC and 12 volt DC powered drive control system for the Questar Fork Mounts. The Powerguide shown here is also from Company Seven's Museum Collection. Our goals include to be able to host an on line virtual museum that shows items that we have on display in our showroom and archives.

• Posted "Testing the Zenithstar 110 Triplet Apo" by Jan Adelaar and Fred Hissink of The Netherlands at our William Optics Notes & Interesting Articles page. This beautifully done complete five page color illustrated review of this versatile telescope. Includes sketches of Jupiter, reviews of deep sky obseving, discussion of experiences with imaging through the ZS 110 with a Digital SLR Camera accompanied by sample images of: The Great Nebula in Orion M-42, Saturn (with two of it's moons), and the Earth's Moon.

• Added illustrated review about the newly introduced Orion 120mm ED a 4.72 inch aperture f/7.5 apochromatic refracting telescope. This optical tube assembly is even better suited for most astronomical applications than it's popular smaller cousins the Orion 100mm ED and 80mm ED which were both introduced with much critical acclaim.

• Updated Technical Innovations Dome Prices page.

  Also added a new publication "Remote Control Astronomy Handbook" to our Technical Innovations Notes and Interesting Articles index page. Until now, there has been little printed information available on creating and operating robotic observatories with contemporary observing equipment and computers. This illustrated 57 page booklet as a service to the astronomy community by drawing on the experiences of the authors and that of our customers. This booklet will help you learn the practical side of operating a telescope and observatory by remote control. The Remote Control Astronomy Handbook describes how to automate an observatory including sections about the observatory, the telescope, cameras and computers. It is intended primarily for astronomers at the advanced amateur level and for professionals who need some orientation to the subject. Published March 2002 by John and Meg Menke, of Menke Scientific, Ltd. Copyright John & Meg Menke, from Company Seven's Library. Download size is 505,058 bytes (in Acrobat Reader ".pdf" format).

• Updated Leica Prices page to reflect the 2007 pricing.

• Updated Product Lines page to reflect the introduction of William Optics line of refracting telescopes and accessories. We have started to put this section on line and expect to get into publishing some detailed overviews of the individual telescopes that we are evaluating and showing including the Megrez 90 APO, FLT 110, and FLT 132 telescopes.

  As a side note, Company Seven's primary area of work is for Government and industry; the profits from this work have historically permitted our staff to operate the astronomical side of our business in a rather idealistic manner. However, recent demands upon our most capable staff, including extensive travel to overseas, have left us lacking the people to maintain and update this Web Site as we would routinely have preferred to do. Furthermore, we can not simply trust hiring a "Beltway Bandit" with no knowledge of our industry to maintain the site and provide the valuable and insightful content. So we ask for your patience as we adapt to the changing demands made of us. Note, our routine practices and our showroom operations continue unabated.

Changes in September 2006:

• Hosting an ilustrated article not related to Company Seven directly but interesting nonetheless since it explains what went wrong when one of our staff ordered a custom high tech bicycle frame based a well regarded manufacturer Internet advertising and catalogs, and those of the US based importer. My Colnago Misadventure: A C-50 FLR Bicycle Frame Nightmare, is an excellent business school lesson on how not to deliver what was promised, and then how to make attempt poor attempts to excuse even after the customer clearly shows what he received is not what was represented, and finally how to turn the customer completely off to your company. This is interesting, amusing, and almost tragic reading for any corporate CEO.

Changes in June 2006:

• Put on line an overview of the Questar 50th Anniversary Model, a limited production telescope that we have been offering since it was introduced in 2002. We are finally getting around to writing it up as we work to fill out our Questar section.

Changes in May 2006:

• Described the Telrad Pulser, a blinking circuit kit for the Telrad Sight.

• We revised our discussion of the Questar Duplex telescope. Described the Questar Powerguide II, the optional drive system for Questar telescope fork mounts. This permits the operation of the telescope world wide from a compact 9 volt DC battery, it can be ordered with a new telescope or installed as a retrofit. For historical purposes also put the original Questar Powerguide on line in our Notes & Interesting Articles section.

  We also describe the Questar 3-½ Declination Motor and Questar 7 Declination Motor to round out the discussion about the modern Powerguide. And to show our readers how it was done in the "good old days" we present the original Declination Vernier Manual Drive for the Questar Seven Fork Mount from Company Seven's Museum Collection.

  And to show a token effort to support our Birding clients (we would not wish to compromise our credentials among the astronomers) we revised our discussion of the Questar Field Model telescope. And we describe the new Questar 45 Degree Image Erecting Prism.

• Put on line a new article about the Fujinon 10x 50 mm FMT-SX binocular. A higher magnification cousin of the Fujinon 7x 50 mm FMT-SX.

• Revised our Losmandy Library Section to update some files and add new documents including:
  • "Gemini Control Center System Users Manual" The complete 83 page illustrated instruction manual as written by Daniel Goerlich, Michael Rudolph. Published April 2006.

  • "Gemini Astronomical Positioning System Users Manual Level 4" The complete 137 page illustrated instruction manual as written by Rene Goerlich, Michael Rudolph, David Sandage. Published April 2006.

  • "Gemini System Level 4 Serial Interface Command Description" The Gemini system supports a subset of the Meade® LX200 Command Set, this includes the complete command set for those who might wish to write their own software applications to communicate with the Gemini control system.

  • Described and illustrated the new Vixen Large Accessory Plate Part No. 2576, which replaces the former Part No. 2575 adding greater versatility.

• Put on line new article about the Questar Brandon Eyepiece Presentation Set. This is a limited production set including one each 32mm, 24mm, 16mm, 12mm, 8mm and the new 6mm Questar Brandon with beautiful red fabric lined walnut wood case. Also put on line information describing the about the regular production Questar Brandon Eyepieces.

• Put on line new article about the Questar Brandon Eyepiece Presentation Set. This is a limited production set including one each 32mm, 24mm, 16mm, 12mm, 8mm and the new 6mm Questar Brandon with beautiful red fabric lined walnut wood case. Also put on line information describing the about the regular production Questar Brandon Eyepieces.

• Put on line a new article about the Fujinon 10x 70 mm FMT-SX binocular. A cousin of the Fujinon 7x 50 mm FMT-SX and Fujinon 16x 70 mm FMT-SX binoculars, this new page rounds out our on line postings of our most popular mid aperture astronomical binoculars.

• Put on line a new article about the Fujinon 15x 60 mm HB binocular. The largest of their HB series, these are designed for the demanding applications of the naturalist and hunter where the binocular may be subjected to shock, vibration, and environmental extremes hence their HB (Hunting Binocular) suffix. These are a center focus roof prim arrangement offering a good balance of optical performance and cost, with waterproof Military Spec. robust construction.

Changes in April 2006:

• Put on line an overview of the new Vixen Skypod, a STAR BOOK TYPE S computer controlling a "Go To" alt-azimuth mount. The Vixen North America company is not importing this to the USA, not even offering it through their preferred three "E-Tailers". However, Company Seven will provide this product as a service for clients of Company Seven only on a special order basis. If demand accelerates then we may show the mount in our showroom. In time, we expect Vixen North America will offer and support the product too.

• Put on line the page Company Seven ATA Cases for Telescopes, Mounts, Sensitive Instruments providing a brief overview of the custom designed transport and storage cases we make for optical and mechanical systems, for sensitive electronics including computer CPU's and monitors. Our ATA cases meet or exceed all the requirements set for the by the Airline Transport Association. Our Military Spec. cases add to the durability of the ATA cases added resistance to environmental extremes and anti reflection treatment of the hardware.

• Expanded the page Company Seven Telescope & Lens Repair or Refurbishment Services to include illustrations of recent projects undertaken by Company Seven for one of our long term customers featuring "The Poster Child of Abused Telescopes".

• Put on line the David H. Levy Guide to the Stars, our most recommended Planisphere. The night sky is mapped with the Constellations being those patterns recognizable to man since time immemorial. Constellations can be thought of as countries or states on a world map, where if you seek the Grand Canyon then you know to find Arizona. While in the night sky when one seeks the Great Nebula then one looks toward the Constellation Orion. The Planisphere is the simplest device with which to start ones' trek into the night sky.

  The Planisphere makes it very easy for one to find out what constellations and major deep sky objects are up overhead at any given time of the day or night. These are made in two sizes 11 or 16 inch diameter, available in either English or Spanish, and for use in either Northern or Southern Hemispheres. These are a two piece plastic disc assembly with a map of the entire night sky one the rear chart disc, and another overlay disc attached over the chart disc. The overlay has a transparent window with a surrounding mask to simulate the North, South, East and West horizons. The overlay is dialed to line up its local time indicator marks with the Month and Day printed around the edge of the chart disc, and so when properly set this will reveal what parts of the sky may be seen at any time of the year. We prefer the larger 16 inch model because the writing is larger and easer to read under red flashlight. The print is black lettering against a white background sky and is easy to read under red light.

Changes in March 2006:

• Continued adding to our Fujinon section. Added our illustrated review of the 7x 50 FMTRC-SX Marine Binocular being a top rated, best buy in its class. The 7x 50 FMTRC-SX is a compass equipped cousin of the famous 7x 50 FMT-SX Binocular. And also posted an accessory for the 7x 50 FMTRC-SX, the Binocular Compass Illuminator for marine and terrestrial applications. Company Seven continues to be the only retailer working so diligently to inform its clientele!

• Published announcement about the sale of DayStar Filter Co. assets to ICSTARS, a partnership based in Missouri that will operate from now on as "DayStar Filters Limited Liability Corporation". A reassuring touch to this article is that it includes a recent photo taken in February 2006 of Del Woods who has been recuperating from a life threatening illness that had left him incapacitated since 9 May 2005!

• Added information and a photo of Ken Graun, the author of The Next Step - Finding and Viewing Messier's Objects.

• Put a new section online about the Baader Planetarium including a brief overview of the company. Throught March we are gradually adding our images and informational reviews about the Baader products particularly focusing on several their most highly regarded accessories and filters.

Changes in February 2006:

• Reviewed and profiled the Questar Photo-Visual Color Filter Set. This is a set of ten filters for photographic and visual uses in terrestrial as well as astronomical applications.

• Reviewed and profiled the Vixen Porta Mount. This is a new compact, geared alt-azimuth mount with tripod set that is quite suitable for use with many compact telescopes for terrestrial uses (panoramic, birding, etc,), and visual astronomy.

• Posted review of a book we are stocking, The Next Step - Finding and Viewing Messier's Objects by Ken Graun. A delightfully illustrated handy book with beautiful color pictures, color illustrations and charts, and with black and white photo plates of the Messier Objects. This book is an interesting read for those who appreciate the historical insights to the life of Charles Messier (b. 26 June 1730 in Lorraine France, d. 12 April 1817 in Paris), the French astronomer who gave us the Messier Objects catalog of celestial wonders.

• Began to post a new section on our Web Site, the new Fujinon pages. This is a product line that we have stocked for years but had not felt all that inspired to publish given the market conditions. However, this site is for the benefit and amusement of Company Seven's clientele first and foremost, and we felt they deserved to know more about these fine 50 mm (the 7x 50 FMT-SX being a top rated, best buy in its class for example), 70 mm, up to giant 150 mm binoculars.

• Reviewed the Universal Astronomics UniMount™ alt-azimuth parallelogram platform for use with most larger consumer binoculars including several of the Fujinon binoculars mentioned above.

• Announced the new Lightbridge™ 12. A new series of Truss tube Dobson style reflecting telescopes available in 8, 10 and 12 inch apertures. It has been said by many in our hobby that regardless of bells and whistles "bigger is better" and in practice this is true - as long as you can take the telescope to where you want it, when you want it: this is where Lightbridge™ comes in.

Changes in January 2006:

• Announced the new Astro-Physics Mach1GTO German Equatorial Mount. We provide pictures with a preview of this coming product that is in the prototype stage of development, as such features and specifications are preliminary and subject to change. While we do not routinely publish products that we have not yet evaluated firsthand, Astro-Physics credibility is so good that Company Seven did not hesitate to post this preview.

• Revised our page describing the Questar Birder spotting scope. We provide new color pictures with a more comprehensive review of this reference standard product. The Questar Birder is an ultra compact, high performance telescope evolved from the Questar Field Model. But the Birder is provided with features and accessories more in keeping with the needs of the birding community in mind.

  We expect to start accepting orders for the Mach1GTO later in 2006 anticipating delivery of the first mounts in the Fall of 2006 or early in 2007. Company Seven will refer first to our waiting lists of people who previously expressed their interest in the now discontinued Models 400 GTO and 600E GTO mounts, while you newcomers who want the Mach1GTO are to be generally added to that list in chronological order.

• Updated Consigned/Used Astronomical And Terrestrial Telescopes And Mounts page. Also updated Rotating Display, Used or Consigned Accessories page.

• Updated TeleVue 76 Apochromat Refractor page. Revised description and included images of TeleVue 76 Apo to reflect new 2 inch focuser provided with these telescopes since late in 2005.

• Updated Leica Sporting Optics Prices page. Also updated several pages describing the Leica binoculars with improved images taken in our showroom, and provided updated information about new or discontinued products.

Changes in December 2005:

• Updated Consigned/Used Astronomical And Terrestrial Telescopes And Mounts page. Also updated Rotating Display, Used or Consigned Accessories page.

• Added illustrated review about the new Rigel Skylite mini compact red and white LED flashlight. Stock is arriving in time for Christmas and this will make an excellent and economical gift.

Changes in November 2005:

• Added illustrated review describing the newly introduced Orion SkyView Pro™ 150mm Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope. This is a new compact and rugged telescope that is better suited for astronomical applications than it's popular smaller cousin the Orion StarMax™ 127 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope which was introduced in 2001 with much critical acclaim. Also updated our Orion Library section to include new instruction manuals for the 150mm Mak and other articles of interest to Company Seven's Orion customers.

  Updated our Astro-Physics Library section to include instruction manuals for the new German Equatorial Mounts and accessories, Electronics Support Files, Technical Drawings, and other articles of interest to Company Seven's Astro-Physics customers.

Changes in October 2005:

Amended our Astro-Physics Feather Touch® Upgrade and Astro-Physics Product Pricing pages to reflect availability and prices of the new 4 inch diameter greaseless drawtube focuser, also describe the available Feather Touch® two speed geared mechanism. One of these new focusers (rotating model) is on display already on our static display model 160mm Starfire EDF telescope, while a new standard 4 inch Focuser with the Feather Touch® Upgrade can be seen on our Astro-Physics 206mm EDF telescope.

• Posted illustrated page describing our Observer's Handbook 2006, a popular annual observing reference guide published by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.

Changes in August 2005:

• Added information to the page describing the new Astro-Physics Starfire 160 EDF Air Spaced Triplet Apochromat Telescope. Our first instrument arrived for display on 11 August 2005 (just in time for Mars!). This is among the first production of a new Christen air spaced design introduced on 5 November 2004.

• Added information about the new Astro-Physics 4mm Super Planetary Eyepiece to our overview of the series. Our first 4mm SPL arrived on 11 August 2005 and completes the set on display.

Changes in July 2005:

• Revised our page describing and illustrating the new redesigned TeleVue 2 inch Focuser as is now provided with the new 127 and NP101 Apo telescopes. The plan is to eventually provide all new TeleVue 76mm and 85mm telescopes sold at Company Seven with this model 2" focuser too.

• Posted new pages reviewing and describing the Leica ULTRAVID 8x 20 and ULTRAVID 10x 25 BL and BR series compact binoculars. Available clad in rubber or in black leather, these are a handy and worthwhile product that are the first choice in their class of several employees of Company Seven and many of our most demanding customers.

• Wrote articles describing a unique new product series by TeleVue Optics; the DIOPTIX™ Eyesight Astigmatism Correction Lens. DIOPTRX is a unique accessory series that installs onto the top of a number of compatible TeleVue eyepieces (listed below) to correct views from a telescope which have would otherwise be distorted or blurred by eyesight astigmatism. We also uploaded new articles to our TeleVue Library section:
  1. DIOPTRX Technical Notes An illustrated two page overview of the DIOPTRX provided as an Adobe .pdf file, April 2005 by TeleVue Optics (328,734 bytes).

  2. "Report By Al" This is a brief description of this unique product by Al Nagler, followed by comments from the first amateur astronomers who were able to evaluate DIOPTRX. June 2005 by Al Nagler, TeleVue Optics.

  3. Understanding Your Eyeglass Prescription for Astigmatism An one page informative article describing visual astigmatism, particularly helpful in understanding the DIOPTRX Lenses. Provided as an Adobe .pdf file, April 2005 by Barry Santini of TeleVue Optics (27,634 bytes).

Changes in June 2005:

• 21 June 2005 Event: Martin Cohen of Company Seven was an invited guest on the American University Public Radio station WAMU "Kojo Nnamdi Show". Martin was among a panel of three in a discussion with the program host about amateur astronomy technology on the WAMU American University Public Radio "Kojo Nnamdi Show" weekly "Tech Tuesday" program.

  As described by the AMU staff "technology is driving a revolution in amateur astronomy. Improvements in telescopes, computerized data, cameras, and more means backyard stargazers now have access to information that only a few years ago would have been limited to the hands of experts. A look at the technology of amateur astronomy -- and what you might discover by just looking up."

  To read an more in depth review of the program with links to the program Web Site and a link to download the program in Real Audio file format please click here.

• Repaired and updated our pages which host a Clear Sky Clock and our page showing a partial selection of other Clocks For Sites Located Within Sixty (60) Miles Of Washington, D.C. . The Clear Sky Clock is an automatically updated Internet site which at a glance shows when it will be cloudy or clear for up to the next two days for more than two thousand locations now; when Company Seven first went on line with this there were about 70 locations!

  The Clear Sky Clock we feature shows a prediction of when the area around the University Of Maryland Observatory in Adelphi, Maryland will have good weather for astronomical observing. The Observatory is quite near to Company Seven in Laurel and so we employ this clock as a public service for our readers. We did not realize that the author's links had changed some time ago, and so we apologize to our readers for our oversight.

Changes in May 2005:

• Updated our article How to Clean Optics on $500 Or Less. This describes how to optical elements of most consumer telescopes, their mirrors, eyepieces, binoculars, etc. The techniques described apply to most consumer optics too. Rearranged the article to provide additional illustrations and teach a more orderly approach.

• Put new article on line describing the "Astro Kit Camera Drive", a discontinued compact "poncet" style tracking platform sold during the 1980's. These were sold as tracking platform kits in the 1980's for wide sky astrophotography. The assembled unit illustrated in this article with its documentation are now in the collection of Company Seven.

• Working on complete revision of one of our older web site sections, first new item to go on line is the awesome JMI RB-10, a 10 inch Reverse Binocular Telescope. One of the first production RB-66, 6 inch Reverse Binoculars was introduced at Company Seven in the Spring of 2003. We have placed numerous images of prototype and production RB-10 and RB-66 models on line.

  And since the first several of the new RB-16 Reverse Binocular Telescopes sold are coming through Company Seven, this new 16 inch system is previewed on line with specifications and images from the prototype RB-16; this will be expanded soon after these first production models arrive.

• Updated our article about How To Choose Your Questar 3-1/2 Telescope to provide additional details about mirror substrate choices.

• Updated TeleVue 127 telescope page to reflect our experience with these telescopes since they were introduced at Company Seven in January 2003. Also added images of production models.

• Updated Orion IntelliScope™ Computer Control page to reflect change to EPROM permitting longer observing time without having the power saver function cut off the unit. This is an available update to older IntelliScope™ Computer Controllers requiring return of the Keypad to Company Seven, and is standard on all new IntelliScope™ Computer Control keypads.

• Added page describing and illustrating the TeleVue Equalizer bronze 2 to 1.25 inch reducer adapter.

• Updated TeleVue section pages for future growth. Added page describing and illustrating the Air Chair pneumatic adjustable height observing chair.

Changes in January 2005:

• Wrote articles for our Questar News page with notices of the passing of Douglas Maitland Knight former president of two universities and of the Questar Corporation. And on the same day the death of Johnny Carson a national television icon, and a Questar favorite. Both men died on Sunday 23 January 2005.

• Updated Meade pricing page to reflect price changes and the introduction of their new RCX-400 Series Advanced Ritchey-Chrétien Telescopes.

• Updated TeleVue pricing page to reflect the end of the Fall 2004 sale, product changes and additions.

Changes in November 2004:

• Posted our overview of the new Astro-Physics Starfire 160 EDF Air Spaced Triplet Apochromat Telescope, a new Christen air spaced design introduced on 5 November 2004. Also updated the section availability and product pricing pages. Company Seven is now accepting new orders for the new 160 EDF telescope, but we will be offering these by invitation only, referring to our waiting list of clients who have asked to be considered for the Starfire 155mm EDF first.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

• Daylight Savings to Standard Time switchover made for Home and Index pages. We are certainly paying more attention to the Geochron on display in our showroom as we close in on the coming Winter Solstice next month.

Changes in October 2004:

• Added new illustrated article The Vixen Sphinx Equatorial GoTo Mount. An overview of the the Sphinx SXW German Equatorial Mount system written by Mr. Ron Lee written in August 2004 for Company Seven. Copyright Mr. Lee, for Company Seven's Library.

• Updated page describing the availability of Astro-Physics products, mentioning new products too. Also revised price page. We will gradually add pages describing new telescope series, new 1200 GTO mount (now on display in our showroom), and other new products in November.

Changes in September 2004:

• Posted page describing the Observer's Handbook 2005, an annual observing reference guide published by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through August 2004:

• Company Seven very rarely uses the term Sale because we do not believe think that alone should usually provoke people to buy. But here for the first time we announced an unprecedented TeleVue Optics Factory Authorized Sale which provides new customers starting out, and old with voids in their eyepiece collections with a great opportunity to own some magnificent eyepieces. This sale applies to many of the more advanced TeleVue eyepieces including all of the Nagler, Nagler Zoom, and Radian series eyepieces. And the sale includes their Bandmate Nebular Filters. This is in effect from 1 August through 31 December 2004. Please refer to our TeleVue Product Prices page to see the price changes for the Nagler, Radian, and Bandmate products. Please visit our showroom to compare, or call for advice.

• Posted article explaining and illustrating the new Astro-Physics Feather Touch^® Micro Focuser. The first page describes the product, and how those whom already own an Astro-Physics telescope may be able to add this option. Also revised Traveler 4 inch Apo telescope page to incorporate new information and images about Feather Touch^®, and our Universal Astronomics alt-az mounts. Prices have been posted on our Astro-Physics pricing page since these were announced in late 2003 but we waited to publish our appraisal of this new product until we could obtain production models which are now on display in our showroom.

• Posted first installations of a new section of our Internet site describing the Vixen product line of telescopes, mounts, and accessories. We provide an overview of the company at our Vixen Index page, with a more detailed article about Vixen Co., Ltd. History on line too. The exciting SPHINX SXW, SPHINX SX Compact German Equatorial Mounts are now on line. We also provide an overview of their "Go To" computer control system at STAR BOOK; with its 4.7 inch color LCD panel, this is a unit that can also be used as a portable planetarium. Prices are posted at our Vixen products pricing page with links to many of their products which we describe on line.

• Posted an entire new section explaining and illustrating the Carl Zeiss Lens Cleaning Fluid and Carl Zeiss Pre-Moistened Lens Cleaning Pak. These are the only lens cleaning fluid offered by Company Seven even though we also recommend that made by Kodak. With our recently posted Staticmaster™ Alpha Ionizing Brushes section, and our article Cleaning Most Consumer Optics we believe we will have answered most common questions relating to these subjects for our customers benefit.

• Posted an entire new section explaining and illustrating the NRD Staticmaster™ Alpha Ionizing Brushes. These remain the best portable solution for eliminating dust and static attraction on optical surfaces. These devices are also suitable for use with photographic films, for cleaning scanners, compact discs, slides, lenses, and filters. Prices have been posted on our pricing page.

• Posted article explaining and illustrating the new Astro-Physics Super Planetary Eyepieces. Prices have been posted on our Astro-Physics pricing page since these were announced in February 2004 but we waited to publish our appraisal of this new design until we could obtain a production set. We will probably update this in time as we complete additional planned testing. We have placed a set of these on display in our showroom.

• Posted new page describing and illustrating the highly regarded Baader Mark V Großfeld Binocular Head, a top of the line system providing high resolution binocular views through telescopes. This system was introduced in 2003 and we are just getting around to placing it on line - we were in no rush since the wait list runs from six months to a year or more!
  

• Introduced the new Orion SkyView Pro™ 100mm ED at Company Seven's showroom on 6 August. A complete 4" f9 Apo telescope, this is the long anticipated larger cousin of the popular Orion 80mm ED 3.15" f7.5 ED Doublet Apo. The SVP 100mm ED is provided with the SkyView Pro™ German Equatorial Mount, 25 and 10mm Plossl eyepieces, 2" Mirror Diagonal, Mounting Rings and with customers' choice of single or dual axis Drive. The 100mm ED OTA optical tube assembly is also available separately with no accessories.

• Updated Meade Instruments product pricing page announcing the Meade summer 2004 rebate program of from $50 up to $500 on select telescopes in their product line. The program applies to telescopes sold from 6 August 2004, the Meade Rebate Promotion continues through 31 October 2004 and will not be extended.

• Posted article "The Perfect Telescope is...a small apochromatic refractor" on line. A letter to the editor published some years ago in the "Amateur Telescope Making Journal" issue #10. The original letter is accompanied by a sketch showing an original TeleVue "Genesis" 4" refractor (introduced 1988) on a simple Panoramic head with wood wood tripod. The letter relates the authors long experience in the hobby, and his appreciation of a simple but capable telescope. Author Beat Kuechler was then 73 years old, living in New Jersey.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through July 2004:

• Announced new SkyQuest™ XT12 Intelliscope™ telescope. At 12" f4.9 this is now one of the largest aperture, economical but good performing Dobsonian Reflecting telescopes available - and almost certainly the unrivaled most capable model in its class.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through June 2004:

• Posted new article on line "Experiencing Nova Scotia And Its Amazing Tides" by Martin Cohen for Company Seven's Archives. An overview of how tides form, and an overview of the author's travels through Nova Scotia's Bay of Fundy and Minas Basin, then on to Halifax in June 2004. Well written and illustrated with some amazing photos.

• Updated Questar Index page, and made a number of minor changes and updates to the entire section.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

• Updated Questar Tristand and Astropier description page, added more illustrations too.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

• Added preview of the new SBIG ST-402ME CCD system that is designed to be simple yet powerful, and at a moderate price. Planned availability is late Summer or early Fall 2004.

• Updated Questar Prices page to reflect new products, and some price changes.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

• Continue to improve infrastructure of this site.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

• Added descriptive pages with many images taken with the new SBIG Research Line large format, dual head triple sensor, self-guiding CCD cameras and accessories. These include the new Research STL-4020M/CM, Research STL-1301E, Research STL-1001E, Research STL-11000M/CM, and Research STL-6303E CCD systems of cameras from 1 to 11 megapixel arrays!

  Also added a preview of the coming ST-2000XMC Color CCD camera. Added a number of articles and documents to our SBIG Library section. Revised and updated Santa Barbara Instruments Group Product Pricing page. Also posted updated Products listing page to reflect product changes, new products. This will be followed soon by the updating and addition of several new pages to our SBIG section.

• Improving infrastructure of this site. For example, gradually adding links to search engine, etc.

Changes through February 2004:

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

• Revised and updated Astro-Physics Product Availability page. Also posted updated Astro-Physics Prices page to reflect product changes, new products and price changes. This will be followed soon by the updating and addition of several pages to our Astro-Physics section.

Changes through January 2004:

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

• Updated Leica pricing to reflect product availability and price changes.

Changes through December 2003:

• SPECIAL NOTES for December 2003

  1. Often the volume of incoming E-Mail that requires our writing a detailed technical reply precludes a more prompt reply to other E-Mails by Company Seven. We are happy to offer sound advice to those in need, and E-Mail can be good for this use especially for more distant customers. However, E-Mail is in some measure abused by some who have forgot how and when to use a telephone. Aside from the volume of inquiries, E-Mail is also subject to problems with some who accidentally provide an incorrect return E-Mail return address; there have been times when we send an E-Mail reply and it is returned or blocked by the customer's automated spam filter.

  Over recent years we have assigned additional resources to meet the high and increasing demands brought about by the Internet, and by increased word of mouth exposure. However, it is often impossible to reply to all inquiries, or to inquiries that we judge to be answered better with a simple phone call. So, when you do require a prompt reply to an urgent matter then please either telephone our showroom on 301-953-2000, or E-Mail and be patient. If no reply to your E-Mail arrives within a few days then you may send it again.

  2. On 16 December we completed hardware and software changes to our E-Mail system. So those E-Mail's that arrived between 7 December and 16 December were received, and stored, and we are gradually working through the backlog as well as new E-Mail inquiries. We apologize for the inconvenience or undue concern.

  3. The recent Mars Opposition and conservative planning by manufacturers has resulted in shortages of supply of several popular telescopes, especially those which are most popular among those entering the hobby. While the demand for new telescopes by customers contacting our Laurel, Maryland showroom has increased particularly dramatically over the past weeks. And so for new orders received after 1 December 2003 we are reserving inventories of several of the very popular instruments for pickup at our showroom only. We will continue to accept mail and phone orders for both delivery and local pickup, but those new orders placed on 1 December or later are not likely to be shipped out until after the Christmas rush, probably in January 2004 or possibly even later for some instruments. This will reduce the chances of our having to deal with shipping related losses in transit, and will make virtually every telescope we accept available for pickup in our showroom.
  

• Updated Kendrick Pricing section, to reflect product line additions and deletions. Kendrick of Candada is most well known for their lines of telescope Heater and Dew/Frost Prevention systems, Dew Shields, Portable Rechargeable Battery packs, and Solar Filters.
  

• Updated Leica News section to reflect new product announcements, review new binoculars, post new product prices, and product line additions and deletions. Most importantly, we began to put information on line about the new Leica ULTRAVID binocular series.

  Company Seven has been aware of this new product series since it was announced in August 2003, but we decided to wait until we could actually evaluate production models before we published our review. You may now read about the ULTRAVID 42 BR, ULTRAVID 42 BL, and ULTRAVID 50 BR models on line, and see these instruments in our showroom.
  

• Made grammar corrections, and some revisions of Home and Index pages. And to Rigel section, rewriting portions of our QuikFinder reflex sight description page. Thank you Mr. E. Rosen!
  

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through November 2003:

• Updated the Daylight Savings to Standard Time changes sections.
  

• Few Web Changes due to vacations. We belatedly updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

• Updated TeleVue section to reflect new products and pricing changes.

• Revisted and updated our entire Observing Aids section. Reformatting was done to facilitate navigation of this site, and we wrote the script to provide an on line Moon Phase Calendar so that our customers can see the phases of the moon in the current month, or select any month of the years between 1900 and 2199 inclusive. Programming that script was fun!

• Added a new edition of a popular book on line. High on our suggested reading list is the "Observers Handbook 2004". Published by The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, the "Observers Handbook" is one of Canada's oldest scientific publications continuously published since 1911 with origins to 1907. The "Observer's Guide" includes includes discussions and drawings of periodic astronomical events that are known to be coming in that year, as well as good coverage of topics and astronomical data. This is the 306 page annual paperback guide that is most highly recommended by Company Seven for the novice, or for the experienced observer.

• Few Web Changes due to vacations. We belatedly updated Observing Tips for The Month page.
  

Changes through September 2003:

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.
  

• Added new article Observing Report: Planet Mars, 12 Aug 2003. An observing report of Mars while approaching the Opposition of 2003 as observed through the author's Astro-Physics 155mm EDF f7 Apochromat and 60mm f15 Achromatic refracting telescopes. This disscussion is helpful at pointing out the benefits of using color and specialized filters including the new TeleVue "Bandmate Mars A" and "Bandmate Mars B" filters. By Richard Orr.
  

• Published our overview of the new Orion 80mm ED, f7.5 apochromatic refractor telescope. This instrument is suitable for use as a compact astronomical telescope, as a terrestrial telescope, or ultratelephoto lens, astrophotographic guide telescope, or large finderscope. This is the first of the economical, compact, multipurpose apochromatic refractor telescopes imported from overseas. This is also the first of this economical type of instrument judged by Company Seven to merit inclusion among our offerings.
  

• Put information on line about a new evolution of the highly successful Orion XT series Dobsonian telescopes. The new SkyQuest™ XT6 Intelliscope™, SkyQuest™ XT8 Intelliscope™, SkyQuest™ XT10 Intelliscope™ add a new contemporary lightweight base design and most exciting of all, the ability to locate any of more than 14,000 fascinating celestial objects with pushbutton ease!
  

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.
  

• Posted information about Company Seven supporting the Smithsonian Institution Resident Associates Summer Program. On 17 July 2003 Martin Cohen is among the invited guest speakers for the "Amateur Astronomy: It's All in the Stars … and Comets, Planets, and Moons" series. The topics and guest speakers are:

  JUL 10, How to Catch a Comet, David Levy
  JUL 17, Your Telescope, Martin Cohen - the location of this talk is changed to the S. DILLON RIPLEY CENTER
  JUL 24, Heavenly Bodies' Shape and Motion, David Dunham
  JUL 31, Using Cheap Webcams and Freeware, Geoff Chester
  AUG 7, Upstairs/Downstairs, David DeVorkin
  AUG 14, Following Stars, Janet Mattei

  To read an overview of the presentation by Mr. Cohen, click here.

• Added new Optec, Inc. section. This highly innovative line has developed several of the finest accessories for CCD and other areas of advanced amateur and professional astronomy. Their products include photometers, color filter wheels including the IFW - Intelligent Filter Wheel, the highly successful patented TCF-S Temperature Compensating Focuser, and a selection of well engineered Telecompressors for CCD imaging. This line has been provided at Company Seven for some time, but over the recent year in particular the demand for these products has taken off.

• Updated our books for sale Index Page to include new title, and add small graphics of each cover to the brief discussion of each book, maintained links to the more throrough descriptions.
  

• Revised information and links to another book on line which is on our suggested reading list: "Observers Handbook" by The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. The "Observers Handbook" is one of Canada's oldest scientific publications continuously published since 1911 with origins to 1907. The "Observer's Guide" includes includes discussions and drawings of periodic astronomical events that are known to be coming in that year, as well as good coverage of topics and astronomical data. This is the 304 page annual guide that is most highly recommended by Company Seven for the novice, or for the experienced observer.

• Revised our on line article about another book to our on line suggested reading list: Star Testing Astronomical Telescopes: A Manual for Optical Evaluation and Adjustment by Harold Richard Suiter. This is a book which can be most helpful when you receive a new telescope. It will teach you how to determine if your new telescope has an optical gross anomaly that should justify its return for an exchange. And since most telescopes are roughly handled during shipping and they often arrive out of proper alignment, "Star Testing Astronomical Telescopes" teaches one how identify if a telescope is out of adjustment ("collimation"), and it will provide insights into how to remedy it. We have recommended and stocked this title since it was published in December 1994.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.
  

• Updated Santa Barbara Instruments Group product pricing page to reflecting product and price changes.
  

• Updated and expanded Advice About How to Buy A Telescope article within our Library directory.
  

• Updated Meade Instruments product pricing page reflecting price changes, additions to our inventory, and an extension of the popular Meade Series 4000 $99 Super Plössl Eyepiece Promotion

Changes through June 2003:

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.
  

• Updated and expanded pricing page within our Orion Telescopes directory. Updated price changes, and added more information about many of the Orion accessories regularly stocked by Company Seven.

• Added new astrophoto gallery section within our Meade Instruments directory. This on line directory features images of the Moon, Sun, Planets, Comets, and Deep Sky objects taken on film and by Meade Instruments CCD cameras. Copyrights retained by Meade Instruments and those who took these images, made available for personal use only.
  

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through April 2003:

• Added new article to our Library, this title Insurance for Telescopes, Accessories and Observatories explains the various insurance vehicles available to the consumer, advice on traveling and transporting telescopes, and advice about when and how to file a claim. This article includes a glossary of insurance terms. We have never before seen an article on this subject researched and published elsewhere.

• Updated Orion section adding reviews of two new telescopes: SkyView Pro™ 8 EQ and Atlas™ 10 EQ. Both telescopes are equatorial reflector designs with long anticpated platforms. Also putting on line the new SkyView Pro™ and the Atlas™ 10 German Equatorial mounts.
  

• Improved Search Engine infrastructure, planning for future changes.
  

• Updated Home and Index Pages to reflect Daylight Savings Time. This a silly game no longer honored by some intelligent US States and counties, in fact Company Seven is considering switching to UT (Universal Time).
  

• Began placing new section on line describing Meade Instruments products which we offer, a history of the company and Company Seven's relationship with Meade over the years. Numerous supporting documents for Meade products, instruction manuals, along with extracts of most of the Meade Instrument illustrated catalog are also being made available to Company Seven's customers at our Meade Library directory.
  

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through March 2003:

• Updated server - Red.
  

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through February 2003:

• Updated Leica section prices page adding new Duovid 10 + 15x 50 binocular, new RangeMaster 900 and RangeMaster 1200 Scanning Rangefinders, and compact 20 and 25mm binoculars. Revised our Leica Binocular index page, and put the new 35 page Leica Sport Optics Catalog 2003 on line; this stunningly illustrated brochure describes our Leica sport optics products. Publication content by Leica, all rights reserved from Company Seven's Leica Library section 2,354,695 bytes (in Acrobat Reader ".pdf" format).

• Updated Celestron Prices page to help clear up exactly which Celestron telescopes Company Seven does currently offer, new products, price changes, and some of the popular alternative configurations we provide.

• Updated TeleVue section prices page adding new TeleVue 41mm Panoptic, 2.5mm Nagler T-6, 3.5mm Nagler T-6 and 11mm Nagler T-6 introduced by Al Nagler to the public in our Laurel, Maryland showroom on 30 January 2003. Also we provide illustrations and preliminary insight into new TeleVue 127mm (5 inch) apochromat telescope and 41mm Panoptic in our TeleVue News page.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through January 2003:

• Updated Losmandy section prices .

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through December 2002:

• Updated entire DayStar section to improve navigability, added some information, mentioned new Oxygen III Light Pollution Filter .

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page.

Changes through November 2002:

• Updated Home Pages to reflect the "Fall Back" from Daylight Savings Time to Standard.

• Updated Observing Tips for The Month page

Changes through October 2002:

• Updated information in our Questar section. Published new consumer line prices, and added information and illustrations describing the new Questar Seven Light Weight Titanium telescope.

• Adding information and new illustrations describing the newly revised Orion XT-10 telescope, a highly successful amateur telescope that has been enhanced by design and materials features rarely found in telescopes of this relatively moderate $600 cost. Published new Orion prices.

• Updated SBIG prices page.

Changes through August 2002:

• Added interesting news article about a lawsuit filed against a major manufacturer of telescopes who are not represented by Company Seven - but we would post this either way. For years Company Seven has complained to several manufacturers, some of whom we represent, that their advertising, packaging and marketing materials are misleading. We have gone so far as to post warning about what we consider to be unfair or misleading telescope sales practices in our article "Advice for Beginners (or Anyone) Seeking to Buy A Telescope" in the "Promise Them Anything" portion of this article. On May 17, 2002, two individuals filed a complaint for unfair business practices in their capacity as consumers, within the meaning of the Consumer Legal Remedies Act, and in their capacity as private attorneys general suing to enforce the provisions of California Business and Professions Code Section 17200. The complaint which was filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura (Case No. CIV211644) claims that certain of the company's packaging and marketing materials are misleading.

  It may just be the the defendant in this case happens to be the first to be confronted with a lawsuit for alleged practices on their part that in our experience have been for too long, wide spread in the amateur-oriented telescope market. Read more about this story.

• Working to prepare our Technical Innovations for further expansion, updated Technical Innovations News page.
  

Changes through July 2002:

• Revised several areas of our Losmandy Hollywood General Machining section to improve navigability and prepare section for new articles. Added preliminary information about the new HGM Titan German Equatorial Mount. Updated numerous pages in Losmandy Notes/Library section including addition of an article describing and illustrating the Losmandy Pole Finder.
  

• Revised the article How to Choose a Questar Telescope explaining the differences between Questar Field and Astronomical telescope models, and their available features. Added a new page describing and illustrating the evolution and characteristics of the Questar Solar Filters from the 1950's to the present. Updated numerous pages in Questar Notes/Library and in our Questar News pages.
  

• Updated Celestron News page to include announcement of sale of Celestron International to a management team.
  

• Added new Astro-Physics 92mm "Stowaway" telescope page, updated associated links.
  

• Added new section Observing Plan Aids. This site is evolving within company7.com and is designed to help observers plan when to go out, and what to see in the day and night sky.

• Corrected link to Uranomaniac 2001.1 reprint of our popular but fictitious star atlas by Company Seven in response to the announcement of "Uranometria 2000".

Changes through June 2002:

• Updated Celestron News page to include recent announcement by Celestron management discussing litigation with Meade Instruments Corp., the collapse of former Celestron owner Tasco, and the future of Celestron.
  

• Updated Astrophysics Products Availability page to new telescope production runs scheduled. Also updated our Astrophysics prices page.
  

• Updated TeleVue News to reflect growth of TeleVue Optics, Inc. into a new facility in Chester, New York.
  

• Also updated TeleVue News with information regarding the new distribution agreement between TeleVue Optics, Inc. and Vixen Company, Limited of Tokorozawa, Japan. Included is a brief discussion of the formation by TeleVue of "Vixen North America", some background information about Vixen and the experience of Company Seven and other distributors of Vixen products over the past twenty years or so.
  

Changes through May 2002:

• Updated Celestron News. New article describing the liquidation of Celestron's parent company Tasco which was announced on Tuesday 28 May 2002. We include some discussion of our perception of how this came to happen, an examination of some of the implications, Company Seven's reaction and our discussions with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, and the announcement by Celestron on the subject dated 28 May 2002.

  Also added to our Celestron News section is the unedited text of the announcement dated 29 May 2002 by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission FTC Authorizes Injunction to Pre-empt Meade Instruments' Purchase of All, or Certain Assets, of Tasco Holdings, Inc.'s Celestron International.

  On Monday 3 June 2002, FTC informed Company Seven that Meade Instruments, Corp. had sent letter advising FTC they would not pursue acquisition of any Celestron International

• Updated Astro-Physics Price page to reflect announcement of 8 May 2002.
  

• New page describing and illustrating one of our two most popular telescope aiming sights. By adding the 2 and 1/2 degree Rigel QwikFinder to our recently revised 4, 2 and 1/2 degree bulls eye pattern Telrad sight, and the TeleVue Starbeam which is probably the best red dot sight on the market, Company Seven is confident that we can solve any amateur astronomers pointing dilemma.
  

• New section describing and illustrating our most popular Starbound Observing Chair.
  

Changes through April 2002:

• New section describing and illustrating Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Metro Subway added to the Directions to Visit Company Seven page.
  

• TeleVue 76 Telescope added to out TeleVue section. Numerous minor updates or revisions done to TeleVue 85 Telescope and TeleVue NP101 Telescope pages.
  

• Revised Instruction Manual for our StarMax 127 telescope added to our on line Library Orion Notes section.
  

• New section describing and illustrating the Glatter product line, including their innovative Laser Collimators, and SkyPointer.
  

• Section expanded describing and illustrating the Rigel Systems product line, including their revolutionary night lights including the popular U.S. Made Skylite compact red/white LED flashlight, Pulseguide illuminator, and QwickFinder illuminated bulls eye sight.
  

Changes in January 2002:

• New section describing the Rigel Systems products, soon to include more information, and illustrations.
  

• New page describing the RASC Observer's Handbook 2002, an annual publication highly regarded by the astronomy community. This is one of the small list of titles highlighted in our on line Books Section
  

• New page describing the Leica Duovid 8 + 12 X 42 binocular. Including new information, and illustrations of this new product in Adobe ".pdf" format in the site Leica Library section.
  

• Numerous changes to our Questar section to improve content, provide "pdf" documents, revise changing specifications, prices.
  

• Numerous changes to improve navigability of site, and better accommodate planned changes.
  

Changes in November 2001:

• Began revision of the DayStar Filters™ section to include more information, and illustrations.
  

• New page about the Orion StarMax™ 127 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope Orion StarMax 127™ Telescope. A new, highly rated economical 5 inch aperture Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope with German Equatorial Mount.
  

• Revised pages describing the Orion SkyQuest™ XT6 6 inch (15cm) f8 and SkyQuest™ XT8 8 inch (20cm) f6 Dobsonian reflecting telescope pages to reflect improvements.
  

• Numerous changes to improve navigability of site, and better accommodate planned changes.
  

• New page about book Turn Left at Orion: A Hundred Night Sky Objects to See In A Small Telescope - And How to Find Them: Hardcover, by Guy Consolmagno and Dan M. Davis.
  

Changes in August 2001:

• New section Geochron and related articles in our Library. The Geochron® developed by Jim Kilburg in 1962 and refined since, is a beautiful mechanical device that relates concepts at a glance in a graphical manner explaining Earths' relationship to the Sun, and how that relationship brings forth the seasons, and affects every minute of every part of the world. Also featured is the World Watch® software, a global timepiece and screen saver for Windows PC computers.

• New article Orthogonality Correction Description of simple technique to measure and correct for any orthogonality error of German Equatorial Mount and Telescope. By John Menke, Technical Innovations.

• New article "TeleVue Nagler 3mm to 6mm Zoom Eyepiece (ENZ 0306)" Review of the TeleVue Nagler 3mm to 6mm Zoom eyepiece with the TeleVue 85 and Astro-Physics 155mm EDF Apochromat refractor telescopes, by Richard Orr.

• Numerous changes to TeleVue section. Most notably, the announcement and specifications of the new first rate TeleVue NP101 4" Apochromat telescope, and updates to TeleVue telescopes including the 85 Apochromat telescope. Also revised is our article describing the TeleVue Starbeam night sight.

• Article revised "Advice for Beginners (or Anyone) Seeking to Buy A Telescope".

Changes in May 2001:

• M.G.J. Minnaert "Light and Color in the Outdoors" book outline/review placed on line
• Michael A. Covington's "Astrophotography for the Amateur" book outline/review placed on line
• Beck, Hilbrecht, Reinsch, and Volker's "Solar Astronomy Handbook" book outline/review placed on line
• Our Orion telescopes section expanded.

• TeleVue News and Developments
• TeleVue 101 "Renaissance" Telescope
• TeleVue 101 Telescope
• Used/Consigned Telescopes
• SBIG section, numerous changes and new products.
• Baader/Carl Zeiss Binocular Viewer revised
• First links to Orion telescopes and binoculars section activated!