Telescopes of Vermont

Telescopes of Vermont has resurrected the Porter Garden Telescope The Porter Garden Telescope was conceived as a superb optical instrument, beautiful Art Nouveau bronze sculpture, and working sundial. Designed in 1923 by Russell Porter of MIT, it was a model for the 200 inch Hale telescope at Mt Palomar in San Diego, and found its way to the Smithsonian. Telescopes of Vermont has resurrected this unique and clever design, adding modern optics and the ability to adjust them with a laser. A reflecting telescope, its familiar tube has become a ginger leaf which holds the optics. Those optics lift out in seconds, leaving a graceful sculpture which remains outdoors permanently as a distinctive centerpiece in a garden. With the optics removed, its novel interactive sundial function makes it an educational tool for youngsters, who must be proactive and engaged to find the time. Serial numbered and limited to two hundred, the Garden Telescope is an heirloom imbued with craftsmanship and the cachet of rarity. Four hundred hours of work are lavished on each one. A milestone acquisition for the art collector, garden lover, astronomy buff or appreciator of fine craftsmanship and design, it will spark conversations and delight those who encounter it. A six inch mirror and eyepieces of 50 and 75 power deliver the moon, Jupiter and its moons, and Saturn with great detail. Currently there are twenty in the world. The telescope, pedestal and optics case (made by a maker of cases for fine London and Belgian shotguns) comprise the kit. Tech specs: 6" f4 mirror, with 75 and 50 power eyepieces The Telescope, with pedestal, is 66" tall, and weighs 110 lbs.