Al Paslow Astronomy Collection

Images and events of personal interest.

Between 1977 and 1979 Meade had introduced a "Series 2" Orthoscopic line of eyepieces available in both the 1.25 inch barrel size or the Japanese standard barrel 0.965 inches. The "Research Grade" line of both Erfles and Orthoscopic are of course retained and were successful for many more years before production ended. Both the Series 2 Orthoscopic eyepieces and Research Grade are all described as multi-coated and parafocalized.  Note that several 2 inch eyepieces are also advertised - a 60 mm Kellner and a 32mm Erfle . (They are not described under a Research or Series 2 ocular.) This is per S & T - Sept 1979.
The Meade Research Grade Orthoscopic eyepieces completely changed between 1975 and 1977. Here we see the Meade Research Grade Orthos in the following focal lengths- 4mm, 7mm, 10.5mm, 16.8mm and 28mm. Substantial differences in just a short time. Also Meade apparently sold what was classified as  Series 1 Orthoscopic eyepieces in barrel sizes from 0.965 which is the Japanese standard to 1.25 inch size the American standard. Hence this advertisement helps offer proof that the sought after Meade Research Grade eyepieces actuall date back into the 1970's and not 1980's as some faithful users have suggested. S & T Jan 1977.
Here is an early ad for Meade Research Grade orthoscopic eyepieces and other Meade products. The old Meade Research Orthos had focal lengths in 6.6mm, 10, 16, 20 and 26.6mm. Also see the "Series 1" line of Orthoscopics too. This ad is dated July 1975 - Astronomy Magazine.
Top view of the Meade Research Grade 7mm Orthoscopic eyepiece. It is interesting to note some of the Meade Research Orthoscopics had the words "MEADE" or "Meade" being capitalized, and not capitalized. This example is capitalized. I believe the older set is capitalized, while newer versions are not. (However, I'm still waiting to verify this.) Image by M. Forster
Meade Research Grade Orthoscope eyepiece acclaimed by a strong following to be among the finest Orthoscopic eyepieces you can buy. Now of course they are discontinued. The eyepiece is a bit lighter in weight than most orthoscopics of the same size. This is due partly because the barrel is alumium and not made of brass. It is stamped "Japan". Image by M. Forster
Fritz looking at the solar spots through his new Celestron Coronado on Meade LX75 mount.
Between 1977 and 1979 Meade had introduced a "Series 2" Orthoscopic line of eyepieces available in both the 1.25 inch barrel size or the Japanese standard barrel 0.965 inches. The "Research Grade" line of both Erfles and Orthoscopic are of course retained and were successful for many more years before production ended. Both the Series 2 Orthoscopic eyepieces and Research Grade are all described as multi-coated and parafocalized. Note that several 2 inch eyepieces are also advertised - a 60 mm Kellner and a 32mm Erfle . (They are not described under a Research or Series 2 ocular.) This is per S & T - Sept 1979.
Between 1977 and 1979 Meade had introduced a "Series 2" Orthoscopic line of eyepieces available in both the 1.25 inch barrel size or the Japanese standard barrel 0.965 inches. The "Research Grade" line of both Erfles and Orthoscopic are of course retained and were successful for many more years before production ended. Both the Series 2 Orthoscopic eyepieces and Research Grade are all described as multi-coated and parafocalized.  Note that several 2 inch eyepieces are also advertised - a 60 mm Kellner and a 32mm Erfle . (They are not described under a Research or Series 2 ocular.) This is per S & T - Sept 1979.
Between 1977 and 1979 Meade had introduced a "Series 2" Orthoscopic line of eyepieces available in both the 1.25 inch barrel size or the Japanese standard barrel 0.965 inches. The "Research Grade" line of both Erfles and Orthoscopic are of course retained and were successful for many more years before production ended. Both the Series 2 Orthoscopic eyepieces and Research Grade are all described as multi-coated and parafocalized. Note that several 2 inch eyepieces are also advertised - a 60 mm Kellner and a 32mm Erfle . (They are not described under a Research or Series 2 ocular.) This is per S & T - Sept 1979.
See photo in original gallery.

This site features some great images.