Building a 20" Dobsonian Telescope

Guest Speaker

Thursday, 3rd April 2025 (19:45 - 22:00)

Venue: Meeting Room

This presentation covers the design and build of a 20inch Truss Dobsonian Newtonian Telescope. It will concentrate on the fabrication and testing of the primary mirror but also cover the basics around the design and build of the remaining structure.

Join the meeting online HERE if you can't attend in person

Speaker: Peter Richardson

Peter Richardson, has had a keen interest in astronomy and related subjects since childhood. This was mainly brought about by his Father who also had a keen interest in the wonders of space. He started astro imaging in 2004 after the purchase of his first serious telescope and built a home observatory in 2010. Peter was shortlisted for the Astrophotographer of the Year competition in 2014 and 2015 and attended the award ceremonies at the Royal Observatory in London.

The idea to build his own telescopes was born in 2018 and from this point onwards he has successfully completed a 10inch and 20inch Truss Dobsonian including the fabrication of the primary mirrors.

His occupation is within manufacturing engineering, and currently works for a major aircraft manufacturer. Prior to this he spent sixteen years working in motorsport, eleven of these years within Formula 1.

His other interests are playing guitar and listening to music. he also still enjoys following Formula 1 Racing.