Choosing and Using a Refracting Telescope / The Patrick Moore Practical Astronomy Series (PDF)

Dr. Neil English has a PhD in Biochemistry, and also a BSc in Physics & Astronomy. He is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, and a regular contributor to Astronomy Now (the UK's major astronomy magazine), as well as to Ireland's Astronomy & Space. He is the author of Guide to Mars (Pole Star Publications, 2003). Neil's astronomical images have been published in various magazines and journals, including a full page in the June 2006 issue of Astronomy. He has used and tested literally hundreds of refracting telescopes over a period of thirty years and has written about all aspects of this kind of instrument in the magazines. He owns and regularly uses a variety of refractors - both apochromat and achromat - which he uses from his home in rural Scotland.

From the reviews:

“Dr. Neil English is no stranger to the astronomical community … . His knowledge of telescope optics is highly respected, and here he endeavours to lay down all his knowledge in a concise and thorough manner. He opens the book with a wonderful overview of the history of the telescope … . this book something you really want to own, as it’s a guide not only to what is achievable by anyone with modest equipment, but also what to aspire to. Thoroughly recommended.” (Nick Howes, Astronomy Now Online, May, 2011)

“Neil English opens with a brief history of refractor design, including the contributions of Lippershey, Galileo and Huygens, amongst others. … the text is clearly written and there’s plenty of useful data in the appendix. … it’s a valuable resource for anyone thinking about buying a refractor or who wants to learn more about the history and development of this iconic scientific instrument.” (Mark Parrish, BBC Sky at Night Magazine, June, 2011)

“Having owned around a dozen refractors over the years–ranging from a ‘lowly’ 40mm refractor, through several antique examples to a go-to refractor–I was keen to read a book that promised to reinforce my love for ‘the prince of telescopes’. … An excellent, up-to-date book containing much more than I have outlined in this review. English communicates his passion for refractors, and the book comes to life with user accounts of refractors old and new.” (Peter Grego, Popular Astronomy, July-August, 2011)

“Value to have accessible a comprehensive guide to the availability and use of refractors, which have a special attraction and romance –– especially for those who have used and appreciated the best of them. … The short but useful appendices include glossaries of terms and formulae, and data on a selection of double stars which can be used for testing refractors of various apertures. … Even for those with only the slightest interest, it would certainly inspire them.” (R. A.