Post by Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe on Jul 14, 2024 17:28:27 GMT -6
New Addition to the Chicago Astronomer Arsenal
Burgess BinoViewer
Burgess BinoViewer
With limited time, I had a small window of opportunity to continue going thru the Cowen collection of gear that was generously donated to me and my educational activities across the city.
See here:
astronomer.proboards.com/post/23742/thread
Among the many items, was this Burgess Binoviewer...
Binoviewers are really nice. They allow both eyes instead of one, bringing a simulated stereo effect to ones observation session. The brain will combine the images and think it's in 3-D - nice when exploring the lunar surface especially. This different viewing experience is quite pleasing in a solo viewing session, as public viewings make it complicated due to the different pupilar distance of the eyes and the many varied prescription eyesights. I will pop in a Binoviewer for enthusiastic special Chicago Astronomer fans, but it's not often.
The viewers were in good condition, except for the stickiness of the rubber grips. Some brisk cleaning with WD-40 took care of it easily and ready for use.
The faded plate reads "Bak4 - FBBMC" which means fully broadband multicoated
From the Burgess Website:
www.burgessoptical.com/binoviewer-19x-oca.html
And here is an excellent review of the Burgess Binoviewers from Astro expert Rod Mollise, fellow Astronomer from Mobile Alabama:
uncle-rods.blogspot.com/2007/01/full-megrez-90-review-at-uncle-rods.html
I understand the maker of the Binoviewers was Bill Burgess, who put his heart & soul into his company and loved the astro community, with wonderful customer service often giving gear away. He is no longer with us, but I am glad to have an item of his now...
His Obit:
www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/knoxville-tn/william-burgess-10767822
Soon, (when my summer astro classes are concluded), I will put the Binoviewer to use and share my findings.
Astro Joe