Infinity Scopes

Dr. David Levy & Minerva

On March 25, 2005, the 4th configuration of Minerva was delivered to Dr. David H. Levy at Jarnac Observatory, in Vail Az.

Some history of Minerva

"I originally got Minerva in May of 1967. I was going to pay for it myself but my grandfather decided to buy it for me because he seemed to appreciate my interest in searching for comets. It was originally an Optical Craftsmen 6-inch richest field. The mirrors have been refigured once, by Pierre Schwaar. The mount has undergone 12 different versions, and the tube 4." Dr. David Levy

On March 15, Infinity Scopes received an unexpected email requesting the possibilities of modifying the Uti8 design to house a very special set of optics referred to as Minerva. Dr. Levy has names for all his telescopes. Minerva was the name given to the 6" f/4 telescope that was a gift to Dr. Levy from his grandfather back in 1967. After sharing more than a dozen and a half emails, and settling on a set of specifications, there was one more request; "Is there any way that you could get it to me before I leave for the Galapagos on March 29?" It was a tall order, but we were up to the challenge. We contacted our partners, Jamie at Reis Machining, Linda at Desert Designs, and Jeff at Precision Plating, and asked them to pitch in to make this happen.

3D Model of Minerva

The first task was to design the modifications. These changes included a new primary mirror cell, modified carbon tube and truss lengths, a modified truss shroud, and the installation of a 2" Moonlite CR2 dual speed focuser.

Fortunately, everything went well. All the pieces were falling into place. We received all of the components on Friday, March 25. We completed the final assembly around 3:00 PM, and by 8:00 PM we were at Jarnac Observatory delivering the scope. Dr. Levy was very excited to have Minerva back in his possession. He was likewise excited and pleased with the results. After going over the assembly procedure, Dr. Levy assembled and dis-assembled the scope several times to become familiar with the setup. After all, Minerva was going island hopping in the Galapagos, and the last thing she wanted was to miss all the adventure.

David, Minerva, & Vince

Galapagos Eclipse

Trip - April '05

"Dear Vince,

I have been passionate about telescopes since I got my first Skyscope in 1960. So when I say that I am utterly entranced by your design for a 21st century portable reflector, I mean it".

727 - No problem!

8" scope, including the tripod

Dr. Levy presenting Minerva

"I know the two telescopes you have made for me are special--modern recreations of Minerva and Pegasus, 6-inch f/4 and 8-inch f/7 telescopes I have had since the 1960s, but their design is the same as all the telescopes you now manufacture. That design is so sweet!"

"You have put together a visual-use telescope that observers like me can truly be proud of.

Now about portability. I could not believe how easily the box for the 8" fit in the overhead bins of MD80 and old Boeing 727 aircraft. Once, even a doubting flight attendant was delighted to see how little room it took."

Dr. Levy & Minerva viewing 50% eclipse

Astronomical discussions "top side"

"Thanks to you, these telescopes now straddle the globe, going on eclipse voyages, or observing trips to the southern hemisphere.

Congratulations, Vince. Your design is the product of a mind that clearly loves the stars and how to observe them."

" Congratulations on coming up with something really new. In a world where many telescope designs are unique and wonderful, yours really stands out. May everyone who gets one have as much fun as I have."

All best,

David H. Levy

The return flight with Minerva in overhead bin

Dr. Levy speaking at the 2005 Adirondack Astronomy Retreat with Minerva (Uti6#001)

Dr. Levy & John Dobson (creator of the Dobsonian Telescope)

signing David's Uti6 #001 at Stellafane 2005

Dr. Levy's Minerva (Uti6 #001)

The Levy Reel. A counter weight invention of Dr. Levy's that won him an award at 1988 Riverside Star Party. Mounted on Minerva