Workshop: Make Your Own Telescope

Make your own refracting telescope in just an afternoon! This workshop will be led by veteran DC amateur telescope-maker Guy Brandenburg. He will show you how to make a small functioning telescope that can either be held in your hands or mounted on almost any camera tripod. All of the materials needed will be provided, and no experience is necessary. This workshop is open to anyone from the ages of 9 through 99, but a parent would need to accompany any child from 9 – 11. You might get a little dirty, so don’t wear your best clothing!

You will also see how various types of telescopes such as reflectors, refractors, and catadioptrics are put together and operate, using actual examples, including the type made and used by Galileo around 1609.

For more information or if you have trouble registering call the museum at 301-258-6160 or museum@gaithersburgmd.gov