Our Legacy Telescope Program

The Library Telescope Program was built through the hard work and dedication of volunteers. 

Legacy Telescope Program

The launch library telescope area of this website explains our transition to using High Point Scientific as a supplier of telescopes which are modified for use in the Library Telescope Program.

We are excited about our new telescopes but still must recognize that we have many legacy telescopes still in circulation. Sometimes repair parts cannot be found. Or sometimes, the library wants to try a different approach with a new finder design, etc.

Further, libraries may encounter opportunities to purchase a used Orion Starblast or Zhumell Z114 and want to modify these telescopes based on our legacy procedures. While these modifications take work and some skill, they have proven to work over years that the Library Telescope Program has existed. 

In the following area, we have provided the following:

Resource Center: Legacy resources for upgrading the Orion Starblast and Zhumell Z114 telescopes.  These include modification procedures, decals, etc.

Hacks - 3D files: A selection of 3D STL files for repairing and/or upgrading legacy telescopes.  

If you have questions about the materials or want to share your ideas with us, please contact us.

Our Goal

The Library Telescope Program fosters scientific literacy, stimulates interest in astronomy, and offers the awe and excitement of exploring the night sky to those who may have never looked through a telescope.