Kennedy Optics

Specializing in fast 22 thru 32 inch Newtonian Telescope Optics:

   Hello, my name is Steve Kennedy, and my passion is producing exquisite, large-aperture Newtonian optics for the discerning observer. I own and operate Kennedy Optics where I personally grind, polish, hand figure, and star test every mirror until they produce images that will satisfy the most discriminating observer -- you.

   All mirrors are figured until they pass a series of optical bench tests, and then they are extensively star tested over multiple nights in a telescope. The true disposition of a large telescope optic is best revealed by repeated testing in its true elements, over a series of nights, in a wide variety of real outdoor situations. If requested, during star testing, I will employ the intended diagonal and holder to be used in your telescope.

   Star testing is performed with the complete optical system under the night sky in actual observing conditions. A superb telescopic image must be confirmed by me before the optic gets coated and delivered to you. Indoor bench tests are necessary tools for the optician, but they are performed under controlled conditions your scope will typically not experience. These indoor test results can yield impressive wavefront ratings and Strehl ratios, but they have the potential to be incomplete and/or misleading. Which final testing method would you rather trust?

   I enjoy the benefits of prevailing dark, clear skies at my shop and observing location in the California high desert adjacent to Joshua Tree National Park. Customers are encouraged to come to my shop and star test their uncoated mirror with their secondary before delivery.

                   Professional Optician since 1985:

   I am a career optician who has a unique and extensive background with telescopes, and telescope optics. I held a position which included fabricating and maintaining virtually all of the proprietary aspheric optics for many years at the premier telescope manufacturing facility in Southern California. This portion of my optics background entailed over 15,000 hours of grinding, polishing, and figuring radical polynomial aspherics. This experience insures that I have the knowledge and skill to deliver top quality paraboloid mirrors.

   I built my facility from the ground up to recreate the optics lab environment which I have been accustomed to running for so many years. My goal is to make dreams come true for the large aperture enthusiast. Making telescope mirrors and stargazing are my job and my lifestyle.

   I work exclusively with big aperture, and small quantities. This allows me to give each optic the attention it needs from beginning to end. If you've always wanted a large aperture scope that produces a sharp image, I'm here to help your dream come true.

Please call or write for more information or references.

Contact Steve Kennedy at:
760) 369-2206
PO Box 994
Yucca Valley, CA,
USA, 92286

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Thank You

Clear skies, and happy viewing!

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