Coronado SolarMax 40

This past weekend, from January 24 to January 26, we embarked on a delightful journey to the Veluwe in the Netherlands. Our adventure was filled with scenic beauty, invigorating hikes, and the excitement of acquiring a new astronomical treasure – the Coronado SolarMax 40 telescope.

Exploring the Veluwe

The Veluwe, with its vast forests and serene landscapes, provided the perfect backdrop for our weekend getaway. One of the highlights was our hike through the Speulder- en Sprielterbos, a forest known for its "dancing" trees. The twisted and gnarled trunks created an almost magical atmosphere, making our hike both enchanting and memorable.

A Special Stop in Amersfoort

On January 25, we made a special stop in Amersfoort to pick up the Coronado SolarMax 40 telescope from a kind seller. The meeting was more than just a transaction; it was an opportunity to connect over shared interests. We enjoyed a delicious cake and refreshing drinks while engaging in pleasant conversations about astronomy and the beauty of the night sky.

The Coronado SolarMax 40 Telescope

The Coronado SolarMax 40 is a remarkable piece of equipment, and we were thrilled to find it in such excellent condition. Here are some of its key specifications:

• Aperture: 40mm
• Focal Length: 400mm
• Focal Ratio: f/10
• Weight: Approximately 1.4 kg
• Length: 42.5 cm

This telescope is specifically designed for solar observation, allowing us to view the Sun in incredible detail. It comes equipped with a <0.7 Angstrom hydrogen-alpha filter, which enhances the visibility of solar prominences, filaments, and other surface details.

A Beautiful and Well-Maintained Telescope

One of the most striking aspects of the SolarMax 40 is its beauty. The sleek design and high-quality construction make it a joy to use and display. The telescope we acquired is in very good state, a testament to the care taken by its previous owner. We couldn't be happier with our new addition to our astronomical toolkit.

Unexpected First Light on January 27

On January 27, we had an unexpected opportunity to test our new telescope. Despite the strong winds, we set up the SolarMax 40 and were treated to some stunning views. The telescope performed admirably, revealing a plethora of solar prominences. Using the Tele Vue 13mm Ethos eyepiece, we were able to magnify the Sun's surface quite significantly, bringing out intricate details that left us in awe. The experience was exhilarating and confirmed that our new telescope was a fantastic addition to our collection.