USER OBSERVATIONS Last updated: 18 April 2004

Subject:	For visually Impaired astronomers
Sent:	Thursday, April 15, 2004 14:46:01
From:	"Gerald Mullen" (gbmullen@msn.com)
I got my ETXRA some time ago andI posted a review on my first-light to
your site. Since then I have had macular degeneration in my left eye, my
observing eye. I have a cataract in my right eye which shows up under
any magnification. I tried visual observation but my right is only
partially useful. Some time ago I bought a Video Eyepiece. During the
last Lunar viewing period I hooked up the eyepiece..WOW I was
amazed../Even my wife..who is never amazed was amazed. The lunar detail
was wonderful..Barlowing the eyepiece gave a close up view..about 100x.
At least now I dont have to think about selling my scopes. Granted I
cant do stars or clusters..I can do lunar observing & possible planets
Thats a lot when the eye surgeon says "I cant do anything for macular
degeneration" . I can observe just like watching TV. I run the eyepiece
video feed to a small 9-inch black& white monitor powered from an ac
extension..and guide by hand letting the image slowly sweep across the
screen.. This method has renewed my interest in Astronomy. Video
eyepieces are available at a number of vendors and B/W monitors are
cheap..For me its a new start. Hopefully someone who is visually
impaired also, will read this and will once more enjoy the heavens as I
have done for almost 60 yrs.

Gerald Mullen

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