Springfield SCT (SSCT), a compact fixed eyepiece telescope

This project is to modernize the Springfield telescope design for portability, with light pollution being a motivating factor. The modern SCT makes this possible. Quick, tool-free setup is a design goal. Removing the commonly used overhead counterweight is important for safety reasons.
The joys of being seated, holding comfortably onto the eyepiece can't be overstated. The ultimate user friendly telescope, fixed eyepiece and capable of having the observer in a warmed room. A real godsend to those in wheelchair or with muscle deficiencies.

Springfield SCT (SSCT) achieved first light on power pole insulator 6/18/10, on sky 6/21/10.

Much tidy-up to do, like exchanging Amici prism for 99% diagonal.

The main thing is IT WORKS.
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Russell Porter invented the Springfield telescope design about 1920, using the term "fixed eyepiece". The development of the SCT happened after Porter's writings.
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More background in private email to Rob Johnson, 11/18/08 "Schmidt-Cassegrain Springfield Telescope" ... ultimate user friendly telescope, fixed eyepiece and capable of having the observer in a warmed room
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key words: SSCTelescope, Johnson SSCT , Springfield Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, SSCT , edhiker, "Russell Porter" , "fixed eyepiece", "Springfield SCT"

Web page with SSCT details and variations:
http://edhiker.50webs.com/SSCT_flyer/SSCT_flyer_of_100918.htm

Link to Flickr set (photo blog) : http://www.flickr.com/photos/edhiker/sets/72157624186145557/