Expert: Paul Wagner - 6/22/2006

Question
I need incormation or someone who can answer questions such as " given two tubes one of 2"
and one of 4" which lenses if any should I use
and if I want to experiment, where can I go
near new york to find some.

Thank You Very Much

Manny  

Answer
HI Manny:

Let me offer you a few ideas, just to get you started:

1.  First of all, for a periscope, you don't need lenses, only mirrors.  All you need is two mirrors and a tube.  If you create a simplified "S" out of the tube, and put a mirror in each of the two corners, you will create a simple periscope.

2.  There are lots of good optics suppliers.  My favorites are:

http://www.ajaegers.com/

http://www.surplusshed.com/

http://scientificsonline.com/Default.asp?bhcd2=1151019154

3.  I would suggest a good book on beginning optics, just to get you started.  Check out your local library, or try these websites:

http://www.opticalres.com/kidoptx.html

http://www.school-for-champions.com/science/experiments/simopticslens.htm

Paul Wagner