UNITRON 6" F/15 Refracting telescope of many which were made during the 1950s / 1960s for astronomers in California. Many of these telescope are still in use along with being sought after by astronomers and collectors. Location unconfirmed but it's a beautiful picture.
The Los Angeles Hidden History L.A.H.H. Facebook Group, created by Art Sparks and Loron Knowlen seems like a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the lesser-known aspects of Los Angeles' past.
The group's approach of combining research with submissions from diverse sources and crediting established history experts emphasizes a commitment to comprehensive and credible historical information. It's also commendable that the group is non-profit and aims to be a teaching aid, connecting Los Angeles history to the larger narrative of California.
For those interested in learning more about Los Angeles history, particularly its "hidden" aspects, the L.A.H.H. group is a great starting point. There are many other organizations and resources dedicated to preserving and sharing Los Angeles history.
Loron Knowlen is the managing director and resident astronomer of the George H. Lutz Observatory which includes an astronomical observatory. He has been in this role since October 1998.
Key facts about Loron Knowlen and the George H. Lutz Observatory:
- Role: Managing Director and Resident Astronomer.
- Time in role: Since October 1998.
- Background: Over 35 years of experience in astronomy, including involvement with the L.A.V.C. astronomy club as president and work with telescope companies. He also started his own telescope company called Fraunhofer Systems Company.
- Observatory Details: The George H. Lutz Observatory has moved locations, most recently to Arroyo Grande, CA. It engages in Lunar & Planetary study and uses telescopes like a 6-inch refracting telescope and a 10-inch reflecting telescope. They also work with specific oculars from Zeiss and Vernonscope. Loron Knowlen also runs an online store called "Loron's Astronomy Mall".
- Previous Location: The observatory was previously located in Calabasas, California.
The observatory uses a 4" F/15 Unitron - Polarex refracting telescope. Loron Knowlen has been involved in modifications to this telescope, specifically the configuration of a 3" F/15 Unitron photographic guide-scope to be attached to the 4" Unitron refractor.
Unitron refracting telescopes were manufactured in Japan by Nihon Seiko and distributed in the Americas from 1951 to about 1992. They were known for their quality, consistency, and comprehensive system of telescopes, mounts, and accessories. These achromatic refractors were popular with amateur astronomers and school science classes. They came in various sizes, from smaller models to large 9-inch telescopes for observatory installations. Unitron telescopes, especially the earlier models, are considered to be of good quality, although there was some variation in optical performance.
ADDITIONAL:
Loron Knowlen has a background in astronomy and has been involved with various telescopes and astronomical activities
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Here's a summary of his involvement:
- George H. Lutz Observatory: He is the managing director and resident astronomer at the George H. Lutz Observatory. He is also the step-son of George Lutz's niece and a trustee of the observatory. The observatory features a 4" F/15 Unitron (Polarex) refracting telescope, which he shows the configuration of. They were planning to attach a Unitron 3 F/15 inch photographic guide-scope to this telescope.
- Fraunhofer Systems Company: In 1991, he founded his own refracting telescope company called Fraunhofer Systems Company.
- Telescope Design and Construction: In 1990, he was involved in the early design and construction of a 10" refracting telescope designed by John Pons.
- Telescope Sales: He previously worked as a sales associate with both L.A. Optical Company and California Telescope Company
- Other Activities: Los Angeles / California historian - MGM Studios historial w/family connection. - Vintage HiFi historian.
EL RANCHO de LORRAINE - Arroyo Grande, California
Pamela Greyson's Lost Los Angeles is a project dedicated to exploring and documenting the "lost" history of the city, focusing on aspects that have disappeared or been forgotten over time.
Here are some key points about it:
- Focus on Lost History: Pamela Greyson aims to uncover and share the forgotten aspects of Los Angeles history.
- Love of Los Angeles: She describes a deep appreciation for the city's local and national history, which drives her work.
- Hollywood History Connection: Her family connection to actor Lorne Greene has given her unique insights into Hollywood's past.
- "Lost Los Angeles" Project: This project, initiated in 2007, is affiliated with the Kingsley Historical Foundation and is operated through Pamela Greyson in Venice, CA.
- Sharing and Connecting: She seeks to share her knowledge and connect with others who are passionate about the lost history of Los Angeles.
- Website: There is a website dedicated to her project, "PAMELA GREYSON'S Lost Los Angeles," which provides information and resources on this topic.
In short, Pamela Greyson's Lost Los Angeles is an ongoing project that delves into the city's hidden history, fueled by her passion and desire to share its significance.