DFM Engineering, Inc.
1035 Delaware Ave. Unit D
Longmont, CO 80501
Phone: 303-678-8143
Fax: 303-772-9411
|
|
|
| |
Dr. Stephen Tufte
Assistant Professor of Physics
Lewis & Clark
College
Olin Center for Physics and Chemistry
..."Our new DFM 16-inch telescope will dramatically enhance our students' possibilities
for getting directly involved in exploring astronomy," says Dr. Tufte.
..."Getting a glimpse at the wonders of the universe through the telescope can be breathtaking.
We get a lot of wows," Dr. Tufte says.
...Dr. Tufte agrees with Dr. Snodgrass, professor of physics, when he says, "The DFM telescope will
transform our astronomy program!"
..."Students learn that real science isn't found in textbooks but in hands-on work, and those
enrolled in our Deep Space Astronomy and Advanced Physics Lab will incorporate this telescope into their
work.
..."The powerful instrument makes entirely new research projects possible!..."
|
|
 |
| |
Dr. William "Bill" Keel
Department of Physics & Astronomy
University of Alabama
Gallalee Hall
..."We are pleased with the addition of the new DFM 16-inch telescope," said
Dr. Keel. It was a significant addition to the observatory atop Gallalee Hall.
..."The control room, beneath the observatory dome is set up for data taking with the CCD, webcam,
video from the guide scope, and remote pointing and focus of the telescope in all modes."
A series of sky viewing events are regularly hosted by the University of Alabama's Physics and Astronomy
Department. They attract incoming students and encourage enthusiastic interest in the College of Arts & Sciences.
..."The University of Alabama, a student-centered research university, is experiencing significant
growth in both enrollment and academic quality. "
|
|
 |
| |
Dr. Douglas Forbes
Professor, Department of Physics
Memorial University - Grenfell
Grenfell Campus Observatory
..."While the telescope’s primary role will be as a teaching instrument
for Grenfell’s astronomy students, both public outreach and scientific research will have major
roles, as well."
..."DFM Engineering lived up to it’s world-wide reputation for excellence."
..."The telescope delivery, installation, testing and training was efficient and professional. The
DFM personnel did not leave until everything was working perfectly and we were comfortable using the
telescope!"
..."The 24-inch research grade telescope quality and the level of customer service was impressive!"
|
|
 |
| |
Dr. Caroline E. Odden
Physics Instructor, Observatory Supervisor
Phillips Andover Academy
Gelb Observatory
..."Gelb’s roof-level dome rotates 360 degrees and is outfitted with a DFM
16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain reflector telescope. Computer control of both the dome and telescope allows
remote astronomical viewing and data analysis."
..."High resolution digital images captured by the telescope are used regularly in classroom and
research work by both students and faculty."
..."I enjoy introducing physics to Andover"s bright, motivated students. Our new DFM telescope
and instrumentation enhances research conducted in the Gelb Science Center!"
..."We are very pleased with our DFM telescope!" |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Eddie Guerra
Department of Physics & Astronomy
Rowan University
Edelman Planetarium
..."The project activity here at Rowan’s Physics Department is the tip of
the iceberg!"
..."Our DFM 16-inch research grade telescope on the facility’s rooftop feeds live celestial
images to our Science Hall’s centerpiece planetarium."
..."Rowan’s faculty and students spend the summer - as well as the academic year - conducting
research that trains students in scientific methods rivaling research that we see at any other institution!"
..."Research internships are done on the students’ home turf with the DFM 16-inch telescope."
..."This is a great advantage Rowan now provides to faculty and students as well as encouraging
community activity!" |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Russell Robb
University of Victoria
Bob Wright Centre
..."My experience with DFM Engineering has been a positive one in every way possible."
..."Our new DFM telescope boasts a 0.8m mirror (making it Canada’s fifth largest overall) and
is housed in a 6.25m observatory dome capable of hosting 20 students at a time."
..."It will be used for teaching undergraduate students and for research, specifically to look for
asteroids passing close to Earth and for planets crossing in front of stars."
..." I recommend DFM Engineering wholeheartedly to anyone considering the purchase of a research
quality astronomical telescope." |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Mike Joner
Brigham Young University
West Mountain Observatory
..."The very first night we got good images!"
..."The size of the new DFM telescope is perfect for viewing relatively bright objects... and the
precise astronomical measurements achieved with it are vital for improving standardization."
..."The students are addressing questions at the heart of astronomy, such as, What
is the size and age of the universe?"
..."By making precise measurements with the new DFM telescope, students are helping to solve these
questions while doing useful work that few student astronomers ever have the opportunity to do."
..."Performance-wise, there’s no comparison!" |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Dave Toot
Alfred University
Stull Observatory
..."Alfred University’s CCT-16 telescope was manufactured and installed by
DFM Engineering."
..."It is a ’turn key’ computer controlled professional telescope with well proven software
including remote observing capabilities."
..."DFM was chosen because we had experience with their research grade telescopes and wanted a first
class system."
..." The quality product and professionalism of the DFM team made for a seamless installation and
successful addition to the Stull Observatory."
..." We highly recommend them!" |
|
 |
| |
Mr. David DeVorkin, Senior Curator
Division of Space History
Public
Observatory
Mr. David DeVorkin, Senior Curator for the Division of Space History, National Air
and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, describes
a recent observing session with visitors to the museum's public observatory:
..."Even with the heat these days the crowds continue -- July 3 and 4 we served about 1000 visitors
in 8 hours."
..."When we observe planets like Venus and Mercury during the day, we use the DFM Articulated
Relay Eyepiece - it is a wonder!"
..."We've stopped observing the Sun with the 16-inch telescope though -- too much magnification.
The sky issues just do not allow for it. We observe the sun with an attached Lunt H-alpha telescope and
the 4-inch finder fitted with a projection device called a 'Sun Gun'."
..."If we get better seeing in the fall, we'll go back to the 16-inch telescope, observe the total
Sun with the 'Sun Gun' and details (if they ever come back) with the DFM Articulated Relay Eyepiece."
..."Visitors really seem to like to view the Sun in different ways to gain better comprehension
of what they are seeing." |
|
 |
| |
Mr. Dave Weinrich, Planetarium Coordinator
Minnesota
State University - Moorhead
Paul P. Feder Observatory
..."Our 16-inch cassegrain reflecting telescope is used for public programs, undergraduate
college instruction and research."
..."Ian Huss from DFM Engineering recently performed routine maintenance on the telescope (cleaned
the mirrors and tuned up the mount)."
..."We are very pleased with the expert service and craftsmanship provided by the DFM team and a
special thanks to Ian Huss for a job well done!" |
|
 |
| |
Associate Professor Paolo Gondolo
University of Utah
High Altitude Southern Utah Observatory
..."Our new DFM 32-inch (0.8m), robotic research class telescope now provides
support for further observations and data obtained from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey III."
..."Many thanks and congratulations to DFM and your expert crew for delivering this quality instrument."
..."This telescope is to be the seed for the Southern Utah site to become an international facility
of observations. Job Well Done!" |
|
 |
| |
Professor David Falk
LA Valley College
LAVC Planetarium
..."The 16 inch Celestron telescope and control system retrofitted by DFM Engineering
has profoundly enhanced the students' learning experience."
..."We are very pleased with DFM's expertise and professional consultation and installation. We
can proudly accommodate the Americans with Disabilities Act with DFM's ARE-125."
..."A magnificent, DFM retrofitted, 16 inch Celestron telescope resides on the roof of the planetarium
building, so at the culmination of a student's light-speed voyage through the digitally rendered
cosmos, they can walk upstairs for some bon-a-fide 'eye to glass'
stellar experiences." |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Robert Lamontagne
University of Montreal
Mt. Megantic Observatory
..."I want to let you know how much we are pleased with the results of DFM's fine
work. Right from the start, every aspect of the retrofit was handled smoothly and professionally."
..."The net result of this upgrade is a 10-15% gain in efficiency of the telescope observing time.
It’s like getting an extra 15 clear nights every year - time enough to complete one or two more
scientific projects. That’s a real bonus!"
..." From the astronomers, the students, the night assistants, and myself, congratulations for a
job well done! It has been a pleasure doing business with you (and we hope to do some more in the future)." |
|
 |
| |
Mr. Stephan E. Martin
Williams
College
Hopkins Observatory
..."We're very happy with our DFM 24" telescope
here at Williams College."
..."Our DFM Engineering telescope has functioned beautifully at Williams since its installation
in 1991, with pointing and tracking precision rivaling or surpassing any other telescope of its size
today."
..."It has truly been a joy to observe with, and we are very satisfied." |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Alan Hildebrand
University
of Calgary
Rothney Astrophysical Observatory
..."Our Baker-Nunn telescope upgrade was performed by DFM Engineering of Longmont,
Colorado. We are very happy with our telescope control system upgrade as it augments the Patrol Camera
project. The camera, with its custom optical tube assembly, is used to survey selected regions of the
sky to discover asteroids, comets, and variable stars for further study, and required explicit considerations."
..."Special thanks to Mark Kelley and Dr. Frank Melsheimer of DFM for helping us to achieve our
goals. Their professional expertise was immeasurable."
..."We are very pleased." |
|
photo courtesy: Michael Mazur, University of Calgary
|
| |
Dr. Alan Uomoto
Johns Hopkins
University
Center for Astrophysical Sciences
..."The 20" DFM telescope you moved from Johns Hopkins University to Apache
Point Observatory in Sunspot, NM, is performing very well for the Sloan Digital Sky Survey."
..."The telescope is operated from our on-site control room using your DFM external computer control
feature to point and focus. The observing computer automatically selects the program and calibration
fields and the system runs "hands-off"
during the night."
..."Many thanks and congratulations to you and your expert crew for delivering this quality instrument
for the Sloan Digital Sky Survey." |
|
 |
| |
Raymond T. Martin
University
of Wyoming
Red Buttes Observatory
..."Our 60cm DFM Cassegrain has been in nearly continuous operation at our Red
Buttes Observatory since 1995 as a tool for Graduate and Undergraduate research. In that time literally
hundreds of students have been introduced to professional astronomy with this instrument. The simplicity
of operation, accuracy, dependability and quality of the engineering have provided a near perfect platform
for astronomical research allowing the students to concentrate on their actual projects rather than spending
their time fighting with the telescope."
..."Although quite a few manufacturers advertise their professional quality and performance too
many are just upgraded amateur instruments and are simply not designed or engineered to do professional
level research."
..."Customer service at DFM is second to none."
..."A little more expensive than their nearest competitor, certainly but you get what you pay for
in quality, reliability, customer service and the comfort in knowing that they will still be around for
years to come."
..."Thanks DFM." |
|
 |
| |
Steve Ratcliffe
Middlebury
College
Bicentennial Hall
..."Bicentennial Hall is considered to be one of the most technologically advanced
buildings of its type in New England, and we are very proud to utilize a specialized scientific instrument
such as a DFM Engineering 24" computer controlled research telescope."
...Our DFM system also offers Azimuth dome control, the remote controlled version of the imaging guide
acquire module with motorized off-axis guiding, the DFM remote monitor and keyboard in the dome, and
a GPS receiver for setting TCS time."
..."The week of expert installation by the DFM team proved to be very successful."
..."We are extremely pleased with our new DFM Engineering telescope and instrumentation." |
|
 |
| |
Ron Dantowitz
Dexter School
Clay
Center
..."We required a professional research tool with a low operating budget and minimal
maintenance requirements. We also needed a system that was user-friendly, yet capable of completely robotic
remote operation."
..."In addition to manufacturing our telescope and mount, DFM was also instrumental in the planning
of our overall facility."
..."The DFM staff are experts in complete observatory design, and their assistance was invaluable."
..."As far as cost is concerned, it is true that there are less expensive telescopes. Yet, after
months of 'comparison shopping', the combination of DFM's proven performance, product reliability, overall
quality and comprehensive engineering services made the decision to purchase a DFM telescope an easy
one."
..."I wholeheartedly recommend that anyone planning an observatory seriously consider including
DFM’s expertise and products in their facility." |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Ray DuVarney
Emory
University
Mathematics and Science Center
..."Located within the silver dome atop the Mathematics and Science Center, the
gleaming DFM Cassegrain telescope is the centerpiece of the physics department's new astronomy program."
..."This majestic piece of modern scientific equipment is one of the major attractions on our campus."
..."We are delighted to utilize this fine instrument and be associated with the expert staff of
DFM Engineering."
..." The quality craftsmanship and professional service is unsurpassed!."
..." We recommend them highly!." |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Dan Caton
Appalachian
State University
Rankin Science Observatory
..."We have been a very satisfied customer of DFM's for at least 20 years. We
originally purchased control hardware for two older telescopes. Since then, DFM provided TCS and a control
system for another telescope. Thereafter, in 1995, we purchased from DFM a 32" telescope and, in
August 2002, a 16" telescope complete with a filter wheel and slide mirror."
..." The quality of their software and hardware is great and the telescopes work well."
..."What we like best is DFM goes beyond their warranty period to help their customers. We can call
at any time to receive help."
..."We believe we have an interactive relationship with both parties benefiting and I regularly
advocate DFM telescopes."
..."Our Dean has a saying: You will never be disappointed when you invest in quality. We
believe in this so strongly that I am currently writing another proposal to fund an additional DFM telescope."
..."Their craftsmanship and professional services are unsurpassed! We recommend them highly!" |
|
 |
| |
Mr. Chris Andersen
College of Southern Idaho
Herrett Center for Arts and Science
..."My experience with DFM Engineering has been a positive one in every way possible.
From well before the time the telescope was delivered,"
..." When we told them about our unique requirements for an extremely handicapped-friendly telescope,
they eagerly accepted the challenge and delivered the first-of-its-kind ARE-125 optical
relay to provide us with world-class handicap access."
..." Their advice and guidance in the construction of the telescope pier and observatory paid off
with a superbly stable, vibration-free image and a thermal environment which, on the second night of
operations, exceeded the best seeing achieved at our site during the previous seven years."
(first light image M-27)
..." During the telescope installation, I found the DFM staff to be professional, personable, and
genuinely dedicated to delivering an opto-mechanical package of superb quality. It was very clear that
they take pride in their product, and intend to stand behind it for years to come. "
..." I recommend DFM Engineering wholeheartedly to anyone considering the purchase of a high-quality
astronomical telescope." |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Ken Rumstay
Valdosta
State University
Department of Astronomy and Physics
..."The telescope operates wonderfully and is a joy to use!"
..."Our students have really been impressed by it, as have our administrators." |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Robert Boyle
Dickinson College
Department of Physics and Astronomy
..."The 24 inch telescope manufactured and installed by DFM Engineering has been
a great addition to our scientific program."
..."It features the GAM (Guide Acquire Module) and Filter Wheel with the most recent upgrade to
DFM's state-of-the-art telescope control system."
..."It has exceeded our goals and expectations."
..."More students are interested in the sciences and enrollment in our physics and astronomy classes
has increased." |
|
 |
| |
Dr. Michael Castelaz, Director
Astronomical Studies and Education
Pisgah
Astronomical Research Institute
..."The telescope is excellent.!"
... PARI's West Optical Observatory goes online with a new 16-inch optical DFM telescope.
...PARI and University of North Carolina, Asheville partner in exposing students of all levels to both
the development and use of highly technical instrumentation.
...Such experience is very unusual even for graduate students. For undergrads to participate at this
level is certainly unique.
|
|
 |
| |
Dr. Patrick Seitzer
University
of Michigan
Department of Physics and Astronomy
..."The University of Michigan's Curtis-Schmidt telescope at Cerro Tololo Inter-American
Observatory is dedicated to an optical survey for space debris at geosynchronous earth orbit (GEO) for
NASA's Orbital Debris Program Office in Houston."
..."DFM Engineering installed new drives on this telescope in March 2005, bringing the telescope
and dome under complete computer control."
..."This very successful rebuild was accomplished extremely quickly - from the start of removal
of old drives to first pointing tests with all new drives and computer TCS took less than 5 days!"
..."The system is extremely reliable. Customer service and software support has been uniformly excellent!" |
|
 |
|
