Tasco Telescope ARX060: A Piece of History

For any astronomy enthusiast, cleaning and maintaining their telescope is an essential part of the hobby. Recently, I had the chance to do just that with my Tasco ARX060 telescope, a model that dates back to 1963.

The first thing you notice about this scope is its alt-azimuth mount, which features controls on both axes. This design allows for precise adjustments and easy targeting of celestial objects. As someone who has studied Tasco models, I can confirm that the ARX060 was indeed manufactured in 1963.

The packaging and accessories also provide valuable insight into the history of this model. For instance, the 12TE-2 brochure that comes with it features a fold-out ad showcasing all of Tasco's products from 1963. This is not only a fascinating piece of nostalgia but also a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and customer engagement.

One of the standout features of this telescope is its finder scope, which boasts an achromatic lens for clear and accurate views. The ARX060 was one of the early models to feature this technology, making it a valuable addition to any astronomy collection.

Interestingly, there are two versions of the 12TE-2 instruction sheet, each with different features and accessories. My particular model comes with metal legs, whereas some earlier models had wooden legs. This suggests that Tasco was constantly refining its designs and improving its products over time.

The REG NO 312266 on my telescope's label signifies a revision to the design, which was likely introduced in response to customer feedback or changing market trends. Given that my scope came with the 1963 Tasco sales brochure, it's clear that I own one of the earlier models, likely sold between mid-1963 and mid-1964.

Despite some differences in accessories and packaging, both my scope and another similar model agree on one thing: they were made and sold in 1963. This is evident from the presence of the 1963 Tasco sales catalog, which features wooden legs and different accessories than my metal-legged model.

In conclusion, the Tasco ARX060 is a fascinating piece of astronomy history that offers a glimpse into the evolution of telescope design and technology over time. Whether you're an experienced astronomer or just starting out, this scope is sure to provide hours of entertainment and educational value. So why not dust off your old telescope and take it for a spin – you never know what secrets it might reveal about our universe!

Tasco telescope arx060