Astrozap, founded more than 25 years ago by amateur astronomer Joe Golias, manufactures telescope dew-control equipment and related accessories, including its signature dew shields and controllers. The company’s staff are active in amateur astronomy themselves, an experience-based approach reflected in Astrozap products being supplied for the Celestron telescope presented to Stephen Hawking in 2015. Astrozap sells internationally and has built its name around telescope-specific designs and hands-on customer service.
Optec, IncSince 1979, Lowell-based Optec, Inc. has designed and manufactured electro-optical equipment that helps astronomers and astrophotographers capture better images. The small firm also develops solutions for atmospheric science and microscopy, pairing specialized products with software support for astronomy users around the world.ABINGDON, MD
Company SevenNow marking 46 years in business, Company Seven is a long-standing, community-oriented astronomy specialist based in Laurel, Maryland. It is known for unusually hands-on inspection and support, evaluating equipment before delivery and continuing to help owners long after a sale. The company serves amateur and professional astronomy communities internationally, as well as government and industry clients.LAUREL, MD
Tele Vue Optics, IncFounded by Al Nagler in 1980, Tele Vue Optics designs and produces telescopes and precision eyepieces for astronomical and terrestrial viewing. The Chester, New York, company is known for optical lines such as Nagler and Ethos, while its birding scopes are built in the USA and tested for high-power observation. Many Tele Vue designs remain in production for decades, reflecting a deliberately long-lived approach to optical equipment.CHESTER, NY
Rayleigh Optical CorporationSince 1987, co-founders Vilma and David Anderson have operated Rayleigh Optical Corporation as a worldwide fabricator of large custom precision optics. The Hanover, Maryland, company specializes in spherical and aspherical components from 0.25 to 1.5 meters, with its mirrors and lenses used at premier astronomical sites including Pan-STARRS and the Dark Energy Survey Instrument. It also extends its shop and expertise to amateur telescope makers through its planned Center for Amateur Optics and Telescope Making.HALETHORPE, MD