Hello,
Just an update on this. We are in the process of putting together a group with the intention of recovering this historic telescope. This will not be an easy task as several failed attempts have been made previously. We are taking a non-confrontational approach in the hope that the current custodian of the telescope will give a positive response. A petition has been set up and we need as many signatures as possible as this will be central in our efforts to secure the telescope. Please help us by signing this and leaving a positive comment. We would particularly welcome comments from those who have had any association with the telescope in the past. Our group will consist of people who have historical links to the telescope and others with appropriate skills. The size of the group will be limited in order to facilitate effective management.
Should we be successful in securing the telescope, moving it from its current location will be a challenging task due to its size and limited access. A crane and truck will be needed to move it.
If recovered it is important that the telescope is used to educate and inspire others to think more about our precious earth and the universe in general.
It seems like our historical observatories such as the former home of the RGO at Herstmonceux and Mills observatory, Dundee, are increasingly under threat. Although I believe the Mills Observatory has now been given a reprieve. I am sure that you will agree that we must do our best to hold onto our historical observatories and telescopes and not allow them to pass into history. Here is the link to the petition:
https://www.change.org/p/save-espin-s-telescope-let-it-be-restored?source_location=search
Thanks for looking.
John Nichol