It is with a heavy heart that I post the passing of one of our great innovators in amateur astronomy, Mr. Thomas M. Back. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Back at the Black Forest Star Party a few years ago and had a very memorable and pleasant conversation with him about optics and astrophotography. At that time, he was just starting to produce his own refractor telescopes. He was very kind and gracious in our brief time together. His passion for quality optics and observing were contagious. My prayers go out to his family for healing at this time of sorrow. Mr. Back's contributions to amateur astronomy and optics will last for generations.
An interview with Mr. Back can be found at Cloudy Nights website