ATM FAQ - What's needed
Below are some topics that I would like to add to the FAQ. But, for one reason or another, it will probably be quite some time before I get to adding them myself. If you would like to help me and your fellow ATMs, you could write one or more of these and send it to me. I will add any contributions to the FAQ, giving you proper credit of course.
What's needed
- Grinding and polishing techniques
I see this as a section that would define the basic techniques (like what are the common strokes - chordal, w, and so forth) as well as give guidance on issues like how to correct a turned edge, quickest hogging methods, etc.
- Optical testing techniques
Description of the basic tests (Foucault, Caustic, Star, etc.) with some info on how to do and interpret the test. Of course, we probably can't replace the many books on the subject. But, something to get people started would be nice. - Zach Burtsche has a nice page on the Foucault test, I'll add a link to it.
- Mount building
Anyone care to contribute some Dob plans or other mount building techniques or tips? Also, I figure we could use writeups on how long to make a Dob tube, rockerbox height, and general on Newtonian tube diameter guidelines.
- Making tile tools
I started this but never got very far. - Dave Sopchak has offered to write up something on this topic. Thanks, Dave.
- Channeling a lap
Again, I started this but never got very far. Anyone care to write up a how-to?
- Optical quality
What's good enough, what are the various measurements and how do they compare, and so forth. This is a thorny topic that I haven't dared tackle. Any brave souls?
- Others?
Please suggest....
This document, its contents, and its Web representation are Copyright
©1996, Tim Poulsen. For complete copyright information, including allowed uses of this FAQ, please see Section 8. Initially created on Thursday, September 12, 1996 by Tim Poulsen, poulsen@netacc.net.