In this talk, we will explore the tools, techniques, and tests that have evolved over the years to produce a telescope mirror (or lens) whose surface is thousands of times smoother and more accurate than the best machinist's work, all the while using simple and inexpensive devices and procedures that even a caveman can handle. We will start with a short history of the art of mirror making and the role our own state of Vermont played in that timeline. This is followed by a description of the ten basic steps a mirror maker will take to transform a raw disk of glass into an optically perfect mirror that will reside at the heart of their telescope. For each step, we will describe the procedure to get to the desired result and a set of simple tests that prove that you have completed that task. In the end, you will know how thousands of folks have crafted their own telescopes using the most basic tools to produce research-quality optics. Following the main presentation, our recurring monthly presentations will include Constellation of the Month by Terri Zittritsch.
For Adults