Large Mirror Aluminizing in New Zealand?

[sopticals]

Anywhere in New Zealand that one can get large mirrors (22" and 25") aluminized? Or does one have to ship to Oz? If so what cost to aluminize and overcoat? Any recommendations as to who would do a good job? Thanks for imput (in advance).:help:

[ZeroID]

Hi Stephen
I think there is a crowd up here in Henderson, Auckland that does silvering but I don't know what size they can handle. I'll see if I can find a contact for you.

[sopticals]

Since my opening this post I found no place in NZ that aluminizes telescope mirrors but I have a son working in the glass/mirror business who is able to have silvering done on mirrors of practically any size at reasonable price (Ex Dunedin). The price given to me around $50 for a 22" mirror. Silvered surfaces come with 96-96% reflectivity as compared to 88-91% aluminium. The downside of the silvered surface is its shorter life but can last years if properly cared for.

Stephen

[gbeal]

Stephen,
just found this thread, and feel that there are places in NZ that aluminize, but not sure of the max size. Try a posting on NZ Astronomers, you will get an answer for sure.
Gary

[George Ionas]

Stephen, KiwiStar Optics aluminises mirrors. They did my 24 inch mirror. From memory they charge about $20 per inch of mirror diameter.

Here are the details:

Dave Cochrane
Optics Fabrication Manager
KiwiStar Optics
60 Gracefield Road
PO Box 31-310
Lower Hutt
New Zealand
Phone: +64-4 931 3735 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +64-4 931 3735 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Email: d.cochrane@irl.cri.nz

[sopticals]

Hi George,

thanks for the contact. I am currently in polishing mode on a 22" mirror.Also have just not long finished the grinding of a 25" as well-both have a focal length of 114". 22" @ f5.2 for binoviewer use (light cone not too steep). Will initially silver (as a cheap coating) to make sure of surface figure under use. Again many thanks.

Stephen