[stephenb (Stephen)]

tnott, you answered Phil's questions regarding the mirror supports. +/- 45 points, sling and silicon the base of the cell onto some 1/2 inch rubber o-rings to create an uniform height on each of the six pivot points. And yes, I will be using a 6-point system base on Mark's calculations and advice.

I managed to get hold of a GSO 12" with perfect optics but a damaged tube for less than the cost of a new GSO mirror.

Last weekend I made good progress with the flotation mirror cell. Instead of threading the square tube for the collimation bolts, I fitted three 1 1/2 inch all-thread joiners (3/8 thread) into the square tube and silver braized them in place rather than welding. They protrude out approximately 8mm either side of the tube.

I then rummaged through the shed for some material to use to support the cooling fan. I couldn't find any perspex or plastic, as is commonly used, and I was determined not to spend any money, but I did find some 1mm mild steel plate. This may sound heavy for some to use, but after the 70mm hole was cut for the fan, there is not much weight in the scheme of things. It is rigid enough. Tomorrow, I'll make a small bracket for the cooling fan connector, buy the connector from the local muppets at Dick Smith, then off to the powder coaters. I discovered a powder coating firm about 3kms from me and they will put it in another batch and only charge me about $50-70.