|
Making Mirror Cells
I am planning to build a lightweight 14" Newtonian to be mounted on an equatorial mount (yes I know, bucking the trend to dobs).
When it comes to the mirror cell there seems to be three options:
(1) Buy a manufactured aluminium mirror cell. These seem to be few and far between above 12.5". An example would be the one from Orion Optics UK. These are not cheap and are heavier than I expected.
(2) Get one machined locally. BIRD's example for his 16" would be an example.
(3) Possibly - make one from quality plywood.
I am interested to know if anyone has experience with making wooden mirror cells? There are designs on the web for smaller scopes, eg 8" and 10", but I haven't seen any for larger mirrors.
Two more questions:
(1) 14" seems to be the point where some recommend 9 point flotation and others move up to 18 point flotation. Any views out there on this?
(2) Is there somewhere I could buy the triangular support pads for the cell, or are these a DIY proposition.
Regards
Nick Potter
|