Re: Re: [APML]:Mirror Flop

[RMOLLISE@aol.com]

In a message dated 1/26/98, 10:19:34 AM, astro-photo@nightsky.com writes:
<<I'm sure there is a reason, but why didn't Meade and Celestron design the
system with a fixed 
mirror and a rack & pinion focuser at the rear of the OTA.  The mirror flop
to me is the sct's 
biggest flaw. 

Bobby Middleton>>

Hi Bobby, 

This was basically done to provide verasatility, I guess. Moving the mirror
allows the focal plane to be moved in and out a huge amount, comparatively
speaking, accomodating just about any device you want to hang on the back of
an SCT. I would think that by racking the mirror all the way in or out and
attaching a JMI zero shift focuser the same effect as a fixed mirror/rack and
pinion focuser set up would be achieved. Of course, I guess you'd lose the
ability to use many standard accesories. 


Peace,
Rod Mollise
Mobile Astronomical Society
http://members.aol.com/RMOLLISE/index.html
(The MAS Web Page)