ATM Metal Mirrors

["Adam Old" <jamcorp@lycos.com>]

Hello all,

I'm relatively new to astronomy and telescopes, and I was wondering if there is currently 
available (for under a bazillion dollars) a primary reflector made of metal or  compounds 
other than glass? If there isn't, is this because they are too flexible per pound, too 
expensive, or what?

What is the current state of the art for lightweight primaries? I am thinking of trying 
to develop a lightweight optical quality mirror using a metal lattice as a backing and 
I'm wondering if it's really worth my time. 

Would people be interested in large or lightweight primaries? 


Thanks,

Adam Old
JAMCorp


Get your FREE Email and Voicemail at Lycos Communications at
http://comm.lycos.com