(ATM) Polishing mirrors

Francis J. O'Reilly (76504.1577@compuserve.com)
22 Aug 95 07:43:28 EDT

I would be interested in tapping the collective wisdom of the list in regards to determining when an optical surface is considered polished. I have been inspecting the surface with a microscope. When I cannot see any pits out to the edge with the microscope, I consider the surface polished. More recently I have also been shining a light at the surface to see if the light passes through or is reflected from the surface. If the light passes through, I consider the surface pretty good. I always back it up with the microscope however.

Any other suggestions? I would also be interested in how professional shops make the determination as to surface quality.