ATM mirror cells

[Cary Chleborad <bennu@ns.net>]

Well, being the nut that I am I've taken on the task of building seven
8" dobs for my astronomy club to use as loaners.  I've only just
started  roughing out the blanks, but I've already been putting thought
into the mechaincs of the scopes (heh, what else do you do when your're
grinding mirrors?).

Since I'm footing the bill for these scopes I'm not going to be using
Novak mirror cells.  I want to keep these scopes as light as possible
(kid friendly) so the Dobson tailgate method is kind-of a second
choice.  I was thinking of manufacturing cells similar to the particle
board ("high density wood product"-Orion's name) mounts that Orion
telescope sells (pg 63 of current catalog).  I plan on RTV gluing the
mirrors to the cells so there is less of a chance for a beginner to
screw them up.

Any input on this?  Has anyone used this type of mirror cell?


-Cary Chleborad