[ATM] Cassegrain Baffles

[srychnov at chem.ps.uci.edu (Scott Rychnovsky)]

I am considering producing primary and secondary baffles for a 
Cassegran (D-K) telescope.  I have access to a lathe so in theory I 
could take a hunk of material and cut it down to make the baffles. 
However, I would need to start with a big piece and cut almost all of 
it away to make the baffle.  What other options do I have?

One alternative I was considering would be to take a piece of 
aluminum and turn a "baffle mold" on the lathe.  Then I could cast a 
thin baffle over the Al mold.  What would I use as the baffle 
material?  Things like fiberglass and (overkill) carbon fiber 
laminates come to mind.  Since I don't need a lot of strength I could 
also go with strips of paper and polyester resin--sort of a beefed up 
paper mache.  If I went this route I would also need a mold release.

What materials would you recommend for casting baffles?  Is there an 
easier way? (I liked the idea of using a lathe because then I can cut 
a precise shape.)

Thanks for the advice.

Scott
-- 
Scott Rychnovsky
srychnov@chem.ps.uci.edu
ATM Page: http://tlepage.home.mindspring.com/