Re: ATM first decent seeing for 16" f/3.9

[Anthony Stillman <atmer@flash.net>]

Herb,

>...an OK telescope...

Yea, just.


>...opened the primary enclosure and re-positioned the mirror...

You voided the warranty by doing that.


>...fighting a growing nauseous conviction

No doubt the effects of radiation poisoning.


>...told several times that the quarter-sized
>clamshell ...would have no serious effect

I told you that to spare you from the emotionally crushing reality.  In
fact, a perfectly circular aperture is mandatory to fully enjoy the
startling beauty of out of focus images.

Really, I'm so sorry for you.  I know the truth hurts, just gnaws at your
soul, tears at you from the inside out, won't let up.

Hey look, I feel bad, so here's what I'll do.  Bring the mirror with you to
Chabot (I don't want to have to schlep over to your place)  and I'll  see
to it that it's put somewhere safe.  You know, until you're old enough to
view this from a more mature perspective.  I'll even bring a pound of grit
to get you started on the replacement mirror you'll need to make to redeem
yourself.

And don't let this phenomenal set back obliterate the last shreds of your
self-esteem.  Goodness knows it should, but I'm fairly confident you could
be strong enough to take the unrelenting pain.  I know you'll bounce back
for sure, once IT's not around reminding you all the time of your complete
and abysmal failure.

Do take care of yourself Herb.  I care!  All of us here care.   And ahh ...
I guess I'll be seeing you on Friday then?


Anthony