ATM Polishing, facets, and bullseye

["Rodney Mayes" <r.gm@muhlon.com>]

I am happy to say that my first mirror is beginning to take a polish.  First
couple of polishing sessions did not seem to do much.  So, I opened up the
channels in the lap a little more, and used the razor blade to "cut" facets
in the lap as described on the Stellafane ATM Pages.  What a difference
those little facets make. I made twice the progress today than in the
previous two sessions combined.  The mirror is now beginning to cast a
reflection, although I have a ways to go yet.

I would appreciate any comments you might have on this subject:  before I
cut the facets polishing was very, very, slow.  The mirror was polishing
from center outward, but ever so slightly.  After faceting the lap, the
mirror really started to take a polish.  But, a funny thing is happening.
Now, the outer 50% of the mirror is polishing  nicely and the center is
still coming along slowly.  Also, if one looks very closely at an angle,
there appears to be a hazy (less polished) ring at the 50% area, then toward
center a less hazy (more polished) ring, then a hazy (less polished) area in
the center of the mirror.  This almost reminds me of a bullseye shape.
Would you say that this is a concern, or just an anomaly that will cure
itself after a good lap press and polishing session. I have read that
unpolished mirrors can take strange shapes during polishing.

I will say this:  I will never try to use a lap again without facets.
Channeling a lap is not enough.  I know, I should have listened.  Any
comments appreciated.  Thanks in advance.  Rodney.