ATM first mirror

["Randy Hensley" <rkb@"AT"itexas.net>]

Hi All,

At forty I finally remembered that I was interested in astronomy.....and
that I had always wanted to build a telescope. Funny how you forget things
sometimes. Now I'm seeking advice on which size mirror would be right for
me. I've seen many 6 " mirrors discussed, but I was wondering if a 12" is
that much harder to complete. I'll probably buy a scope with all the bells
and whistles later, but I want to have a go at making my own. I live in a
rural area, 35 miles SW of Ft Worth. I haven't found anyone local that
shares this interest ( outside of Ft Worth anyway ), so I'll have to go it
solo. I plan on purchasing the a few books to help. I've been to will-bell
for a look after seeing some discussion here. 

So my question is: Is a 12" mirror too difficult for a newbie? 

Any other suggestions are welcome.

I also have an interest in building a grinding machine...heading over to
the archives  now to see what I can dig up.

Thanks,

Randy Hensley

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Randy Hensley   
Hensley Computer Service
254-897-7084 voice  254-897-7085 fax