Re: [ATM] Effects of a too small secondary

["John Sherman" <atm@johnspics.com>]

Steve,

>Would the scope loose a lot of light making it perform as 
>a much smaller mirror?

Indeed, that is what happens when the secondary is too small. Which might be good, if the mirror has a bad edge.

Are you saying you want to end up with three flat mirrors? Somehow I can't get the picture you're describing. Sure, it'd be nice to move the eyepiece closer to the ground, especially if children are using the scope. Children won't care about the light lost and scattered by the two extra mirrors, and the damaged wavefront. But you will care if they fall off of your ladder. 

I agree with Mike. If it is possible, build a regular Newt and use a ladder. I have never seen any telescope deliver a better image than a Newt. I also have a 100" f.l. scope - a six-foot ladder works well and is easy to transport. They sell ladders which fold in three places, so you can even carry it in a small car.

John




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