Re: Star Test Question

Mark VandeWettering (markv@tick)
Mon, 1 May 1995 08:01:07 -0700

I disagree for a couple of reasons: 1. Star testing is actually pretty simple, and Dick Suiter's book has made it even simpler. 2. Star testing is the only way for the average amateur to test the ENTIRE TELESCOPE. Ronchi testing at the ROC won't cut it. For newtonians, it doesn't tell you a thing about your diagonal. 3. Sure, autocollimation is good, but even I don't have a good flat, and I am obsessed by telescope making. :) Also for large mirrors this becomes more expensive. That aside, I think the best method is to use ALL methods, and try to figure out what each is telling you about your mirror.

Mark 

--
Mark T. VandeWettering                  Telescope Information (and more)
Email: <markv@pixar.com>                http://webspace.com/markv/
       <markv@webspace.com>             Clear Skies!