30" mirror cell parameters - pads.txt [1/1]

Bill Thomas (kuper@Rt66.com)
Tue, 30 May 95 23:57:46 PST

I just took delivery on a new 30" mirror from Steve Dodds at Nova Optical. I now need to build a mirror cell as the last major item on the scope. I understand there was a computer program published a while back in an ATM magazine which gave pad positions based on certain support criteria. If possible, could somebody please post or email the source code?

I tentatively plan to build an 18 point support with large, soft, slippery pads, perhaps 2" or larger in diameter. I would appreciate any suggestions as to materials, and in particular any tips on how to adhere Teflon to pad materials such as carpet. I would also appreciate any opinions about 18 vs. 27 point suspensions. In doodling with my cad program, it looks like 18 large pads give a more evenly distributed pattern than 27 smaller points. In particular, the 27 point Obsession style pattern seems to have uneven clumping in some areas with three distinct radial, unsupported channels. I also feel I could build an 18 point support with much better precision than a 27 point support. What do you think?

In Jack Newton's latest book he mentions that his 25" is supported by bubble pack material -- you know, the kind you like to pop! Has anybody else done anything along these lines? It sounds so deviously simple. What's the catch?

Thanks -- Bill Thomas kuper@rt66.com