Re: [ATM] Are these kits good?

[Daniel Fundo <fundo@bellsouth.net>]

<<  Here's a stupid question off topic, can I use my scope in the
winter? I've only used it in spring summer.  Will the mirrors freeze, or
lenses (for my 70mm)?  >>

Gerald,  I've been out observing in temps from the high 90's down to
below zero (for an eclipse) over the 49 years I've been involved with
astronomy.  As long as you dress warmly you will be O.K.  As for the
telescope, the cold could cause problems if you went from a warm
interior to a subfreezing outside.  The aluminum cell arouns a lens
might contract enough to do damage if the lens is locked down too
tight.  

I have had my 4" refractor out in cold weather (teens), but I have made
a point of putting it out in the workshop during the day so it could
cool off more gradually.

With a Pyrex mirror....don't give it a second thought.......grab and
go!  Of course you will have heat blooms from the mirror, but it won't
be in any danger.

AS everything cools off, you WILL have problems with frost forming on
the metal parts, and later on everything.

*****-----
Dan F.
Former Secretary/MAS
Memphis, TN
_______________________________________________
ATM mailing list http://www.atmlist.net/