Re: ATM Apodizing Mask

["David Harbour" <scarab2@cox.net>]

Peter,

I have seen at least one article about apodizing masks in an old Sky and
Telescope. But I no longer have my old Sky and Telescope magazines, the
hundred pounds or so of which almost caused me to tangle my PA-28's landing
gear in high tension wires because I was taking off on only one magneto on
one occasion. (Engage brain before flying airplane).

But somewhere there must be an index to articles in Sky and Telescope, a
sort of archival directory by subject or topic category. Hope you can find
that article, I am sure that I saw it and read it, maybe about a hundred
years ago or so, and in fact, remember how to make a rather effective one.
But don't trust my memory; surely someone else will have that issue or
issues and will respond.

Davey

P.S.- There is still, circulating in secret out there, the rumour that
apodizing masks actually reduce the resolving power of a telescope, but I
will not encourage the perpetuation of such a heresy, lest I get gnawed on
or otherwise bloodied by someone immediately.

----- Original Message -----
From: Peter
To: atm@shore.net
Sent: Thursday, October 09, 2003 7:46 AM
Subject: ATM Apodizing Mask


Last night I had the chance to view Mars through a 5" Newt with an apodizing
mask. I was blown away how well it worked! Comparing the image to my 12.5"
I'd have to say that it was able to resolve nearly as much detail as my
larger scope. This item should be in every ATMers tool kit.

Would someone please direct me to a web source for making apodizing masks.


Thanks,