ATM machined mirror

["A.CUSHENAN" <aidan.cushenan8@virgin.net>]

hi all
this is my first posting to the atm list
i have just bought my first telescope(russian 90mm maksutov)and after
reading the messages on mirror grinding and its complexities,
i was wondering whether it would be possible to make a mirror from
solid aluminium.
what i was thinking of was using a C.N.C (computer numerical control)
lathe to machine a parabolic curve on one face of a billet of aluminium
followed by fine polishing.
the lathe is fairly accurate i.e +/- 0.001mm(1micron)

am i barking up the wrong tree? i.e expansion/contraction rates etc.

any advice would be greatly appreciated

Aidan Cushenan

p.s i have just started an astronomy club in my local area and any ideas
for meetings,star parties etc would also be appreciated

EAST ANTRIM ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
C/O THOMPSON PRIMARY SCHOOL
BALLYROBERT
NORTHERN IRELAND.