[ATM] Polishing with WAO?

[Mel Bartels]

> How do you manage this? Any hi-tech secrets? Steroids?


1. Cut polishing time in half by using pro grade finishing grit (MicroGrit 9
micron is fine) with a light touch for the final 1/3 wets

2. Microfacet, microfacet, microfacet

3. Embed the polishing compound in the pitch immediately

4. Use heaviest pressure possible with very slow strokes: it's the
pressure+water+polishing compound that controls polishing rate with slower
speeds resulting in more polish compound interaction that speeds polishing;
mirror and pitch should feel warm to the touch after a polishing session

5. Avoid any testing: it destroys the goal of polishing and psychologically
guarantees a doubling of time to finish

6. Keep in mind that glass can be polished in minutes, albeit not the final
quality we want in our reflective optics.  As polishing proceeds, gradually
switch from a 'complete the polish' role to 'optical surface for figuring'
role.  For the majority of polishing, concentrate on... polishing!

Mel Bartels