[ATM] Ghost image

[vorblesnak@peak.org]

> It is a sealed tube so the mirror does cool very slowly.  It has been
> stormy here so I have not had it out long enough to allow the mirror to
> cool in the tube.  I like the idea of opening the trap door to allow the
> mirror to cool prior to viewing.

It cleared here, still clear and very cool.  A bit of a moon, one very
bright venus.  I opened the tail gate, (called it the trap door earlier),
and let the scope stand for and hour or so as the sun went down.  The
images were improved.  I did not get the ghost until I put in the Meade
9.6 mm.  I noticed some soft focus, lack of detail, while looking at the
moon.  I would say it was a decent view but not remarkable.  Saturn had
rings but I could not resolve the dark bands in the rings.  M81 / M82
looked OK.  Racking the focus in and out did not show any astigmatism.  I
did see some slight coma outside focus and I suspect this is a
collumnation issue.


> When I get a clear night and some time I will try the other suggestions.
> And yes, if I can I will take an afocal picture.

No pictures tonight.


David Davis
Toledo, OR 97391