The problem with the magnifying glass is that the light will travel through it twice to reach the eyepiece. I suppose with careful design, your suggestion is possible.

Also, store bought optics tend to be of low quality.

For best results and simple contruction, I suggest you stick with a good ol' 6 inch or 8 inch diameter concave mirror with a parabola shape. This is a tried and true design used by thousands of amateurs. Making the tube assembly will be your most difficult part, but, with steady work, it can be done.

For your first telescope I suggest purchasing the mirror rather than grinding it yourself. You have a whole lifetime to tackle a grinding project. Plus these mirrors are not very expensive like they use to be.

One avenue you may consider is the purchase of a complete kit from somebody like "StarGazer Steve." You still build much of it yourself, but have the guidance of a kit's design backing you up.

I believe a "first" telescope should be obtained quickly so you can begin using it sooner than later.

You can lookup Stargazer Steve and others in the Astronomy Resourse Locator on this site.

Sincerely, John

• Astronomy Resource Locator

• Re: can i make a convex mirror?? - Matt Sandoval - April 10, 1998 - 21:35 UTC