Table of Contents
When should you clean a telescope mirror?
The more you use it, the more likely small particles of dust are to find their way into your optical tube and get stuck on one of the mirrors. Usually, people clean their mirrors once every 5 to 10 years, but you may need to do it more often than that depending on the conditions of the air where you live and image.
How do you clean an optical mirror?
Simply remove any dust from the optic and then immerse it in acetone. If the optic is very dirty, you can use an ultrasonic bath. Rinse and immerse the optic in fresh solvent a number of times until it’s clean. To dry the optic, carefully blow the solvent off from one direction to avoid leaving drying marks.
How long does a telescope mirror last?
An aluminum-coated mirror lasts about three to five years before it needs recoating, a process that puts the telescope temporarily out of action.
Can you clean a telescope mirror with alcohol?
Use a cleaning solution to gently lift off any remaining dirt or smudges. The recommended solvent is alcohol. You can make a mix from pure alcohol and distilled water or buy off-the-shelf dilutions from your local drugstore.
Can you use glasses cleaner on a mirror?
The safest cleaner for a mirror is clean, warm water used with a soft cloth. An approved glass cleaner such as Windex or similar products may be used. These too can damage the mirror edges and backing and result in a ruined mirror. Never spray any cleaner directly on to a mirror.
Can lens cleaner be used on mirrors?
Isoprobyl alcohol lens cleaner, or a foaming action glass cleaner is ideal when it comes to an actual cleaner. Simply spray your surface down with whichever cleaner you choose. Make sure that your glass cleaner is ammonia free, otherwise it will degrade the mirror coating over time.
How do you silver a telescope mirror?
Silvering the Mirror
- Pour the distilled water out of the mirror dam.
- Pour the main solution onto the mirror surface.
- Agitate the solution on the mirror fairly often.
- This process will continue for about 8 to 10 minutes.
- The solution will now be a really ugly brown-black with a lot of sludge at the bottom.
How long do telescope eyepieces last?
A good coating can last 10 years or longer if the mirror has been well cared for.