I soft camel hair brush will also work fine after the air

The best way is with compressed air. Now if it requires cleaning that is something different. Not hard but if ti comes to that I can tell you how to do it more or less easily.

Oh gee...now that's a somewhat controversial question in the amateur astronomer community! Around the time when I joined the BBAA this was one of my first questions to this forum, and I learned that

Paul wrote: "maybe we could even turn it into a workshop where everyone could learn the proper way to clean a mirror." That sounds like a good idea! If we can schedule such a workshop, I'll

That's right, Leigh Anne. There is no need to clean your mirror routinely. Only if it gets so dirty or spotted that it is interfering with the views at night should you attempt to wash it. Bill is

I will be there between 7-7:30 PM Thursday. Kent Blackwell

I will be there. Save me a parking space. Fair Warning: I am bringing the twins! We will have only their 6" scope; not enough room in the Camry for mine, too. If I could get a parking spot on th

Jim, I think we have the beginnings of a dirty mirror contest or AL program. Carpe Noctem Bill McLean

Actually I think Courtney is the winner for dirtiest mirror. Jim

I've had my telescope for less than 3 years. Today, I noticed some specks of dust/dirt on it and got very concerned that I'd have to take it apart. I haven't noticed a difference in optics at all

You're right to be scared. Better to let it get crummy and do cleaning less often. Typically, you can't tell the difference in telescope performance, and the coating will last longer that way. When

Unless your primary is really dusty/dirty it does significantly reduce the views from your scope. Best advice is clean only when necessary, and protect (dust caps) when not in use. Dusting can be

That is good!-Isn't there a Swiffer for primary mirrors? HA! Unless it's real bad I can't tell a clean from a dirty by use. George has the dirtiest mirror in the club and I defy anyone to see a

LeighAnne, How long have you had your XT8 and how dirty is it? I have had mine for 4 yrs and have not cleaned it. You'll find varied opinions on cleaning, with some cleaning each year and others,

Reminder from: backbayastro Yahoo! Group Title: Boardwalk rain date Date:

Is there a quick and easy way to dust off the primary mirror? The instructions for my Orion XT8 classic dob tell me to remove the primary mirror and soak it soapy water and alcohol and wipe clean

I will be there by 6pm Dale

Reminder from: backbayastro Yahoo! Group Title: Pungo Library Sunwatch Date:

I just learned that a man from my home town, New Castle, Pennsylvania, has been chosen for the next group of astronauts. Check out this

We are going to try to come. Cheryl