9 replies to this topic

[Jethro777]

I have a 110mm reflector, however the mirror is not marked at the center, making it tough to use the tools I usually do to collimate.

What is the best way to find the exact center?

[Stevegeo]

 Just like finding the center of a circle, only you have a glass circle.

Rather than explaining here... I will suggest  a lesson in geometry, or you tube or a Google search.

 

Once found you can mark it with a water based marker, or a simple stick on dot.

[Jethro777]

I suppose so. 

The mirror is in it's cell and I don't intend to remove it.  This complicates things.

I also can't use a pencil to draw lines, nor can I use a compass.  

So, rather than a geometry lesson, I just need some practical suggestions as to how to go about it.

[Kunama]

I have a 110mm reflector, however the mirror is not marked at the center, making it tough to use the tools I usually do to collimate.

What is the best way to find the exact center?

Take a square piece of paper, fold it in half first in one direction then at 90º, make a pinhole where the creases cross. Measure 55mm along each crease and make a pencil mark.

Line up the piece over the mirror so the 4 marks match mirror edges and using a marker pen make a mark where the pinhole is...

 

Be careful not to slide the paper along the mirror surface ...

[Jethro777]

So so practical.

Thank you for your discerning reply.

[azure1961p]

I have a 110mm reflector, however the mirror is not marked at the center, making it tough to use the tools I usually do to collimate.

What is the best way to find the exact center?

Find the middle.

 

Pete

[Vic Menard]

Now that you know how to mark the center, what's the focal length of the mirror?

[Jon Isaacs]

What's the focal ratio?  If it your new Tal 1, it may be slow enough that the mirror is spherical and placement of the center spot is not critical.

 

Jon

[Jeff Morgan]

https://www.rockler....n-1-chuck-gauge

[Jethro777]

Reporting back - used the square paper method and it was fantastic - so easy.

Added a center spot, collimated wonderfully - very happy. 

Amazing Jupiter, Saturn and the moon tonight. 

Thanks Kunama! Your a legend.