Rebuilding an old telescope found in a basement. October 2019. (18 Pics) Lee found quality entertainment while watching me struggle to cut circles. Many laughs were had at my expense. : )

base completely trashed, mirror was submerged, mirror cell dry rotted. Secondary mirror support rusted.

Primary mirror in the sink. Using DI water and carefull technique to remove mud/debri. There are many tutorials on the internet.

I lifted a corner to grip the mirror, the other side chipped. : / Not a big deal, but it is an "idiot" moment.

cleaned.

Using the old mirror cell to make templates for the replacement cell.

Working on the whole "cut a circle" thing.

He who can't cut, sands.

Dammit.

It was at around this point that Lee asked if I was cutting circles or summoning demons.

Even on tip toe, I could never reach his light switch.

The mirror installed in its new holder cell.

cutting a template for the base support.

built the ground board & installed a lazy-susan for rotation.

reassembled

Moon through the rebuilt scope: