A place to discuss high-quality reflecting optics, how to get the most from them, and associated issues. You are invited to share your observing experiences using Lockwood Optics or ask questions.

I expect posts to be relevant and civil. Debate is fine, but flaming, arguments, thread hijacking, advertising competing products, etc., will prompt me to take action. Play nice. Keep it on topic. Mirror making is not covered here because I am simply too busy.

Lockwood Custom Optics makes optics for Newtonian and Cassegrain telescopes, specializing in large (up to 60") and fast (down to F/2) optics and systems made from monolithic and cast cellular blanks.

I specialize in large, thin, fast, accurately corrected, smooth optics that are excellent figures of revolution. I have significant experience with lightweight cast cellular blanks. I refigure optics and make custom flats. Clients include Starmaster Portable Telescopes, JP Astrocraft, and others.

This photo shows me with a 43.4" monolithic primary on my test stand/cart - it is now finished. A 42" monolithic primary sits on the turntable of my large machine, ready for grinding at the time of the photo, and now in figuring. These are both ~2.3"-thick Supremax blanks.

A 36" and a 50" optic are next on the schedule, followed by more in the 30"-40" range.