These surfaces can be used as the main components of a simple telescope of 4 inches aperture. The emphasis of the course is to produce actual optical elements by applying abstract optical concepts. P, OPTI 210 or OPTI 502. This is a 'hands-on' course to learn the basics of optical fabrication.
Students fabricate and test one or two mirrors that can be used to make a telescope.
Curve generation, fine grinding, polishing, figuring, and testing are some of the tasks to be done. Some theoretical aspects are discussed, such as theories of grinding and polishing, subsurface damage, surface roughness, and testing. The emphasis of the course is to produce optical elements by applying abstract optical concepts. Occasionally students get involved in aluminizing their mirrors. The grade is based on the completion of the mirrors.