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Pics of a homemade First Surface Mirror Mount

The mount was intended to be simple, be a storage container in itself, and address certain local needs (light pollution!). I wanted a structure to store the binoculars and a star chart binder. The box design would also ultimately have a box cover for travel.

I initially was going to make the binocular support plate a permanent position, later deciding to use it also as a mirror cover. Its not the best cover. Another serious cover needs to be added. Too much dust gets on the mirror. The idea though is that the binoculars will be resting on top during storage so the flipping binocular mount was created to protect the mirror. I didn't want a separate cover to be put somewhere during use. But a hard cover over the mirror could be used as a mini desk behind the box assembly.

Why a box structure.. My backyard has lots of neighborly light pollution. Its my attempt to minimize on side light pollution. (I can barely see the north star!!!)

Although a lounge chair design is tempting, I'm all over the sky, I would be constantly changing the chair position. It would be great for studying one position for an extended time period. (ZZZZZ) A tripod is nice too, but the neck isn't in a comfy position. I've got a great fluid head tripod to use when desired.

With this assembly I can place it on a table and move the whole assembly at will, and tilt the mirror as desired. Im also planning a method for mounting to a home made crutch style universal tripod. This assembly will be used for several astronomical tools I plan for. For now it will be a standing position mount for the binoculars. (Chair and table seem the quickest and easiest)

The mirror mount itself is a milled block of wood, counter sunk for the mirror and the the bottom drilled with a door knob hole drill assembly, several times. (Mirror cooling) The aluminum angles hold the mirror in place. Easy removal for cleaning.

The binocular support plate is mounted at a permanent 50 degree angle. Once secured the sides and the plate are a stable structure. The mirror tilts + and - 20 degrees for a total of 90 degree view. (Horizon to Azimuth) Those little green things you see on the sides?.... cutout washers from milk jug caps.... make great washers!