February 5th, 2006

To: AANC

Fr: Richard Ozer
Associate Director
Chabot Telescope Makers' Workshop

The Chabot Telescope Makers' Workshop has, over the last four decades, taught thousands of amateur astronomers the art of telescope mirror making and telescope construction. The workshop is set up much like a "guild," where students learn for as long as they need, and then have the opportunity to turn around and teach others coming in behind them.

The TMW is free of charge to the public; students need only purchase their glass blank and (optionally) their tile tool, and we supply all the grit, polishing compounds, and sage advice.  In any given year, the workshop will spend between $200 and $400 on grinding and polishing materials.  In addition, we periodically need other items such as cleaning supplies, hot plates, simple tools and batteries.  We often raise money at the RTMC; but last year we did not have our usual donated supply of pitch to sell.  That left us a bit short on the fundraising side.  Although we often receive donations in kind; converting special blanks, broken scopes, and miscellaneous parts into cash is always a challenge.

The TMW also provides scholorships for low income or student telescope makers.  Since the workshop is already free, these scholarships consist of free mirror blanks, tools, and other telescope parts.

Any assistance from the AANC would be greatly appreciated; and as always, we'll do our best to make it worth your while.

Sincerely,


Richard Ozer
Chabot Telescope Makers' Workshop