GHAAS

DIY Telescope Mirror Resilvering Workshop – Restore Your Mirror’s Shine
2025-09-14 18:00 - 20:00 UTC
✨ Event Overview
Is your telescope mirror looking dull or losing reflectivity? Learn how to bring it back to life in our DIY telescope mirror resilvering workshop. This hands-on event will guide you through the complete process of restoring telescope mirrors using modern silvering techniques.
You’ll see exactly how to strip old coatings, polish with cerium oxide, sensitize the glass, apply silver, and protect it with an anti-tarnish overcoat.

🧪 What You’ll Learn

How to resilver a telescope mirror step by step

Preparing the mirror with thorough cleaning and optional cerium oxide polishing

Sensitizing with tin solution for strong adhesion

Applying a fresh silver coating to telescope mirrors with DIY chemistry

Using Angel Guard to protect the silver against tarnish

Backing, curing, and storing your mirror for long-lasting reflectivity

🛡️ Safety & Workshop Notes

This is a chemistry-based DIY project. Gloves, goggles, and respirators will be provided.

Expect ammonia fumes and potential permanent stains from silver solutions – wear workshop-safe clothing.

All participants will observe closely, and some may assist with rinsing and pouring during the process.

👥 Who Should Attend

Amateur astronomers and telescope makers

Owners of older mirrors in need of restoration

DIY enthusiasts interested in optics and chemistry

Anyone curious about mirror silvering vs. aluminizing

💲 Cost

Free (pitching in for the already provided materials wouldn’t be turned down)

Location
Please reach out for the exact location
