Maker of Precision Optics and Innovative Telescopes
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Telescope Mirrors Polished to Perfection
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Feet-on-the-ground 20
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Crafting smooth, high-precision surfaces at Waite Research
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Amazing Views of the Night Sky
Premium mirrors and innovative telescope designs by Waite Research
Crafting Precision Optics for Astronomy, Industry, and Science
Waite Research, founded by Gordon Waite, specializes in the design and fabrication of precision optics for astronomy, science, and industry. We produce premium telescope mirrors from 6 inches to 38.5 inches in diameter, including short focal-length designs for fast, compact systems.
In addition to our astronomy mirrors, we also build custom optical components for industrial and scientific instruments, tailored to exacting specifications. Every optic we produce reflects our commitment to innovation and dependable performance.
Gordon Waite on YouTube
With over 50 in-depth videos on mirror making and telescope building, Gordon Waite has built a YouTube channel that’s both educational and inspiring for amateur and professional astronomers alike. His hands-on demonstrations and clear explanations have attracted a worldwide audience, earning the channel more than 3 million views and a reputation as a go-to resource for precision optics and telescope craftsmanship. Gordon Waite YouTube Channel. Read more
New from Gordon Waite
Twelve Mirror Making Mistakes That Beginners Make
Whether you're grinding your very first telescope mirror or returning to the hobby after years away, Gordon's new 24-page ebook shares the practical workshop lessons he's learned over decades of making and teaching telescope mirrors.
Filled with clear explanations, helpful photos, and proven techniques, this guide will help you avoid common pitfalls, build better shop habits, and produce a mirror you'll be proud to observe with.
→ Practical advice from decades of hands-on experience
→ Tips to save time, avoid unnecessary rework, and improve your results
→ Helpful workshop photos
Available now as an instant PDF download. Special Launch Price: Just $14.99 (Regularly $19.95)
This 20" F3.3 Renegade looks stunning with the cherry wood finish.
Innovative Design and Premium Mirror Deliver Top Performance
Waite Research's innovative Renegade telescope design and optics offer exquisite night views of Saturn, Jupiter, and the moon, as well as open clusters, nebulae and galaxies.
Renegade telescopes include premium, Waite Research mirrors, top-end Starlight Instruments Feather Touch focusers, and light-blocking fabric cloaks.
Please email us to learn more about Renegade telescopes and premium optics.
Premium Optics for Your New Build?
Every mirror we produce is crafted with accuracy and brightness in mind.
With decades of experience and state-of-the-art fabrication techniques, Waite Research delivers optics that drive discovery and exploration.
This is one of the premium 20" f/3.3 telescope mirrors crafted by Gordon Waite at Waite Research in Chandler, Arizona — a fast, high-performance optic built for serious deep-sky observing.
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How We Make Premium Telescope Mirrors
17 Jan, 2017| by adminOur mirror-making work relies on efficiency and efficiency these days means robotics. So while designing and adding a new overarm to one of our mirror polishing machines, we decided to push the envelope.
The heart of a world-class telescope is its glass.
Coming Soon
If you are dreaming of a new telescope build, we have several 20" F3.3 mirrors in process. Email waite.research.team@gmail.com, Attn: Gordon Waite.
16" Renegade Telescope
Engineered for serious stargazers, the Renegade features a Waite Research primary mirror, precision CNC-cut Baltic Birch construction, and an 18-point mirror cell for uncompromising performance. With its velvet-lined upper cage and fitted light-blocking shroud, this telescope delivers crystal-clear, high-contrast views of the universe.