What required periodic maintenance do reflecting telescopes typically need that refracting telescopes largely avoid?

Answer

Recoating the primary mirror (re-aluminizing) and periodic collimation

Reflecting telescopes, due to their reliance on mirrors, require specific upkeep related to the reflective surfaces. The primary mirror, which is typically coated with aluminum, will degrade over time due to exposure or environmental factors; therefore, it requires periodic recoating, often termed re-aluminizing, usually every few years. Furthermore, since reflectors use multiple optical elements (a primary mirror and a secondary mirror), the precise alignment of these components, known as collimation, must be checked and adjusted periodically to ensure the focused light reaches the eyepiece or instrument correctly. Refractors, having an enclosed light path and using refractive lenses, do not suffer from these specific mirror-related maintenance tasks.

What required periodic maintenance do reflecting telescopes typically need that refracting telescopes largely avoid?

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