In survey and alignment, Richard finds that one of the most important tools he works with is his eyes. This image is a survey and alignment tradition. Look closely at it and determine whether it is a young or old woman. Look again...are you still sure?
For Richard's puzzler, we asked you to name the six handle-like objects attached to the ALS mirror tank shown below and tell us what they are used for. This was a little bit tricky, but we gave you a hint to read about Richard's typical day. If you did, you found out that these objects are collectively called a kinematic mounting system and that they are used to adjust an ALS component to its ideal position. The struts are extremely rigid and strong, which allows them to support heavy equipment, but they can be adjusted in six directions of motion (up/down, sideways, front/back, and with any degree of rotation) to within five ten-thousandths of an inch (10 microns).Only one person sent in the correct answer for this month's puzzler. It was Ian Hurley of Brookings, South Dakota. Congratulations, Ian! We know there are more smart folks out there, though, so don't be shy! Try this month's puzzler and submit your answer!
