Greetings, all!
I've been doing a lot of research on buying a new telescope, but in the mean time, I've been using my 80's era 8" f/6 Meade Starfinder (or maybe 826? I've lost the documentation...). It's in reasonably good condition, and even with my clumsy attempts at collimation, provides a surprisingly good view! In fact, I've been so happy with it (nostalgia playing a big part, as this 'scope was the first major purchase I'd ever made using my own saved money as a bus boy when I was 16) that I've decided to refurbish it, and maybe postpone any new purchase. But as part of it's ongoing restoration, I'm wondering if I should have the mirrors re-coated. They are dusty, but haven't been subject to very much weathering, and the telescope has been handled gingerly, but can time alone damage the mirrors?
How do you know if it's necessary or not? Can you tell by visual inspection, or does it require an interferometer?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated, and many thanks!