Dust/dirt on mirrors

[F1Bird]

Whilst twiddling my thumbs waiting for the skies to clear I have had a peer down the scope and see that there are a few bits of dust or lint or something similar on my primary. Is this likely to have any effect or can I just ignore it?

[Spec-Chum]

I'd leave it until I'm sure its affecting the views. The general opinion seems to be a mirror has to be ludicrously dirty for the views to become affected.

Mine looks quite dirty when I look down the OTA at the mirror but I've not even contemplated cleaning it yet.

[ollypenrice]

Don't touch it. Look through your optics, not at them, or you'll be tempted to do something pointless and risky.

Olly

[Peter Drew]

When you could write your name in the dust layer, time to clean!