Flocking

[cyborg421]

I seem to read a lot about "flocking" for those with Skywatcher Dobs and yet can't seem to find a post about what it is, what to use, where to put it and what difference it makes.

Can anyone help?

Simon

[Warren]

They use flocking on dashboards of race cars to reduce sun glare/reflection.

Flocking (texture) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia <-- Read That.

The use on a Dob however, is beyond me, im a beginner myself. I would hazard a guess on the inside of the tube? I am happy to be proven wrong however.

[rowan46]

Flocking is used for the same thing eg cutting down reflection on the inside of a tube. It seems to make some difference, but not as much difference as a better eyepiece would. Some people like tinkering with their equipment and trying to get as close to theoretical perfection as it's possible to get. If this is the scope you intend to keep for ever it may be worthwhile doing it, otherwise get yourself a better eyepiece as you can keep that when you sell your scope on.

[mylatestwhim]

Flocking is used for the same thing eg cutting down reflection on the inside of a tube. It seems to make some difference, but not as much difference as a better eyepiece would. Some people like tinkering with their equipment and trying to get as close to theoretical perfection as it's possible to get. If this is the scope you intend to keep for ever it may be worthwhile doing it, otherwise get yourself a better eyepiece as you can keep that when you sell your scope on.

I take it it's similar in astro circles to putting a big air filter or back box on your car.

Heres a web page I found on it it says it increases contrast and reduces stray light getting to the optics How to add Protostar Black Velvet Flocking Material to Orion XT10 Telescope

[cyborg421]

Thanks guys. That answers my question.

I am keeping my scope but I don't think I'll bother with the flocking.

Simon