Telescope Storage

[drumsolo]

Just purchased a skywatcher 200pds and would like to get a case for it if there is such a thing. I am going to keep it in a shed so is there any thing I can buy to keep the moisture out, would a plastic vacuum bag do the trick?

[bcfcciderhead]

think you might struggle for a case, unless you make your own.

I keep my dob in the shed with the ota sitting in it, i then put over it a plastic cover, the type you cover your washing line up with, keeps the dust of a treat, i also keep those silcon bags that come with it and pop one by the mirrors, should keep any damp at bay.

[Multi-Coated]

A good item to have is " indicating silica gell " ( think that's spelt correct ) .Unlike the normal bags of silica , this stuff tells you when to pop it in the oven to recharge/ dry out and can be reused time and again. You'll probably find that supplied bags that come with equipment are unable to absorb any more moisture. If you do a google search there are quite a few suppliers.

[bcfcciderhead]

Thanks for that multi coated will look out for some

[bcfcciderhead]

is this it?

Dry-Packs Silica Gel Indicating Packets (20) Desiccant | eBay UK

[Bulkins]

You could probably get a Peli case that would do the job - they are airtight and can survive several metres below water - but I suspect the cost for one of the required size would pay for several decent OTAs.

I also intend keeping mine in my shed (which is appropriately locked and alarmed).

I've bought a secure toolbox of the type used in work vehicles - http://www.sentribox.com/eng/xlock-vanboxes.php(Sentribox - it will take all my gear and will also fit in the back of my 4x4. I can secure it to cargo hooks in the car and bolt it to the shed wall / floor so I expect it to help satisfy insurance requirements. I will wrap the gear to protect it from the elements, use silica gel and cover the sentribox with a tarp - hopefully that will do the job.

I bought a Peli case clone from halfords - (High Impact Case Large Free Delivery : Flight Rugged Cases : Maplin - and my HEQ5 fits snugly into that. The OTA already has a good transit case and both cases fit easily into the sentribox along with my tripod so I reckon all should be well.

The sentribox / maplins case and sundries cost about £300. My gear is worth about £2500 so I reckon it was well worth it but it will obviously be a matter of personal choice taking gear value and insurance risks etc. into account.

Just some ideas that might be of some value.

[stolenfeather]

Like bcfccirehead, I simply use a plastic cover and it seems to do the trick!

Isabelle

[Multi-Coated]

Yes that's it but I don't think the packaging is reusable. Look for description that states can be recharged. There is a lot on Market that is throw away.Rob

[Multi-Coated]

Sorry , that's reply to bcfc