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Dew Shield for SkyWatcher Flextube 300p


DRT

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I almost fainted when I went looking on the Astro shop websites for a dew shield for my new 12" Dob - £80 for a rectangle of black plastic and a strip of Velcro doesn't sound like money well spent to me :eek:

So here is my DIY alternative, which I am well chuffed with…

Materials

  1. Lightweight Camping Mat - £8.46 including delivery
     
  2. 20mm x 10m Self Adhesive Velcro - £3.99 including delivery

Total cost = £12.45

Complicated manufacturing instructions

  1. Measure the outer circumference of the tube.
     
  2. Roll out the camping mat and measure a length which is about 70mm longer than the circumference of the tube.
     
  3. Cut the mat to size.
     
  4. Stick three lengths of Velcro to each end of the mat with the fuzzy side on one side of the mat and the hooked side on the other.
     
  5. You're done! :grin:

And here is the finished product…

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This particular mat has enough stiffness that it retains a cylindrical shape very well so doesn't flop around on the scope. I had it out for 6 hours last night in quite damp conditions. The outside of the tube was dripping wet by the end of the session but there was no hint of dew on the secondary mirror.
 

It remains to be seen how long the glue on the Velcro will last but I always have the option of stitching it on if necessary.

Very quick and easy to put together and now I have £68 to spend on something else :icon_cool:

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have you got a shroud to go around the truss tubes to stop stray light?

Yes - I made the mistake of buying the AstroZap one. Not that there is anything wrong with it, but I wish I had read this post before spending £70 on it :icon_rolleyes:

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