Flakes inside Celestron X-Cel LX

[Cosmic Geoff]

While using my Celestron X-Cel LX 9mm eyepiece, I noticed a black flake obscuring the view. 

On trying to get rid of it I established that it is definitely not on or in the 1.25" nosepiece which contains a lens or  lenses and which I managed to unscrew.  It is associated with the larger body with the bigger lenses, but for some reason is only visible with the eyepiece assembled.

I am reluctant to try disassembling the eyepiece further without some hints or tips or some idea of what I am dealing with.

[Louis D]

Try smacking the eyepiece sideways into the the palm of your hand to see if you can knock it to the side.

Unfortunately, this is a well known problem with these eyepieces.  Their optical equivalents, the Meade 5000 HD-60s had no such reported issues.

[Don Pensack]

It's a small flake of the black paint used to reduce light scatter inside the eyepiece.

Try Louis's remedy.

If that doesn't work, turn the eyepiece over and unscrew the chrome barrel.  That should expose the internal lens surfaces close to the focal plane,

which is where the flake probably is.  Blow it off with your blower bulb and screw the chrome barrel back on.  Easy.

Successful surgery completed.  LOL.

Edited September 17, 2021 by Don Pensack

[Cosmic Geoff]

I tried the above solutions but the problem persists.

[Don Pensack]

OK, so it is between elements held in with retaining rings.

You could dismantle the eyepiece and blow it off,  or send it to someone who would do it for you.

[bingevader]

Before proceeding with dismantling the EP (if that is your intention), see if you can get hold of a diagram of the lens assembly first, just in case things don't go to plan.

I've had a quick search and can only find the 12mm in either Celestron or Meade.

Either of the companies might be able to help you.

[bingevader]

https://www.cloudynights.com/topic/742206-astro-tech-paradigm-or-celestron-x-cel-12mm-which-is-better/

Post 16.

[Cosmic Geoff]

Thanks, bingevader.