DIY Flats Panel

[Lee_P]

I've just written up how to make a DIY Flats Panel: http://urbanastrophotography.com/index.php/2021/09/27/diy-flats-panel/

It's very simple, but may be of interest to astroimagers that, like me, have pretty low DIY skills!

[Gogleddgazer]

That is timely and really helpful as I was just considering buying one! Time to break out the tool kit! Thanks for putting up your solution to the problem 

[rwillett]

I was also looking at buying a panel. Thanks for the tip.

Rob

[qisback]

Thanks for the write up, I've been looking at EL panels for a while, do you use anything to try and get a good seal around the scope and panel? Or do you just hold it flat?

Edited September 28, 2021 by qisback
deal = seal

[Lee_P]

Nah, I just push it up against the telescope's dew shield, nice and flat. That creates a good seal.

[Lee_P]

@Gogleddgazer @rwillett @qisback You might also want to check out this thread I've just spotted, by @powerlord. Sounds like it's a bit simpler, and perhaps cheaper, but also I expect a bit bigger and heavier. Good to have options!

 

[qisback]

Just saw that thread too @Lee_P I wonder if I could get one of these on a flap and automate it

Yet another project to add to the list!

[Xoc1]

I wonder if I could liberate the panel from an old laptop screen?

I have a couple ready to scrap. I have repaired screens before by replacing the EL inverters.

[Lee_P]

1 hour ago, Xoc1 said:

I wonder if I could liberate the panel from an old laptop screen?

I have a couple ready to scrap. I have repaired screens before by replacing the EL inverters.

Worth a try, if you're going to scrap them anyway?