How to store your OTA every night

[AstroMuni]

Hi all,

I had posted this in the 130pds topic but didnt get any response, hence posting here as this sort of issue must be faced by other scope users too.

I have acquired a 130PDS recently and need some advice. I use an ASI533 pro and 30mm guidescope+ASI120mini attached to it. As I setup and takedown the scope every night, I need a space-saving way to store the OTA with cameras attached. On my 130 Astromaster it stands up on its base but with the 130pds I find it impossible and that means I have to place it on the floor/carpet along its side making sure that it doesnt roll and cause the main camera to hit the floor.

How do others store their scope?

[Carbon Brush]

Have you thought about using any box, or case, or cupbard that is big enough to take the complete assembly.
Then buy a cheap dovetail clamp and fasten it to your box.
The scope is placed in the box, in the orientation you have chosen.
I used to do something similar with an 8" newt, EQ5, tripod, and accessories in a somewhat modified bookcase.
That saved it from getting knocked, and kept it fairly dust free.

HTH, David.

[AstroMuni]

43 minutes ago, Carbon Brush said:

Have you thought about using any box, or case, or cupbard that is big enough to take the complete assembly.
Then buy a cheap dovetail clamp and fasten it to your box.

Thats a great idea. Food for thought

I am still playing around with optimum position for camera vs guidescope. I like the idea of each being diametrically opposite each other to help balance the scope, but too scared to have camera hanging down.

[Elp]

I used to store my 130pds in a camping backpack which I could then store in a cupboard. Bit difficult finding one which can accommodate the 650mm of the type I had. Why not remove the camera? It's the safest way of storing and moving it about.

 

[M40]

I am pretty fortunate in that we have room for a draper type shelving unit. The height of each shelf can be adjusted to suit, so at end of play I just take whichever telescope and plob it back on it's shelf complete with finders etc. Any sort of cupboard with adjustable shelves would work well as Carbon Brush said.