Orion Optics 10" Europa Tube Cap Replacement

[John]

My 10" F/4.8 OO newtonian came with a very thin moulded plastic tube cap that took over the prize from my old Meade Lightbridge for the flimsiest tube cap ever

Unsuprisingly, it's showing signs of falling to bits already and, rather than invest in an OO replacement which I suspect would be identical and equally short lived, I'd like to find a more robust alternative - can anyone suggest where I might get something suitable ?

Something like a large polythene / plastic lid would do fine - just something to keep the dust out of the top of the tube. If OO make more robust versions (eg: metal) I might be tempted if the price is not too steep.

The tube outer diameter is 283mm give or take a mm which is I believe a little smaller than the Skywatcher 10" OTA's.

Thanks

[NGC 1502]

Hi John, not robust, but a shower cap keeps the dust out. Only problem is

finding one thats not pink or has flowers on !

Cheers, Ed.

[johninderby]

I replaced the plastic caps on my OO with AstroZap breathable covers. I like them as you can put them on as soon as you bring the scope inside to keep the dust off the mirror but any moisture can still escape.

http://astrozap.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=246

FLO doesn't stock them but perhaps they should (hint, hint ).

John

[John]

Thanks for the suggestions Ed and John - the Astrozap seems to be the shower cap idea taken a little further - looks good

I wonder if my other half could run me something up like that ???