Astronomy case

[Andrew*]

I'm wondering how best to store and move all my astronomy equipment. Initially, I used one of the white boxes I got with the telescope, and put my books and charts and the box into a plastic bag. But since I've added to my collection, and it was anyway very inconvenient. So I'm trying to find a decent, dividable box that will hold a pair of 10x50 binos, an SLR camera, EPs, A4 books and other small accessories. A strap to attach my kneeling cushion (no wider than A4's width, 5cm thick) to the box would be useful.

Any ideas? A briefcase would actually be quite ideal.

How do you all do it anyway?

Andrew

[Helen]

Hi Andrew,

I bought a metal tool box from B&Q. They come in various sizes.

B&Q website didn't have a picture, but its similar to this one at Tesco - but I don't think I paid that much for it (less than £20 I think)

http://direct.tesco.com/q/R.100-3944.aspx

The dividers are reasonably robust and I added some foam for packing. I bought the larger one and it has the advantage of having an insert for small tools which slots in the top of the case - this is very useful because it allows me to keep my starcharts behind it (ie it acts as a divider!). I use the main part to hold my mini giro mount, my solar binoculars, eyepieces etc. Very useful.

Hope that helps

Helen

[Andrew*]

That tesco one is just plastic, and rather expensive for a plastic one. I'm looking at aluminium cases on eBay, and have my eye on this one:

http://tinyurl.com/ssatp

Andrew

[John]

That tesco one is just plastic, and rather expensive for a plastic one. I'm looking at aluminium cases on eBay, and have my eye on this one:

http://tinyurl.com/ssatp

Andrew

No Andrew, it's not just plastic - it's aluminum framed plastic panels and not at all bad for what it costs. Draper stuff is usually well made and durable - I can understand why Helen chose it. Why not pop into your local B&Q or Tesco and have a look at it at least.

John

[Andrew*]

That's just what I read from the Tesco website (I don't know why it says "durable plastic" when it's really aluminium), but I did go into B&Q. They didn't have any in stock, but when I went in a few days later, I found exactly what I wanted for £16.98. It looks just like that one on the Tesco website. I used it tonight and it fits my requirements perfectly. I've got everything I need/have (!) in there with plenty of room for more. The big binos slip in there no problem cosy next to my SLR and lens! I don't know if I've ever made a better purchase! Thanks guys! I would recommend this for storing photography or astronomy equipment or anything for that matter to anyone. And it looks wonderfully smart!

Andrew

[Helen]

Glad you like it Andrew - Happy to help!

Helen