Traveling with a reflector scope

Hi,
I am going on a trip this weekend that will take me far away from
city lights. I plan on taking my scope, but want to make sure it arrives
undamaged.

It is 4.5" reflector. It does not have a case or box.
What is the best way to transport it?

Thanks,
jojo

It is 4.5" reflector. It does not have a case or box.
What is the best way to transport it?

In a box or a case. :-)

Failing that, I would think about:

1. Lay the Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) flat in your vehicle.

2. Remove the eyepiece and store seperately (which you should do anyway,
even with home storage)

3. Remove the focuser. Failing that (it can be daunting to remove it and
feel confident in reassembling by yourself), wrap it in newspaper, tape it,
and make sure it is pointing "up" and the OTA (or anything else) is not
laying on it.

4. Remove the finder-scope and assembley. Failing that, make sure it is
not under the OTA and receiving undue pressure.

5. Remove the telescope from the tripod and mount.


If you take creat care, (lay it on towels or cusions), and follow the steps
above you should have no issues. In truth, you can even be a little
reckless - a 4.5 reflector is pretty forgiving. Cances are, you'll
experience no mishaps if you just use common sense.

Good luck and clear skies!


--

Ron Sparks

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"The full use of your powers along lines of excellence."
- definition of"happiness" by John F. Kennedy (1917-1963)