Click to Enlarge Tele-Crutch for Truss

A Truss Mounted Tele Crutch - An aid for ancient astronomers.

The top section of my new GS 250 Light-Bucket is far to heavy and awkward to hold while pulling down and reassembling the scope.  To make the process easier and safer this simple PVC and ply wood  crutch was made.

• Pic 1 - A view of the device. Note the cross pin which allows it to be shortened for removal.
• Pic 2 - The crutch in position ready to support the top section when the trusses are removed. Note it sits on the Bucket cover.
• Pic 3 - The crutch shortened after assembling the scope for  its removal.

An added feature, not shown, the top plywood three projection plate and bottom base support are both removable from the PVC tubing enabling the crutch to be packed in the vehicle where space is premium.  Choose PVC tubing that will allow one section to  slide into the other and  rigid enough to support the top scope section without wobbling.

Just be sure you can remove the crutch from between the trusses when the scope is assembled!

Click to Enlarge Pic 1		Click to Enlarge Pic 2
Click to Enlarge Pic 3

Article by Dennis Greeve (Dennis G). Discuss this article on the IceInSpace Forum.