Tips for transporting Dobsonian 5"?

[CaroleH]

Hi, I am thrilled with my new tabletop Heritage Dobsonian 5" for backyard viewing.
Now wanting to take it to a dark sky area (daughter's farm) so the grandchildren can join me in exploring our skies.
This will be a 200km car trip - the final 30kms on a dirt (bumpy) road.
Are there any suggestions out there to retain integrity of collimation? Apart from nursing the tube in my arms - I will be driving!!
Thanks for any hints! :question: : }

[wavelandscott]

If you still have the original packing material that would be a good place to start...

[bigjoe]

Nice Carole
Warmly recommend that scope for beginners.
Heres an article on collimating if you need it
http://m.skyatnightmagazine.com/feature/how-guide/how-collimate-your-telescope
Take steps to stop too much vibration ..and collapse the scope...put it in box with towels etc...and away from hot sun.

Enjoy....keep eyes away from the sun though.
bigjoe

[CaroleH]

Thanks Scott & Joe - the box with towels sounds excellent as I'm not concerned re the tabletop mount - only the tube, which is currently giving me fabulous views. Will keep the article on collimation - meanwhile am about to align the red dot finderscope. Ah the joys of learning a new skill - at 70! : }

[that_guy]

Usually, I checked collimation whenever I transported my old dob/newt. Doesn't hurt to check and adjust since you can never guarantee anything. Also its good practice to get in to if you're planning to own a newtonian for a while ;)

[CaroleH]

Thanks Tony - a good habit to get into.... : )

[Wavytone]

I’d be more worried about dust from the dirt road getting into it, and your eyepieces. Put it in a bag you can close properly (zipper) or a box and tape it shut.

The trouble with road dust on mirrors is that it doesn’t wash off easily and if you use anything to wipe it will scratch the front surface coating. Road dust (basically crushed rock) is both hard and full of microscopic sharp edges, ie abrasive.

[Hung]

A GSO newtonian collimator can be purchased for around $80. I use that to check collimation on my scope. It also helps that my scope has bobs knobs to allow tool-less collimation

[CaroleH]

Thanks again for advice; the reference to road dust is excellent - will definitely be wary of protect against that! :thumbsup: