Making a big dob easier to transport.

[astro_nutt]

Hi all. Having to one day update my mode of transport, and as I need a large wagon or van to accommodate a 12"solid tube dob does make it a challenge. So, I thought about it and decided to do make a the dob collapsible.
Instead of cutting up the original tube, I made a new set from 0.75 mm gal sheeting.
Next came the rings to hold the struts in place. These were cut from 18mm ply as were the blocks to clamp the struts for the primary section.
Brackets made from aluminium provided extra rigidity for the secondary section.
Holes cut into the rinds were done slightly oversize and lined with strips cut from a soft drink can glued in place. This help to give a smooth movement when extending the secondary.
An extra sheet was added to the secondary section where the focuser is fitted for when I add a camera.
All the holes were measured from the original tube and cut out/drilled to the new sections, but some were a tad out!:D
The interior of the tube sections were painted with Rust-O-leum Chalked ultra matt spray paint, (charcoal colour), which is quite impressive.
I'm happy with the results and it is easier to cart around.
Cheers
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[h0ughy]

Looks pretty good. How very industrious of you. You must be chuffed with the results

[Kunama]

Well done !!!

[astro_nutt]

Thanks for the kind words. Yep, I am chuffed, and it'll get a through testing soon.

[Baza]

Nice work there

[astro_nutt]

Did a brief test last night. Mirrors cooled down a lot faster and images of Jupiter were very good even through the high cloud above Melbourne. Collimation only required a minor tweak and made easier as I can now see the position of the laser on the secondary mirror. Setting up is a LOT easier now as I can lift it up by the primary section.
Yep, it worked out fine. Now I have to beg to my dearest to make a shroud for it.
Cheers!