HELP: Safely Storing & Using Gear in Cold & Hot Climates (ACT)?
G'day All
Well I have been an observer for a while. But, I have recently moved to Canberra and I am new to observing and storing gear in the new climate I find myself.
Although in my younger years 7-13 living in Yorkshire, England it was probably similar (I.e. Winter). But at that age with my little 60mm Tasco refractor and 130mm Tasco Newtonian I probably didn't worry about it as much!
It is for this reason I am seeking help and advice from experienced astronomers, in particular those in the ACT.
SITUATION:
I have recently acquired a medium (120mm) and smallish (80mm) refractor, I also have my old 12.5" DK OTA. I have moved to a smaller home and have limited space, the wife is not keen at looking at the items in the main living areas. I have a double garage with large rolling door, which is where I am thinking of storing my equipment. This garage is on the west side of the home which does not get any direct sunlight until about mid/late afternoon. It is pretty cold in there, especially in winter. I am not sure if it is also a little damp, or if it's just the cold with my paranoid mind playing tricks on me! I have a storage box for the 80mm refractor, but not for the 120mm (I am looking for one) or the DK (too big and heavy).
QUESTIONS:
Is this going to be safe to place to store my new scopes?
Should (with exception of DK) store all my scopes in cases/boxes?
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS:
Any observing tips/techniques for stopping dew in the ACT?
I have moved from SA where I didn't seem to have these issues or I didn't worry about them too much. I had a dedicated storage room/office external to main house which was easy to control and I never seemed to notice issues. Maybe I am being a little paranoid being in a new and unfamiliar observing climate/location.
Thoughts/advice much appreciated.
Cheers
Gav
Last edited by GC - South Aus; 02-09-2017 at 10:35 AM.
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