[chrissara]

Hi all - I just purchased a 12" Southern Cross Dob and was wondering what is (or are) the best (or better) way(s) to look after it.

For example, I received good advice from my local astronomy club member that when the Dob isn't in use to take it off the mount and lie it carefully down on the floor (something to do with the mirrors).

What I was wondering is what one can get away with and what you cannot - for example can I leave the Dob on the mount, or is this a no-no?

I recognise that my question is fairly open, but I suppose I am getting a tad weary of lugging the Dob out from my bedroom where it lies on the carpeted floor to the front of the house and placing it on the mount, observing for a couple of hours, then lifting it up, struggling to the bedroom again (via two doors!!). Can you leave it on the Dob permanently or does this affect the springs, mirrir etc?

I am reluctant to leave it outside in case (a) it gets nicked and (b) weather, dust etc gets into the scope.


Finally I am looking at getting an Argo Navis - does this require the Dob to remain on the mount permanently, or can you easily lift the Dob off the mount still?