[jjjnettie (Jeanette)]

The rust converter is a great idea, followed by a very fine sanding, primer then repaint.
Mr Sheen or similar sounds a good idea too, but I'd be scared of residues getting on my EPs.

A decent cover for your scope is essential if leaving out overnight.
Concider an old sleeping bag, $5 at the op shop, buy the widest one you can, it will keep the heaviest dew off, and goes on and off easy because of the zipper. I guess you could zip 2 sleeping bags together for larger scopes.
A folded sleeping bag on a hard viewing chair, is very comfy.

Giving your scope a proper wipe down before storing will help stop rust starting.
I'm stating the obvious I know, but after a long night, it seems easier to just throw the cover on, and leave the sun to dry the scope out in the morning.