cleaning eyepieces safely

[janoskiss (Steve H)]

I've tried to clean two Ploessl EPs following instructions I found at http://astronomy.trilobytes.com.au/s...-it.htm#cl-eye, except that just dabbing did not work and I had to wipe the lens with the cotton wool (rub in circular pattern, as I saw described some place else). I also used a hair dryer on low heat to speed up drying.

I managed to get the lens surfaces nice and clean, but the water seems to have got inside the EPs, because there is dew and small water droplets on the glass surfaces inside. It's been 6 hours but they don't seem to want to dry.

Anyone know how to clean EPs properly, without scratching the surface and without getting fluid inside? What should I do now that fluid did get into the EPs?

[MintSauce (Gordon)]

the eyepieces will unscrew, but leave that for a last resort. but the eye piece back in your eyepiece case with some (de)silica Gel stuff, that will help draw the mosture out. Let us know how you go.

[ving (David)]

gah! thees a site on this somewhere.... i just cant remember where...

use less fluid is all i can sugest. its what i do. i dont use water. something that evaporates fast is better. I am sure the other guys will tel you exactly what to do. I just use camera lens cleaning fluid (which is prolly a no no too).

[janoskiss (Steve H)]

Thanks for the tips. The silica gel idea is brilliant!