Do you patch?

[EpickCrom (Joe)]

G'Day mates. Just want to know how many of you have tried or are currently using an eye patch while observing? I just tried it for the first time last night and I love it! It relieves strain on the eyes and gives a more relaxed view keeping both eyes open. So do you patch??

[The_bluester (Paul)]

I have tried it in the past. I found it more comfortable to actually observe, but I had real trouble finding an eyepatch which was fit for purpose.

[Dave882 (David)]

I haven’t got an eyepatch but pulling the beanie down over one eye has the same effect. So much more comfortable. If I do a long visual session squinting with one eye I end up with quite a bad headache.
Binos are even better tho!!

[iborg (Philip)]

Hi


I haven't as yet, but, intend to.


I have just bought a patch, that attaches to my glasses. When not looking through the scope, glasses on and eye covered. I look through the scope with my glasses off, so fingers crossed it works well!


Philip

[mura_gadi (Steve)]

Originally Posted by The_bluester

I have tried it in the past. I found it more comfortable to actually observe, but I had real trouble finding an eyepatch which was fit for purpose.

The lower and closer the stray light the better you will find using an eye patch. Trouble finding a good one! ... made my own in the end.

* I would suggest a tube of fabric over the elastic strap. Saves getting the hair caught when you swivel between eyes. (elastic only needs to be a few inches on one end and not the whole length)

Use a bit of stiff material as infrastructure for the eye patch. Cut into the centre and tape/glue down so the cut edges overlap a little to get you a concave shape. If its reasonably stiff and fairly tight joined to the headband the eyepatch should stay flipped up out of the way.

[EpickCrom (Joe)]

Interesting submissions so far guys! The eyepatch I tried last night was roughly made by myself just as a test. I agree it is difficult finding an ideal one for Astro purposes. I shall keep looking!

[xelasnave]

You need to run them in by wearing them when you go shopping.
They are one of the best tools for visual observation and you may need to make various proto types but the effort is well worth it.
Alex

[iborg (Philip)]

Make sure you have a parrot on the shoulder when you go shopping with the patch.
I think the looks you'll get would be more interesting!
Philip

[EpickCrom (Joe)]

Alex and Philip, I like those ideas