| One of the most common problems that attack astronomers is the formation
of Dew on the optics and body of the telescope. This comes as a surprise to beginners that
think the weather is dry on a clear night. In fact, the best viewing conditions happen
under precise weather conditions that form dew in the atmosphere. One may think that
wiping the water off is the solution, but it returns as soon as you wipe it off. Don't
worry, all hope is not lost. The first thing that you can do to prevent dew forming on
the lenses of your telescope (Schmidt-Cassegrain; Refractor). A dew cap that is available
at all astronomy shops that goes over the aperture of your telescope will drastically cut
down on the amount of dew that forms. The manufacturer of your telescope will have one
that is specially designed for your type of scope. If you wish, you can create your own
with 5/8" foam sold at most hardware stores. The length of it should be 1 1/2
and the circumference the same as the aperture of your telescope. One of the nice things
about a Newtonian Telescope is that the whole body of the scope acts as a dew shield.
Another place that dew seems to form is the eyepiece. Many newer eyepieces come with a
raised rubber piece surrounding the lens. This filters out extraneous light, but also acts
as a mini dew shield.
HEAT:
Sometimes none of the above will be available, the only thing left to do it heat your
optics. A hairdryer will work fine, just be sure not to overheat the mirrors and
lenses (this could cause warping).
Caution:
After using your telescope on a wet night, be sure to let it thoroughly dry before storing
it away. Excess moisture can eat away at the coatings on the optics and rust the interior
of the telescope.
More Coming Soon
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