9 replies to this topic

[mbfbigsky]

Has anyone solved the problem of fitting an AT115EDT with ZWO EAF attached into the soft case that comes with the scope? I'm sure there must be a way. Just wondering how others have done it. Just got my scope, and it is not obvious how to do this. A picture would be great in explaining the solution.

 

Thanks

[Cryhavoc38]

cut the foam to fit your scope with the eaf?

I haven't done this though since I don't store my scope in the case.

It sits on the mount full time.

[Oldfracguy]

Has anyone solved the problem of fitting an AT115EDT with ZWO EAF attached into the soft case that comes with the scope? I'm sure there must be a way. Just wondering how others have done it. Just got my scope, and it is not obvious how to do this. A picture would be great in explaining the solution.

 

Thanks

I went about that problem in another fashion.  I just put those hard cases on the shelf and use a Orion padded carry bag for these "larger" refractors.  Here's an Askar 120 APO in mine, with the diagonal and finder scope still in place (I only do visual observation--no imaging):

 

 

 

I was also able to fit an AT130EDT in that bag with room to spare.  Orion is out of business as we know, but High Point Scientific acquired Orion's remaining inventory, and some of these padded carry bags are still available:

 

https://www.highpoin...ufacturer:Orion

[Astroduty#57]

Nice! Which size Orion bag is it?

[Oldfracguy]

Nice! Which size Orion bag is it?

I'm pretty sure my Orion bag shown in the photo in Post #3 above with the Askar 120 APO is the #15163 model that measures 43" x 9" x 11".   I measured my padded carry bag several days ago and it is 43 inches long.

[Astroduty#57]

Ok thanks

[kmparsons]

When I got my AT115 EDT recently, I had a huge struggle just getting it out of the soft case. It was in so tight that it compressed the lid to the dew shield with such force that it was a struggle to remove even after I extracted the telescope. I will try to cut out the foam, but I would actually prefer a hard case that would fit. Any recommendations?

[Martinbruce]

When mine came I had the same problem, way too tight after some consternation I got out an electric carving knife and slowly sliced away enough foam for easy in/outs. Then it became obvious that I would have to slide the rings for balance because it is a front heavy triplet. More slicing. The hard foam does slice cleanly and the case now works. I used a slicer like the one below. Not aware of hard case options.  https://www.amazon.c...136&sr=8-5&th=1

[Oldfracguy]

When mine came I had the same problem, way too tight after some consternation I got out an electric carving knife and slowly sliced away enough foam for easy in/outs. Then it became obvious that I would have to slide the rings for balance because it is a front heavy triplet. More slicing. The hard foam does slice cleanly and the case now works. I used a slicer like the one below. Not aware of hard case options.  https://www.amazon.c...136&sr=8-5&th=1

That brings up many happy memories of Thanksgiving dinners over the years.  We still have one of those electric knives somewhere.

[RAKing]

When my 115 arrived, I could hardly get it out of the case, the foam was so tight.  Since I like a little extra room and don't like to rub the scope raw, I immediately took out the carving knife and created space around the dewshield and focuser.  I will never carry a diagonal or eyepieces in the case - I have a separate case for those items.

 

I use a Lenscoat "Hoodie" to cover the front end of my scopes.  It doesn't ever scratch anything, but it creates a slightly "fatter" dewshield diameter.  And I don't like anything pushing on the focus knobs.  They are fragile enough without making things worse by forcing them into a tight spot.

 

If I ever have to sell my scope, I'll wrap it with bubble wrap to keep it tight for shipping.

 

Cheers,

 

Ron