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Name: Unknown
Status: other
Age: 60s
Location: N/A
Country: N/A
Date: 1999 - 2000
Question:
I own a classic Celestron 8, circa 1980.

Status: I just had it cleaned in Houston and everything works.

Problem: While changing diagonals a moth flew into the telescope.

Question: How do I get it out? Can I just remove the front and blow him out with air, or do I have to take it back to the repair shop.

I live in Alpine, Texas which is 600 miles from the repair shop. If possible I would like to clean the moth out myself but am reluctant without assurance that I will not hurt the optics.

Replies:
If it's air from an "air pump", don't blow air. It will likely contain suspended oil droplets.

My suggestion is to open the front of the telescope at night, string a light extension cord to the front of the scope, turn on the light, and wait. It's likely the moth will be attracted by the light, and will eventually fly out of the telescope to the light! No harm, no foul.

A second thought if the light bulb doesn't work. Try a vacuum cleaner with a hose extension. I think the moth would prefer the light!

V. Calder


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