Transporting a 12.5" Truss Dob will require breakdown. The average length from face of the mirror to the top of the Upper Tube assembly will be roughtly 5 feet long. Over all length could be as high as 6 to 6.5 feet long total. This will require a step ladder unless you are 7 1/2 tall. You will need to either check or set collimation everytime you break down the truss for moving. This is common and required. Most folks who have larger trusses use a laser collimator which does the trick fast and quite well. In light polluted areas a tube skirt/cloth shroud will be required. Dust is a problem alot, so setting up in a clean dust free area is ideal; if you can`t then use the shroud whenever possible. Also most truss scopes have a mirror box that will close over the mirror when not in use. This is a nice option to have. The mirror should cool a little to reach near or at ambient air temperture. Look for solid but light truss tubes. No wiggle or wobble. They can be heavy, so whereever you set it is where it will sit. 12.5" isn`t really that big compared to a 18" or 20". Another nice factor is a rotating Uper tube assembly that turns the diagonal and focuser at the same time. This option is ideal, but more pricey. I hope I answered a few of your questions. Good Luck!!

• RE: RE: Portable Truss Reflectors? - Phil - April 19, 2000 - 20:46 UTC
  • RE: RE: RE: Portable Truss Reflectors? - Kip - April 19, 2000 - 23:39 UTC