Roller bearings for your Dobsonian telescope

Storage and transport

Since the scope breaks into five main pieces (not including eyepieces, etc.), some sort of transportation device was necessary.  I wanted something that could store all five pieces and be wheeled into my pickup at a moment's notice.  Thus the "hotdog cart"  (as it has since become known)  was born.  It's constructed from 1/2" MDF and melamine, is divided into separate compartments, and is weatherproof (in theory anyway).  I was careful to distribute the loaded weight so that lifting from the wheelbarrow handles wouldn't be a strain.

Update: Wheeling this into the back of the pickup "at a moment's notice" isn't a very accurate statement.  The weight of the scope and the cart together requires the use of a winch and ramps.  Still, it's worth the extra protection when heading down the highway to a dark sky site.  Also, it makes a wonderful countertop when in the field.

 

This was a wonderful way for my teenage daughter and I to bridge the daddy/daughter gap that eventually happens to all fathers and daughters.  This project would not have been successful were it not for her skills in geometry and her never ending diligence and patience.

 

Thanks Pooh Bear!

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