Will the Dew Shield DX fit my Celestron 8" EdgeHD on a CGEM II mount?
Yes, absolutely. The Dew Shield DX is designed specifically for Celestron's 6" and 8" OTAs, including the EdgeHD series. The wide and deep dovetail cutout ensures it will fit securely around the CGE or Losmandy D-style dovetail bar used on mounts like the CGEM II without obstruction.
How effective is the Dew Shield DX for imaging the Orion Nebula (M42) from a light-polluted area?
While a dew shield cannot eliminate skyglow, it significantly improves contrast by blocking local, off-axis light sources like streetlights or porch lights. When imaging a bright object like the Orion Nebula (M42), this shielding helps darken the background and makes faint outer details more visible against the sky.
What is the advantage of the felt lining inside the Dew Shield DX?
The felt lining serves two purposes. First, it's matte black to absorb any stray light that might otherwise reflect off the inner surface of the shield and into your optics. Second, it absorbs moisture, helping to manage condensation and keep your corrector plate clear for longer.
Is the Dew Shield DX difficult to transport?
No, it is designed for portability. The flexible PE plastic allows you to roll the shield up into a much smaller cylinder. At only 1.0 lbs, it adds minimal weight to your gear kit.
How does the Velcro attachment work for both 6" and 8" telescopes?
The shield has a long strip of Velcro that allows you to adjust the circumference. You simply wrap the shield around your optical tube and secure the Velcro at the appropriate point to create a snug fit, whether it's a 6" or 8" model.
Can I use this on a non-Celestron 8" SCT?
While it is designed for a custom fit on Celestron 6" and 8" OTAs, it may fit other brands of Schmidt-Cassegrains with similar tube diameters. The key is the adjustable Velcro closure, which provides flexibility, but the fit around the dovetail bar may vary.