Solution for Flats- Use Electroluminescent Flat Panel This material produces a very even light source and takes up no more room than a picture frame. Source: http://www.luminousfilm.com/ Comes in three sizes: 8"x 11" 11" x 16" 16" x 23" I used the 11" x 16" which will cover up to a 10" diameter scope. Be sure to order the Parallel Panels with power supply/inverter included. |
Build Frame For Electroluminescent Flat Screen Built a simple 13" x 18" (inside dimensions) wooden frame to hold the Flat Electroluminescent Panel. Used 1/8" Acrylic, translucent white plastic, to diffuse the light. Cut to fit 13" x 18" frame. |
Back of Frame with EL Panel in place Oops, could have made frame a little bigger............had cut out clearance for wiring. Note: Wires are very fragile. Cannot bend very much. Also cut slot w/snug-fit for cable strain-relief. |
EL Panel- taped down to foam board and covered with drafting vellum (20 layers). I covered the EL Panel to reduce light output.....Power supply has variable output, but was still too bright. Later, I may try using 1/4" thick acrylic to eliminate the Vellum paper, however this works just fine as-is!! |
Back side of frame with metal clips to hold everything in place Picture frame, 1/8" offset clips hold down against foam board. |
Finished Frame- Mounted to aluminum track for hanging in front of scopes. Slotted track to allow for sliding the panel (right to left) in front of either scope. |
Panel Installed in Observatory When scope is sent to home position #1, flats are ready to be taken.......nothing to setup or breakdown! |
It's Flat Time! |