Backyard Universe Carbon Tube for Skywatcher130/650 PDS

Backyard Universe Carbon Tube CT130PDS for Skywatcher 130/650 PDS

The carbon tube upgrade for the Skywatcher 130 mm f/5 Newtonian telescope improves the stiffness and thermal behavior of the telescope.

Material
Carbon fibre composites, also called carbon or CFC, have extreme strength & stiffness, low density and unique design. These carbon tubes are made from a variety of carbon fabrics. Depending on the type of fabric used and their combination, the properties of the tubes can be selectively affected and ultimately determines the appearance and mechanical properties.

Tube
The tube consists of several layers of unidirectional fabric, which is applied in different orientations and then covered with a 3K-Plain as a visible layer. These tubes have a significantly higher bending stiffness than conventional steel tubes and are also approx. 30% lighter. The original tube rings can still be used, but the knurled screws of the tube rings must be replaced by longer ones (we recommend M8x35 Allen screws, not included), so that the tube with 2 mm wall thickness can be fixed neatly.

All necessary holes are CNC milled and already machined into the tube. The surface finish consists of a very thin layer of clear varnish (matt).

Assembly instructions
Please note that the holes for the secondary spider are 6 mm and are made to match the CNC-milled secondary spiders from Backyard Universe. If you want to install the original sheet metal spider, you have to drill out the holes!

There is a 1 mm hole exactly opposite the hole for the focuser. If you fasten it with M5x20 hexagon socket screws, it will be centered exactly and you can align the focuser with the help of the 1 mm hole (camera necessary).

If the tube is to be lined with velour, we recommend that you also use spray adhesive! The tube manufacturer recommends the spray adhesive 3M Super 77, Hi-Strength 90 or FoamFast 74.

On request, you will receive 3D data (STL file) for suitable tube rings to print out yourself after purchase.

General safety advice: Carbon dust is hazardous to health! If you want to make modifications afterwards (drilling, sawing, grinding), please take appropriate safety precautions (respiratory protection etc.).

- Carbon tube

Safety informations: PDF Download