Getting off the shelf solution for OTA end cap is tough for DIY guys. I tried to get readymade caps from diffrent stuff but found none fitting or correct in size.
Ultimatly I decided to make the end caps myself using the thin sheet of cardboard available with stationary guys. A 1 mm thin letter size cardboard sheet is available in 10/- Rs. I also used the Marine Fevicol to stick the cardboard and make it waterproof.
Since my OTA tube diameter is 200mm for 6″ scope, I had to make the end caps in the same size, lightwaight and with good flexibility.
To make the end caps, I cut two circles of 200mm dia from cardboard. I also cut 1″ wide, 26″ long strips to make the dam around the circle and used masking tape to join the end of the strips. After that, I made a thin solution of marine Fevicol wood glue by mixing some water and painted the entire internal surface using a brush, post drying, painted the external surface as well. I painted it 2 times to ensure Fevicol covered the entire surface in and out to make the caps waterproof.
Post drying properly, I put a layer of matt black vinyle sticker on the visible outer surface of the caps. You can see they look beautiful and decent. Both the end caps are surprisingly flexible which I didn’t expected while making. They sit air tight on the ends of OTA tube.
One benefit of making end caps in this manner is that you can make them for any size OTA. Hope you like this method and it will be helpful for you project too. Thank you!
This is how the scope look after placing the end caps.
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Astro Khan Telescope Making 