Explore Scientific Light Shroud for 10" and 12" Truss Tube Dobsonians (ES-DOB1012SHR)
A truss tube Dobsonian telescope has a lot going for it—portability, fast cooldowns, and excellent light grasp in a compact footprint. But there’s one inherent downside to that open structure: it leaves your optical path vulnerable to ambient light, drifting dust, and even the occasional curious fingertip. That’s where the Explore Scientific Light Shroud for 10" and 12" Truss Tube Dobsonians comes in.
This purpose-built shroud stretches snugly over the open framework of your telescope to protect your optics and preserve contrast. Whether you're observing under suburban streetlights or dark skies with a nearby campfire, the shroud blocks stray light from entering the optical path, helping your telescope deliver sharper, higher-contrast views.
A Simple Solution to Stray Light and Dust
Stray light doesn’t need to be bright to be a problem. Even dim ambient illumination from nearby buildings, car headlights, or a rising Moon can bounce off internal surfaces and reduce the contrast in your image. The Explore Scientific shroud is made of thick, opaque black nylon that eliminates this issue by creating a light-tight tube from your secondary cage to your mirror box.
At the same time, the shroud acts as a barrier against dust, dew, pollen, and windblown grit, helping protect your primary mirror when observing in dry or dusty environments. While it won’t make your scope fully sealed, it will dramatically reduce the amount of debris settling on your optics—especially useful for nights with variable wind.
Designed for the Field
Unlike homemade solutions or thinner fabric sleeves, this shroud is made specifically to fit Explore Scientific’s 10" and 12" Truss Tube Dobsonians. It slips on quickly and stays in place securely, thanks to elastic ends that grip the upper and lower assemblies without sagging into the light path. The stretchable, breathable fabric allows for passive ventilation, so the mirror can continue to cool without trapping heat inside the tube.
Thermal management is critical with open-tube designs, and this shroud is made with that in mind. It provides the protection you need while still allowing the internal air column to equalize with outdoor conditions—helping minimize tube currents that can degrade image quality.
When not in use, the shroud compresses down to a compact, lightweight package that fits easily into your accessory case or gear bag. Installation takes only seconds, with no tools or fasteners required.
Key Features:
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Custom fit for 10" and 12" Explore Scientific Truss Tube Dobsonians
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Blocks stray light to maximize image contrast
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Shields optics from dust, pollen, dew, and debris
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Made from opaque, stretchable black nylon
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Elastic banding on both ends for secure fit—won’t sag or shift during use
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Breathable design allows for passive cooling and minimizes tube currents
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Lightweight, foldable, and installs in seconds—no tools required
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Ideal for observers who set up near ambient light sources or in dusty conditions
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Manufacturer part number: ES-DOB1012SHR
