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1) Is the improvement really that noticeable after applying flocked light trap material?
On bright planets like Jupiter and Venus, you should be able to easily see an improvement in field glare surrounding the planet (assuming your original condition was a simple painted tube wall). Contrast on the moon is also noticeably improved. The improvement is more subtle on deep space objects, though the flocked paper does a good job at reducing glare from nearby bright objects like streetlights, house lights, etc.
2) How hard is it to install flocking?
For most tubes or structural parts it is not difficult to install. Small diameter (under 8" ID), and long tubes are the most difficult to install the flocked paper in. It is recommended to install the material in manageable sections, starting from the middle of the tube and working out to the ends. Don't worry too much about small imperfections in your installation job, as they will be invisible when the job is done.
3) Does dew or moisture damage the flocked paper?
ProtoStar flocked paper is a completely synthetic-based material, so moisture won't deteriorate it.
4) Does the flocked material have good thermal insulation properties?
The flocked material is a poor insulator by itself. If you are trying to insulate your metal telescope tube, you should line it with an insulating material (e.g., cork) before applying the flocked light trap. Our air-spaced tube liners are another option for many metal tube sizes. They insulate and baffle metal tubes at the same time.
5) What are the light absorbing properties of ProtoStar light trap material?
ProtoStar light trap products are designed for the visible spectrum (~400-700 nm) where it absorbs over 99% of incident light. It also attenuates in the near-IR and near-UV by over 80%.
