Will I damage the Aperture of my SE8 if i wipe condensation?

[Stratman]

I live in the southern US,and the humidity this time of year is brutal,even after sunset. My Aperture becomes coated with condensation when i set up my telescope,and I cannot get the details as sharp as I would like when I focus. Will I scratch or damage the Aperture if i wipe the condensation off? many thanks in advance for any help,suggestions or advice

[Lady Fraktor]

You should use a dewshield and dewheater or 12v hair dryer (along with dewshield)
A dew strip will keep the corrector a degree or two above the dew point to prevent condensation.

Wiping would not be a great idea.

[Refractordude]

Works like a charm.

[pakarinen]

Wiping can cause scratches in the coating / lens. I've seen some instances where people very gently wipe corrector plates but that's when they're doing a major cleaning / overhaul.

[Lady Fraktor]

The link provided by Refractordude is a handy tool but should be used along with a dewshield to help hold some of the heat in place.

[JayTee]

A dew shield, a dew heater strip, and a blow dryer are the tools you need to combat the condensation of dew on your corrector plate. It is the bane of an SCT.

Cheers

[Stratman]

THANKS very very much for all of the tips and advice,I very much appreciate it