Observatory Design

[Whitters]

You could consider one of the pneumatic piers.
Or only build the observatory as tall as you need. This does mean you end up bending over inside the dome. But it does not give too many problems.

[MarkS]

You could consider one of the pneumatic piers.

I just wonder how well an adjustable height pier would keep its alignment?

The more I think about this, the more attractive a roll-away shed becomes.  It would be very cheap because I can DIY modify a common or garden(!) shed.  It would automatically provide both a warm room and unobstructed space around the scopes.  Wind shielding (when necessary) could easily be effected with panels that slot into the ground next to the scopes.

Mark

[PhilB]

Wind shielding (when necessary) could easily be effected with panels that slot into the ground next to the scopes.

Why not just place permanent fencing on one or two or even three sides. The shed can then be rolled away from this giving the 'scopes access to the sky and wind protection at the same time.

[MarkS]

Why not just place permanent fencing on one or two or even three sides. The shed can then be rolled away from this giving the 'scopes access to the sky and wind protection at the same time.

Permanent fencing would restrict how low down near the horizon I can image.

Mark

[RobertM]

Check out the construction of a wooden garden shed ... they contain the barest of materials to make a 'stable' structure, that is, when it's all nailed together.  That was one of the main issues I had when contemplating converting one.  If you have time then I consider it would be better to buy some 4x2 and cladding for a diy jobbie.

Robert

[MarkS]

Check out the construction of a wooden garden shed ... they contain the barest of materials to make a 'stable' structure, that is, when it's all nailed together.  That was one of the main issues I had when contemplating converting one. 

Good point - I'll bear it in mind.

Mark