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Nice work Bob, using the premix concreting service is the way to go, I did similar for the base of my observatory back in the summer there. I mixed the concrete for the pier foundation by hand and that alone was enough. I like your idea about the channel to drain the water water from the base. If that doesn't work out what about laying down some self-levelling compound - or maybe another thin skin of cement shaped so water runs off away from the pier. I had my pier installed today and what a joy to see the telescope mounted - like Christmas for grown up kids. Good luck with the rest of your build. Jim

Mike absolutely fantastic news, good for you. Oh good news about the dome as well. I've taken the plunge and got my summerhouse up now. The conversions hopefully to be completed next summer. We need plenty of updates on your progress getting everything commissioned now. Take it easy but enjoy it fella, you earned it. Jim

Excellent progress Gonzo, love the way you are working round problems. Jimmy

Mike, Good investigation work there with the usb camera - I would never have thought of using brick cleaner, that saved a lot digging and disruption. I have a tendency of rushing in with things like that - it definitely pays to think things through like this. Thanks for your hint on the Start Tech Industrial USB Hub, that's now on the wanted list. Really good to hear of your latest news Mike, may it keep getting better - I bet you are itching to get into that fine observatory of yours. Jim

Re the resin creep onto the sensor. this may be a stupid idea but I thought I'd throw it in for consideration anyway. Is the flow onto the sensor happening due to capillary action - just like what you rely on when you are staining a microscope slide/coverslip. If it is then would something as simple as a low tac masking tape help - one of the better quality ones like Frog Tape. That said don't know how the sensor would be impaired by the low tac glue on the tape - hopefully it would clean off. Like I said maybe a stupid idea.

When you say " Transfer of momentum and addition of velocities mask the velocity of the reference frame considered in motion, and the principle of relativity as a scientific concept prevents the detection of this motion" What do you mean by "transfer of momentum", transfer between what?

Mike, I'm following intently to see how you progress your automation; my conservatory (study) is about 10m from my planned obsy site so I'm hoping to follow a similar automation route. Your absolutely right about stopping when your body tells you but I guess you well understand that. The progress you have made already and the pace is amazing - you've inspired me to get my act together. I now have permission from the boss to spend some money on a suitable shed/summerhouse for conversion. My wee car is being sold but like you found, once the decision has been made, you just have to commit. I'm looking to start work in the summer holidays (school) and while I'm happy with the physical side of the build the automation side is well outside my comfort zone. I'll be following your footsteps if that's ok. I bet you can't wait to get using your obsy in earnest. Jim

I know how you feel Mike. At the moment I'm resisting the urge to sell my beloved 1967 MGB to fund my own obsy project. What to do, what to do.? I guess it comes to what will bring you greater enjoyment. Don't make it any easier though! http://1drv.ms/1g0YJhO

Mike, Thanks for taking the time to outline your automation plans. You have me hooked now! My observatory is most likely 1 to 2 years away so I'm still very much in the planning phase (hopefully automated as well). I'm looking through the forum trawling for ideas seeing what creative stuff other folk have been up to - I'll be stealing some ideas from you if that's ok. You're absolutely right with regard to PMA, stay committed and focused on this. Thanks again for the inspiration. Jim

Fantastic effort Mike, I love your pier design - it's not only functional but looks really good the way you have finished it. Just out interest how far are you planning to take the automation ? Good luck with everything Mike.