What can be left outside in an observatory?

[Macavity]

Don't worry, not planning a burglary. LOL. But, assuming security is reasonable, I'm still uncertain what can survive an outside (coastal) climate. I'm hoping... an HEQ5, my 8" F4 Newt (with endcaps), associated finders, a "Mak in a box" perhaps - Maybe an LCD screen (for VIDEO astronomy)?

Easily portable (nickable!) stuff - My Netbook, Eyepieces etc. will be kept indoors - I'm usually at home anyway! There is no obvious mold, rust, spiders (200m ASL, is too high?) in my observatory. Clearly, if we have a mini "ice-age" or I go on holiday, I can bring heavy stuff in too... Thoughts? Experiences?

[Carbon Brush]

I leave just about everything in the shed. Mount electronics, computer, etc all survive. As a matter of course I use tiny hint of silicone (electrical) grease on connectors. Similar treatment for screw threads, but that is really a long term consideration.

Never had any real bother with spiders, etc in scopes. Just keep the caps in place..

[Macavity]

Thanks, David. For better or worse, more stuff begins to reside outside! No one here to complain, but nice to see a (small) house looking a little LESS like an "Telescope Showroom"... or kitchen like an "Iron Foundry" or cable repository!

Useful advice about greasing stuff. The only thing that has ever suffered from being outside (low temperatures) was ONE equipment (battery charger) FAN. Maybe a one-off, but a quick check that e.g. computer fans are still spinning? An upgrade of "fans" never goes amiss though...

[laser_jock99]

Books and star charts seem to suffer most in my obsy- they get a bit damp when the roof is off (no warm room yet). The rest of my gear seems fine.