Open think tank for Micro Observatory

[Earl]

A full observatory is not doable for me and im really missing it all, so id like to debate if a non permanent as small as possible structure is viable.

While doing this id like to come up with a standard template which other can use too.

The equipment to take into account is:

EQ6, small refractor, OAG, filterwheel and camera. micro free standing pier. Computer

Edit: this is for imaging

[nmoushon]

There have been role away sheds that have been posted on here. I think Olly has one, or had one, at his place. He could post pictures.  It basically a tall box with a roof on it all sitting on wheels. Ones side opens up like a door so that you can just push it back when your out imaging. Some are big enough just to go over the mount and pier while others are big enough to fit the attached scope as well. Some also have a place for the computer as well and you sit at it inside when it is roled away.

[nmoushon]

Heres some I've found online. You dont have to do it exactly like these but gives a clearer picture of what im talking about.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_aPlOz6p4ISk/S2-kx2Vu3nI/AAAAAAAAAYk/9S13jyDJmXw/s320/timpadedication.bmp

and

http://www.astrophotography-tonight.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/cgem-roll-off.jpg

[Earl]

Thanks for those links, im looking for something at the most half the size of those.

Roll off body is one way, but increases the needed foot print, im considering fliptop roof.

[pete_l]

Get rid of the idea of an observatory all together. Basically all you need is a cover for your 'scope + kit when it's not in use.

So some sort of wooden box with a removable top (slanted to allow water to drain off) and hinged sides to fold down would be enough.

You could arrange it so that the top keeps the sides in place and that the sides are hinged half-way down, so the footprint doesn't increase.

I'll leave it as an exercise to the reader to work out how to make the side-joints water tight.

[Gina]

Work back through this forum and you will find several ov various sizes.

[nmoushon]

Thanks for those links, im looking for something at the most half the size of those.

Roll off body is one way, but increases the needed foot print, im considering fliptop roof.

I would think the fliptop would require a bigger foot print than the roll off. You dont have to have the giant wood or concrete structure under it. You could put wheels on the bottom then just roll it to where ever it fits. Unless your pier on the side of a mountain the wheels should be able to roll it anywhere. Especially since it doesnt weigh "much".

[Gina]

I'm thinking of an upside down plastic dustbin for my no.2 pier for widefield imaging rig.

[Davey-T]

How about one of these ? cant get much smaller, you could just unbolt it from it's base and lift it off depending on how strong you are  

http://www.keter.com/products/storage-shed/#measurements

Dave

[Gonzo]

In the following thread I've posted some very interesting links

http://stargazerslounge.com/topic/197357-micro-observatory/

[Earl]

I think the first thing to work out is the inner dimensions needed, which is going to be dictated by the mounts parked position.

Which leads to the lowest working height an eq6 can be and still have freedom of movement.

Any thoughts on this?

[Earl]

Having looked at a HEQ5 instead as i only intend to use a small scope I think I can fit it inside a large water but and use another but on top as a lid.

Im going to purchase a But soon to try it out.

I have also considered butting 6 inches of concrete in the bottom of the but to add stability.

[Gonzo]

this would look nice

[Earl]

That does look nice, where is that from?

[Mav359]

What about something like this

you might need to attach a cover too it to throw over the top once its closed...

[Mav359]

actually a square box would be easier to construct but you get the idea

[Mav359]

like this.....

few good seems and it would stay water proof

[Gonzo]

Here's another design you can go for, obviously in a smaller scale.

[Mav359]

Also if you don't care how it looks use what the guys at the star parties use for covering up and get yourself a toilet tent.

[Earl]

I am actually thinking of using one of these as the basis for the build.

1200mm tall 780mm diameter at the top.

[Gina]

I am actually thinking of using one of these as the basis for the build.

1200mm tall 780mm diameter at the top.

I doubt the rain water would be all that good for your gear   Ha ha ha...

[Earl]

well at least its water tight !

Ill need to see if tripod, sw pier or custom pier will be best.

[Earl]

One concern is will it need to breath.

[MadAlbert]

Don't laugh (too much) but check out a search on coal bunkers... some even resemble small obsies!

Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk

[Earl]

Humm, so great ones on ebay thanks for the tip, I need to rethink a few things but in theory very good idea.