Small observatory build

[Tuda78]

I have decided to build an observatory in my garden, its a small garden so will need to be a small build so as to leave enough space for the kids to play when the weather allows. The observatory will be 5' x 5' just for the scope no warm room. I havent decided between a roll off roof or a flip open roof yet. Im also looking to keep the costs as low as possible so I have decided to build a block pier.

I have started the base for the peir, the hole is 400mm x 400mm and the first block is in place. I plan on putting another 2 blocks on top of that.

[JamesF]

A good start :)  I look forward to seeing progress.

James

[souls33k3r]

Good stuff mate. All the best with the build and I hope the rain doesn't stop you from carrying out this task

[upahill]

Good luck with the project, being able to leave everything setup makes life soooo much easier. Look forward to seeing how it goes together. RE the roof, have you considered option 3 of a roll away shed? If you have the space for it of course.

[baggywrinkle]

You wont regret having a permanent set-up, especially with UK weather being so variable.

Whatever type of roof you use make good provision for securing it in heavy winds, turn buckle catches on the inside are a good option, plus spring loaded catches on the outside if it is a roll off.

[Tuda78]

Im thinking of using brake discs for the pier adapter but im not sure which ones to use. Ive tried searching for some info but can only seem to find old threads from years ago. Does anyone have any idea which discs I would need to use with an HEQ5 mount?

 

[JamesF]

15 minutes ago, Tuda78 said:

Im thinking of using brake discs for the pier adapter but im not sure which ones to use. Ive tried searching for some info but can only seem to find old threads from years ago. Does anyone have any idea which discs I would need to use with an HEQ5 mount?

I'm sure there's been some discussion about this relatively recently.  A search suggests that Nissan Micra or Vauxhal Corsa discs are suitable and that what you're after is a 60 to 62mm central hole, but that should be easy to check by measuring the flange on the bottom of your HEQ5.

James

[Tuda78]

Thanks James ill check that out when I get home.

 

[Peter Drew]

If you use a piece of tubing, deep enough to clear the boss on the bottom of the mount casting you can bolt directly through the top face of the hollow block, no brake discs needed.   😀

[Tuda78]

Couldnt do much yesterday because of the weather but got a little bit done today after work. I levelled the paving slabs and put down some weed control fabric, need another couple of bags of gravel to cover it though.

I put the other 2 blocks onto the pier just to get an idea of the final height, they are not fixed together yet, thats tomorrows job if the weather plays ball.

 

[Tuda78]

I havent updated this thread for a little while but I have been busy in between the bad weather and other commitments.

I put up the frame and dampproofed it. The block pier is all bolted and grip filled together. Thanks to James i managed to get the correct brake discs to make the pier adapter, Corsa brake discs work great for the Heq5.  Just need to bolt it to pier now. 

I purchased rails and wheels from FH Brundles and the rails are on the frame. I have made a frame for my roof and it works great, sliding on and off with no problems now. Had to make a couple of slight adjustments as one wheel wasnt sitting properly on the rails. Going to board and felt the roof on monday after work, if the weather allows.

Then hopefully order some cladding for the walls by wednesday, still not 100 percent sure what to use. I plan on lining the inside of the walls with OSB or plywood. I see some people insulate thier walls, is there a real need to do this?

Im hoping to be close to finishing in the next 2-3 weeks, really looking forward to using it. 

[Ricker]

This looks excellent. I am thinking something very similar. However I am cautious of condensation. What are your ventilation plans?

[Kev M]

If its a sliding roof its likely to be well ventilated.....

[Tuda78]

Like Kev M says with it being a roll off roof im hoping that will be enough ventilation. 

[Tuda78]

I ordered the shiplap cladding today, ive gone for a redwood tanatoned (whatever that means). The main reason I chose that was its the only one my local timber merchant had in stock! It looks good though so im happy, more importantly my other half is happy with it. Its getting delivered in the morning so the plan is to start that tomorrow after work.

[Tuda78]

Got my cladding all on now, the roof is boarded and waiting for the roofing felt, thats getting done later today. I have fixed latches to lock down the roof. The pier is almost finished it just needs painted. The brake disc adapter is connected and level and works perfectly. I still have the door and some flooring to sort out.

The skies were clear last night and I couldnt resist try it out. So connected my mount and telescope and everything worked like a dream. Cant wait to finish it and start enjoying it.

[Tuda78]

Here is a short video of my roof opening