Observatory

I just realized I haven't mentioned the Observatory. We recently purchased an astronomical observatory dome for the telescope.

Currently the telescope is stored in it's shipping box in a plastic garden shed on the far-most deck in the backyard. It takes about an hour to setup for an evening of viewing, and about an hour to take down and store.

There were a couple issues with this method:

1. The optical tube assembly is very delicate, and removing it from the box and mounting it on the tripod assembly can sometimes cause the secondary mirror to 'jiggle' causing it to be re-aligned (a 30 minute process)
2. The take down and store process is usually done late at night (11pm or later) and can be tricky in a dark environment.

So, I found this great solution at http://www.skyshedpod.com/. It is a complete astronomical observatory. The telescope can be set up and left that way full time so all I need to do is go inside, open the dome, turn on the telescope and computer and begin viewing!

Here is what ours will look like:


(click on image for larger view)


(click on image for larger view)

And here is how the interior is configured. Again, this isn't mine, just images of what it will look like when it is delivered and all setup.


(click on image for larger view)

I'll keep everyone posted with updates and assembly photos when it arrives. Hopefully in the next two weeks!