Beginners Observatory

[LostInSp_ce]

Hi all, I'm looking at getting my first observatory. With life leaving me less and less time every day for the hobby it's time for a more permanent solution. Originally I'd planned for a DIY project but finding time to plan and build has been difficult. So I'm looking for some quicker alternatives with little construction (almost kit based solutions). Budget domes (If such a thing exists) or any prefab sheds/cubby houses etc., with roofs that can be easily removed without the need to build a ROR system. Also what are some of the less obvious things that should be taken into account when planning an Obs?

[xelasnave]

I dont think there is a really simple solution.
What will you use the observatory for and what will you put in there?
I have build a roll away observatory using a small garden shed and that was relatively simple and at the moment completing a plywood box which seems a great idea so far...I have a thread in diy observatories "the cube" which gives an idea of it.

Alex

[xelasnave]

To give an idea.

[xelasnave]

Or you could try this.
Alex

[Imme (Jon)]

Really comes down to what you want to spend......you can go from the cube Alex mentions (or his umbrella) to this....https://youtu.be/IfTshNIecfI

What $'s are you hoping to spend?

[StuTodd]

You could always look in the DIY observatory thread?

[pfitzgerald (Paul)]

If your budget is small...

...then something here may be suitable.

http://karmalimbo.com/aro/workshops/...ervatories.pdf

Paul

[luka]

It was a while ago since I looked, are the Absco pool pump sheds still available? See here for example. That would be a cheap almost-finished solution.

[LostInSp_ce]

Thanks for all the replies I've only skimmed through but will take a more in depth look tomorrow at your responses. I have a pier and base already completed so I only need a shell to house it all. I've allocated about $5,000 for something to secure/cover my gear.

[Ric]

If you already have 5K allocated, I would be thinking about saving a bit more for a Nexdome.

You are nearly there price wise.

[cometcatcher (Kevin)]

You can do a lot with 5K. My ror only cost 2-3.

[LostInSp_ce]

Originally Posted by Ric

If you already have 5K allocated, I would be thinking about saving a bit more for a Nexdome.

You are nearly there price wise.

They look tempting and I'd be willing to stretch the budget for one. The option to add bays and motors in future makes it even more appealing. However being my first obs I don't really know much about domes or what sort of things to look for when purchasing one. Have you had any personal experience with these yourself?