I hurt my back moving my 12" a few weeks back so I decided to put some wheels on it. The back is ok now.
The wheels are just off the ground so I can rotate the scope and use it. Please see the image.
Yep, you need to be careful with the larger scopes. While they are not that heavy they are bulky and awkward to handle and put a great strain on the back.
That is a sweet, simple and functional mod, I like it
When the neighbors lights are on I use the scope inside the observatory. If I need to see something just below the eastern wall I roll over to the western wall so I can see it etc.
And when the neighbors are all in bed and it is dark and clear I roll the scope out the door onto the grass and have a very good horizon. When I am outside and ready to observe I take the wheels off so they don't catch on the grass as I turn around.
Well done Glen.
Don't forget to paint that bare wood in white paint. That way you (and other people) will see them in the dark. Hate to cop one of those in the shins!
OOOWWWWW!!!!
Actually they don't get in the way because the boards are the same length as the scope, and turn with it. Also when I wheel the scope it is vertical and it stays that way because of gravity if the wheels are at the primary mirror end.
That is a terriffic idea Glen I had given up on the thought of a 16 inch for mobility reasons but that throws a new light on the opportunity. Great work I can imagine it would make it very easy work..er if you could call it work..rolling out your 12 inch for a quick look. Ease of use is the most important thing cause when an effort it does become work and who wants that before and after viewing sessions.
alex
The 12" Dobsonian on wheels is great. I can roll it over to east side of my observatory to improve my view to the west (etc) or out the door if I want to see down to the horizon. The handles do not get in the way when observing.
