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I tend to image at home Roger, with a set up that I carry out (albeit a few steps) each time to an in-ground pier. Computer etc is in/on a rolling trolley (an old TV trolley/cabinet) and at worst it is only about 4 separate trips. AC power is equally close.
So while this is not your "observatory", neither is your portable setup. Polar alignment is close enough, as the pier and mount attach in a repeatable manner. Focus is close as well, as I usually only image with the purpose built 8" and the ST2000 stays in the focuser, and this is auto-focus as well with Focus Max.
What I normally do is get set up earlyish, focusing on a bright star, and using this to get TheSky synched, and then wait until it is dark enough to get cracking.
While it is imaging, and I utilize the "sequence" tab in Maxim here, I have the new 16" truss newt close, and usually visually have fun. This allows me to forget by and large about the imaging, but be close enough to have a peek to make sure all is well. I sometimes have others arrive to observe with me, and the same set up applies.
In your case though, I feel do one or the other, and really I would image from the permanent setup you have, and just observe away from home. I don't think I could be bothered with the headaches, and requirement to be tethered to the gear, after all it is supposed to be fun.
My $0.02 cents worth anyway.
Gary
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