|
I used to look at the ads for the Sirius 2.3 metre dome and think they were too small. However when I built a new house I changed my mind and built a small observatory using the Sirius dome on a purpose built "garden shed" 2.4 metres square.
This houses my 12" LX200 GPS on a permanent pier, computer, spare telescope, some other junk and a crane that plumbs the pier to remove and replace the scope. There is still room to use the scope with visitors present.
I settled for the dome because I only need to open the portion necessary to view the section of sky of interest. This keeps the extraneous light at bay.
The project was done in about three weekends.
Week one:-
Form work for the floor/base. My concreter finished it during the week. Ordered the Dome. and the colourbond cladding.
Week two:-
Gave the floor two weeks to cure. Ordered the timber for the frame at the local timber yard in lengths suitable for cutting with minimal waste. The Timber man said would I prefer it cut out of scraps. I said yes so it was all cut exactly to size for $5. Saved me a lot of cutting. Took it home and assembled the four frames and erected them over the week end. I even cut down an old door to suit. Also picked up the colourbond sheets and screwed them to the frame.
During the week I made the metal pieces for the roof and fitted them. I then scribed a circle on the roof and cut it out for the dome mounting ring.
Week three:-
Picked up the dome and assembled it, fitted the mounting ring and two of us easily lifted the dome onto the ring. Finished the painting, installed a tempory pier (it is still there after 9 years). Installed the computer, Mounted my LX200 10" and was ready for action.
A picture and the plans are on my web site.
Barry
|