[allan gould]

Well I have finally managed to install my new observatory on my hardwood decking and get all the optics and electrics installed. The name would be obvious to anyone in Brisbane due to the weather we have had here over the last few weeks.
I chose to go with a cement pier reinforced with reo and an outside skin of PVC. The reason for this was that I had previously built such a pier in Victoria and found it to be excellent in performance. I went with power being supplied to the observatory through an extension cord as I was worried by the amount of electrical storms here in Brisbane.
I ordered 2 bays with the observatory and I have yet to kit them out properly but one holds the laptop while the other holds odds and ends as well as some books. The one thing that Im really happy with is the flooring. On top of the hardwood planks I installed a layer of insect screening and over the top of that rubberised matting that has holes in it. The observatory "breathes"well with no moisture build up from all the rain we have been having and all my excess cabling goes under the matting to keep from foot tangles, but is easily accessible. Its also easy to clean or vacuum up any debris I bring in. I have attached a few photos to show its current state but I still have to install the storm cleats and grease the tracks. The solar lighting has bee installed.