Hi folks.
Well, the time has come for ASIGN observatory to take a break. The dome has been sold, the equipment stripped out today and ready for demolition.
Sometime in the new year, if I have time, I will be starting again from scratch. There are plenty of hurdles to conquer first, including approval with the land planning authority to increase the size from a 3 metre dome to a 5 metre dome in the front yard. Just to try my hand at something new, I am thinking of using 4mm aluminium sheet instead of plywood for the dome this time, laser cut and TIG welded geodesic design, but this time a 5V instead of a 3V design. (made of smaller triangles but more of them.)
It's been a fantastic dome. Every time I have wanted to spend a night astrophotographing away, I just walk out the front door, unlock, flick on the switches, uncap the scopes and it's awaaaaayyyyyy! It's been secure, protected and keeps my house free from all the associated junk that goes with astronomy.
I have come to know many people through the dome, having open nights by invitation and request. It's been wonderful sharing my knowledge of the heavens with people and encouraging questioning minds.
Through the observatory, then the website, forums, emails, facebook and the general grapevine, I have had so much opportunity to help others build their own observatories, DIY projects and skills in astrophotography. I feel very blessed to do so. Many people on IIS have been a big part of that!
It is with a heavy heart that I sell the dome, though I am ecstatic that our very own Omaroo (Chris) has decided to give it a good home and put it to use. I can't wait to see what he does to it and the improvements of his own signature he performs on it. Just make sure your crane has a good counterweight on it mate...it's HEAVY!
More to follow in the new year folks and of course, I will photograph and document the new build all the way!
Many blessings to all,
Baz.
