Skyshed Pod is here!

[Ric]

They look like very reasonable prices for a small suburban observatory and would do the job very well.
But the security aspect still troubles me.

Cheers

[ballaratdragons (Ken)]

Strikers situation shows that even a fully lockable roll-of-roof Observatory that looks just like a bungalow or shed is a target too. But yep, a Dome does stand out saying 'I'm full of goodies, come take my contents"

[allan gould]

Anyone in Brisvegas thinking of getting one of these. Perhaps we could hire a small van and go down together, sharing driving as well as costs?
Contact me here or PM or phone 0407050974

[nightsky]

Originally Posted by allan gould

Anyone in Brisvegas thinking of getting one of these. Perhaps we could hire a small van and go down together, sharing driving as well as costs?
Contact me here or PM or phone 0407050974

G'Day Allan,
I asked the same question on this thread for anyone in the Newcastle,Central Coast area and even Sydney,but have had no response yet.They would be shipped by container therefore if we had enough people who would want one we might be able to fill a container and save a lot on the cost of shipping,
then just drive down and pick them up at the couriers depot in Sydney.
Cheers
Arthur

[allan gould]

Originally Posted by nightsky

G'Day Allan,
I asked the same question on this thread for anyone in the Newcastle,Central Coast area and even Sydney,but have had no response yet.They would be shipped by container therefore if we had enough people who would want one we might be able to fill a container and save a lot on the cost of shipping,
then just drive down and pick them up at the couriers depot in Sydney.
Cheers
Arthur

Well even if they were shipped to Sydney, then I would be in it and travel down with a ute and pick it up so count me in for one
Allan

[allan gould]

I have been contacting several shipping people in relation to getting my SkyPod (XL3) from Adelaide to Brisbane. Costs vary from $1500-2000. This makes it problematic for me. But I had a talk to Matthew of http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/ to talk over the situation. He is aware of the problem and is considering taking a truck from Adelaide to Brisbane stopping at all ports and delivering the observatories himself. For me at the end of the line it would be $700-750 which is OK by me. To make up the load he figures he would need orders of 8-10 units on the truck. He has 5 firm orders and with mine, now 6. So he only has a few to go before all is wrapped up. My suggestion is if you want one then contact hime with firm deal and he can then start the ball rolling. I must say that his entrepreneuring spirit and customer service are exceeding many bounds.

[nightsky]

Originally Posted by allan gould

For me at the end of the line it would be $700-750 which is OK by me. To make up the load he figures he would need orders of 8-10 units on the truck. He has 5 firm orders and with mine, now 6. So he only has a few to go before all is wrapped up.

G'Day Allan,
I was thinking of him to place the order and to have them dropped of in Sydney,but that may run into to many snags, I'll send him a email and ask the cost of shipping to the Central Coast.
Cheers
Arthur

[avandonk]

I have ordered an XL3. Not many to go!

Bert

[ballaratdragons (Ken)]

Although I said previously that the Traditional 'Slot' opening style Observatory has benefits such as keeping Dew off your equipment, and helps reduce wind and light pollution, Bert mentioned on the phone to me some advantages to the Skyshed Pod that I hadn't considered.

1. The larger opening would reduce cool-down time, speeding up the equalibrium of outside ambient temp and equipment temp,

2. Portability - The Skyshed Pod can be taken to Astro Events or Club nights, deserted observing sites, Camping trips or anywhere you feel like taking it, and put together again in minutes!

My previous preference was also based on the 'Traditional Look' of the slotted Dome, but wherever it gets put is where it stays, whereas Skyshed Pod can be taken anywhere, and if a pesky tree is in the way just move the Pod

[avandonk]

My resident (in back shed) carpenter cabinet maker mate reckons the best base for one of these is a wood deck well off the ground. It allows cool air to flow from the bottom via the gaps in the deck. The only concrete should be associated with the pier.
Working on a plan.

bert