Trailer for astronomy

[Warren]

Good evening all,

I recently bought myself a "Tradesman's trailer" with the hope of converting it into an "Astronomy trailer".

Two side access doors and a ladder rack on top. If I work out how to post a photo, it may help to understand where I am heading with this.

Has anyone done this sort of thing before with plans to share.

No point in re-inventing the wheel!

Thanks,

Warren

[Robbos30 (Peter)]

Hi Warren, i don't know if my comment will help you.
When i had my 30 inch dob built a few years ago i had an enclosed custom made box trailer build with half the roof able to tilt at 45 degrees for easier access.
It has a 9 foot fold down ramp to wheel her out.
I suppose the point i'm making is it may be cheaper to have one built to your specifications than the hassle of modifications?
Hope it helps,
regards,
Peter.

[ZeroID (Brent)]

Warren, might help if we knew what equipment you are going to put in it, what you intend to do with it, where do you intend to go.
How big is your scope, what type, how much other equipment will you have, do you intend it for overnight etc etc.
I sort of know what I'd be doing for my circumstances and gear but your requirements may be quite different.

[DavidTrap (David)]

There are some interesting cargo trailer conversions on Cloudy Nights including air-conditioning.

DT

[Warren]

Thanks guys,

I guess my post was a little light on details. I am new at this...
I only have an C8, but have plans to build a 12" dob.
I guess the idea is that I drop the trailer where I want t set up scope and camp next to. That way everything stays inside until it has to come out. Batteries can be stored for power etc.

The cloudy nights site had some really neat stuff! Horse float converted! Wow!

Thanks again.

Warren

[ZeroID (Brent)]

Methinks you need to build the DOB first and then consider what you need to transport it in. That will dictate what other gear you haven't even thought of yet that you will need.

Basics: 12" f5 Dob OTA laid down, so need at least a 6' long trailer, longer is better. Single axle as it's not too heavy. I reckon you could do a drop down bunk bed on other side over equipment save carrying/setting up tent. Side awning so you can sit out waiting for the rain to stop .
Deck chair and chiller ( Esky to you guys ) for a few bevvies

Mobile man cave !! Cool as !!

[Warren]

Ahhh, now we're talking!

Love your work, mate.

Thanks for sharing...

Warren

[ZeroID (Brent)]

Deep cycle batteries, solar panels on the top, Water, gas, bbq ( how long you expecting to be away with this ? ) Power converter for PC's/Laptop ( or a DC to DC converter ). Rear ramp for unloading. (Just had an idea about a roller fitted DOB base which allows the OTA to be horizontal and supported during transport with storage underneath.)
What's your budget ? How often will it get used ? Will you use the trailer for other purposes ? ( I would ).
If you're going to get serious you gotta plan it...

I better get back to planning MY stuff !!