new observatory in yamba nsw

[hpcoolahan]

well guys thought id join up and show the neally finnished observatory.
it will house a 12in lx90 alt/az for now.
looking forward to imaging in side and not in a paddock(mozzies , cold)
hope u enjoy the pics!!

Patrick Coolahan

[AstroTasmania]

Hi Patrick,

Welcome to the comfort zone. I like the extra space below floor level, no doubt the extra height because you had some local obstacles to overcome. What is the dome made of? nice design - it never fails to amaze me the wonderful designs amateur's come up with. I look forward to seeing & hearing some more about your new project.

The small 'Octadome' I am building at the moment has a raised floor to get the scope higher than it would be at ground level. I spent the long week-end welding up the stainless steel support pier that will be below floor level.

Clear skies...

[Radar]

Hi Patrick,

Welcome to the site mate.

That is an awesome looking observatory you have there. I am jealous already.

How long has it taken you to build? It looks very professional mate. I bet you are just itching to get in there and use it ( I know I would be).

Regards

Ray

[hpcoolahan]

thanks Shevill, Radar. the design is one similar i saw on the web in texas usa.
the dome is made from plans i found on the net (i can email dome plans to u if u like)pdf format. is made of laminated 12mm ply 2 layers offset for the rings and ribs. covered in masonite then coated with fibreglass resin to seal it , then wattle solarguard gloss white of course!! :)

the observing floor is up 4 1/2 ft to give me more sky to the north over the house (2 storey)

built it in 2 weeks of chrissy hollidays from the slab up , but had the dome built before christmas ready and waiting in the garrage
let me know about the plans if u want them

my best pic yet attatched

[Radar]

You have captured some serious detail in those images Pat. What equipment were you using? I can make out barred arms in the Sculptor. First time I have seen those. Well done mate.

Regards

Ray

[hpcoolahan]

Radar,, i used a 12inlx90 @f3.3 and a dsi2 pro , alt/az and i think the exposure time are on the picture at the bottom.
this is what is going into the obs with a skywatcher st80 on top

[Mick]

Hello and welcome Patrick, nice observatory and images. lots of people seem to have trouble sealing the shutters yours look like they are a good design do they slide up and over? :welldone:

[hpcoolahan]

:hmm: Thanks Mick, the shutters seal well so far, the top one overhangs the bottom one for a seal and slides up and over.
the front one swings out .

[phoenix]

G day Patrick and welcome to the site. :thumbsupmate:
Love the new observatory. :yesplease:
Nice photos they are amazing. :cool!: