wpo - a gazebo style observatory

My observatory and its construction can also be found in Small Astronomical Observatories; Patrick Moore [editor]; Springer-Verlag 1996; chpt. 6 - ISBN 3-540-19913-6

A gazebo style observatory is better suited in some environments and options exist in modifying or adapting garden-centre gazebos with either a revolving roof only or the whole structure.   Complete observatories can be made out of standard fencing and lattice panels in hexagonal or octagonal plan-form to include perhaps mirrored acetate to make the enclosed building seem semi-transparent.

The sketch adjacent shows such a revolving observatory in section with partial hinge aside roof slot and canopy [for viewing zenith] and barn doors for viewing down to the horizon.  A narrow profile aluminium or mild steel [MS] section across the observing aperture maintains structural integrity but minimizes shadowing of the telescope optics [fork mounted SCT recommended].   A table could be swapped for the telescope on the removable central pier.

images & text [c] Maurice Gavin 1995/2005

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