The build …






The Result …


Due to “capillary action”, water was being dragged under the foam tiles from the outside so another approach was necessary.I have used Black Jack DPM and painted the whole of the inside base, put some bitumen masking (150mm) around the inside perimeter and currently placing decking inside. The frame for the decking is on a 4″ x 2″ frame and raising the floor this high means I have totally covered the electric conduit so zero trip hazard. There had to be a positive for this 😉

New decking and scopes – taken using an astromodified camera hence a colour shift
{December 2019}
Celestron C8 swapped for a Williams Optics ZS73 refractor – it will make the imaging workflow easier using 2x refractors.
{January 2020}
I have now remoted the Observatory and can control the telescope from inside the house and also configured the iPad which will provides the same level of control and freedom of movement.
Speed is excellent and the computer is neatly mounted onto the dovetail bar. Second scope now added to the setup and in addition, a bracket for a DSLR so that means 3 guided imaging sessions can be run at the same time. Or two with more accurate autoguiding using PHD or the LVI Smartguider.
Ran out of time today to setup the cameras (CMOS and 2x DSLR’s).
Final job will be cable tidy and balancing but todays progress is massive – also means the existing MESH network works so no need for any other access point.
{March 2020}
Remoting is going well, I still need to focus the WO ASI178MC – when the moon pops up again I will get this sorted. Next job is laying the newly acquired carpet tiles which will help reduce the humidity.



I have seen photos of mechanical removal of the dome for 360 degree visibility which could be a challenge to consider for the future.


Computer and Pegasus Astro Pocket Powerbox keeping control and cabling neat
{April 2020}
Both scopes now brought to focus and imaging well. The DSLR controlled via Backyard EOS and for the moment, the ASI178MC via Sharpcap Pro. Challenge now is comparing images between both scopes and aligning the camera’s so they both show the same field of view albeit at different focal lengths. The DSLR image is flipped 180 degrees so I will need to address that in software as I need this information for guiding purposes for the CMOS. The DSLR being widefield is more forgiving on object aquisition.
Another big achievement today, I have finally managed to achieve online streaming (video only) on Facebook using the streaming software OBS which created a “virtual camera”. The video quality is not brilliant but then again, neither is the bandwidth. I also have a 20 second buffer to contend – I didn’t realise the MIG was on Mars !!
Currently awaiting a 4th monitor lead to go with the new 4 output graphic card. It appears 2 were delivered knackered, I so hope it is not the card though – {edit – leads were the problem and replacement lead works just fine}.

{May 2020}
Another enhancement to the setup which unfortunately means losing the DSLR shoe. I have now replaced it with an ST80 telescope together with an LVI Autoguider. This should allow for longer exposure times. Sadly, I did need to tighten up a few bolts meaning I will have to polar align again.
Next jobs:
Try and address the 20 second buffer and test audio.
Conduct a few “live streaming” sessions and use feedback to steer workshops
Obtain a low light IP camera
{Note: I will be continuously updating this blog as “improvements” are made}