THE SHED
  As you can see the telescope is a tight fit.  The location is the highest point of our sloped block offering good views of the surrounding area (south of Sydney Australia).  It was the only real option but still very suitable except for the limited depth.  The foundation is a large rock which is a very stable platform for the telescope.

The shed is a basic garden shed from the local hardware store that I modified in three main ways:-

  • The flip to roof was attached with simple tee hinges purchased at the hardware store.  A hinged broom handle was attached to the other side of the roof to allow easier opening and closing.

    The door was moved from the front to the side for easier access.

    The depth was reduced to fit on the rock

I also attached 2 fans to help keep it cool on hot summer days.  The fans are turn on automatically by a thermo switch electronic kit and the power comes from 12V batteries.

The dog (Rommie) is there to protect the shed.  Anyone trying to enter will be licked to within an inch of their lives.
 

 

SOLAR POWER

Due to the rocky area I built the shed running power up from the house was a problem.  Also I didn't want the dog digging up 240 Volt cables.  The solution was to go Solar, I had an interest in this technology anyway so this was a perfect opportunity to implement solar power.  On the roof you can just see the 50 Watt solar panel which recharges 2 x 12V GEL batteries providing a total of 59 Ah.  This is used to run the notebook via a 240V inverter.  These batteries also run the Autostar/telescope, focuser and cooling fans. 

In addition is the portable 12V power station which has an additional 17 Ah.  This is used to run the camera. The camera likes its own power supply.  It also provides lighting when needed.  This unit is meant to jump start cars and has a compressor for flat tyres but fits my setup perfectly as an alternative power supply.  It only cost $69.

I can monitor the voltage levels remotely with the use of a Labjack (excellent product).  The shed is completely wireless to the outside world.  Data communications is via a standard wireless network.