Need Observatory Design

Hi All,

Planning to build a semi-functional observatory next to an existing deck (south). No plans yet! As per the local laws, I may need to get a permit for any construction having floor higher than 36 inches above ground (existing Deck is about 44-48 inches from ground). With the money on hand I cannot afford to have manufactured unit such as from PierTech, etc. (they are nice no doubt).
Some of the things to consider are as follows:
1. Budget (yet to be decided, heating cost is high)
2. Has to be one person job, so no completion time set yet. Only mode of help is from the Web Community
3. A lot of wet snow from Lake Erie
4. Stability on wind gusts, can go around to 80miles/hr
5. Tripod is fine but looking to have more stable pier
6. Can try new innovative design if average Joe design fails and as long as it satisfies the above 5

I think it may be too much to ask for but there are NO BAD suggestions.

Thank you in Advance,

Ansuman

3 quick questions,

1. What kind of scope is it?

2. How safe is your neighborhood? (theft and vandalism)

3. How sure of yourself are you when it comes to building structures?

I only ask, because these are the first considerations to meeting your criteria for me to make adequate suggestions.

Hi,

I have two thoughts:

1. Repost your question on the "home observatories" form down below in the forums listing, and check out the observatories done by others.

2. Check out this web site for links to many home observatories , and pier ideas;

http://obs.nineplanets.org/obs/obslist.html

Marc

What all do you want in the "observatory?"

If you just want a permanent pier and scope, put the pier and scope on a pier, and make a roll-off cover--a large, tall box on wheels that just gets rolled away to use.

If you want to have your computer, observing tables, and all, and four walls around, then check out Sky Sheds.

Alex