Quote:
Originally Posted by flatbutt
I've been wanting to put up a dome to make observing easier but I just don't have the space. So I'm thinking of constructing a much smaller enclosure that would house the tripod and drive only, maybe even install a pier ,leaving me to mount the OTA for each session.
The design would be a simple shed like structure with a footprint of approx. 5'x5'. The roof is problematic but I should be able to design a slide of some sort. My question is leaving the electronic drive in a wooden structure that may not be as weather proof as a polymer dome. Humidity is the greatest concern. How well does your dome protect your electronics?
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5x5 is really tight if you plan to observe from within the walls. Most recommend 8'x8' as a minimum so you have some elbow room with a simple roll off roof. I have seen some build a 3'x3' shed to house only the scope and mount, and the whole thing rolls off for observing. This is a simple build for tight spaces and might work for you.
A scope and drive are designed to withstand the elements well in an unheated space as long as it is reasonably weather tight. Then mice and spiders become the challenge.