I took the decision to take down the observatory today and store the box in the attic, couple of reasons.
1_ I've sold the inner bits (mount, pier, telescope etc...) to a friend
2_ Observatory V3 is in the making...
So yes, watch this space for V3... it's coming. It will be more compact that V2, as in ultra small (as small as I can possibly make it).
One flaw I've found with V2 is the sheer weight of the lid, I had not realised how heavy that was. All the all panels from V2 are super light in comparison.
Thanks, the actual frame will be extruded aluminium instead of wood, the panels will be Dibond (like the current ones, super light and super strong. The main three key new design features will include a raised box (won't be seating on the floor), a thinner lighter lid, and lastly the electronics will be outside the box (ie: better access for quicker maintenance).
I'm going to buy my new camera (Zwo 183MM pro) on my return to the UK in a couple of weeks, this the is the last major missing part in my setup.
While I'm here at my observatory location, I will take all the necessary measurements to optimise the design of V3.
Finally got around to deal with the new frame, here it is minus the lid which I need to measure and order the parts.
V2 inside: Width 85cm & Length 80cm
V3 inside: Width 74cm & Length 72cm
The overall design is the same really but more compact. The difference here is that I can adjust the mount/scope up and down and back/forth inside the box.
This will allow me to find the optimal position.