Building a backyard observatory

A few weeks ago I decided to build a backyard observatory with a roll-off roof. I got a tip from a member of the Dutch www.astroforum.nl that Nick Evans from www.alexandersobservatories.com already built many of those observatories, and also a few in the Netherlands. After discussing ideas and dimensions the plans became more and more clear. Nick also provides very nice pedestals, so I decided to also order this from him. The only thing I need to prepare is the concrete block with threads for mounting the pedestal on and the base for putting the observatory on. Easier said than done for an electrician like me. So first I started with making an accurate drawing, to get things more clear.

Last monday and tuesdayevening I prepared the template for the treads that will be put into the ground (surrounded by concrete). This evening I also drilled 12 20mm holes in the 50x50cm concrete slab that will come on top of this concrete block. It will provide a nice and flat surface for the pedestal.





This is the 8" pedestal. It can hold a C14 if necessary. It will be made by Nick Evans.

IO testing in Germany

This is a photo one of my co-workers stealthily took from me while I was IO testing a control panel......

200mmF5 Newton telescope

This is currently my telescope. It is a 200mmF5 Newtonian on a HEQ5pro Equatorial mount. It is fitted with dew heaters, a 90mmF10 guidescope, guidecam and my trusted eos400d camera. Recently I added a motor to my focuser.
Currently alsmost everything on the telescope can be controlled from my laptop. One of the latest additions is a wireless Logitech Rumblepad (as seen lying on the table). With this I can control the direction and focuser of the telescope.

Commissioned S5 to OA upgrade project in Germany

Last weeks our KSE team commissioned a large project in Germany. The old S5 control system was replaced by a modern ObjectAutomation control system. Furthermore all in- and output signal stations were replaced by new ones. Here I'm testing the new IO in one of the many control cabinets.








And here I'm testing the IO on the blender. This blender is the heart of the factory, it blends vitamins/minerals and many other ingredients into a mixture that is use for feed.









During 2 weeks of assisting the operators with the new control system I drove home. On that saturdaymorning there was a lot of snow. Is was very lucky because in the other direction were many stranded trucks.....