Dome or Roll-Off

Only problem there is that the dome would block the sky if you rolled it off.

A 2.5 m Exploradome costs you 800 EUro landed

Mind me asking how you got around the issue of getting the dome to Cork? last I heard, it would only get delivered to the North.

A novel idea using both designs and merging them together.

One big problem I see with this is that the dome will have to be high in order not to hit the scope when sliding it, so high you might end up having an extra high dome and unnecessarily loosing horizon where it can be easily avoided.

Dave L - surely a dome would be even more obvious! But then I suppose shed thieves are more opportunistic. Shame we have to consider security...

They break into a shed to steal tool, hedge trimmers, lawnmowers, anything they can push/carry and especially sell. I've even heard of them breaking into a shed and using the tools inside to break into the house.
The way the dome here is built, I figure its harder to break into then an average shed door, and the dome alarm is linked up to the house alarm, which gives me some comfort. I'm planning to put trellis around it during the spring to help hide it somewhat. You can always camouflage or paint it green or do something else to mask it.

About half the people who've seen the dome have guessed its some kind of sauna or hot tub :lol: seriously! :lol:

Dual purpose - brilliant idea! What about dew?

I guess unfortunately we live in a time where trust and respect can be counted on enough...

The RORO I'm looking at is aluminium. Harder than wood to break into. And the door is supposed to be pretty strong for security purposes. I'd also alarm it and put in an IR motion camera (both for watching the scope and imaging any scumbags for CrimeWatch).

I'm still toying with the idea of a dome too - same security measures. I'll pick your brains in Galway over a pint.

Dave

Michael, I am going to pick the dome up in Limerick in about 10 days.

Yes, the dome will be higher when rolled off, but I am in the position to choose the site it rolls to. North? I have a hill to the north anyway.

Dave do you have a link for your Metal RORO?

Jouke

Jouke - its the Pier Tech Robo roll-off. There's no data on the website - its a new product. But the telestation 2 is close enough.

www.pier-tech.com/tele-station_2_roll_off_roof_observatory.htm

It can be shipped to my door for about €5000 and includes all electrical items. It can be easily disassembled for moving, which is handy.

I still need to do a bunch of research on the domes. Sirius seem to come out with the best customer feedback. Though Ash are well known too.

I think a dome would probably be more expensive, but I don't know how much more.

Dave