Introduction

G'day there! Always wanted your own observatory? Sick of dragging the telescope out and setting it up every time? Tired of putting up with cold, dew and wind? This page may help you build the observatory you have always wanted, or, like me, may be one of many pages you can pick bits from, to customize your own methods and materials. This site will guide you in the building of an observatory with a dome made of plywood, coated in fibreglass, which will sit on a round, wood framed and colorbond-clad wall.

Most amateurs who build have their own observatory increase their observing by as much as 200%. If you are like me, you spent a fortune on a telescope, only to have it sit in the corner of a room and gather dust. Having a permanent place set up for it's use, will air it out! Lots of construction pages and photos in the tabs on the left side of the page, so please peruse and enjoy!

A word on plans and building approval

Think lots on your plans and materials.  Draw and sketch lots. Make notes. Think of alternatives. There are many ways to do the same thing. I had a couple of years to think  about the best way to tackle this but it was a good delay, because I may have settled for something inferior. Use info from multiple sources  and get acquainted with improvisation, adaptation and the ability to overcome problems. Some of the text here may confuse, but take a look at the pictures, (there are plenty) and all will become clear (I hope) and make sure to view the video presentation.

Make sure you check with your local council or land planning authority before you start building. In Canberra, I was told that I can not build out the front of my house AT ALL! Anyway, I was going to move it around the back. If it is under 3 meters in height above natural ground level, under 25 square meters floor plan and not painted white or off-white, its a class 10 building and you don't need building approval.

However.... I rang them again and got a different person and a different answer. So then I called in to see them. (always better in-person if you can) As it turned out, I was able to proceed in the front, provided I fill in a few forms and seek approval. Best advice... be patient and check again!

As it turned out, it all got approved! There is a little bit of legwork involved, but it was all worth it. There are some very helpful people at the land planning authority. Ask lots of questions but make sure you ask the right person. Try not to talk to third parties if possible, it only confuses the process.