I really like this observatory and you've made a great job of the video too. I think a lot of people over complicate observatory builds, your practical approach shows what can be achieved without undue cost. Keep the videos coming!
I agree 110%! Many more astronomers would build observatories if they knew of this video and how relatively cheaply they could build one!?? As you rightly state, too many observatories are over complicated and mega expensive!! Wes.
I have a pier that is outside at the moment and the whole lot is covered with protective sheeting and I run everything from a shed, I have done a lot of research for my next project, a permanent roll off roof observatory and am looking to start construction in the spring. Out of all the designs I have come across yours is by far the best and falls well within my budget, well done on an excellent build and very good video, watch this space as I may be picking your brain very soon.
Thank you. There is an update to this video on my channel where I give more specific details as I had a lot of questions. I am also adding a further video very soon as I have just automated the roof.
Nice! With covid-19(third wave now, stay at home orders), I have the time to make an observatory. So, I purchased a Keter Artisan 7' x 7'. I thought of using garage door tracks and rollers for the roof system as, like you said, it is light weight. You have good ideas. Clear skies!
Hi Michael. Yes I think that would work really well. I couldn’t source quite the right door mechanism for mine so went with the rails. You will love having and observatory. Any help please ask
Great job, it has everything you need. I live in Canada so I’m building for snow load. You’re an inspiration to someone who’s new to this hobby, thanks.
I am not sure how this would stand up to extreme weathers. Where I am in the SE of the UK its pretty temporal with few extremes so this shed stands up really well. Good luck with your build and thank you for the comments
You've inspired my wife and me to build a resin shed observatory. Got materials for flooring and the pier coming today, shed coming next week Some great ideas, Astrobloke. Thank you, and cheers, mate! 🪐
Awesome video man! Starting my data collecting to decide which shed will work. Hope to start building later this year depending on how my chemotherapy goes. Your video is a big help!! Thanks! James Webb Retired USAF, Multiple Myeloma Warrior
Hi James and thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. I am building a much larger observatory now, having the space since moving. I absolutely loved my small budget Obsy and it was a fantastic space to keep my scope set up and image from. You will certainly not regret building one and almost any shed can be converted. I wish you all the best with your treatment and sorry to hear that you have such a condition to battle with. So I wish you well and clear skies and if you need any help/advice when you come to build please just drop me a msg. Glenn
Great video. Thanks for sharing. I have a roll off body on a diy wooden build. Has worked well until I bought a new scope and found it just scraping the base, and that's without any cameras attached! Back to my drawing board. My ideal position unfortunately needs planning permission- so have to suffer turbulence from a nearby building- mostly do solar. But you've got me dreaming and thinking.. Cheers.
Thank you so much for sharing this, and for your in depth explanation on how you made it. Keter is made here in Israel. I think I just may be having a summer DIY project and have it done on my roof. Thank you so much for this I really appreciate it. And the name of the observatory I propose: "The Bloke's lair"
Hi Dan and thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. They make an excellent Obsy and I wish you well for tour project, makes a huge difference having one. The Bloke’s Lair……I like it. There are other videos covering more bits and the automation I added but if you have any questions I’d be happy to help where I can. Please share any pics/video yoi do as it would be great to see. Clear skies
Mate thats an awesome achievement for £800! My dream is to have my own observatory too some day and this vid proves if you're able to do very basic diy, this project is repeatable/doable! Luv the silver insulation too, it reminds me of the ISS for some reason!?? lol. Thank You for inspiring me my friend! Wes, Liverpool, UK.
Hi Wes and Thank you. The Keter is really easy to work with as well. I now have the roof fully motorised and can even remote in as I work shifts so want to be able to image whenever the weather is clear (which is always when I am at work lol) I have some other videos on the automation and if you have any questions please just ask
@@Astrobloke oh right that sounds awesome mate!!?? I'll definitely have a look at those newer vids thanks mate! I believe Chuck from Chucks astro channel has his rigs setup to collect data while he sleeps at night!!?? I think he's long overdue building an observatory himself cos as you will know he produces some awesome work and he generally collects multiple hours of data!! So i reckon he should now invest in the observatory and take his work to an even higher level!? Thanks so much my friend!! Wes.
Super - I was thinking about modifying my 6x4 Keter from a roll-off shed to a roll-off roof. You've saved me loads of time! :) I'm on to your update video next because it looks like you've motorized it. Talon 6? Pompey Monkey - I'm on SGL too.
Awrsome build and within reasonable budget. Great stuff ! Like the smooth roll of your roof. I'd call it Stellar Shed or Star Shed ;) Excellent vid, thanks.
I made an attempt to use one of those plastic shed a while ago. It was used in the backyard of a rental so I didn't want to make it permanent. Eventually, I wanted a more and installed a ExploraDome. My only wish I could have taken it with me when I left that job but I got too sick. You know that if you wanted a warm control room you could enclose the area under the slid off roof area and make it into one.
Good observatory build, Astrobloke! A lot of bang for the buck as we say in the US. Well, you live in a place with an awesome name: Westcliff-On-Sea. How about Westcliff-On-Sea Observatory? Or Observatory-on-Sea? That sort of sounds like an observatory on a ship, I guess. One last idea, Corner of the Galaxy Observatory. Well, if none of these suit you, I'm sure you'll come up with a good name! :)
WOW. Great job mate! I thought you would have had a proper title for your observatory by now! I'll throw out a suggestion for ya', from across the pond - Astrobloke's BlackHole. I have just recently purchased my first telescope (an older 8" Dob), and I wish I was in a position to build - and enjoy! - an observatory. Very nicely done. Congratulations on enjoying the fruits of your labour! Must feel very rewarding to have, and use, it. I'd have my observatory set up to achieve noise complaints! If you are listening to music while you are spacetrucking (which everyone should), I would suggest Claude Debussy's, Claire de lune, for a start. It sets the mood for everything that follows. Cheers!!
Hi Dwayne and thank you for watching and commenting. Now thats a great name for it. Its now a tool shed for my wife as after moving I was fortunate enough to have the space to build something a lot more luxurious. Not that there was anything wrong with this one, it worked perfectly and I even managed to capture an APOD from it. Clear skies
Thanks Ollie. I looked at domes and know someone with one. Very expensive and he has terrible condensation at times and it also leaks if the weather is wet and windy. Mine has now been fully tested in Storm Bella on boxing day night.
Great job and I concur on the atmosphere of it. This video was really helpful to me as I have a beautiful insulated shed that I'm trying to figure out if the rood can be retro-fitted with rollers.
Fantastic build Astrobloke, I really like the feel and atmosphere you have going on inside as well. I may copy some of what you did in mine, as it sits empty except for a table and chair hahaha. So how about "Stormy Weather" observatory. I kid, but please let us know what name you do decide on.
Hi Joe. Thank you for your kind comments. I have made it as comfy as you can for a shed, spend a fair bit of time in there so why not. Next addition will be my Nespresso coffee machine.
Just found this video. Amazing idea! Didn't realised just how much inflation has affected things. That roof is now £700. A 40% increase in price in just 3 years..
Hi and thank you. it has been a great Observatory and been a sensible cost. If I can be of any help please reach out. I have other videos in my collection on it too.
Thank you it makes a big difference and definitely keeps my telescopes out of the rain. Us Brits never let a bit of weather spoil our pursuits. Stiff upper lip and all that lol
Hi David. No moisture issues at all. Even if everything gets dew on it during imaging, as soon as the roof is back on it very quickly dries out. I think being well ventilated and the small heat source combined with the insulation all works to keep it nice and dry.
Nice informative video, this one and the pier build video, they were enough for me to subscribe to your channel. I'd like to build some form of observatory in my garden and the Keter Plastic shed seems like a great idea. Given how light the shed is did you ever consider making a roll off shed observatory, as once it clears the pier you could also use it as a warm room to control the telescope and nights observing from? Another vote for "Westcliff-on-Sea Observatory" or, how about "3rd rock from the Sun Observatory" as an alternative.
Hi and thank you for your comment and sub to the channel. It does add a huge amount to the enjoyment of the hobby. I hadn't considered a full roll off shed as I had my mind fixed on a roll off roof design, but yes with this shed that could easily work and give a nice warm room as an advantage. Good idea
Wonderful video and build. This shed seems to be easily modified for purpose. Too bad shed manufacturers don't have a roll-off option. But I suppose we are a small market and easily ignored.
It is a shame but like you say the market isn’t big enough I suppose. The companies that convert sheds are such a rip off in my opinion as well. The keter is excellent, easy to work with and modify and minimum maintenance. Its been excellent and much better than I thought it would be
Very nice job! I am a new sub and like your content! Keep up the great work! Looking for more vids from you and your channel will grow. Maybe a name could be the Astrobloke Dome?
Hi Christopher and thank you for your support a d kind comments. I have plenty of videos coming for the channel. Great name idea. I can’t believe its still waiting for one. I need to decide
Hi and Thank you. I was worried of that issue but have fans in the roof that are solar powered pushing air out and another low down pulling air in. I also have a shed/greenhouse bar heater to keep any damp out. The in fan and heater are both on thermostat plugs so only on when needed.
Thank you. Not really as where I lived I was surrounded by buildings and also the light pollution was bad so anything under 30deg was not worth going for
It's really awesome, congrats! I really want to build an observatory using your project, it seems to be exactly what I need: practicle and not too big. Please, I have a question about the base: when the rain comes down, it goes through the gravel and stops when it touches the non-woven fabric that is waterproof. In this case the rain creates a puddle into the base? Thank you!
wow just what I was looking for. This is great with many possibilities for creative thinking. I would like to make a sky-shed also. 😎 thank you. You could make kits for a business. 🤩
GREAT Info and stuff.. Just one note.. Your AUDIO is very low.. My laptop and YT are at full volume and can barely hear you. Other than that.. this is an awesome video. with great idea's etc. after seeing it. I think I'll built one. BUT not that small.. I'm a big guy who's 6'3" , maybe I"ll do 8x8 ? . But thanks for a ton of ideas !!!!
Hi Frank. Sorry about the audio, it was an early video and I was still learning. Got a mic now so much better. I would have got a bigger one myself but the space I had was limited. Its well worth doing and makes life so much easier
Hi, And well done. I have purchased the same shed and intend to put it together next weekend. Would love to see more detail on where you decided to make the cut/s. Also is the roof able to be assembled independently from the main structure?
Hi Grant. The shed is very easy to work with and yes the roof can be built independently but is needed to give the shed rigidity. You'll see on the video I use metal builders bar to support the walls. If you email me at Astrobloke@outlook.com I can happily supply you some close up images of any parts to help you or if you have messenger you can add me on facebook and I can communicate with you on there.
Thanks for the vid, it's inspired me to do my own based on a Keter Darwin 6x8. The wheels you used look like plain steel. Have you had any problems with rust on them? I'm struggling to find decent priced ones, found some similar to the ones you used but was put off by the fact they're plain steel.
Hi Steve and thank you for commenting. Please share your build once done as I’d love to see it. I think they are steel. Were cheap Chinese ones off ebay so nothing fancy. Had no issues at all with them and the obsy has been up almost 2 years now. I found prices to be all over the place with these. The roof is so light you won’t need to worry about getting super high quality
I never thought about getting one of these sheds for an observatory nice job you've done to yours, me & a mate were going on about building a shed with a roll on roll off roof we dug the hole for the pier & then plans seemed to come to a halt for a while, I ended up finding a home made domed observatory on eBay for £155 so had it delivered. It's ok but I were wondering did you ever suffer with equipment getting damp in yours as I'm noticing some rust spots on my mount & if so how did you sort it? My observatory is well ventilated so much so I keep having to evict spiders every so often so any tips would be appreciated.
Hi. I think the Domes do suffer but it will also depend on location. I found lining the walls with the silver insulation helps prevent the obsey from changing temp too quickly with it all shut up. The air flow I have really helps with 2 fans up high drawing air out (solar powered) and one low down that is on a thermostatic plug and drawers air in if temp goes over 20dg C. Finally I have a greenhouse/shed bar heater (240watt) that is also on a thermostatic plug and comes on if temp drops below 10deg C. So far I have had zero damp or condensation problems. Hope this helps
Great video .Good insight to this , I did my research a while back on these pods and wooden observatorys , way over priced ,. Fair play mate . 👏 I'm delighted for . Did you pick a name for your observatory .
Hi and thank you. I was shocked at some of the prices. This has been one of the best things I made for my hobby, made a huge difference and I really enjoyed the process. Now I have it fully automated as well. I call it the Star shed. But still to adorn it with a plaque so final name may be different
It was just a basic roll of foil insulation I got from B&Q. Its been great and I have had no problems at all with condensation. I have an update to this video (not sure if you have seen it) I go into some more details, mentioning the insulation and other steps to prevent moisture problems ua-cam.com/video/QwhiaKHMGt8/v-deo.html Let me know if I can help further
really useful video! I've been thinking about a DIY Observatory and was contemplating the keter shed - a couple of questions... Is it easy to cut (ordinary saw OK?) is it easy to fix into the plastic ? Also are you happy with the size you chose ?
Hi Ed. Very easy to cut and i just used a standard wood saw. I am not sure I understand the 2nd part of the question sorry. Can you explain what you mean please. I am happy with the size yes. If I had more space I would get bigger though as a little more room would allow easier access to things behind the pier.
@@Astrobloke Hi Thanks for the reply, I'm assuming that the roof rails and timber need to be fixed to the shed, I have no idea what the shed plastic is like, so wondering if I can use normal screws or if I might need special fixings ?
@@edjones3390 ok. The main panels are double skinned but would not support too much weight but it’s has thicker plastic seams where the panels join and these are one to screw into. To support my wooden runners I drilled a hole through the wood and shed panel and used a coach bolt and nut to secure, this is more than adequate
Grear job ! to put the rail frame on the walls, did you make any cut on the front wall(up side corners) to joint the rail frame from inside to outside the shed? thanks
Hi Pahlavi. There are 2 cuts at the front so the wood and rails are the correct height. inside to attach the wood i drilled through and used large coach bolts washers and nuts to attach to shed sides
Hi there and congrats. I did use it, its quite flimsy so as long as you don’t want to walk about while imaging off a tripod on it you will be ok. It keeps it nice and dry in there
When you were just lifting the roof on and off did that involve unscrewing anything? If not how was it secured when in place? I’m looking at this as an option due to lack of space. Cheers.
Hi Rob. I used to hook a couple of bungies to the bars I fixed to the inside of the roof and then run them the the bars on the walls. Held the roof very securely and was quick and easy to release and reattach.
Hi William. In the description there is a link to the product I bought which is available through Amazon. If you put drive way grid in ebay the same products appear.
Yes about an inch or 2 so it was a flat level for the roof to slide over. There is a link to a 2nd part that explains in more detail what I did at the end of the video. Thanks for watching
@@woldsweather Sorry Trevor which guy? did you mean to include a link? You can most probably convert this to a roll off roof without any cutting. I just chose to do that so the gap between the walls and roof were as small and even as possible as it made it easier to weather seal.
Thank you. Not where I live in the UK. We do get snow but nothing major. This shed is fine where I live but I wouldn’t think suitable for areas with extremes of weather.
Always stays bone dry inside and never had an issue with wind. My shed was in a sheltered position but I would secure the roof with bungies between the inner roof bars and points inside the obsy if bad weather was forecasted
@@Astrobloke thank you. I'll be moving to a house where the owner will allow me to put up a shed while I'm there so long as I don't totally destroy the backyard. So I'm looking for a cheap and easy solution to protection against wind.
Hi Gary and thanks for commenting. The video is not my best as I was very early into my youtube journey. The rails are not attached to the plastic but wooden supports that are bolted through the walls, I did a follow up video which I think shows this better.. here is a link ua-cam.com/video/QwhiaKHMGt8/v-deo.html Hope that helps but if you need any more help please let me know
Thats a shame. Yes mine is very sheltered. North and west the shed is just a few inches from fence panels and to the south and east are buildings that are higher so provide lots of wind protection.
Hi Tom. Mine was built in a very secure back garden and covered by cctv. You can lock them up and maybe even install an alarm but if someone wants to steal your gear, they will, no matter how secure. I think the plus with a roll of roof is it is not obvious that there is a scope inside unlike a dome.
I really like this observatory and you've made a great job of the video too. I think a lot of people over complicate observatory builds, your practical approach shows what can be achieved without undue cost. Keep the videos coming!
Thank you for such nice comments. Keeping it simple and affordable were my main goals and I am really pleased with the finished product.
I agree 110%! Many more astronomers would build observatories if they knew of this video and how relatively cheaply they could build one!?? As you rightly state, too many observatories are over complicated and mega expensive!! Wes.
Best solution for a small observatory I've seen. Thanks.
Thank you for such a kind comment. Its really appreciated
Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
Had to watch this video again. Love the name: Starbox. Great info and inspirational.
Thank you, I really appreciate your comments.
Name Proposal: Just a Bloke's Observatory.
Great build. I love it.
Lol thanks Andrew. Glad you like it, its been great
Looks great, budget build is the way to go!!
Thank you. It makes a huge difference to the hobby.
I have a pier that is outside at the moment and the whole lot is covered with protective sheeting and I run everything from a shed, I have done a lot of research for my next project, a permanent roll off roof observatory and am looking to start construction in the spring. Out of all the designs I have come across yours is by far the best and falls well within my budget, well done on an excellent build and very good video, watch this space as I may be picking your brain very soon.
Thank you. Glad you like it and more than happy to help you where I can.
Great design for an affordable obsey... Thanks for the video and ideas
Thank you. There is an update to this video on my channel where I give more specific details as I had a lot of questions. I am also adding a further video very soon as I have just automated the roof.
The honest astrology shed from a honest straight guy
Thank you
Nice! With covid-19(third wave now, stay at home orders), I have the time to make an observatory. So, I purchased a Keter Artisan 7' x 7'. I thought of using garage door tracks and rollers for the roof system as, like you said, it is light weight. You have good ideas.
Clear skies!
Hi Michael. Yes I think that would work really well. I couldn’t source quite the right door mechanism for mine so went with the rails. You will love having and observatory. Any help please ask
Great job, it has everything you need. I live in Canada so I’m building for snow load. You’re an inspiration to someone who’s new to this hobby, thanks.
I am not sure how this would stand up to extreme weathers. Where I am in the SE of the UK its pretty temporal with few extremes so this shed stands up really well. Good luck with your build and thank you for the comments
Thank you for the excellent video. Highly detailed and thanks for showing us the actual parts for the shed. :)
You are welcome and thank you for commenting. Clear skies
What a super idea. Really interesting build
Thank you. I makes a world of difference having and Observatory
You've inspired my wife and me to build a resin shed observatory. Got materials for flooring and the pier coming today, shed coming next week Some great ideas, Astrobloke. Thank you, and cheers, mate! 🪐
Thank you and I wish you the best if luck, it will really enhance your hobby. Please let me know if you have any questions I can help you with.
well done!
Awesome video man! Starting my data collecting to decide which shed will work. Hope to start building later this year depending on how my chemotherapy goes. Your video is a big help!! Thanks!
James Webb
Retired USAF, Multiple Myeloma Warrior
Hi James and thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. I am building a much larger observatory now, having the space since moving. I absolutely loved my small budget Obsy and it was a fantastic space to keep my scope set up and image from. You will certainly not regret building one and almost any shed can be converted. I wish you all the best with your treatment and sorry to hear that you have such a condition to battle with. So I wish you well and clear skies and if you need any help/advice when you come to build please just drop me a msg. Glenn
Union Jack Observatory. Looks great
Like it , thank you
Super cool observatory. I'm thinking of building one some day in my garden :) Clear skies
You should definitely do it, you will have no regrets. It adds so much to the hobby
Great video. Thanks for sharing. I have a roll off body on a diy wooden build. Has worked well until I bought a new scope and found it just scraping the base, and that's without any cameras attached! Back to my drawing board. My ideal position unfortunately needs planning permission- so have to suffer turbulence from a nearby building- mostly do solar. But you've got me dreaming and thinking.. Cheers.
I hope you sort a good solution out as its great having an Observatory. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Clear skies
Thank you so much for sharing this, and for your in depth explanation on how you made it. Keter is made here in Israel. I think I just may be having a summer DIY project and have it done on my roof. Thank you so much for this I really appreciate it.
And the name of the observatory I propose: "The Bloke's lair"
Hi Dan and thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. They make an excellent Obsy and I wish you well for tour project, makes a huge difference having one. The Bloke’s Lair……I like it.
There are other videos covering more bits and the automation I added but if you have any questions I’d be happy to help where I can. Please share any pics/video yoi do as it would be great to see. Clear skies
@@Astrobloke Sure will do! Clear skies sir!!
Mate thats an awesome achievement for £800! My dream is to have my own observatory too some day and this vid proves if you're able to do very basic diy, this project is repeatable/doable! Luv the silver insulation too, it reminds me of the ISS for some reason!?? lol. Thank You for inspiring me my friend! Wes, Liverpool, UK.
Hi Wes and Thank you. The Keter is really easy to work with as well. I now have the roof fully motorised and can even remote in as I work shifts so want to be able to image whenever the weather is clear (which is always when I am at work lol)
I have some other videos on the automation and if you have any questions please just ask
@@Astrobloke oh right that sounds awesome mate!!?? I'll definitely have a look at those newer vids thanks mate! I believe Chuck from Chucks astro channel has his rigs setup to collect data while he sleeps at night!!?? I think he's long overdue building an observatory himself cos as you will know he produces some awesome work and he generally collects multiple hours of data!! So i reckon he should now invest in the observatory and take his work to an even higher level!? Thanks so much my friend!! Wes.
@@wesleydonnelly2141 Yes I like Chuck. He has a lot of gear too. He'd need a big obsey lol
@@Astrobloke lol definitely mate! If i were him, i'd sell most of it and just have one monster rig set up in the observatory!?? lol
Super - I was thinking about modifying my 6x4 Keter from a roll-off shed to a roll-off roof. You've saved me loads of time! :)
I'm on to your update video next because it looks like you've motorized it. Talon 6?
Pompey Monkey - I'm on SGL too.
Yes all motorised but more within my budget
Awrsome build and within reasonable budget. Great stuff ! Like the smooth roll of your roof. I'd call it Stellar Shed or Star Shed ;) Excellent vid, thanks.
Thank you. Good name suggestions too
I made an attempt to use one of those plastic shed a while ago. It was used in the backyard of a rental so I didn't want to make it permanent. Eventually, I wanted a more and installed a ExploraDome. My only wish I could have taken it with me when I left that job but I got too sick.
You know that if you wanted a warm control room you could enclose the area under the slid off roof area and make it into one.
Thank you for your comment. If its cold i cheat just get it up and running and remote in from my pc in the house where its nice and cosy
Good observatory build, Astrobloke! A lot of bang for the buck as we say in the US. Well, you live in a place with an awesome name: Westcliff-On-Sea. How about Westcliff-On-Sea Observatory? Or Observatory-on-Sea? That sort of sounds like an observatory on a ship, I guess. One last idea, Corner of the Galaxy Observatory. Well, if none of these suit you, I'm sure you'll come up with a good name! :)
Thank you Robert. Bang for your buck is also a saying well used in the UK. Excellent ideas on the name, I am particularly liking Observertory-on-sea.
Brilliant, thank you sir for an inspiring video. Love the observatory. clear skies.
Thank you for commenting, Glad you enjoyed it
Cool observatory
Appreciate that, thank you
Great job on the videos
Thank you
Nice job mate
Thank you
WOW. Great job mate! I thought you would have had a proper title for your observatory by now! I'll throw out a suggestion for ya', from across the pond - Astrobloke's BlackHole. I have just recently purchased my first telescope (an older 8" Dob), and I wish I was in a position to build - and enjoy! - an observatory. Very nicely done. Congratulations on enjoying the fruits of your labour! Must feel very rewarding to have, and use, it. I'd have my observatory set up to achieve noise complaints! If you are listening to music while you are spacetrucking (which everyone should), I would suggest Claude Debussy's, Claire de lune, for a start. It sets the mood for everything that follows. Cheers!!
Hi Dwayne and thank you for watching and commenting. Now thats a great name for it. Its now a tool shed for my wife as after moving I was fortunate enough to have the space to build something a lot more luxurious. Not that there was anything wrong with this one, it worked perfectly and I even managed to capture an APOD from it. Clear skies
Great build
Thank you Mark
Looks a great job I've seen the domes and some cost a fortune. Well explained.
Thanks Ollie. I looked at domes and know someone with one. Very expensive and he has terrible condensation at times and it also leaks if the weather is wet and windy. Mine has now been fully tested in Storm Bella on boxing day night.
Great video and information you have shared. Long time follower of the channel. Thanks a heap!
Thank you very much for the support and taking the time to comment so kindly. Clear skies
Thanks! A very practice solution
Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. Its been such a boost to my hobby.
Great job and I concur on the atmosphere of it. This video was really helpful to me as I have a beautiful insulated shed that I'm trying to figure out if the rood can be retro-fitted with rollers.
Hi Michael. Glad its helped you as that was my goal i when making this video. I’d be interested in seeing what you do and any questions please ask
Fantastic build Astrobloke, I really like the feel and atmosphere you have going on inside as well. I may copy some of what you did in mine, as it sits empty except for a table and chair hahaha. So how about "Stormy Weather" observatory. I kid, but please let us know what name you do decide on.
Hi Joe. Thank you for your kind comments. I have made it as comfy as you can for a shed, spend a fair bit of time in there so why not. Next addition will be my Nespresso coffee machine.
Lovin' it from the US!
Thank you Gene, clear skies
Just found this video. Amazing idea! Didn't realised just how much inflation has affected things. That roof is now £700. A 40% increase in price in just 3 years..
Prices for some things have just gone up a stupid amount. My new obsy build cost way more than it should have. Still worth shopping about. Good luck.
Perfect & great video. You gave me some great ideas. I am in Oklahoma US
Hi and thank you. it has been a great Observatory and been a sensible cost. If I can be of any help please reach out. I have other videos in my collection on it too.
Great video and build. I'm surprised people buy telescopes in the UK! Definitely understand the need for a roof 😂
Thank you it makes a big difference and definitely keeps my telescopes out of the rain. Us Brits never let a bit of weather spoil our pursuits. Stiff upper lip and all that lol
Great job! Any moisture issues? How about “Bloke Box Observatory”? Clear Skies!
Hi David. No moisture issues at all. Even if everything gets dew on it during imaging, as soon as the roof is back on it very quickly dries out. I think being well ventilated and the small heat source combined with the insulation all works to keep it nice and dry.
Well done, great observatory and an excellent video! I would name the observatory after the first deep sky object you imaged :-)
Thank you for the comments. Thats not a bad idea on the name as well
Nice informative video, this one and the pier build video, they were enough for me to subscribe to your channel. I'd like to build some form of observatory in my garden and the Keter Plastic shed seems like a great idea. Given how light the shed is did you ever consider making a roll off shed observatory, as once it clears the pier you could also use it as a warm room to control the telescope and nights observing from? Another vote for "Westcliff-on-Sea Observatory" or, how about "3rd rock from the Sun Observatory" as an alternative.
Hi and thank you for your comment and sub to the channel. It does add a huge amount to the enjoyment of the hobby. I hadn't considered a full roll off shed as I had my mind fixed on a roll off roof design, but yes with this shed that could easily work and give a nice warm room as an advantage. Good idea
Love that. How about Astrobloke’s Starbox
Now I like that
Wonderful video and build. This shed seems to be easily modified for purpose. Too bad shed manufacturers don't have a roll-off option. But I suppose we are a small market and easily ignored.
It is a shame but like you say the market isn’t big enough I suppose. The companies that convert sheds are such a rip off in my opinion as well. The keter is excellent, easy to work with and modify and minimum maintenance. Its been excellent and much better than I thought it would be
Very nice job! I am a new sub and like your content! Keep up the great work! Looking for more vids from you and your channel will grow. Maybe a name could be the Astrobloke Dome?
Hi Christopher and thank you for your support a d kind comments. I have plenty of videos coming for the channel. Great name idea. I can’t believe its still waiting for one. I need to decide
Great build. Do you have any problems with condensation? if you do, how do you deal with it? Thanks.
Hi and Thank you. I was worried of that issue but have fans in the roof that are solar powered pushing air out and another low down pulling air in. I also have a shed/greenhouse bar heater to keep any damp out. The in fan and heater are both on thermostat plugs so only on when needed.
Really inspiring build! Do you find that the height of the walls limits the targets you can observe?
Thank you. Not really as where I lived I was surrounded by buildings and also the light pollution was bad so anything under 30deg was not worth going for
@@Astrobloke Ah, makes sense. Thank you for the response!
It's really awesome, congrats! I really want to build an observatory using your project, it seems to be exactly what I need: practicle and not too big.
Please, I have a question about the base: when the rain comes down, it goes through the gravel and stops when it touches the non-woven fabric that is waterproof. In this case the rain creates a puddle into the base? Thank you!
the fabric underneath allows water to pass through it. It is not waterproof. It is a weed barrier to just stop any growth of weeds etc in that area.
wow just what I was looking for. This is great with many possibilities for creative thinking. I would like to make a sky-shed also. 😎 thank you. You could make kits for a business. 🤩
Thank you. Its has been a real fun project and added loads to my hobby. Its perfect if you have little space and a small budget
@@Astrobloke Keep it simple, I like that.
GREAT Info and stuff.. Just one note.. Your AUDIO is very low.. My laptop and YT are at full volume and can barely hear you. Other than that.. this is an awesome video. with great idea's etc. after seeing it. I think I'll built one. BUT not that small.. I'm a big guy who's 6'3" , maybe I"ll do 8x8 ? . But thanks for a ton of ideas !!!!
Hi Frank. Sorry about the audio, it was an early video and I was still learning. Got a mic now so much better. I would have got a bigger one myself but the space I had was limited. Its well worth doing and makes life so much easier
@@Astrobloke no worries i was able to cast to my tv and crank it up lol. Just saw the one on the pier you built !! Awesome info once again
Hi, And well done. I have purchased the same shed and intend to put it together next weekend. Would love to see more detail on where you decided to make the cut/s. Also is the roof able to be assembled independently from the main structure?
Hi Grant. The shed is very easy to work with and yes the roof can be built independently but is needed to give the shed rigidity. You'll see on the video I use metal builders bar to support the walls. If you email me at Astrobloke@outlook.com I can happily supply you some close up images of any parts to help you or if you have messenger you can add me on facebook and I can communicate with you on there.
@@Astrobloke Thats great I will be in touch via email. Thanks very much.
Thanks for the vid, it's inspired me to do my own based on a Keter Darwin 6x8. The wheels you used look like plain steel. Have you had any problems with rust on them? I'm struggling to find decent priced ones, found some similar to the ones you used but was put off by the fact they're plain steel.
Hi Steve and thank you for commenting. Please share your build once done as I’d love to see it. I think they are steel. Were cheap Chinese ones off ebay so nothing fancy. Had no issues at all with them and the obsy has been up almost 2 years now. I found prices to be all over the place with these. The roof is so light you won’t need to worry about getting super high quality
I never thought about getting one of these sheds for an observatory nice job you've done to yours, me & a mate were going on about building a shed with a roll on roll off roof we dug the hole for the pier & then plans seemed to come to a halt for a while, I ended up finding a home made domed observatory on eBay for £155 so had it delivered. It's ok but I were wondering did you ever suffer with equipment getting damp in yours as I'm noticing some rust spots on my mount & if so how did you sort it? My observatory is well ventilated so much so I keep having to evict spiders every so often so any tips would be appreciated.
Hi. I think the Domes do suffer but it will also depend on location. I found lining the walls with the silver insulation helps prevent the obsey from changing temp too quickly with it all shut up. The air flow I have really helps with 2 fans up high drawing air out (solar powered) and one low down that is on a thermostatic plug and drawers air in if temp goes over 20dg C. Finally I have a greenhouse/shed bar heater (240watt) that is also on a thermostatic plug and comes on if temp drops below 10deg C.
So far I have had zero damp or condensation problems. Hope this helps
Great video .Good insight to this , I did my research a while back on these pods and wooden observatorys , way over priced ,. Fair play mate . 👏 I'm delighted for . Did you pick a name for your observatory .
Hi and thank you. I was shocked at some of the prices. This has been one of the best things I made for my hobby, made a huge difference and I really enjoyed the process. Now I have it fully automated as well. I call it the Star shed. But still to adorn it with a plaque so final name may be different
What was the insulation product you used? Is it efficient?
I have a plastic shed and it suffers from condensation during the winter.
It was just a basic roll of foil insulation I got from B&Q. Its been great and I have had no problems at all with condensation. I have an update to this video (not sure if you have seen it) I go into some more details, mentioning the insulation and other steps to prevent moisture problems
ua-cam.com/video/QwhiaKHMGt8/v-deo.html
Let me know if I can help further
really useful video! I've been thinking about a DIY Observatory and was contemplating the keter shed - a couple of questions... Is it easy to cut (ordinary saw OK?) is it easy to fix into the plastic ? Also are you happy with the size you chose ?
Hi Ed. Very easy to cut and i just used a standard wood saw. I am not sure I understand the 2nd part of the question sorry. Can you explain what you mean please.
I am happy with the size yes. If I had more space I would get bigger though as a little more room would allow easier access to things behind the pier.
@@Astrobloke Hi Thanks for the reply, I'm assuming that the roof rails and timber need to be fixed to the shed, I have no idea what the shed plastic is like, so wondering if I can use normal screws or if I might need special fixings ?
@@edjones3390 ok. The main panels are double skinned but would not support too much weight but it’s has thicker plastic seams where the panels join and these are one to screw into. To support my wooden runners I drilled a hole through the wood and shed panel and used a coach bolt and nut to secure, this is more than adequate
@@Astrobloke Thanks that's really helpful - clear skies !
Grear job ! to put the rail frame on the walls, did you make any cut on the front wall(up side corners) to joint the rail frame from inside to outside the shed? thanks
Hi Pahlavi. There are 2 cuts at the front so the wood and rails are the correct height. inside to attach the wood i drilled through and used large coach bolts washers and nuts to attach to shed sides
@@Astrobloke thanks
@@pahlavipahlavi5926 you are welcome. if you need me to take any images to help further I am happy to
@@Astrobloke yes please,i am trying to the same things on my palram shed. many thanks
@@pahlavipahlavi5926 email me at astrobloke@outlook.com with your email for facebook and i’ll sort some closer images for you
Very nice. Just purchased the same shed. It comes with its own floor did you use that?
Hi there and congrats. I did use it, its quite flimsy so as long as you don’t want to walk about while imaging off a tripod on it you will be ok. It keeps it nice and dry in there
What a good idea and not astronomical prices either lol
lol....thanks...love the pun
When you were just lifting the roof on and off did that involve unscrewing anything? If not how was it secured when in place? I’m looking at this as an option due to lack of space. Cheers.
Hi Rob. I used to hook a couple of bungies to the bars I fixed to the inside of the roof and then run them the the bars on the walls. Held the roof very securely and was quick and easy to release and reattach.
@@Astrobloke very helpful thanks.
I was searching eBay for that base material and couldn’t find anything. Can you tell us more about the base for your shed?
Hi William. In the description there is a link to the product I bought which is available through Amazon. If you put drive way grid in ebay the same products appear.
Did you cut part of the top of the sides off?
Yes about an inch or 2 so it was a flat level for the roof to slide over. There is a link to a 2nd part that explains in more detail what I did at the end of the video. Thanks for watching
@@Astrobloke This guy refers to you I think. I don't think he cut part of the walls off did he?
@@woldsweather Sorry Trevor which guy? did you mean to include a link? You can most probably convert this to a roll off roof without any cutting. I just chose to do that so the gap between the walls and roof were as small and even as possible as it made it easier to weather seal.
Another awesome video! Would snow blow underneath the weather shield you installed on the sides?
Thank you. Not where I live in the UK. We do get snow but nothing major. This shed is fine where I live but I wouldn’t think suitable for areas with extremes of weather.
I've got a block built shed that is going to have a new roof regardless.... may as well treat myself.. :-)
Sounds like a great idea
Does the inside stay dry if it's raining or snowing. What if the wind gets bad will the roof fly away?
Always stays bone dry inside and never had an issue with wind. My shed was in a sheltered position but I would secure the roof with bungies between the inner roof bars and points inside the obsy if bad weather was forecasted
@@Astrobloke thank you. I'll be moving to a house where the owner will allow me to put up a shed while I'm there so long as I don't totally destroy the backyard. So I'm looking for a cheap and easy solution to protection against wind.
I dont understand how you were able to mount the roller trac on top of the cut plastic walls,
Hi Gary and thanks for commenting. The video is not my best as I was very early into my youtube journey. The rails are not attached to the plastic but wooden supports that are bolted through the walls, I did a follow up video which I think shows this better.. here is a link
ua-cam.com/video/QwhiaKHMGt8/v-deo.html
Hope that helps but if you need any more help please let me know
Recent storms sucked felt off my workshop. I suppose your garden corner is sheltered. You have nothing to secure the roof?
Thats a shame. Yes mine is very sheltered. North and west the shed is just a few inches from fence panels and to the south and east are buildings that are higher so provide lots of wind protection.
Do you have any concerns on security of this build? I am always worried when building one of these that someone could easily just open it up.
Hi Tom. Mine was built in a very secure back garden and covered by cctv. You can lock them up and maybe even install an alarm but if someone wants to steal your gear, they will, no matter how secure. I think the plus with a roll of roof is it is not obvious that there is a scope inside unlike a dome.
If you're still looking for a name, how about the Stellar Shed or Star Shed
Thank you. Good suggetions
What scope and camera are those?
Hi Charles, that’s my Sky Watcher 130pds and the camera is a ZWO 294mm pro
@@Astrobloke: I have something similar, these Celestron Omni 150 Newtonian (150mm f/5) and the csmera is the ZWO ASI 224 MC.
@@charlessands6933 Nice
The Whacky Shanty
🤣😂 best name yet.
“7th Heaven”
It sure is
This is blinding!
Thanks Steve
Shed. Just name it Shed
Good call
.ثً
Thank you
Very nice setup.
Thanks!