our observatory!

i am sure you will find a million answers to "what makes an observatory?" .   my answer is simple, where ever you set up your telescope becomes your observatory.  if you look it up you will find two views and i prefer the second one listed below.

first - a building designed and equipped to observe astronomical phenomena.

second - an observatory is a location used for observing terrestrial and/or celestial events. astronomy, astrology, climatology, geology and meteorology are examples of disciplines for which observatories have been use or constructed.  historically, observatories were as simple as containing a sextant (for measuring the distance between stars)

my present observatory is located on my back deck located in middletown connecticut.    i have the floor marked for the mount to make polar alignment simple and fast.  this location also allows me to run my telescope remotely from inside the house.  this is especially good when the temperature drops below zero.  the best observatory is one that will get used the most and i use mine just about every clear night. 

now, this is not to say that i would not love to have a location that would support a nice dome or roll off top observatory.  (1/2007)we just moved into our new home and i now have the room for an observatory and plan to build one during the summer months.  i have several links to sites with some great help to build a roll off top observatory or if you just want to purchase a small ready made dome. 

don't feel that it is the structure that will give you the enjoyment of the great sights you will observe.  it is the unbelievable things you will see and image that makes amateur astronomy one of the most rewarding hobbies you could choose.

so, if you are on the way to the backyard, to your deck, the field next store, the park or any other place to set up to observe, enjoy the sights.

clear skies,

jim

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