DarkSights

San Ramon, California

DarkSights Observatory

SkyShed 8×10 roll-off, finished July 2005. Source page on the original site: StarShed Observatory.htm.

Finished observatory, looking south. July 2005, San Ramon, CA.
Finished observatory, looking south. July 2005, San Ramon, CA.
The completed 8×10 SkyShed with the roof rolled off.
The completed 8×10 SkyShed with the roof rolled off.

This is my "DarkSights Observatory" which was completed in July 2005. It was built using plans provided by SkyShed, and then modified a bit by me. My location is clearly not a perfect place for visual astronomy or astrophotography, but since I wanted to have a permanent place to set-up my equipment it had to do.

I chose the 8'×10' model (although the plans have several size options), and I found that the plans are very complete and easy to follow. I was able to build my observatory in about three week, essentially by myself. Originally, I chose not to add a permanent pier, but built a solid set of support pads so that my Monolith Pier would have a solid, stable footing. I has since removed the three footings and poured a 36" wide by 48" deep foundation for a permanent pier that now supports a Paramount ME. For those considering this investment, I highly recommend building a permanent observatory! I have used my equipment more, and with better results than ever before. You will never regret it.

Building the shed

Here are a series of pictures of my observatory as it was under construction.