Wheelbarrow Dobson

Wheelbarrow Dobson

We are nearing completion of our Telescope based on the Dobson designs. As you can see, we made some modifications from the original plans. Some of these modifications have drastically added to the already high weight of the base and tube. In order to save my back, and help move the scope easier, we have added wheelbarrow handles, and two wheels supported by a steel axle. The handles can be quickly removed by taking out the four pins securing them to the base.

Instead of painting our scope, we decided to wrap it in plastic shelf liner that is printed with a wood grain. This was a pain in Uranus to do. It looks good even though we have a few wrinkles.  For the base, we decided to use a dark tarnished copper spray paint. The tube box is painted with a metallic silver spray paint. Both are coated with a clear spray on lacquer.

Cannon view

To decorate our scope, we are attempting a steam punk theme. We have installed steel cables and turnbuckles to secure the tube in place of the traditional shims. These cables have so far performed well and the turnbuckles can be used to adjust the tube up or down.

A look down the tube

Erica found a great solution to protect the edge of the cardboard tube. We bought the metal strips used on the edge of wooden or tile floors, and bent them around the end of the tubes.  We then drilled holes at regular intervals and used rivets and washers to secure it to the tube. It definitely adds to the steam punk look.

We are still planning on adding some decorative features.