Customer Reviews

Setting-Up a Small Observatory: From Concept to Construction (Patrick Moore's Practical Astronomy Series)

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Well, the book definitely provided the information it promised. I feel much more prepared to build my own observatory now. But it strayed from the stated subject often and filled up pages with astronomy and telescope information that is available elsewhere. I got the feeling that it was padded - or maybe just mistitled. Maybe it should have been called "Setting-Up a Small Observatory: From Concept to Construction and a Bunch of Other Stuff You Probably Already Know Since You Are Considering an Observatory of Your Own Anyway".

Don't hesitate to buy it for the information you need. Just be prepared for a bit of wandering.

I totally enjoyed this book! There were many helpful tips and observations from authors that have "been there and done that!" One of the other reviewers noted that he thought this was "padded" with extraneous information. I would disagree because I found much of the surrounding information thoughtful and additive to my project. Ultimately, some of the "additional information" has already saved me some serious money! The topic is well described and has some brilliant ideas. I am buying a second copy for my son's project. Perhaps it will cover an item or two that was not obvious and save an expensive mistake!

This is a great basic introductory book. If you're looking for ideas and don't want to re-invent the wheel, and make the same mistakes that others have made when THEY made their observatory, buy this book. I highly recommend it; easy reading, with good author support! 5 of 5 stars.

The problem with setting up a small observatory is that there are too many options to consider. I had not realized this when I bought the book. I think a more guided approach would be useful.

This book is well written in a down to earth manner so that the concept of setting up a small Observatory is easily comprehended. Loaded with examples and reasons why you should or should not do certain things. Hints on making Observatories and their pluses and minuses can help those thinking of building their own Observatory. A worthwhile read.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It differs from the other Patrick Moore Series books on home observatories in that the selection is limited more to things mere mortals might actually build, with enough detail to get you thinking. The examples in this book range from domes (both homemade and commercial) to a box just big enough to stow a 10" Dob on the patio (nicknamed the "Sentry Box"). There several other very clever small format schemes shown too.

In general, the emphasis is on getting the most bang for your buck and keeping the observatory appearance in keeping with it's surroundings. Several memorable "garden shed" like buildings are purpose-built observatories. One of my favorites is a fellow how hacked out a piece of his garage roof and slapped a sliding panel over it. It worked fine for him because there were streetlights nearby and the high walls were needed to block out those lights anyhow.

And while I wanted more, there were actually quite a few example of remote control. Some of the "observatories" were little more than telescope houses perched near the house and run by remote control.

This book is a keeper as far as I'm concerned. There are lots of practical hints I want to refer back to if I ever undertake building my own observatory.

If you are looking for information about how built an amateur observatory, here you have all you need to know.