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

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 240 pages
• Published by: Springer
• Edition: 1st Edition December 17, 2007
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0387345213
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0387345215
• Book Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.2 x 0.7 inches
• Weighs: 15.2 ounces

Product Review


From the reviews:

"David Arditti’s book is the fourth volume in Patrick Moore’s Practical Astronomy series that spotlights how to construct telescope enclosures. … If you want a quick overview of the pros and cons of erecting your own, as well as a practical guide to the different designs, construction techniques, and building codes and zoning requirements, then this book will prove … handy. … this book will help you get started on the right path." (Edwin Aguirre, Sky and Telescope, Vol. 116 (3), September, 2008)

"David Arditti takes a whole new and practical approach to planning and building a permanent home for your telescopes. … In step-by-step fashion he walks the reader through how his very impressive, yet practical, observatory was set-up. … In short, it’s superbly written, with great anecdotal ‘short stories’ complementing the hard facts and authoritative black and white images where needed. This book is a true ‘must have’ for anyone who is in the process of, or considering, setting up a small observatory." (Nick Howes, Astronomy Now, August, 2008)

Product Description


This is the book to tell the intermediate-level amateur astronomer what he requirements to know about observatories. It draws on the author’s practical experience and that of many other experienced amateur astronomers.

It is an ideal complement to Patrick Moore’s More Small Astronomical Observatories which is a enyclopedia of ideas for different observatory designs. Setting-up a Small Observatory covers the details of design, siting and construction once a basic type has been decided upon.

It is written in a way that is equally applicable to the USA and UK (where there are slightly different building regulations) and deals with matters that are basic to building and commissioning any amateur observatory. Uniquely, David Arditti also considers the aesthetics of amateur observatories – fitting them in with family and neighbors, and maybe disguising them as more common garden buildings if necessary.

Every amateur astronomer who wants a purpose-built observatory (and that is most of them!) will find this book absolutely invaluable both during the planning and the construction stages.

Reader Reviews
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.