Request for Tips on Observatory Piers

Hi,

WE are planning a run-off shed observatory and got the plans from SkyShed.

I have a AP Mach1 GTO mount and a spare Adatri Tripod Adapter. I was wondering about the need for pier top cap, is this necessary (leveling and polar alignment?) in addition to the Tripod Adapter. I plan to get the pier made locally (here in Ma, USA).

Any other tips and links and images to similiar setups, particularly if you have done it yourself, would be appreciated.

Thanks,
John & Sara

John & Sara,
Great to hear that you are planning an observatory.
Makes life so much easier.
In terms of piers, I prefer a metal pier over a concrete one - greater long-term flexibility IMHO.
My pier is 8" x 8" square and of 1/2" thick steel.
At the base, I have a 12" x 12" square base plate (1/2" thick steel) bolted to the concere foundation.
On the top of the pier, I have a similar plate, with the PME bolted to that.

If I was doing it again, I would go with a circular metal pier 8" in diameter with a circular plate on top - looks better and no corners to bang into.
You might consider including an owl's nest effect in the top of the pier:
www.astroshot.com/Observatory/OwlsNest.jpg
An ope of say 4" wide x 4" deep could allow you to insert your hand into the pier for bolting the mount onto the pier.

Have you considered getting a rotating per adapter?

Michael.