S&T had a quote in an issue some time back I really liked. "The worst telescope in the world is one that`s not being used." Mine wasn`t, so I setup a crude observatory to use until I can get a good one built. I`m going with a roll off roof due to zoning and permit issues. Ok, that`s enough background I guess.

The topic I`d like to raise is determination of overall size of the observatory. "Always make it bigger than you think you`ll need" someone said. Yes. But...what would THAT be? I have an f4.5 16" Dobs. Stands just under 6` tall. If I build for only the one scope, putting it in the center of the building, a 10` square gives me enough room to go as close to horizontal as I would ever observe in my area. (Center point of mirror box to far edge of secondary being slightly over 5` it could almost get truly horizontal and still fit - whereas 15 to 20 degree elevation would normally be required for decent seeing in my location.)

If I put the 16" on an EQ mount I believe the actual throw from center point would be reduced due to the differnece in mounting / balance, so 10` again is big enough.

Does anyone have experience with similar applications and care to comment about a size suggestion? I only want to build this once..