Very soon after I started my astrophotography journey I knew I wanted some sort of observatory. An observatory would allow me to setup once and hopefully leave my gear in place and in a weather tight area.
After researching for quite some time I went with the Skyshed POD. I really liked the great reviews from around the globe, the easy and quick opening and rotation of the dome and finally the support received from the PODs creator, Wayne Parker. Wayne and his team are highly respected and active in the astro community and I would highly recommend you check them out if you are interested in a backyard observatory for your astro equipment.
Deciding on the Skyshed POD was the first step in a long journey. Next I had to sort out where it would be placed allowing for the best views of the night sky as well as maintain some sense of security. So I know where I will put the POD but put it on what? Shoud I pour a pad for it out of concrete or build a raised floating deck? Either option has it’s pros and cons and in the end I settled on the raised floating deck.