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Rocker Box
The rocker box has to built strong, for it holds the weight of the entire telescope, along with continual torque from pushing the telescope in all directions. This box cradles the mirror box and allows movement 360 degrees azimuth and 90 degrees in altitude. Also very importantly, this box is where the wheelbarrow handles attach to allow for much lighter loads when transporting. Thickness varies but we use only top shelf, cabinet grade, void-free plywood. There is no room for the void filled inferior plywood when so much depends on this box. Our boxes are built very strong using finger joints on the corners in addition to doweling down through the finished joint for an unbelievably strong joint.
 Here's the rocker box. You can see the use of finger joints and dowels. |
 Here we have a freshly stained rocker box. |
 The secret's out, here's the real construction crew. |
 Billy taking a break and relaxing. |
 All ready for wheels and handles. |
 Now it's Kelly's turn for a break. |
 A close-up of the wheel assembly installed. |