Taking in the Grandeur

Post-Script: Another improvement, alluded to in the piece, would be to modify the instrument frame so that it straddles the viewer's head, with counterweights on the rear to compensate for the binocular's weight in the front, permitting the altitude axis to rotate closer to the observer's eyes. But even as it stands today, this binocular frame makes for a very relaxed, two-eyed viewing experience, nearly ideally suited to taking in the grandeur of the heavens in comfort.

Photos via Lumix G5, typecast via Olympia SM9 De Luxe.

Bonus Photos:
The frame disassembled, ready for transport.

The bottom and side supports interlock via notches. Note that all interlocking wood surfaces were kept unpainted, to make assembly and disassembly easier, as this eliminates paint-to-paint stiction.

Then the uprights are inserted.

Next, the diagonal braces are folded down from the uprights and connected to the bottom brace via bolts and thumb screws.

The eye-bolts and thumb screws for attaching the instrument frame. Note the frame's position is adjustable via a series of holes in the uprights.

The binocular frame and Zero Gravity chair in place, ready to receive the binoculars. Note that the binocular's tripod mount is adjustable along its center column, permitting the instrument frame to be balanced so that it is not prone to rotating on its own.