Monday, June 29, 2020

Working in Hot Humid Weather

Tuesday June 20 2020
The project remains to get the massive Celestron CGXL mount into full operation, however the heat and humidity is off the scale due to global warming in the tropics and no human can survive in such weather for very long.

The humidity is above 90% and the heat is 115 deg. F. I tagged myself at a survival rate of 5 minutes outdoors and no more than 10. Then heat stroke sets in and the recovery process takes 1 to 2 days.

Wearing anti-mosquito clothing contributes to the escalation of overheating. This method is undoubtedly unsuitable for getting the telescope mount fully operational in a short period of time. After July, the planets in question will no longer be in a viable observing/ astroimaging position. Therefore, it's now time to develop ways to survive and work in this weather.

Caveat & disclaimer - the following is only recommended for my personal use, and immediate implementation at my observatory:

* A large fan(s) should be placed in a direction to provide forced air flow along the long axis of the observatory directly in the line of work
* A second juxtaposed fan can intercede in the air flow, at which the worker can be positioned at the focal point
* Perhaps two power fans can expel mosquitoes from the vicinity and less heavy clothing can be worn
* The tent should be completely removed
* Work should proceed in shade when the position of direct sunlight has passed the roofline
* The hottest time of noon should be avoided
* The early morning time slot is the least hot, however it's when the most mosquitoes are present
* The evening time at sunset or one hour before sunset has a less hot period
* Multiple ice packs should be placed around the body inside slings
* Anti mosquito clothing must be worn, however it can be somewhat loose fitting for air flow
* The screened sliding door can open, a fan inside the room can direct the flow of cold air conditioning, thus expelling cold air conditioning directly onto the worker
* Prep for the event with a cool shower, take good rest, have short hair, eat ice cream or cold fruit, drink water, and stand by the air conditioner absorbing the coldness prior to going out
* Take more frequent breaks when working outdoors