20ft shipping container IICL6 quality, 719 112-3

This high-quality 20ft shipping container (approximately 6 meters) represents an ideal solution for storage, transportation, and creative conversions, particularly in the field of astronomy. Thanks to its sturdy steel frame and standardized dimensions, it offers a secure space for valuable equipment, a mobile base during observations, or even a foundation for a fully functional private observatory. Container delivery to Benátky nad Jizerou and elsewhere in the Czech Republic is free of charge once the conditions below are met!

Dimensions and Capacity of the 20ft Container

The 20ft container meets international ISO standards. The external dimensions are 6,058 mm in length, 2,438 mm in width, and 2,591 mm in height. The interior space is slightly smaller – length of 5,898 mm, width of 2,352 mm, and height of 2,393 mm – providing a volume of approximately 33.2 m³. The container’s load capacity is typically 28,260 kg, while the empty container weight is around 2,200 kg. This means large telescopes, mounts, tent shelters, and all accessories can fit inside, with plenty of room left for comfortable movement. Dimensions are approximate and may always vary slightly by manufacturer.

IICL 6 Quality – Guarantee of Reliability

The IICL 6 designation defines the top quality of used shipping containers. These containers have undergone thorough inspection and renovation according to the standards of the Institute of International Container Lessors, with grade 6 meaning excellent technical condition with minimal signs of wear. The container is completely waterproof, with no punctures, corrosion of load-bearing elements, or mechanical damage. The floor made of solid moisture-resistant plywood is firm and even, all door seals are intact and functional. IICL 6 thus ensures long service life and safety of stored equipment, whether in the garden, in the field, or in a permanent installation.

RAL 7016 Color – Subtle Elegance and Practicality

The container is painted in the RAL 7016 shade, known as anthracite gray. This dark gray color with a slight bluish undertone looks modern, inconspicuous, and blends easily with the surroundings – whether in an urban setting, industrial area, or rural landscape. Anthracite gray also withstands weather conditions excellently, absorbs less solar heat than black, and visually reduces the mass of the container. For astronomical purposes, it is the ideal choice: the dark surface minimizes light reflections, thereby reducing distracting stray light during nighttime observations.

Standard Opening and Ventilation

Entry to the container is provided by double-wing doors covering the full width of the front wall, with a classic opening system using 4 rods. This mechanism is robust, reliable, and allows for quick opening and closing. Each rod is equipped with a locking lever with the option of securing it with a padlock for maximum security. The container is also equipped with four passive ventilation openings (air vents) that ensure natural air circulation and prevent moisture condensation inside. This is crucial for protecting sensitive optical instruments, electronics, and documentation from mold or corrosion.

Use in Astronomy – Who Is It For

This container is designed for astronomers of all levels – from amateur observers through astrophotographers to scientific teams and outreach centers. It will be useful for individuals who need to safely store telescopes at an outdoor location, as well as for observatories and planetariums looking for an expandable storage facility. Thanks to the container’s mobility, it also opens up possibilities for traveling exhibitions, temporary research stations, or expedition projects.

Storage Options in Astronomy

Inside the 20ft container, you can neatly store:

• A large telescope of Newtonian, Schmidt-Cassegrain, or refractor type including a mount (e.g., EQ6, AZ-EQ6) and tripod.
• An astronomy camera, filters, eyepieces, electronics, and charging stations.
• Tents, chairs, tables, and lighting equipment for observation events.
• Backup power sources (batteries, generator) and cabling.
• Educational models, panels, and promotional materials for public events.

With a volume of 33 m³, the container can hold complete equipment for several observers – for example, a pair of 12″ Dobsonians, an EQ mount with a 150 mm refractor and all accessories, and still leave room for comfortable movement.

Transportation Options in Astronomy

Practically anything from astronomical inventory can be transported. The container is designed for demanding sea transport, so it withstands shocks and weather conditions during road transport. Commonly transported items include:

• Large custom-made telescopes for observatories.
• Optical sets for public observations at science festivals.
• Mobile planetariums in disassembled state.
• Components for building observatories (domes, panels, automatic roofs).

The loading area with a capacity of 28 tons enables transportation of even heavy mounts and counterweights at once.

Conversion Options in Astronomy

The modular nature of the container encourages creativity. Proven astronomical conversions include:

• Stationary observatory with sliding roof: An opening is cut into the side of the container and a movable roof is installed on rails. Inside, a solid floor for the telescope mount, shelves, and a workbench remains.
• Micro-observatory: A smaller opening in the ceiling covered by a transparent dome or opening hatch, motor-controlled – ideal for astrophotography.
• Mobile observation base: Equipped with beds, a kitchenette, and storage spaces for multi-day expeditions to dark sky areas.
• Exhibition and educational module: Glazed walls, interior lighting, and display cases with meteorites or models – suitable for observatories, schools, and museums.
• Workshop container: A workspace for telescope maintenance, optics collimation, and parts manufacturing, equipped with a workbench, vise, and tools.

Benefits for Astronomy

• Mobility: The container can be moved by truck to a new observation location within a single day – a crane just needs to be arranged. This will be especially appreciated by eclipse chasers or phenomena requiring a specific position.
• Security: A steel box with the option of a padlock protects valuable instruments from theft and bad weather.
• Modularity: It can be expanded later with additional containers, for example a 10ft one as a server room with a computer for controlling the telescope.
• Quick installation: Unlike a brick dome, a container observatory is ready within a few weeks and in many cases does not require a building permit (depends on legislation).

Recommendations and Ideas

For a beginner, we recommend first using the container as a warehouse and garage for equipment. Advanced users can experiment with a removable roof along the entire length, creating a perfect observation platform. Astrophotography enthusiasts will appreciate installing piers (columns for the mount) directly into the floor and routing cabling through channels. Combined with portable WiFi control, the observatory can be operated remotely via the internet, so deep-sky images can be captured from the comfort of home.

Delivery to Benátky nad Jizerou and throughout the Czech Republic

We will deliver the container right to you. We will arrange free delivery to Benátky nad Jizerou and anywhere in the Czech Republic, provided you simultaneously order at least two containers of 8′, 10′, or 20′ size, or one 40′ or 45′ piece. The condition is that the containers must not have additional structural modifications and must be delivered to a single destination. Otherwise, i.e., for a single piece up to 20′ size, the shipping cost is 140€ excl. VAT (170€ incl. VAT). For transportation outside the Czech Republic, delivery must be requested individually based on the destination. A crane is required to unload the container, which the customer arranges themselves. Loading at the depot is of course included in the container price.

The 20ft shipping container in IICL 6 quality and RAL 7016 color is a thoughtful and durable element that will take your astronomical capabilities to a new level. Whether you are looking for safe storage of expensive equipment, a mobile expedition base, or you dream of your own observatory without the worries of conventional construction, this container will meet expectations and provide years of reliable service. Take advantage of the favorable shipping and transform a piece of maritime history into a gateway to space.