Construction of the Observatory

The construction of the observatory is generally according to recommendations in the document "At Home in a Dome" from Technical Innovations, available free at their website.

The computer control of the telescope allowed for more flexibility in the design of the dome support structure.  Maximum working space for computers, adequate provision of electrical power and ease of use were main considerations.  The building design uses the "rectangular skirt" option from the manufacturer to create a working space under the elevated dome.

The fiberglass dome and rectangular skirt were delivered as a kit, via truck freight.  Delivery to the residential address was completed by a towing company with a flat bed sliding lift.  I estimate the assembly of the 10 foot dome is roughly 100 hours work.  The kit was complete and the assembly instructions were good.

The lighting circuits are on two switches: normal and red light.  Bulkheads on all 4 walls allow for scaffolding at the telescope's level.  A central concrete pier, 15 inches in diameter, with steel reinforcement supports the telescope and Dobsonian cradle.  The pier is vibration isolated from the concrete pad of the building.  A normal sized door and a window with southern exposure create a pleasant work environment.

Here is a picture of the observatory building: Observatory Picture ( Image, 17 Kb).   

Here is a picture of the telescope with the dome open: Telescope (Image, 106 Kb).