| Observatory |
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Observatory |
The observatory Dome is a 8' (2.44 metre) AshDome (type REA) with motorized Azimuth rotation and shutter operation. The azimuthal rotation is controlled using the MaxDome II controller from Cyanogen. The Paramount ME German equatorial mount is supported by a 300mm diameter custom steel pier. The importance of a stable pier and mount cannot be overstated. Observational astronomy is hard enough without having to battle a shaky mount, so the Paramount is my best astro investment ever.  The 8'AshDome The project started with making a big hole in the attic roof:
The previously very low roof was raised a bit and a supporting cylinder for the dome was buit:
On top of two supporting concrete walls, a pier base was cast from concrete:
... to support the 300mm dia steel pier:
The dome was assembled on the ground:
... and lifted to the rooftop:
The house from the neighbouring playground:
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