14.8ft (4.5m) Fiberglass Astrodome
The 14′ 9.2″ (4.5m) Astrodome is constructed using marine grade gel coat and a fiberglass thickness between 6mm and 10mm. This gives the Astrodome more than adequate strength and rigidity which in turn translates into durability. The inside is painted dark blue as standard but can be customized along with the gel coat to the color of your choice.
This dome can be ordered as a stand-alone observatory or as a dome to be mounted on your building or structure with an included mounting ring. The bottom shutter can be hinged on the bottom to drop down, or hinged on the side as a door.
The Astrodome comes with motorized shutter and azimuth rotation. The shutter motor is 12vdc powered by a deep cycle (not included due to shipping restrictions) solar charged 12v battery to eliminate expensive and unreliable electrical slip-rings. The Azimuth drive can utilize 12vdc, 220-240vac or 110vac motors depending on your requirements. The dome rolls on nylon or urethane wheels for smooth, quiet operation and a rack and pinion system is engineered for reliability and is maintenance free.The rack and pinion azimuth system allows for accurate encoding of position if automation is added. Each motor is controlled with a control box that uses a soft start feature to eliminate the wear from jarring.
Automation
You can choose to automate the dome using a system of your choice. Astrodomes recommends the MaxDome system, https://diffractionlimited.com/product/maxdome-ii-observatory-dome-control-system/. The dome can be slaved to the telescope allowing the dome to follow the telescope without the astronomer having to touch the controls.
Shipping and installation
The 14.8 foot (4.5m) fiberglass Astrodome is designed to fit inside a shipping container for worldwide shipment. Each dome is pre-assembled prior to shipment to make sure every panel lines up and the dome functions correctly. It is then carefully packed and comes complete with stainless steel bolts and all required parts, along with comprehensive instructions. Support is always available via phone. No special tools are required and with a few people and some levers, each dome piece can be put into place without the use of a machine to lift them.
AVAILABLE OPTIONS
For more information or to receive a quote —
email: Astrodomes [at] Astrodomes [dot] com
