See our domes at:
2.2m Guided
Observatory Tour
Site last updated:
26 August, 2010 18:40
The new 2.2 Metre model is selling fast...
Watch a fascinating account of the recent Österlen Observatory installation in Sweden. The observatory is the 2.2m full height model, and houses a Meade 14" RCX telescope.
Motorised dome rotation and shutters are available for the 2.2m model, which makes the observatory compatible for remote operation. Ideal for up to 12" - 14" telescopes and a variety of installations, also ideal for societies, schools, etc.
New! The 2.2 Metre DIY Observatory Dome
Are you Looking to buy or build an observatory? On a tight budget? Building a dome sounds too difficult? We have the answer.
The new DIY home-build dome kit by Pulsar - makers of the most popular observatories in the UK. Firstly, an aperture style, rotating dome observatory will give you significant advantages over a run off roof shed, and give you and your equipment full protection from high winds and annoying stray light. From a construction point of view the problems are threefold, how can I build a hemispherical dome that will:
1. Rotate easily
2. Stay weatherproof and last for years
3. Be easy to operate, with a weather tight easy sliding shutter.
Our new 2.2 metre dome kit for just £1,695.00 solves all the above issues.
Kit contains: Glassfibre dome quadrants to make a weather tight dome top. Glassfibre shutter with fittings. Hardware kit for assembling the above, inc. wheels, bolts etc. Instruction guide on how to build your observatory walls from timber, blocks, etc. (materials for this should be no more than around £250).
Pulsar Observatories across Europe...
Pulsar Observatories supply domes to most EU countries. The above 2.7 metre dome was recently installed in Austria.
Easier installation...
Our new 2.2m and 2.7m observatories are designed to make diy installations much easier...
Easy to align panels and fewer bolts and fixings make the building process quicker and easier for the customer who prefers to do a self assembly. The door is pre-hung in it's respective panel, with the locks fully installed for you. Also, with a comprehensive downloadable instruction guide, and a full technical support contact number, things could not be simpler!
Protect yourself as well as your scope and equipment
Before deciding on your route to
the best astronomical accessory you’ll ever buy
consider the following...
Amateur observatories come in all shapes and sizes, some home-brewed, some professionally manufactured. Only the tried and tested traditional dome offers full protection from the elements to both you and your valuable equipment.
Observatories and the weather
The major issue with any observatory is permanent protection from leaks caused by rain and snow. Not only do modern astronomers want to protect their optical equipment but also their hi-tech electronics that are vital to astronomy in the 21st century. Pulsar Observatories are guaranteed weatherproof. They need no sealing tapes around joints and definitely no need for a rain cover.
Observing in comfort
Most astronomers spend many hours at their telescopes, getting totally absorbed in observing and imaging. Although runoff roof observatories and similar housings protect astronomical equipment they offer little comfort for the observer when the installation is in use. Not only does the astronomer have to put up with the vagaries of frost and freezing breezes quite often but, apart from a few lucky people, there is little or no shade from streetlights and neighbours security lights.
Benefits of a motorised dome
Dome rotation drive systems are now available for the entire range of Pulsar Observatories, but you may ask yourself is it something that you need. There is no doubt that having your dome synchronised with your telescope/mounting system is the ultimate in convenience it is your astronomical pursuits that wi
ll have the final say. Motorising your Dome rotation is a must for unattended long exposure photography and imaging. Slewing the observatory dome in line with your telescope will allow you to leave your telescope and dome to continue tracking your chosen target without you having to sit acting as a minder.
The dome control system offered by Pulsar Observatories >
And finally...
The Herstmonceux Annual Astronomy Festival returns next month!
The Festival of Astronomy at the Science Centre Herstmonceux is now an established highlight of the annual astronomy calendar and the event returns on the 3rd, 4th, & 5th September. Pulsar Observatories will have a large display area featuring our 2.2m full-height observatory dome.
- Friday, Saturday and Sunday
- £10 per night.
- Allows up to 4 people per site.
- There are a limited number of sites so BOOK EARLY!
Throughout the weekend there will be a comprehensive programme of events:
- Lectures
- Talks about the telescopes
- Planetarium shows
- Visits to the Space Geodesy Facility
- Visits to the Radio Shack
- Trade stalls
- Astronomy Societies hosting activities
- All the hands-on Science exhibits
- Family activity fun day on the Sunday
- Viewing through the historic telescopes (weather permitting)