See our domes at:
2.2m Guided
Observatory Tour
Site last updated:
10 May, 2012 15:35
2.2m Accessory bay.
Need more storage space in your Pulsar 2.2m dome?
Our accessory bays will provide you with a simple storage solution, for storing your computer, books, equipment cases, etc. Supplied with instructions and fixing kit, can be installed in one hour, or you can order with your new dome and have it installed free of charge.
Why do I need an Observatory?
Professor Greg Parker, renowned astro imager, and owner of a Pulsar Zenith observatory and new Pulsar 2.2m observatory, summarises the reasons for a permanent setup:
'a permanent setup will ensure good usage of your telescope, and will prevent a rather expensive investment from collecting dust. It will allow fast turn-on time so that you can maximise your observing/imaging time. It will prevent you from injuring yourself, or the equipment, by the repeated carrying in and out of doors of your gear. But most important of all, I think a dome in your garden looks really cool.'
See Greg's new 2.2m observatory installation here:
Greg Parker's New Forest Observatory
The 2.2 Metre model is the UK's top selling observatory...
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 2.2m / 2.7m DIY Observatory Dome Kit
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 dome kits 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 £350).
2.2m Dome Kit...........£1695.00
2.7m Dome kit...........£2695.00
Live in the EU and need an observatory?
We can ship direct from our factory to anywhere in Europe.
Recent deliveries went to Germany, Slovakia, Romania, Finland and Portugal.
Call: +44 (0) 1353 886128
Or email: sales@pulsar-observatories.com
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!
However, if you wish to use our installation service, the costs are as follows:
Installation fee for a 2.2m full height observatory: £295
Installation fee for a 2.7m full height observatory: £395
You will need to provide a flat, level base to ensure a smooth installation.
UK and EU enquiries - sales@pulsar-observatories.com
Or call us on +44 (0) 1353 886139 Mob. 07725 956071
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 will 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...
We have 2.2m and 2.7m observatories on display at the Astronomy & Nature Centre, Ely, Cambridgeshire.
Both domes are fully equipped with telescopes, pier mounted, and will give you the opportunity to see how a fully operational observatory setup works.
If you are considering purchasing an observatory, why not pay us a visit and experience for yourself, the benefits of owning an aperture slit style observatory over other designs. Step inside one of our domes and get a feel for the comfort and protection it gives you and your equipment. If you are considering serious astro photography at some time in the future, there is no better way to go. Come and see one of our experts at the Centre in Ely, and have a full demonstration, we will have a cup of tea waiting!