See our domes at:
2.2m Guided
Observatory Tour
Site last updated:
28 July, 2010 12:32
The new 2.2 Metre model is selling fast...
With over 50 sold so far in the first year, the Pulsar Observatories high quality 2.2 metre dome is proving very popular, offering the following advanced features: Finest quality GRP finish including a matt black gel coat to the interior of the dome itself, a high quality locking system similar to the larger 2.7 metre model and a simpler design for self assembly. Motorised dome rotation and shutters are available which makes the observatory compatible for remote operation. Ideal for up to 12" telescopes and a variety of installations, also ideal for societies, schools, etc.
Find out more - click here or check out more pictures of the 2.2m in
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 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...
Imperial Storm Troopers adopt our 2.2m dome as a new home!
The Festival of Astronomy at the Science Centre Herstmonceux is now an established highlight of the annual astronomy calendar and the event drew good crowds. Pulsar Observatories had a large display area featuring our new 2.2m full-height observatory dome.
Much to everyone’s surprise, mid-way through Saturday a unit of heavily armed Imperial Storm-Troopers arrived looking ruthless (and - er - a bit lost). They seemed to be searching for a new home - work on Death Star's is scarce these days.
After checking the vintage copper domes on the site they elected to adopt our new 2.2m as their new home. Regrettably, every time an astronomer went near our dome the Storm-Troopers got a bit defensive and raised their blasters menacingly – a less than ideal situation from a sales perspective. Seriously though, kids loved the exhibits and the Storm troopers were a hit with everybody. It was a great two days and we and everybody else had a lot of fun. We look forward to seeing you next year.