31 replies to this topic

[Xilman]

I suggest a 16 foot Ash dome.

I have a 10' Ash dome and, like the one in the image, has the bottom third of the shutter either left at the bottom of the slit or drawn upwards as the slit is open. Accordingly, either the bottom of the slit or the top is obscured when the slit is open. To see the hidden altitudes, the slit must be closed and re-opened. This is a real PITA in my experience.

 

If you're buying a new dome, I strongly recommend that you go for the version where the bottom third hinges down when the slit is opened.

Edited by Xilman, 06 August 2024 - 04:44 AM.

[Rdug1]

Hi Alan, I am interested in have a cad drawing made. Let me know if your still interested and what you need to do it.

[RichA]

090F175F-E699-4400-AEB7-42D3688DAB84.jpegI was able to do a drawing after opening up a few of the crates with the stand and the Telescope main tube. Here is what I came up with.

10ft tube.  Wow!

[Rdug1]

Nice sketch!

 

Is the circled assembly between the pedestal and back end of the PA adjustable? Can it be adjusted enough to accommodate the change in latitude?

 

CookeRefractor2.png

Hi Skip at further viewing that part is not on the base pier. Is it possible to change the latitude another way?

[R Botero]

Hi Skip at further viewing that part is not on the base pier. Is it possible to change the latitude another way?

There should be a screw/turnbuckle running between the polar axis and the arm running from the pier outwards.  That should allow to raise/lower the polar axis.   The mounts from Unitron/Polarex had a similar system (in miniature obviously).   Have you taken this part out of the boxes that you could post a picture?

 

If that part is not adjustable, you may need to build a wedge to adjust for the change in latitude between the Isle of Wight and your observatory.

 

Roberto

[SkipW]

Hi Skip at further viewing that part is not on the base pier. Is it possible to change the latitude another way?

No idea. You need to examine the physical parts (upper pier, PA assembly, and everything that attaches them together), and determine how they fit together and how much adjustment room there is. Take pictures and post them here, please!

 

Worst case scenario, if it can't be adjusted by enough, or at all, would be to lean the entire pier (or the part above the joint marked 24" in the drawing), to the north (by as much as 7.5° - yikes!). That may cause problems with stability and/or with the weight-operated drive.

[Dr Morbius]

I wouldn’t suggest tilting the pier, that could open up a big can of worms. I have a D&G 10 inch refractor and probably going with building a pier out of bricks. I’m sure your pier has all sorts of adjustments once you get it up and working. Can’t wait to see some pictures of it!