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Help Wanted Construction Drawings for Telescope Dome and Retaining Ring

DIY Observatory
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#1 justasecond

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Posted 15 January 2025 - 09:28 AM

Help Building Custom Dome 

 

I currently have an observatory in my attic.  Its great.   However, i'm about ready to reroof and thinking about building a more stately dome to replace the NexDome 2.2 meter dome.  The NexDome is ok but not the most robust design.  I have it tied down as it is attached only with gravity.   I want something more robust.  I cant find a suitable replacement under that looks good.  Most commercial products are too large.   Im stumped but still looking.  Any links or help finding a supplier or contractor is appreciated.

 

I have been searching for someone to help me with my attic observatory project.  About 4 years ago I put an observatory in my attic.  My home has a widows peak for a roof that is just under 10 ft square.  I installed a NexDome 2.2 meter dome and it has served me well but it has some limitations and cosmetically I think I can construct something more attractive for my home.  I would like to use copper and a raised seam so the dome would age with a beautiful patina and look great on an old home.   If I could find somewhat detailed drawings or at least a set of plans that I could take to an architect even if the size is off would be helpful.  

 

 

 

 

 



#2 EFT

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Posted 16 January 2025 - 02:30 AM

There are plenty of small domes available from other manufactures.  Some of them are better than the NexDome, but they are more expensive.  I've even seen one like you are talking about.  But making a dome by yourself or having someone produce one from scratch for you is just reinventing the wheel.  I don't know of anyone who sells complete engineering drawings that are off-the-shelf for this project.  But there are companies that will completely design one for you, but again, you would just be reinventing the wheel in most cases.




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