Observatory Dome Rotation

I discuss various problems I had getting my homemade observatory dome rotating properly, and what I did to try to fix those problems. I go over flexibility of the dome, noise considerations, castor type and size, and rail or guide solutions.

[@Thurgosh_OG]

For a self build this is looking really good. I'm subscribing to watch your progress but there's no pressure to get it done quickly. Do what you can when you can. Clear Skies.

[@danml550]

We sure would like to see an update video!

[@DamienBoath]

Interesting build! Have you investigated how you'll automate it/track? Or will this be a manual dome you need to move every so often?

[@Anvilcjl]

It’s pretty low tech. If I wanted to automate it I’d provably have to replace all the wheels with a steel track. This summer I’m working on making a slide for the top cover so I can slide it to the back i stead of muscling it down. Safer that way. I also have to work on a lip to replace the waterproof fabric o currently have at the bottom to fill the gaps.

[@tholejunachanel9420]

salut banget untuk observatoriumnya!!🖒🖒🖒

[@roddwestwood5643]

What are you going to cover the dome with?

[@Anvilcjl]

I'm thinking something lightweight. Maybe Luan over the top and then canvas over that and the rest, or maybe even paper mache. I read that the dome at West Point was done with paper, and a few others as well, to reduce weight compared to copper, and it would be very cheap. Then the top layer would be a waterproof paint.

[@qsource262]

What size of wheels are those?

[@Anvilcjl]

4" fixed (non swivel), $29 on Amazon for 4. I recommend them; they're very sturdy, they don't skew easily, silent and rugged. 300lb load capacity each wheel. search for: 4 Pack 4" Castor Wheels on Red Polyurethane, non swivel.

[@astronomyjustforfun4595]

@@Anvilcjl Also I mounted my wheels upside down.

[@astronomyjustforfun4595]

@@Anvilcjl I found an 8 pack for 39.99 they look the same as yours. I had the same problems you had. Bought swivel castors first.

[@astronomyjustforfun4595]

@@Anvilcjl My dome is pretty stiff to turn with the small 2 inch wheels. I am trying to decide if I can deal with it or put the bigger wheels on.

[@jonhicks2401]

How about inverting the casters And bolting the to the ledge and let the dome ride on them

[@bustinnutsinslutsbutts]

hows it coming?

[@Anvilcjl]

It's been on hold for a while because it's winter. I made 2 covers for the opening in the fall and covered everything with plastic for now. I think the plan is to do the main part of the dome with chicken wire, paper mache and waterproof paint. I will try that on the covers first and see if it works before I do the entire dome. I can't do the mache when it's too cold because the glue needs to be at a better temperature. Apparently some major domes have been done with paper in the past to save on weight, so it's not as crazy as it might sound.