Observatory #1
10x10 Rolloff Roof |
Clay built a new Declination
shaft extension for the counterweights, so we have more room for
putting the encoders on that axis. We also need 35 less lbs for
this scope now, due to the lengthening of the shaft. This shaft
is made out of stainless steel, which is a great improvement over
the old barbell shaft that used to be on there. We have also installed
the encoders on the scope, and are building the Mel Bartels Drive
system for this scope.
Update:
February, 1999:
We have the power supply and the control board wired up. Just
need to put the boards in a box and hook up the hand paddle
wiring. Then we can try the smoke test.
Much thanks goes to Clay
Kessler, Jack Kennedy, and Rick Kovari, for all the work they
have done on this project.
Update: June,
1999:
Darron has joined the group and has performed the first smoke
test of the controller. The fuse kept it from smoking too much.
He is still working on it.
Update: October,
1999:
I've pulled the 12.5" out of Building #1, along with its mount,
until we get the GE mount automated. In its place I've put the
10" lx200.
|
Observatory #2
10 ft diameter dome |
We have built the computer desk that
surrounds the pier in the dome, so now we can get all the electronics
off the floor. We had a 10" f/6.3 lx200 in good working order,
for the 98/99 winter, with the ST5 CCD camera hooked to it. Most
imaging has been done at f/4 with this scope.
Much thanks goes to Rick Kovari for
his tremendous help in putting the desk together, and Clay Kessler
for his planning and carpentry prowess.
The next phase will be to upgrade the
dome itself. It needs some work.
Update: May,
1999:
Jack's 10" lx200 is on the road, so I purchased a 10" f/10 lx200
at the Texas Star Party, along with selling the 20". So the
dome now has a permanent scope.
Update: October,
1999:
The Obs. #2 Dome has become very difficult to move. The upper
ring of the lower wall is in much need of repair. This building
will be shut down until someone wants to use it. Then we will
discuss refurbishing it at that time.
|
Phase
of the Moon
