This is a 12 V 10 A DC power supply with built-in key switch and two toggle switches for the electric drive and electric shutter. Weather and Temperature Control Weather protection is assured by overlapping flanges and baffling, not seals that will wear out or deteriorate. Temperature control is provided by a brilliant white exterior gel coat that normally keeps inside temperature within a few degrees of the shade temperature, so no cool-down period is required before your observing session begins. A dark blue interior helps preserve dark adaptation. The advantage of a dome over the roll-off roof observatory is that the dome acts as a wind breaker for the telescope.
Wind gusts can move the telescope slightly resulting in poor CCD images.
Assembly All domes use bolt-together construction. Assembly requires alignment of parts, measuring and drilling bolt holes, and use of common hand and power tools. Larger holes, for rollers and latches, are cut and finished at the factory. Typically, domes are assembled in place by two or three persons, without cranes or special equipment. Shutters Every PRO-DOME has a wide slot opening, extending past zenith.