Blog

Today we sealed the upper shutter track with putty, and installed the lower shutter hydraulics, dome control electronics, upper shutter, and upper shutter drive motor and transmission. All that remains to finish is to install the lower shutter and then temporarily wire up the power to test the shutters and azimuthal drive motors. We planned to finish the dome today, but the local crew was eager to get working on the other domes, so we needed to get them started and help out on a couple tasks. The domes at Sites #1 and #3 are now assembled to the point we reached on our first day here, so dela...

We spent most of the day adding braces to the various parts of the dome. We also installed the slip rings to provide power to the motors on the dome while it rotates. We expect to finish the dome assembly by the end of the day tomorrow. Installation of the second "pipe brace," which strengthens the dome and helps keep it round.   Installation of the third pipe brace.   All of the pipe braces installed.   Installation of shutter track braces.   Slip rings installed inside dome skirt.   Top shutter seal (the black foam thing along the top of the shut...

Today we assembled the main structural components of the dome at Site #2. First we installed the dome leaves, which are the curved metal sheets that give the dome it's shape. We then installed the upper shutter tracks, which provide significant strength to the structure. We finished up by installing the pieces that hold the top shutter drive, as well as provide additional structural support.   First dome leaf being installed (view from atop scaffolding).   First five dome leaves installed.   Left half of dome roof completed.   Dome roof completed.   D...

This morning we began assembly of the dome at Site #2. The first step was to assemble the base plate on top of the structure and mark out the mounting holes. We then reassembled the base plate on a platform next to the enclosure. After getting it level, we installed the dome azimuth track. The main structure of the dome sits on this track so it can rotate. We then installed a skirt on top of the track, and raised the scaffolding required for finishing the assembly.   Crane lifting the base plate pieces to the top of the enclosure.   Base plate under assembly on top of ring beam...