Rating | Photo | Product | More Info |
 | SkyShed POD XL5 | ||
 | RoboDome | ||
 | ScopeDome-V3 | ||
 | SkyShed POD XL3 | ||
 | Omegon Tent observatory | ||
 | Observatory Shed - only United Kingdom | ||
 | Stargazing tent - transparent buble tent | ||
 | Tent observatory |
Over the past few years, most astronomers have added more and more technology to their backyard telescopes. With additional technology, telescopes have now become powerful scientific instruments. However, even with all the extra innovative technology, only a few people use these instruments.
This is because it takes a lot of time to assemble and tear down all the equipment after use. Moreover, life has become more hectic, and most people in the astronomical community seem to observe less than they did in the past. Most astronomic equipment sits unused in the garage or a corner of a room.
Having all this fantastic technology and a lot of investments in the telescopic equipment sit unutilized can be very unpleasing. Fortunately, there is a perfect solution to this problem.
Backyard home observatory definition
What’s required is a home observatory ( place or space or cottage) designed to let you view the sky in the backyard, field, or even at the rooftop of your garage. It’s a permanent and mobile solution to house and operate your telescopic equipment whenever you want.
Here are the top 4 best home observatories that offer unmatched protection for you and your telescope while observing and imaging.
Technical Innovations Robodome Robotic Observatory TTRD1M
If you are looking for an excellent dome that can help you do your remote astronomy at an affordable price, then this unit is for you. Technical Innovations Robodome Robotic is an outright robotic observatory designed to let you use your telescope anytime you want from the comfort of your computer.
It measures 50″ tall and is designed to shelter your telescope for remote observing. This dome can accommodate telescopes as large as a Meade 10″ LX200. The package features a fiberglass dome with an excellent base and one shutter, all hardware and motors needed for rotation and shutter movement.
Remote Work
Technical Innovations Robodome Robotic features Digital Dome Works (DDW) Hardware and software for (remote) control. The software is open-source to let you make any modifications to fit your own needs. For instance; You may want to link to the DDW control program through a software interface from your Linux or Mac operating system. By using the DDW, you will just have to set up your telescope once, and DDW will park its position. You won’t have to do the complex start-up procedures every day.
The dome is shipped while fully assembled and is well-designed to allow you to control it with your computer on a network or internet site. It comes ready for your GOTO mount and telescope and is prepared for CCD or video imaging.
Battery Included
What you will love most about the dome is that it’s surprisingly affordable. You don’t have to break a bank to purchase this observatory. The battery included in this observatory will be a lifesaver during unforeseen power outages.
While it’s built for the professional with a pleasing oval shape, the Technical Innovations Robodome is priced for the amateur. This unit is one of the best domes that can allow you to watch birds, wild game, surveil the coastline, and shelter non-water-proof video equipment. It’s motorized for full 360 rotation.
When it comes to aesthetics, TTRD1M looks terrific as it comes with a dark blue interior color and a white exterior color.
Specs of RoboDome Robotics TTRD1M
| Dimensions: | 25” x 40” x 50” |
| Construction Material | Fiberglass |
| Diameter | 40” x 50” |
| Dome Shutter Design | Two-Piece Nesting Shutter |
| Dome/Roof Movement: | Electronic |
| Exterior Surface Treatment | White |
| Freight: | Yes |
| Height of Riser or Wall | 25″ |
| Height of Shutter Opening | 5″ past zenith |
| Max Interior Height | 4″ 2″ |
| Number of Shutter Rollers: | 6 |
| Number of Shutters: | 1 |
| Observatory Shape | Oval |
| Required Closing Force | Electric |
| Required Opening Force | Electric |
| Required Turning Force | Electric |
| Riser Ring or Wall Included | Yes |
| Roller Diameter | 2″ |
| Roof Type | Hemispherical Dome |
| Shutter Operation Method | Electronic |
| Warranty | One-Year Limited Warranty |
| Width of Shutter Opening | 24″ |
| Weight | 105 pounds |
Installation of TTRD1M
You can easily install it by bolting the base to a space of about 14 square feet or on any flat roof accessible for installation, including an office building, home, or garage.
If you have access to a concrete pad, raised deck, or a tower, you can also install it there.
For mobile use, you can put the dome on a travel, cargo, or equipment trailer.
If you need to make any adjustments to your telescope after installation, you can always reach inside.
When you need full access, you can simply remove the dome from the base in a few minutes.
Nonetheless, you should carefully read through the instructions and view any pictures provided before you begin the construction.
Price
The Technical Innovations Robodome Robotic costs $5,955. The package includes the dome and shutter, base, motors and hardware for shutter and rotation, and DDW hardware and software.
Buying Advice
When buying the Technical Innovations Robodome Robotic, you will want to keep in mind that this dome is great when the scope setups are not changed frequently.
If you do lots of equipment changes, then the dome is probably not your best option.
Furthermore, there are additional charges for packing and freight, which will depend on the destination. You will also need to purchase a computer if you don’t own one already.
The Technical Innovations Robodome Robotic is shipped directly from manufacturers who offer a one-year limited warranty against defects and failure.
History of Technical Innovations
Founded in 1991, Technical Innovations has provided amateur astronomers and schools with an affordable, permanent observatory.
They focus on helping astronomers and observers optimize their ability to view and record objects and events in the universe.
Since its establishment, Technical Innovations has produced over 1,200 high-quality, affordable fiberglass domes.
With the ever-evolving technology, Technical Innovations has advanced their products and has significantly developed in the line of observatory automation equipment.
Customer support is their number one priority, and they make every effort to answer all customers’ calls to resolve any question, concern, or problem.
Pros of Robodome Robotic Observatory
· Allows several users to use a single instrument
· Helps you to observe without being exposed to the wind and cold
· High tech equipment
· Secure against leaks
· Excellent teaching tool for robotics and astronomy
· Ideal physically disabled observers
· Suitable for beginners and experts
· Requires little or no maintenance
Cons
· Additional costs for purchasing computer and cables
· The operation may appear slow as the graphics are transmitted from the dome to the user.
ScopeDome V3, 3m Diameter Observatory Dome
The ScopeDome V3, 3m Diameter observatory, is among the latest and modern innovations made by the ScopeDome Solutions Company.
This ScopeDome version has a large internal space enough for your equipment and allows you to move inside freely when observing and imaging.
If you want to mount your telescope permanently in its own strong and quality dome, then the 3m version dome is here for you.
It’s made of polyester laminate that will guarantee you maximum protection from environmental conditions.
The dome’s inside is made of supporting materials to increase the dome’s longevity and stability. The joints are designed to ensure no water finds its way into the dome.
The dome rotates freely without any problems, thanks to the rollable base resting on 16 plastic rollers.
You will be thrilled by its simple but great design that makes assembly and transportation easy even to tall buildings.
It has a wide observing slot of 1m, which will enable you to have unobstructed views even with larger telescopes. The design of this observing slot allows an unobstructed view up to the zenith with a telescope.
The dome’s outside is made of a beautiful finish that is not only appealing to the eyes but also reflects away a lot of heat and light, keeping the dome at the right temperatures.
Installation
This dome is easy to install due to its simple design. Moreover, it’s assembled and tested in the industry before being dismantled and packed for transportation.
An installation guide is included in the package to refer to if you run into problems during the installation.
The manufacturers also can offer assembly services, providing you with a dome that is ready for use.
Depending on your locality, you may need to obtain a permit from the administration before installing the dome.
Price
The ScopeDome 3M v3 observatory costs at least € 6,400 with taxes included. Other optional accessories like the dome shutter motor, Arduino Card, cloud/rain sensor are essential but come at an extra cost.
Buying Advice
Before buying this dome, it is important to take note of the recommended accessories and your budget. A good example is the ScopeDome Entrance door and the ScopeDome Motor Drive for rotating v3 and 3m diameter observatory dome. These accessories are not included in the buying price indicated above but are important.
History of ScopeDome
ScopeDome Company was founded in 2008. Today, it’s among the best manufacturers of fully automated astronomical domes in the world. Their domes are used by both individuals and research institutions.
Specs:
- Dimensions: 3000 mm X 2400 mm X 2760 mm
- Construction Material: Glass Polyester
- Diameter: 3000 mm
- Dome Shutter Design: Two-Piece Nesting Shutter
- Exterior Surface Treatment: White
- Freight: Yes
- Height of Shutter Opening: 1500 mm
- Max Interior Height: 2400 mm
- Number of Shutters: 1
- Observatory Shape: Spherical
- Roof Type: Hemispherical dome
- Shutter Operation Method: Automated
- Warranty: One-year Limited Warranty
- Width of Shutter Opening: 1000 mm
- Weight: 440.925 pounds
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Large internal space
- Protection against environmental factors
- Wider View from the Zenith
- Excellent design
Cons
- Expensive
SkyShed POD XL3
The SkyShed POD XL3 is a high-quality home observatory solution that comes at a low cost. With its innovative design, this dome is built as a perfect alternative to expensive observatory solutions.
In terms of longevity, the SkyShed POD XL3 can last for decades. It delivers secure, waterproof, and windproof protection for you and your telescope while observing or imaging.
The SkyShed POD XL3 combines the features of traditional fitted observatory domes and roll-off shed observatories without any constriction and construction time.
This makes it an ideal observatory for amateur astronomers who want to spend time observing with less fuss and complication.
Six wall sections and four dome sections case together, taking up less shipping space and weight than regular domes.
The SkyShed POD XL3 is very portable that you can even carry it when going to a stargazing party.
It offers a 180-degree wide-angle view of the sky for unmatched visual enjoyment, allowing you to see objects in their scenery and chat with fellow observers over the other side.
Another fantastic thing about SkyShed POD XL3 is that it doesn’t need to be rotated continuously as your telescope tracks the sky.
Installation
The SkyShed POD XL3 is one of the most fully-featured and easy to set up domes you can find in the market.
First time assembly will take less than two hours as you only have to bolt the rain seals and wheel tracks in place. And once you bolt them in place, subsequent setups will be a breeze.
Everything you need for the installation is included in the kit, except for bolts or augers to mount the POD to the ground.
You can easily install the POD with normal tools using the step-by-step-DVD guide provided in the package.
Price
The SkyShed POD XL3 costs $ 3,195. The package includes a POD dome, 3 POD wall panels, one door, assembly hardware, and an assembly DVD.
Buying Advice
When buying the SkyShed POD XL3, you will have a wide range of colors, insulation, and lining options to choose from.
You may want to add extra POD Bays or wall panels, like the Ecomate Insulated wall panels, to your original POD shipment as it will be cheaper than shipping them separately.
These wall panels are hardened to add incredible strength to the already strong wall panels. They provide insulation that keeps the interior cooler when it’s extremely hot outside and keeps the dome warm during winter.
However, you cannot choose the discovery white as your wall color if you plan to add wall insulation.
History of SkyShed Observatories
SkyShed Observatories has been creating observatories and winning hearts around the globe since 2003. They have supplied SkyShed POD domes in over 30 countries across the globe.
SkyShed Observatories is dedicated to ensuring customer satisfaction and helping astronomers observe and image while their instruments are safe.
Specs
- Dimensions: 338cm x 295cm x 243cm
- Construction Material: Polyethylene
- Diameter: 338cm x 295cm
- Dome Shutter Design: Two-Piece Nesting Shutter
- Dome/Roof Movement: Manual
- Freight: Yes
- Height of Shutter Opening: 22″
- Max Interior Height: 89″
- Number of Shutters: 1
- Observatory Shape: Oval
- Riser Ring or Wall Included: Yes
- Roller Diameter: 2″
- Roof Type: Hemispherical Dome
- Warranty: One Year Limited Warranty
- Width of Shutter Opening: 44″
- Weight: 430 pounds
Pros
- · Easy to assemble and dissemble
- · Extremely durable
- · Excellent customer support
- · Lightweight dome
- · Advanced locks for extra security
- · Provides a 180-degree wide-angle view
- · Allows full 360 rotation
- · High-quality materials
- · Reasonably priced
Cons
· The sealing near the hinges can leak sometimes
SkyShed POD XL5
If you are looking for an observatory that combines top-notch performance and ease of use, then this POD is for you.
The SkyShed POD XL5 is a well-made POD designed to keep you and your telescope safe when observing and imaging.
It uses the finest American made, highly UV resistant Polyethylene that makes it super strong.
This dome allows full 360-degree to let you view and track objects in any direction. You don’t have to paint the POD as frequently as it will retain its color for decades.
The air transfer located right below the dome ensures excellent ventilation while still offering maximum weather protection.
SkyShed POD XL5 can accommodate about two or three adults, and they can comfortably use a tripod-mounted telescope.
Installation
It’s very easy to install the SkyShed POD XL5 on the ground, on a deck, or on any flat surface.
All the hardware you need for installation is provided in the kit to ensure that the assembly process is effortless.
When installing this POD, ensure to start with a reasonably level base for more stability.
You will also want to renew the sealing along with the domes segments, especially around the hinges, every 12 months to avoid leaks.
Price
The SkyShed POD XL5 costs $3,395, and it offers great value for the money. The package includes the POD dome, 5 POD bays, one door, assembly hardware, and assembly USB.
Buying Advice
If you want to shield out intrusive light, such as from a neighbor’s security light, you will want to purchase a POD visor. The POD visor fits inside the dome, and you can open or close it in a few seconds.
The visor is also a perfect accessory for shielding out the wind.
If you already own an observatory, you can still purchase the SkyShed POD XL5 to move around or go to your favorite star party. It makes a great addition.
Specs
- Dimensions: 116” X 133” X 89.6”
- Construction material: Polyethylene
- Diameter: 116″ X 133″
- Dome Shutter Design: Two-piece nesting shutter
- Dome/Roof Movement: Manual
- Exterior Surface Treatment: White
- Freight: Yes
- Height of Shutter Opening: 22″
- Max Interior Height: 89″
- Number of Shutters: 1
- Observatory Shape: Oval
- Riser Ring or Wall Included: Yes
- Roller Diameter: 2″
- Roof Type: Hemispherical dome
- Warranty: One-year Limited Warranty
- Width of Shutter Opening: 44″
- Weight: 480.6 pounds
Pros
- · Affordable
- · Durable
- · Built with quality materials
- · Withstands strong winds
- · Lightweight
- · 360-degree rotation
Cons
· You need to renew the sealing along the dome segments to avoid leaks.
Omegon Tent observatory
If you’re looking for a cheap observatory, look no further. Whether you want to travel or simply enjoy stargazing from your backyard, The Omegon Tent observatory is perfect for anybody who wants to enjoy the night sky in comfort.
Made of lightweight and durable materials, it takes only 10 minutes to set up and offers enough space for 3-4 persons. Weighing only 4.5kg, it is easy to carry around and transport.
Specs:
- This tent is perfect for a family of 4 or 2 who wants to camp together.
- Comes in green color and includes a carrying bag for easy transport.
- Made of high-quality materials with an aperture width of 78.74 inches (200 cm), you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about bugs and other insects invading your space.
- The total weight is only 4.5 kg, so you can take it anywhere!
Buying Advice
YES. If you’re looking for a cheap and light observatory, look no further.
AstroTent Perfect for Telescope Gatherings
The AstroTent Mobile Observatory is excellent for telescope gatherings, a pop-up tent that gives your telescope and accessories quick and easy protection.
It has a surface area of over five square meters and is divided into two rooms, one for your telescope and the other for your equipment.
The tent has side walls that are 1.52 meters high and windscreens that are 72 inches (1.83 meters) high.
The doors are generously sized at 40.15 x 36.22 inches (102 by 92 centimeters) and can be rolled down. The tent can be folded into a small package 27.55 inches (70 cm) in diameter and 27.55 inches (10 cm) in width. This makes it easy to move in a small car or even on a plane for longer trips.
The AstroTent is made of waterproof, layered polyamide and blocks UV rays very well all day.
The additional weather cover protects your equipment from dew, sun, and surprise rain showers when not in use. Cords and tent pegs are included to secure the tent, and the structure also has retaining tabs for heavy-duty straps, which can be bought in local farmers’ markets.
Product Details
- Internal dimensions: 59.9 x 119.68 inches (152 x 304 cm)
- Sidewall height: 59.84 inches (152 cm)
- Windscreen height: 72 inches (183 cm)
- Doors: 40.15 x 36.22 inches (102 x 92 cm)
- Additional weatherproof cover
- Transport dimensions and weight: Diameter 27.55 inches (70 cm), height 27.55 inches (10 cm), 3 kg
FAQ
Q: How long does it take to set up the AstroTent?
A: The AstroTent can be set up within a few minutes. Release the holding strap, and the whole tent unfolds from its packaging. Then, connect the two observatory rooms with the adhesive strap seam and fix it to the ground.
Q: Is the AstroTent suitable for use during periods of good weather?
A: The AstroTent is perfect for leaving your telescope and accessories in your garden for a few nights during good weather.
Q: Is the AstroTent travel-friendly?
A: The AstroTent can be folded into a parcel measuring 27.5 inches (70cm) in diameter and 3.9 inches (10cm) in width, making it easy to transport in a small car or even on a plane for longer expeditions.
Conclusion
The AstroTent Mobile Observatory and Telescope Protection is a great way to keep your telescope and accessories safe when you’re at a telescope gathering or when the weather is nice. Modern materials and a sturdy pop-up design make it a good choice for amateur astronomers and people who like to spend time outdoors.
