While the classic observatory design consisting of a dome-shaped housing for the telescope is still very common, not all observatories follow that model. Of course, they are all created with some form of open roof design in order to observe the sky! Below, you will learn how Rollamatic was called to design and manufacture a custom retractable roof for the University of Maine’s Clark Telescope Observatory.
The Backstory
Originally installed in 1901, the Clark Telescope Observatory at the University of Maine was moved beside the Memorial Union in 1933. As the campus grew around that area, light pollution made it harder for astronomers and students to reap the full benefits of the observatory’s 8-inch Alvan Clark refractor telescope. In order to address this issue, the university identified a new site behind the Versant Power Astronomy Center (formerly Emera Astronomy Center), where there is less artificial light.
Built in 2017, the new Clark Telescope Observatory facility was designed to have a flat, “roll-off” roof that exposes the telescope to the entire sky. This offers the advantages of more easily observing where the telescope is pointed and finding constellations, planets, and deep sky objects. Rollamatic got to play a vital part in this historic observatory’s latest chapter. Here is how we helped.
The Challenge
In its prior location, the observatory was an effective space to view the night skies for many decades, up until the dome roof above it began to age and leak. Also, the campus had grown up around it, introducing problematic light pollution. Therefore, the university needed to relocate the historic Clark telescope to A) avoid damage to the expensive technical equipment, and B) reclaim its benefits.
The Solution
The University decided to build a new home for the telescope in another part of campus. Given its intended use of observational astronomy, department leaders felt that a roll-off roof, exposing the telescope to the entire sky, would be the best configuration. Shawn Laatsch, the Director at Versant Power Astronomy Center, and the new building’s architect researched solutions and engaged with Rollamatic: “We liked that the company stood behind its work with a warranty and an ability to service the retractable roof system if needed,” explained Laatsch.
Result
Rollamatic worked with the architect and contractor to design and manufacture a flat, single-section roll-off roof system that would fit the building plan. This resulted in a brand new, gorgeous observatory so students and patrons could enjoy the night skies again, entirely unobstructed. “The operable roof has been very reliable. Even through snowy winters and recent bouts with freezing rain, it has worked flawlessly,” shared Laatsch.
Rollamatic is proud to have contributed to the rich history of the University of Maine’s Clark Telescope Observatory. The reliable, retractable, roll-off roof is put to work frequently in support of research and education.
We Can Help
We love stories like these, and we appreciate playing a part in improving spaces for communities and institutions. Since our company was founded over 60 years ago, we have designed and manufactured over 2,400 retractable roofs that are in use around the world.
We do just one thing: design and build retractable roof systems. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation about your retractable roof project.