5 Weeks to First Light: Sea West Observatories Completes Private Observatory Installation in Vermont
Sea West Observatories recently achieved an impressive milestone: the design and build of a private observatory in Vermont in just five weeks.
This timeline—from breaking ground to first light on the telescope—showcases the efficiency and expertise that Sea West brings to custom observatory projects. With its design focused on astrophotography or visual observing uses, the Vermont installation is a stunning blend of function and beauty.
A Custom Observatory Experience
The client, a passionate observer and astrophotographer, wanted an observatory that was not only state-of-the-art but also capable of remote use. Sea West was contracted to lead this project, starting with a site feasibility study that included a detailed LIDAR scan to create an accurate site plan. The design team developed a minimalist yet elegant structure to match the serene surroundings of the client’s farm.
Speed Without Compromise
Despite the project’s complexity, Sea West completed the installation in just five weeks. From laying the foundation to first light, the timeline highlights the company’s capability to deliver high-quality, custom observatories on an accelerated schedule without sacrificing quality.
Cutting-Edge Technology
The observatory is powered by advanced instrumentation to push the boundaries of remote imaging. Sea West collaborated with top industry partners, including PlaneWave Instruments, Ash Manufacturing, and Observatory Automation Solutions. These partnerships ensured that every piece of the project was built with precision and care.
Key features include:
- Ash Manufacturing 14′-6″ Ash-Dome: A robust dome that allows for seamless sky observations.
- PlaneWave CDK600 Telescope: Known for its precision in both visual observing and astrophotography.
- Optec Perseus Instrument Selector: Enables smooth transitions between different camera setups and visual observations.
- Observatory Management System: Equipped with a weather station, all-sky camera, and power distribution units, the system automates the opening and closing of the dome based on weather conditions, ensuring safe and autonomous operations.
Ready to explore the cosmos from your own backyard?
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or new to the field, Sea West Observatories can design and build a custom observatory tailored to your needs—just as they did for this Vermont client.
