New dome expands Dearborn Observatory capabilities

17 Jun 2002

Northwestern University reports that the new dome on top ofDearborn Observatory brings considerable modernization to the toweroriginally dedicated in 1889. A biparting shutter provides a wideropening, and the aluminum surface will cool to ambient temperaturemore quickly at night so radiant heat won't distort the view. Thenew dome is also fully motor-driven and electronically controlledand the system can be programmed to compensate for the earth'srotation and track objects such as comets.