Our Process

Get us involved at the very beginning of your project to coordinate delivery schedules with your target date.

Working with Observatory Solutions

Our process can be broken down into phases: Pre-Design, Design Development, Product Ordering, Site Preparation, Installation & Testing, Training.

Because observatories and telescopes are generally built-to-order, the workflow process ranges from several months up to a year. That is why it is important to get us involved at the very beginning of your project so we can do our best to make sure delivery schedules align with your target date.

PHASE 1: PRE-DESIGN

We begin your project by understanding your needs and goals, intended location, timeline and budget. Most of the information gathering can be conducted through phone calls and emails, but this is also when an initial physical site visit may be conducted to examine conditions that could impact the success of your project.

Rendering of roll-off roof & observatory dome in Ohio

PHASE 2: DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

In this phase, we will recommend several observatory configurations for you to consider. Then we develop a digital 3D model of how your observatory will look and function when finished. It is a comprehensive view of the observatory structure, inside and out. 

We will prepare a detailed cost estimate for your project. The cost of your observatory will depend on the structure design, the astronomical equipment and options, and the complexity of the final build and integration. It does not include the cost of your land or site preparation.

The total cost of your observatory may also vary depending on your geographical location, site conditions and additional services, such as consulting on photovoltaic panels and solar systems.

PHASE 3: PRODUCT ORDERING

As an authorized dealer for premium astronomy brands, we pass on the same retail costs that you see listed on the manufacturer websites. You also receive the manufacturer’s warranty

Due to strong working relationships with manufacturers and vendors, we can more easily stay on top of product questions or issues that may arise.

PHASE 4: SITE PREPARATION

Site preparation is the work needed to get your property ready for the observatory. It is completed by your local contractor and typically includes pouring a foundation and running utilities to the site.

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PHASE 5: INSTALLATION & TESTING

Finishing the assembly and installation of your observatory is a complex job. We will be onsite to supervise your local construction crew in the assembly and installation of the observatory and telescope system.

We install all of the electrical components needed to automatically open and operate the observatory. Before turning the observatory over to you, we perform a final system’s test and a final polar alignment.

We can also provide personalized training on the operation and maintenance of your observatory – including astrophotography and remote viewing.

Ready to get the process started?