PrimaLuceLab OUTPOST 3M – Motorized dome with full-opening capability

PrimaLuceLab OUTPOST 3M – Motorized dome with full-opening capability

OUTPOST 3M is a fully-opening computer-controlled dome designed for astronomical observatories and space surveillance facilities. Its four panels provide a clear view of the entire sky, without requiring the dome aperture to be synchronized with the telescope’s orientation. This design is particularly well-suited for satellite tracking, wide-field surveys, and automated programs.

The 3M designation corresponds to the dome’s class, but the stated maximum external dimensions are 326 cm in diameter and 325 cm in height. It weighs 950 kg. The two electric motors ensure the coordinated movement of the four panels; the manufacturer states that it takes 30 seconds to fully open or close the dome. These dimensions should be used to plan the installation rather than assuming that the name “3M” corresponds to an exact footprint of 300 cm.

The structure is a multilayer fiberglass-reinforced composite, combined with anodized aluminum components and stainless steel hardware. The exterior finish uses a two-component paint, while the interior coating minimizes reflections. The geometry of the shutter joints is designed to protect their closing edges from the elements.

The control electronics feature a standalone safety logic system that is independent of external software. They are housed in an IP66-certified enclosure; this rating applies to the enclosure itself and does not certify the entire dome as submersible. Manual emergency controls are provided. The safety shut-off can be triggered by a loss of network communication. In the event of a power outage, this function depends on an optional compatible inverter; for rain or wind, it requires the corresponding optional sensors.

A dedicated ASCOM driver enables control via software compatible with ASCOM domes, over USB or Ethernet. Native integration with EAGLE and PLAY fits into the manufacturer’s Observatory Stations environment. Control is also supported from a Windows 10 or 11 PC. The standard power supply is single-phase 230 V AC ±10 %; a 110 V AC version is available upon request.

The built-in equipment compartment measures 88 × 78 × 68 cm on the outside and can accommodate a 19-inch rack up to 12U. It is used to house networking, power distribution, and control equipment. This capacity does not mean that a fully equipped rack, a UPS, or a complete network are included. The door is listed as 88 × 78 cm.

The dome is preassembled and tested in two halves, which are to be joined on site. It does not have an internal floor. A concrete foundation, sized according to the installation specifications, must be prepared, and then the two halves must be secured and connected. The project must therefore incorporate the foundation, clearance for the shutters, the telescope’s geometry, and the selected safety equipment, rather than treating the enclosure alone as a fully operational observatory.

Technical specifications

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The price covers only the equipment; neither installation labor nor any components essential to the dome’s installation are included in the price. Contact us for full details!