Dome Seals Feasibility Study in Fort Davis, Texas

Mr. Garrison conducted a comprehensive feasibility study focused on the dome and shutter seals of the Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET) geodesic dome at the McDonald Observatory campus in Fort Davis, Texas. The project aimed to address the persistent issues of water and dust infiltration impacting the functionality of the telescope equipment.

The HET dome, erected in 1996 by Temcor, Inc., shelters a 30-foot aperture telescope with a 36-foot mirror within an 85-foot diameter geodesic structure. A crucial component is the retractable shutter, designed to protect the telescope’s aperture during non-operational periods. Despite many preventative measures, water and dust penetrated the shutter adversely affecting telescope mirrors and causing downtime for cleaning and repairs.

His scope involved a feasibility study to identify improvements to the dome shutter weather seals. The project addressed potential repairs or replacements to minimize water and dust infiltration. Leveraging insights from previous independent investigations, we meticulously examined options provided by Project Management and Construction Services (PMCS) and HET. He was able to provide an overview of our visual observations, mockup and testing results, conclusions, and recommendations, providing a comprehensive strategy to alleviate the ongoing challenges related to water and dust infiltration for the HET geodesic dome and shutter seals.