Abstract: The invention is a system for controlling the operation of a dome in connection with a telescope in order to maintain the slot of the dome in alignment with the telescope at all times so that stars may be viewed continuously. The system eliminates of minimizes the need for the user having to manually control the operation, usually rotation, of the dome. Preferably four infrared sensors and transmitters are mounted along the circumference of the telescope in order to send signals to a controller when the edge of the dome is detected which occurs when the signal is reflected back to the sensor. Each of the sensors should be 90.degree. in relation to each other. Each of the sensors is in connection with a controller. The controller is in connection with the movement system of the dome and sends signals to the movement system that rotate the dome until the sensors determine that the dome slot is aligned with the telescope.

Abstract: A prefabricated observatory dome structure comprising a base portion constructed from connectable arcuate panels, a rotatable dome constructed from connectable panels and a vertically slidable shutter. The flange design of the base portion provides a water-tight non-caulked wall. A semi-door permits easy access to the observatory structure. The shutter has three sections that slide together using a latching system to slide back to expose more that half of the opening to permit observation at the zenith of the unit.