The Worlds Strongest Dome Tents Since 1976
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StarBubble Portable Telescope, Observatory, Astronomical and Planetarium Domes
Shelter Systems' lightweight, StarBubblestm portable telescope, observatroy, astronomical and planetarium domes are designed to protect astronomers and their telescopes from light, wind and dew. The StarBubbles are freestanding and can be turned or moved easily. They are constructed with our white/black, light-blocking covering. This woven, ripstop covering will exclude all light from the interior of the dome except for the opening for your telescope. We can make the white out, black in or black out, white in.
The StarBubble™ portable telescope, observatroy, astronomical and planetarium domes line was developed to provide maximum interior space with a minimum footprint. We have taken our standard StarDome™s and added an additional band of poles and covering to the bottom, which creates more height. The walls actually come in a little at the bottom, like a bubble, so the diameter at the ground is about a foot less than the widest part of the dome. This allows you to stand right up against the wall without your head bumpingit. We have also removed one pole at mid- door section so that you can walk in without bending. The StarBubble observatory and planetarium domes has one door.
Two window flaps with velcro closures are provided for your telescope. The window openings are not cut by us nor are the window flaps installed. This way you can put them where you need them. We provide you with the velcro that is backed with sticky tape and two 3' x 3'window coverings of the White/Black so you can place the windows where you want. You can also buy extra windows at $25 each.
Some users have found it convenient to be able to rotate or remove the dome quickly from its stakes. Once unhooked the dome can be rotated to one of 12 different positions and then re hooked to its stakes. Alternatively you can unhook your dome and then lift and or flip your dome to expose your scope. Eather of these should only be done if there is NO wind. This this done by attaching your dome to it's stakes with snap hooks that are securely tied to your stakes (these hooks, available at most hardware stores, are small brass or steel hooks with a fixture that is spring loaded that snaps the hook closed). Note: that once unhooked your dome is very easily grabbed and carried away by the smallest of winds.
Sturdy Design
The StarDome is made wholly of a White and Black, superstrong, woven ripstop film treated with ultraviolet inhibitors which protect against sun exposure. The covering is watertight and will not rot or mildew, it is not fire retarded. If you need it to be fire retarded order it of our white translusant covering.
The frames of the StarDomes portable telescope, observatroy and planetarium domes are constructed of strong, long-lasting PVC tubing. Patented Grip Clips tm join the Dome's cover to the frame. Grip Clips™ provide greater strength than sewn seams or any type of grommet, because they do not puncture the cover. Each panel of the domes is shingled over the next so that the domes breathe yet are completely leakproof!
A Shelter System
The Star Bubble™ comes complete with stakes, guy lines, vent tubes, spare parts and a Shelter Systems Instruction Manual that details floors, site selection, anchoring, and winterizing.
Setting up a Shelter Systems' Dome.
Accessories: To make your dome more comfortable. Floors, liners and more.
Sizes: A drawing comparing the sizes of 10'er, 14'er, 18'er, and 20'er.
StarCaveA tunnel-like observatory structure
All StarBubbles™ are Special Orders
StarBubble™ 10: Diameter 9' Height 8.5' Weight 34 lb. $780
StarBubble™14 (to the right): Diameter 13' Height 11' Weight 55 lb. $940
StarBubble™18: Diameter 15.5' Height 13' Weight 80 lb. $1120
StarBubble™20: Diameter 18.5' Height 15' Weight 95 lb. $1390
1 1/2-YEAR GUARANTEE. If for any reason you're not completely pleased with your purchase, return it in original, clean condition within 30 days of receipt for a full refund or exchange as you wish. All items in this catalog have a warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for 1 1/2 years. Should any product prove defective we will repair or replace it at no cost to you. Special Orders are not returnable. Read Snow and Wind Warnings.
Order online with our Secure Order Form!
Questions? Orders & Customer Service: Toll Free 866-777-1066 or 831-464-2002 eleanor@shelter-systems.com Technical: 650-323-6202 bob@shelter-systems.com. Copyright © Shelter Systems 1976 - 2008 All Rights Reserved