Linden Observatory - November 2008 (Part 1)

A group from Chapter 72 travelled by bus to Linden, to visit the Linden Observatory. About 30 members were present for the tour, which was handled by Ian Bridges. The observatory features a 600mm (24") reflective design. The telescope, observatory and workshops were all built by Ken Beames. Ken gave a good account of the many accomplishments of Ken, who was clearly a very talented machinist.

When completed in 1946, Linden Observatory was one of the largest telescopes in Australia. This is the first part of a two part gallery. The second section shows some of the tools and accessories used to build the telescope and its control systems.

The Linden observatory building. This was built by Ken Beames, as was all internal equipment.	The tour enabled the members to see through the observatory and workshops.	Not sure what interests Doug so, but it certainly has his full attention.	Ian Bridges provided expert information to all present.	Ian Bridges, is one of the trustees of Linden Observatory, and made everyone very welcome.
Ken Beames inscribed the latitude, longitude and elevation on the wall.	Ken's first telescope, which was featured on the front page of the Sydney Morning Herald in 1934.	This appears to be the support for the telescope, allowing it to be moved in any direction.	Alternate view of the complete telescope.	Another view of the support mechanism.
Ken started to build a large planetarium, but it was never completed.	Another view of the planetarium.	The main telescope was completed in 1946, and was the largest amateur 'scope in the Southern hemisphere.	Ken Beames not only built the telescope, but even ground his own mirrors.	The observatory cover opens, and can be rotated by a full 360°.
The 'scope is very heavy, so needs a massive counterweight to make it easier to move.	The mechanism that moves the 'scope is clearly visible, and it is provided with electric and manual controls.	Another view, showing the size and complexity of the support and rotation systems.	The eyepiece is just as impressive as the rest of the telescope. You can see the smaller "spotting" 'scope mounted above the main telescope.	The roof opening needs to be able to accommodate any tilt angle expected of the telescope.
The entire dome is rotated using electric motors, as is the opening. This can all be synchronised to the observatory clock.	Part of the clock, which is made from solid brass throughout.	A close-up of the escapement. The entire clock is a very robust affair.	Although exact details of the movement are not available, it's obviously very solid and beautifully built.	Another view of the movement.
The master clock, based on the general principle of the Synchronome clock.	While not a Synchronome by name, it has all the features of the original.	The electrics power the observatory, optionally controlled by the clock(s) shown previously.