Dome and Roll-Off Roof Observatories by Durango Skies Observatory Solutions

Double Star Observatory

The Double Star Observatory

To learn more about an operational observatory, call to arrange a site visit at the Double Star Observatory. You may also browse the Observatory Construction page for information and pictures.


Location: Double Star Observatory, Hesperus, CO
Details: Designed by Durango Skies, this is a split roof roll-off observatory with a 18' x 14' observing area and a 8' x 14' warm room. The observing area holds four (4) permanently mounted telescopes. Power for telescopes and lighting is provided by a 12v DC battery system. Independently switched interior and exterior lights provide illumination for guests and for quickly shutting down the observatory after an evening of observing. There is also a 30' x 20' observing area for viewing with the 18" dob.

Observatory Complete

Painting is almost complete. Gravel has been placed around the observatory and the stone walkway is being installed.

First Snow

Over a foot of snow fell shortly after painting was completed and the telescopes were installed.

Birds Eye View

Three of the four telescopes are installed along with the whiteboard for listing the observing events.

Another Birds Eye View

Bookshelves have been installed. Rubber rings at the base of each telescope prevent drafts and animals from entering the observatory. The closed loop pulley system, for opening the roof, can be seen in the upper right.

A View From Inside

Two of the telescope piers are concrete and the other two are Durango Skies steel piers.

Expanding Observatory

The parking lot for observing guests is in place. Behind the observatory is the dob viewing area.

Dob Viewing Area

Looking across the dob viewing area to the main observatory.

Observatory Lighting

Exterior lighting helps guests safley enter and exit the observatory.

Observatory Lighting

Interior lighting makes it easier to shutdown the observatory at night.

  • Observatory Complete
  • First Snow
  • Birds Eye View
  • Another Birds Eye View
  • A View From Inside
  • Expanding Observatory
  • Dob Viewing Area
  • Observatory Lighting
  • Observatory Lighting

PO Box 4207, Durango, CO 81302
Phone: (970) 903-3337 Fax: (866) 649-5069
Email: observatories@durangoskies.com