Maynard F Jordan Observatory
University of Maine
Evaluated. Planned. Provided.
Our Team was hired to troubleshoot multiple equipment failures within the observatory due to a lightning strike.
The Maynard F Jordan Observatory is located on the grounds of the University of Maine campus just off from the Versant Power Astronomy Center. It was purpose built for research and includes a Planewave 20in telescope and SBIG CMOS Camera. Across the walkway is the Clark Telescope Observatory, a historic Alvin and Clark refractor from 1900 which is used for public outreach events throughout the year.
Our Team Observatories was initially contacted to provide technical support for an observatory experiencing multiple equipment failures that were impacting normal operations. The original scope of work involved a site visit to evaluate the condition of the facility and identify the source of the issues. During the inspection, it became clear that the damage extended beyond the initially reported problems. Evidence of lightning discharge had caused multiple failures throughout the observatory systems, many of which had not yet been discovered. While on site, Our Team repaired several of the most critical issues to restore limited functionality and prevent further damage.
Following the initial assessment and emergency repairs, a second visit was scheduled to complete a series of upgrades and replacements to restore the observatory to reliable working condition. Damaged components were repaired or replaced, and additional protective systems were installed to help safeguard the equipment from future weather and power-related events. These upgrades included the installation of a new dedicated weather monitoring station, a replacement all-sky camera, and backup power supplies for both the telescope and dome systems. The UPS systems were configured to automatically close the dome in the event of inclement weather or power loss, helping to protect the telescope and instrumentation from potential exposure.
Once the core observatory systems were restored—including repairs to the primary imaging camera—Our Team provided additional remote support to assist the observatory staff in updating operational procedures and integrating the new equipment. Training sessions were conducted to familiarize users with the updated hardware and software systems, ensuring the observatory team could confidently operate and maintain the facility moving forward.
Our Team Observatories partnered with Greg Stafford of Observatory Automation Solutions for his dome upgrades as he installed the original Dome Control System years before.