The copper dome of the Museum’s Planetary Observatory is a Western New York icon, providing immediate recognition of the building and its purpose.
Over the years, the copper membrane roof that forms the exterior covering of the dome and its skirt failed, resulting in leaks into the telescope chamber. Services were provided for the restoration of the Planetary Dome and its steel frame. The work included replacement of the existing copper dome with a new copper dome to match.
Trautman Associates also investigated the condition of the existing wood sheathing of the dome and recommended additional areas in need of attention including restoration of the dome's steel rib trusses, the dome’s track and gears, and the replacement of the aperture cover.
Throughout the course of this project, State Historic Preservation Office guidelines were carefully considered and followed.
