THE BARNETT OBSERVATORY, CHESTERFIELD
REFURBISHMENT PROJECT
Created on 17th November 1956 the Chesterfield Astronomical Society began work on the Barnett Observatory in Newbold, Chesterfield.
The Barnett Observatory housing the William Brown 18-inch (450mm) reflecting telescope, was constructed in the following three years with the support of over fifty local businesses and agencies. It was officially opened by the Astronomer Royal Dr. Richard van der Riet Woolley, O.B.E., M.A., M.Sc., Ph.D., Sc.D., F.R.S. on Saturday April 23rd 1960. Sir Patrick Moore has also paid visits to the observatory on numerous occasions.
After almost fifty years of operation, the telescope is now undergoing major overhaul and refurbishment. The work includes the complete strip down of the major components so that they can be cleaned and / or replaced as necessary.
Work is proceeding well thanks to the efforts of Society Members. However, more help is welcomed. We are especially seeking support from local businesses which may be able to help with specialist skills and / or donate materials.
We are pleased to announce the support so far from the following:-
Society Members
- John Rose
- Steve Page
- Rob McGregor
- Graham Jenkinson
We would also like to acknowledge support from the following organisations and individuals and thank them for their assistance and materials in aid of this major overhaul:-
All supporters and Society Members will be invited to a Special Open Day to celebrate the project completion. We will also be inviting suitable dignitaries to help launch the Observatory into its next fifty years of observations.
Members of the Chesterfield Astronomical Society thank you for your support.
So that you can see where we have got to we have a few shots of the work in progress.
The 18-inch handmade mirror being carefully checked and removed.
The mirror 'cell' is stripped for inspection.
The telescope tube is prepared up for removal.
Safely lowered to the ground.
Telescope headstock being removed.
Main shaft and bearing exposed.
Headstock bearing removed for replacement.