Restoration of the Great Telescope (Page 3)

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The new mirror arrived from University College, London, on midsummer's day, the 21st June, 1999. The new mirror blank was cast by the French company, Pechiney Aluminium and the milling, grinding and polishing of the mirror has been carried out by the Optical Science Laboratory at University College, London. It is an aluminium alloy, which is non tarnishing, unlike the original speculum, and weighs around about a third of the Third Earl's metal mirrors.

After calibration of the optical train, the telescope will be ready for occasional observational work in the years ahead.

Organizations involved in the Telescope reconstruction

The organizations listed below have succeeded in the reconstruction of a vitally important historical astronomical instrument to a standard worthy of the genius and tenacity of its original architect, William Parsons. the Third Earl of Rosse.

Architects:
Architectural Services, Office of Public Works, Principal Architect: Michael O' Doherty, Project Architect : Angela Rolfe


Structural Engineers:
Denis O'Leary and Partners, Project Engineer: Michael Tubridy


Main Contractor:
McNamara and Company, Contract Manager: Jack Butler, Site Manager: Sean Connaughton


Quantity Surveyors:
Clifford Campbell and Company


Woodwork and Metalwork:
Universal Works (All Woodwork and Metalwork), Project Director: Owen McCarthy


Masonry Restoration:
Sander wood Stonework


Electrical Work:
Clancy Electrical


Computerised Hydraulic System:
Systek Hydraulics

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