* No Standard Term: Revolving roofs are a design feature, not a specific type of observatory. Different observatories have different names for their roofs based on the specific mechanism and design.
* Common Terms:
* Rotating Dome: This is probably the most common term, emphasizing the dome-like shape and its ability to rotate.
* Revolving Roof: This is a more general term, simply stating the function of the roof.
* Rotating Enclosure: This term emphasizes the full structure containing the telescope, not just the roof itself.
* Rotating Turret: Used for smaller observatories with a more enclosed, turret-like design.
Examples of Revolving Roofs:
* The Lowell Observatory: Their revolving roof is called a "rotating dome."
* The Palomar Observatory: Their 200-inch Hale Telescope has a "rotating dome" that weighs over 1,000 tons.
* The Arecibo Observatory: While not a typical dome, their large reflector dish is built into a "rotating enclosure" that allows it to track celestial objects.
Conclusion:
The best way to know the name of a specific revolving roof is to check the observatory's official website or publications.
