This piece of equipment is a geodesic dome. A geodesic dome is a half-sphere shape without supports in the center to keep it from collapsing. If you notice, the structure is composed of triangular-shaped supports. Why do you think this is?
When compared to rectangles, triangles are much sturdier. They have smaller angles and are the only polygonal shape that cannot be changed without changing the length of at least one side. Triangles distribute weight well, making them less likely to break.
There are many famous examples of this in architecture, can you think of any?
Spaceship Earth-Disney World
Desert Dome-Nebraska
Eden Project Biomes-UK
Click here to learn about the testing of shapes for buildings
Click here for an activity that shows the strength of different shapes
Click here to learn about an architect who was fascinated with geodesic domes: Buckminster Fuller