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Astrograph 3.0" R&P Focuser with M117 Thread

In stock
can be shipped within 1-2 days

£399.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


This 3" Rack and Pinion from Astrograph is a quality made focuser with excellent smoothness and load capability of up to 6kg. 

This focuser has been designed to offer connection to telescopes with common threads. At the end of the focuser, the common thread of M68 is used, allowing easy fitting of many common accessories including a 2.5" field flattener. Input from imagers resulted in the focuser having a high load capacity with zero tilt. Our focusers does not use ballbearing supports which tend to tilt, our focusers use a teflon support which guarantee a complete lack of play due to heavy loads.

The focuser attaches to the tube using a 117x1 ID thread. This is the same size as the thread used on GSO telescopes such as the Ritchey Chretien and Cassegrain models. The standard focuser on those telescopes is particularly poor and not in keeping with the quality of the rest of the telescope. As such this focuser provides a significant upgrade at a relatively modest price. In addition this focuser can be motorised using the Optec SVX30 Thirdlynx or Directsync SV motor kits providing a premium motor focus option.

As this focuser is intended for use as a replacement for the GSO RC and Cassegrain Telescope focusers, it is specified with a short focus travel of 45mm. It is 110mm long from the M117 thread to the 2" clamp.

The focuser is supplied with

Adapter M78x1 OD to M82x1 ID (This allows direct connection with the APM Large Reducer or Flattener which use M82). This adapter is separate.

Adapter M78x1 OD to M74x1 OD / M68x1 ID (M68 is a common adapter and allows direct connection to the 2.5" Flattener and also the Tecnosky RC Corrector)

Adapter M74x1 ID to 2" with brass clamp and 3 set screws

Adapter 2" to 1 1/4"

Finder Shoe

Accessories

Product Note Status Price
Optec ThirdLynx SVX30 Motor Kit for APM, Tecnosky 3" ZTA Focuser Optec ThirdLynx SVX30 Motor Kit for APM, Tecnosky 3" ZTA Focuser
£609.00 *
Optec DirectSync SV Motor Kit for APM, Tecnosky 3" ZTA Focuser Optec DirectSync SV Motor Kit for APM, Tecnosky 3" ZTA Focuser
£389.00 *
*
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Starlight Instruments FT3035 3.0" Feathertouch Focuser

Not in stock

£699.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


The FTF3035B-A is a superbly made and ultra smooth rack and pinion focuser. It is typically fitted to Refractor telescopes. Typically the FTF3035 is used for Astrophotography applications where its smoothness, high load capacity of up to 7kg and resistance to tilt are of benefit.

It has a draw tube travel of 3.5" (88.9 mm) which does not suffer from tilt thanks to its plain bearing mounting using a combination stainless steel and Teflon. The FTF3035 has a fully baffled draw tube and can easily illuminate full-frame sensors.

Please note that the FTF3035 is NOT supplied with a 2" clamp as shown in the image above. This is an optional accessory which can be found HERE. As the FTF3035 is often used for Astrophotography, it is more common to use a draw tube adapter to allow the direct fitting of a corrector. For details of adapters to fit a specific corrector, please contact us directly.

The FTF3035 is also NOT supplied with an OTA mounting adapter. These can be found HERE.

 

 

 

Browse this category: Focusers and Rotators

Starlight Instruments / APM FT3035 3.0" Feathertouch Focuser

Not in stock

£819.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


The FTF3035B-A is a superbly made and ultra smooth rack and pinion focuser. It is typically fitted to Refractor telescopes. Typically the FTF3035 is used for Astrophotography applications where its smoothness, high load capacity of up to 7kg and resistance to tilt are of benefit.

It has a draw tube travel of 3.5" (88.9 mm) which does not suffer from tilt thanks to its plain bearing mounting using a combination stainless steel and Teflon. The FTF3035 has a fully baffled draw tube and can easily illuminate full-frame sensors.

Please note that the APM FTF3035 is supplied with a 2" clamp and collar as shown in the image above.

The APM FTF3035 is also supplied with an OTA mounting adapter which allows direct fitment to the APM 140 Doublet and APM 152ED Doublet.

 

 

 

Browse this category: Focusers and Rotators

Starlight Instruments FT3545 3.5" Feathertouch Focuser

In stock
can be shipped within 5-7 days

£1,499.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


The FTF3545B-A is a superbley made and ultra smooth rack and pinion focuser. It is typically fitted to Refractor telescopes. Typically the FTF3545 is used for Astrophotography applications where its smoothness, high load capacity of up to 9kg and resistance to tilt are of benefit.

It has a draw tube travel of 4.5" (114.3 mm) which does not suffer from tilt thanks to its plain bearing mounting using a combination stainless steel and Teflon. The FTF3035 has a fully baffled draw tube and can easily illuminate full-frame sensors.

Please note that the FTF3545 is NOT supplied with an end cap (EC35-505CR) as shown in the image above. This is an optional accessory.. For Astrophotography, a draw tube adapter can be fitted to allow the direct fitting of a corrector. For details of adapters to fit a specific corrector, please contact us directly.

The telescope side thread supplied as standard is an A35-503-P 4.875" x 24TPI which is an Astro Physics pattern. Alternative thread adapters are available to order.

Browse this category: Focusers and Rotators

Optec FastFocus Motor for Celestron C11 / Edge 1100

Not in stock

£1,479.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


Optec's FastFocus Secondary Mirror Focusing System  has proven itself to be a singularly unique solution to the limited back-focus of the Celestron EdgeHD telecopes. With the FastFocus system in place, any Fastar compatible Celestron OTA can function like many professional telescopes where only the secondary mirror moves to adjust the focus. The primary mirror and entire imaging train can be locked in place avoiding flexure and tilt at the image plane.

FastFocus is easily installed taking advantage of the removable secondary mirror of the Celestron Fastar system. The FastFocus system solves a number of problems for users of Celestrons larger SCT's. First, as already mentioned, it solves the problem of mirror flop with the Edge models as their Mirror locks cannot be used if primary mirror focusing is retained. Secondly the Edge telescopes have a back focus distance of 146mm in either standard or reduced configuration. If a focuser is placed on the back of the telescope all you can actually do is vary this back focus distance. While you will be able to change focus with a rear mounted focuser, you will also affect the corrected field. This is not an issue with secondary mirror focusing as this is done before the correcting elements in the Edge models. If using the C models, a focuser can be fitted to the rear of the scope and a corrector after that. However there is limited back focus available and use of a corrector like a reducer is often not possible as it needs to be placed directly on the telescope. The Optec FastFocus system solves all these problems.

To operate the Fastfocus, a focus controller is required. This is either the Optec Focuslynx or a suitable alternative controller such as that found in the Pegasus Astro Ultimate Power Box v2

Browse these categories as well: Focusers and Rotators, Optec

Optec FastFocus Motor for Celestron C14 / Edge 1400

£1,479.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


Optec's FastFocus Secondary Mirror Focusing System with FocusLynx Controller has proven itself to be a singularly unique solution to the limited back-focus of the Celestron EdgeHD telecopes. With the FastFocus system in place, any Fastar compatible Celestron OTA can function like many professional telescopes where only the secondary mirror moves to adjust the focus. The primary mirror and entire imaging train can be locked in place avoiding flexure and tilt at the image plane.

FastFocus is easily installed taking advantage of the removable secondary mirror of the Celestron Fastar system. The FastFocus system solves a number of problems for users of Celestrons larger SCT's. First, as already mentioned, it solves the problem of mirror flop with the Edge models as their Mirror locks cannot be used if primary mirror focusing is retained. Secondly the Edge telescopes have a back focus distance of 146mm in either standard or reduced configuration. If a focuser is placed on the back of the telescope all you can actually do is vary this back focus distance. While you will be able to change focus with a rear mounted focuser, you will also affect the corrected field. This is not an issue with secondary mirror focusing as this is done before the correcting elements in the Edge models. If using the C models, a focuser can be fitted to the rear of the scope and a corrector after that. However there is limited back focus available and use of a corrector like a reducer is often not possible as it needs to be placed directly on the telescope. The Optec FastFocus system solves all these problems.

To operate the Fastfocus, a focus controller is required. This is either the Optec Focuslynx or a suitable alternative controller such as that found in the Pegasus Astro Ultimate Power Box v2

Browse these categories as well: Focusers and Rotators, Optec

Optec TCF-LEO Low Profile Motor Focus

In stock
can be shipped within 1-2 days

£1,699.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


Optec engineers have developed a new, low profile, yet extremely robust 3-inch focuser for telescope installations where back-focus is at a premium.  With the width of a typical 1-1/4" eyepiece, the TCF-Leo provides a unique focusing solution for telescopes with limited flange-to-focus distances allowing you to add other accessories that would otherwise not be possible.  The proven Focuslynx control system is included with every TCF-Leo and can be expanded to provide control for a second focuser.  The FocusLynx system includes optional 802.11 WiFi and Hand Control accessories.

With standard Optec interfaces on both telescope and camera sides, nearly any telescope imaging system can be configured.   Specify any of the Optec 3600 telescope adapters or contact us for a custom adapter to fit any telescope.

The images above show the TCF-LEO on its own and together with some example adapters fitted.

As a full 3-inch focuser, the TCF-Leo drawtube accepts any of the Optec 3000 series adapters. Again custom adapters can be ordered.  The optional Precision Centering Adapter allows any large 2-inch diagonal or eyepiece to be added behind the focuser.  Visual users will appreciate the FocusLynx Hand Controller with fine-focus rotary knob for no-touch operation of the telescope focus.

Please note that the TCF-Leo is not supplied with a standard means to connect to your telescope or camera. It requires the addition of specific 3600/3000 series format adapters.

Basic Specifications

 

  • Overall Thickness:    1.25" (31.8mm) to 1.6" (40.6mm)
  • Focuser Travel:    0.35" (8.9mm)
  • Focuser Midpoint:    1.425" (36.2mm)
  • Total Step Travel:    112,000 steps
  • Step Resolution:    0.08 microns
  • Weight:    1lb. 14 oz. (0.85 kg)
  • Payload Capacity:    20-lbs. (9 kg)
  • Telescope-side Mount:    OPTEC-3600 dovetail
  • Camera-Side Mount:    OPTEC-3000 3-inch drawtube
  • Control System:    FocusLynx Controller (included)
  • Stepper Motor Control:    bipolar and unipolar stepper motors
  • Resolution:    16-bit controller with 65,535 step range per focuser
  • PC Connectivity:    USB/Serial, Ethernet, or optional 802.11 WiFi
  • Hand Control:    Optional 2-button with Digital Read-Out,
  • WiFi Connection:    Optional 802.11b/g compatible,
  • Second Stepper:    Optional plug-in daughter board,
  • Input Power:    12VDC univeral power supply (110 to 230VAC input),
  • Alternative Power:    Field battery voltage (13.8VDC) with optional automotive cigarette lighter plug,
  • Software Drivers:    ASCOM local server, X2 native drivers for TheSky X

​Connections

 

  • Focuser 1:    RJ45 socket for standard Cat-5e/Cat-6 to focuser,
  • Focuser 2:    Optional second stepper board for RJ45 socket,
  • Power:    12VDC input, 2.5 x 5.5mm plug, center pin positive,
  • Network:    Standard RJ45 Ethernet socket,
  • Hand Controller:    RJ22 socket for standard telephone handset cord,
  • Serial:    RJ12 socket for Optec USB/Serial cable (included).
Browse these categories as well: Focusers and Rotators, Optec

Pegasus Falcon Rotator

Not in stock

£549.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


Pegasus Astro – Falcon Rotator is a light-weight, low profile camera field rotator. Do not be fooled by its thin size. It can lift and handle heavy image trains easily. It is very easy to operate via ASCOM drivers or standalone software.

 

Low profile / M54 threaded

Thickness of the rotator is 18mm / 0.7”.

When you use the M54 to M48 adapter the backfocus is +1mm (18+1 = 19mm)
Weight is 700grams. Both openings of the rotator are M54 threaded (pitch 0.75mm)

Adapters for both sides (included)

We provide two different adapters for both sides:

  • Telescope Side: M54 male to 2” Nosepiece
  • Camera Side: M54 Male to M48 Male Adapter

Important notice: The M54 adapter black ring on the camera side of the Falcon Rotator sticks out by almost 1mm (so actual back-focus is 18+1 =19mm)

 

Precise rotation

A powerful geared / low backlash stepper motor ensures that the rotator will lock to the designated degrees. Mechanics inside the focuser guarantee zero flex in any point during a full circle rotation.

Rated load

Falcon Rotator has been tested at 6Kg / 13.2lbs of imaging setup.
The 6 stainless steel branded bearings can easily handle higher payloads with zero flexure.

Cable Wrap Prevention

Rotator does not allow a clockwise turn above 220 degrees. It will turn anti-clickwise when it has to be moved above 220 degrees. A nice cable wrap/snag prevention feature out of the box.

De-Rotation support for Alt/Az mounts

Rotator has the mechanical precision to achieve field de-rotation. Supplied software calculates Rate of Rotation (RoR) based on the site latitude, target altitude and azimuth position.

 

ASCOM & INDI Support

 


Rotator fully supports latest ASCOM 6.5.

 

INDI is also supported via latest (currently nightly build) of INDI

 
 

Standalone Software

Control the Falcon Rotator from the supplied standalone Windows software.

 
 

In the box

  • Falcon Rotator
  • M54 male to 2” Nosepiece
  • M54 Male to M48 Male Adapter
  • USB TypeB cable (1.8m)
  • Cigarette lighter adapter to 2.1mm plug (3A fused)

Dimensions

 

Specifications:

Physical Size 180mm x 140mm x 56mm
Material Blue Anodised Aluminium
Clear Aperture 54mm / 2.13”
Steps per degree 86.6 steps per degree (31.192 steps per full revolution)
(full step drive – can be increased with microstepping)
Payload 6Kg / 13.2lbs
Telescope Adapter M54 male to 2” Nosepiece (included) (0.75mm pitch)
Camera Adapter M54 Male to M48 Male Adapter (included) (0.75mm pitch)
Back Focus 18mm / 0.7” (+1mm if you place M54 adapter)
Weight 0.7Kg / 1.54 lbs)
Connectivity USB 2.0
Operating Power 12V / 1Amp
 

Accessories

Product Note Status Price
Pegasus Ultimate Power Box v2 Pegasus Ultimate Power Box v2
£519.00 *
*
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Optec Pyxis LE Rotator

£859.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


The Optec Pyxis LE is a low profile, lightweight, and versatile Camera Field Rotator with standard mechanical interfaces for ease of connectivity. Based on a design by Ted Agos of the Acorn Hollow Observatory, the Pyxis LE is the thinnest camera field rotator available today! The telescope side of the Pyxis LE is a simple two-inch "push-fit" barrel. The long barrel adapter, just short of 64mm, is easily inserted into any 2" focuser. The main body of the Pyxis LE requires only 17.3mm of back-focus when inserted into a focuser drawtube.

The camera side of the Pyxis LE has a standard male T-thread. Any T-thread camera, filter wheel, off-axis guider, or industry standard T2 ring can screw directly on to the exit port of the Pyxis LE - no other adapters are required. All of the users existing accessories - T-thread spacers, off-axis guiders, filter wheels, etc. - can be attached directly. With the Pyxis LE, the confusion typically surrounding adapters is eliminated since the Pyxis LE is ready to use out-of-the-box. Simply attach your camera, slip into a 2-inch focuser, and you're ready to go.

The Pyxis LE is ideally suited for small, well-balanced cameras and is well suited to Micro 4/3 and APS sensor cameras. DLSR cameras will attach directly using an optional T2 bayonet ring.

General Specifications

Physical Size: 3.14" x 4" x 6.5" (80mm x 102mm x 165mm)

Clear aperture: 1.515" (38.5mm)

Weight: approx. 1.1 lb. (.5 kg)

Telescope Adapter: 2" barrel adapter for any 2" focuser

Camera Adapter: T-thread Back-Focus: .68" (17.3mm)

Resolution: 0.050 degrees/step

Power: 12 VDC 1 Amp (12 Watts max)

Communications Interface: USB 2.0

Software Interface: Pyxis LE-Control and ASCOM-compliant driver

The Pyxis LE can also accommodate Schmidt-Cassegrain f/6.3 optics (or any 43mm diameter optical system) without adding additional back-focus. The f/6.3 telecompressors available from Celestron, Meade, Antares and Hirsch fit directly into the 2-inch nosepiece of the Pyxis LE. The optics must first be removed from their original housing and then using a pair of optional retainers the optical elements can be inserted anywhere within the 2" barrel of the rotator. This feature is essential when setting critical telecompressor or field flattener spacing to the imaging sensor. It should also be noted that the optics rotate with the camera so additional flat-fields are usually not required for different position angles.

The mechanical design is exceptionally robust and rigid. The Pyxis LE's rigidity is due to two coaxial thrust bearings that provide support for small to medium sized instrument loads (2.5kg or 5.5 lbs. maximum). The large separation distance between bearing surfaces (2.28") further increases the stability of the Pyxis LE. This permits off-axis guiders, filter wheels, AO units and of course, the CCD camera, to be attached with no flexure. This unique bearing arrangement allows the rotator to be very thin and use only 0.68" of back-focus

Interfacing with the computer is also extremely simple. Just plug in the USB and 12VDC cables, let Windows install the drivers automatically, open up Pyxis-LE Control, watch it automatically connect, and start using your rotator. Additionally, the Pyxis LE is ASCOM compliant so it can be used in programs like Maxim DL and SGP. Intelligent anti-cable wrapping is programmed at the firmware level so you can expect a non-binding experience with both the control program and the ASCOM driver.

The easy to use Windows application allows simple control over your Pyxis LE camera field rotator. Graphical position indicator allows for quick adjustments and instantaneous position feedback. The View menu enables users to hide/show certain regions of the application to reduce overall window clutter.

Browse these categories as well: Focusers and Rotators, Optec

Track the Stars TTS-160 rOTAtor De-Rotator

In stock
can be shipped within 30 days

£1,199.00
Price includes VAT, plus delivery


Equatorial tracking but NO polar alignment

Long exposure astrophotograpy without polar alignment. To good to be true….  No. With the Telescope rOTAtor installed on the TTS160 Panther mount that’s exactly what you can do. And it’s so simple that beginners can use it and yet so precise that it can match the most experienced experts.

Install and forget

The Telescope rOTAtor easily installs by inserting the bottom dovetail into the saddle on the telescope mount. The top of the rOTAtor has it’s own dovetail saddle where the telescope is mounted. Connect power and signal cable and you are ready to take images. The internal software in the mount head controls speed and direction of the rOTAtor.

rOTAtor

The telescope rOTAtor rotates the entire Optical Tube assembly OTA. This means that any equipment installed on the OTA is rOTAted too. Therefore you can use a piggybacked guide telescope for guiding or take long exposure images with telephoto lenses mounted on top of the OTA.

Set-up, point and shoot

When using the TTS-160 Panther with the Telescope rOTAtor astrophotography is fast and simple. Setup the mount with the rOTAtor without doing any levelling. Align on two stars and the combined system is ready for imaging. The rOTAtor will automatically wind to the correct side and start derotating when the object has been centered. Guiding is done via the ST4 compatible port on the mount.

Included Items

  • TTS-160 De-Rotator
  • Split Power Cable
  • Control Interface Cable
  • Medium Transport Bag

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