The whole idea is for any amateur astronomer
to have a computer controlled optical mount that has precisely the features
he/she wants. Some of the options:
You can have it made in aluminum or steel.
You can have it professionally anodized or powder
coated in any color you like.
You can use any gear manufacturer you like. We can
make them here too.
You can have a mount made for a long length newt,
truss, short SCT or even a refractor.
You can have it pier mounted, equatorially mounted,
tripod mounted or just have feet on the bottom.
You can have steppers or servos running the mount,
from any vendor.
If you want to use an old laptop and steppers, that
is an option.
If you want to use servos and a B-box from anyone
else, that is an option.
You can order it with encoders and friction clutches
only.
You can order this type of mount with no encoders
or motors.
Basically, nearly any option you feel the need to have
can be ordered.
We typically use the electronics and software from
BBAstroDesigns.
Other electronics and software can be used with this
mount however.
Designs that are completely different from the prototype
can be ordered. See the machining page for details.
The sample mount pictured
here is a long term project we have been working on. Some of the
specs:
It's made from 1/4" aluminum channel covered with 18
ga. steel sheet.
It is powder coated with an epoxy crinkle finish.
It uses 2- 6" 180:1 wheel and worm gears overdriven
with toothed belts.
It has 400 step NEMA 17 steppers.
It uses BBAstroDesigns
(now) old stepper circuitry and an old P133 laptop.
It is meant to house an old 8" f8 Newt.
Power is inside one of the fork arms.
The forks can be unbolted for long distance transport/shipping.
Pricing information:
Pricing is made on a case by case basis depending on
what options you decide on. Quotes, good for 30 days, are based on estimated
time and materials and are sent in MS Word format. Our costs are typically
LESS than what a wood dob costs.
* custom made here refers to the pictured basic
mount design with a very wide variety of options.
