M002C Mount Operator's Manual - Click here for our online manual: M002C
This is a complete system with tripod, column, M002C mount head and dual (Losmandy/Vixen) saddle.
Tripod: This system comes with a a new lightweight tripod using Losmandy legs. It is several pounds lighter than the stainless tripod we offer. The tripod has adjustable aluminum legs that adjust the height of the tripod between 25 1/2" and 40 1/2" high. The center height of the telescope when mounted to the M002C, column and this tripod, pointed horizontally, will be between 39" and 54." This tripod has an M12 center bolt so it will also work with the Rowan mounts we offer.
The M002C attaches to the MEC-012 column with three screws as shown here. In a pinch, this mount head may also be attached to a standard camera tripod with a 3/8"-16 center thread. Attach the column to a tripod, and the M002C mount drops into the column. Secure the mount head to the column with three included socket cap head screws, and you have an impressive, heavy-duty, ultra-smooth alt-azimuth mount.
We manufacture this mount using stainless steel and cnc machined aluminum. The smoothness makes slow motion controls unnecessary, so they are not included. Set the knobs for minimum drag and glide around the night sky.
The mount will hold our 70 mm - 130 mm telescopes and other scopes, up to about 25 pounds. The mount head itself weighs about 6.2 pounds and comes standard with our TDLV spring-loaded shoe to accommodate both Vixen and Losmandy rails. If using a Losmandy style rail, we recommend using two safety screws with washers or a spacer so it will not slide through the shoe when the knobs are loosened.
To convert this into a push-too encoder mount use the Nexus encoder for the M002C by Astro-Devices.
