The Planewave L500 Direct Drive Mount is a technological marvel tailored for astronomers seeking unparalleled precision and efficiency in their observations. Here's an in-depth look at its key features.   The L500 ensures swift target acquisition with impressive slew speeds of up to 50 degrees per arc second. Its capability extends beyond traditional celestial objects, allowing for precise tracking of satellites, making it an exceptional choice for diverse observational scenarios.  The direct-drive design of the L500 eliminates periodic error, backlash, and significantly reduces the need for maintenance. This not only enhances the longevity of the mount but also ensures a smooth and reliable performance over extended periods.

 The mount boasts a sidereal tracking accuracy of less than 0.30 arcseconds RMS over 5 minutes, providing astronomers with exceptionally precise and stable tracking for capturing intricate details in celestial objects.   Equipped with high-resolution optical encoders on both mount axes, the L500 delivers precision feedback, enabling accurate and responsive adjustments during observations. This feature is instrumental in achieving optimal tracking and imaging outcomes.

The L500 is available in both Alt-Azimuth and Equatorial configurations, offering astronomers flexibility in their observational setups. This adaptability makes the mount suitable for various applications, catering to the diverse needs of astronomers. The mount comes bundled with the PWI4 software, which is ASCOM compliant, facilitating seamless remote control and integration with other astronomical equipment. This user-friendly software enhances the overall observatory experience.

 With a robust 200-pound load capacity, the L500 accommodates a wide range of telescopes and imaging instruments. The adjustable center balance adds further customization, allowing astronomers to optimize the mount's performance based on their specific equipment setup.

The Planewave L500 Direct Drive Mount combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features, making it an exceptional choice for astronomers who demand precision, reliability, and versatility in their astronomical pursuits.

• Slew speeds up to 50 degrees per arc second for fast target aquisition and capable of tracking satellites. 
• NO periodic error, zero backlash, and minimal maintenance thanks to direct drive design and lack of gears. 
• Sidereal tracking accuracy of < 0.30 arcseconds RMS over 5 minutes. 
• High resolution optical encoders on both mount axes for precision feedback. 
• Available in either Alt-Azimuth or Equatorial configurations.  
• Includes PWI4 software which is ASCOM compliant for remote mount control. 
• 200 pound load capacity. 
• Adjustable center balance. 

Direct drive motors and on axes encoders eliminate the need for gears. Backlash and periodic error are thereby eliminated as well. With high resolution encoders providing feedback for the drive motors the mount system will track without periodic error or backlash. The L-500 also has the ability to counteract wind gusts with precise servo feedback.  

Capable of moving at speeds up to 50° per second, the L 500 mount can easily track fast moving objects like satellites and target acquisition times are greatly minimized.

Designed to hold a telescope on either side of the fork arm, the L 500 mount can utilize an additional optional dovetail clamp to dual carry optical systems.  A specially designed adjustable base plate provides azimuth balance whether in AZ for EQ modes. 

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The L500  is an oversize and heavy crated shipment that does require air, ship or truck freight delivery. At this time our website is not able to calculate shipping rates for freight. You will be contacted to discuss shipping options and crating fees for your order. If you are curious for a quote at any time prior to placing an order, please reach out to us at [email protected] 

Planewave warrantees against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year for optical coatings and two-year for mechanics and electronics.