Attaching an OTA to a photographic tripod

[andeelym]

Hi folks,

May I know what do I need to get to attach my Meade 8" LX50 to a normal photographic tripod? Currently, I got a standard dovetail bar on the OTA.

May I know what are my option(s)?

Thanks!

[kayheem]

Do a search for "Astroslew" on the forums if you do not need slo-mo control or "Voyager" on google if you need the slo-mo.

[andeelym]

Is there a way to connect an OTA directly to, say a tripod ballhead without needing a astronomy mount?

[kayheem]

Sure, but do note that the whole 8" SCT is supported by only a 1/4" screw. Will vibrate like crazy and you won't be able to aim to scope properly with a ball head at normal powers used with an SCT.

[andeelym]

Ok, noted on the potential problem.

But can you let me know how can I do that? Do I need to replace the current dovetail bar? Or do I need to buy an adapter to latch on to the bar?

Thanks!

[superiorstream]

Hi,All
I did just that years ago but
1)1st retrofit the mounting plate of the photo tripod with a dovetail saddle-vixen type
2)mount ota only near horizon--otherwise may present balancing problem.Basic use is for testing of new acquired scopes.
3)MUST use ALL metal mount.Plastic parts WILL CRACK.
DO you want some photos.?A photo speaks a thousand words.

[andeelym]

Hi,All
I did just that years ago but
1)1st retrofit the mounting plate of the photo tripod with a dovetail saddle-vixen type
2)mount ota only near horizon--otherwise may present balancing problem.Basic use is for testing of new acquired scopes.
3)MUST use ALL metal mount.Plastic parts WILL CRACK.
DO you want some photos.?A photo speaks a thousand words.

1) Umm, how do you retrofit that? Can provide some pointers or let me know what to buy?
2) Ya I guess so... at the most a slight angle up bah...
3) Yup, I am aware of that.

Yes please! Some pictures will be good.

Thanks!

[Zephyrus]

Hahaha, I wonder what good will mounting the OTA near horizon do for you... My only guess is you want to try to do some photography with it, making use of the scope as your super telephoto.

[wucheeyiun]

Here are some photos



Simple manfrotto 074 tripod and 029 3d head...both are relatively economical as they are very dated equipment. tripod is about $300, head about $100.
Prices can be check at Clubsnap






2 nos m8 bolts from tak saddle to hex plate






Tak saddle and hex plate boltings






Comes in 120mm x 120mm architectural plate too, can use as small stool






Can carry a C11 ! ... i use this setup with d700 just to take telephotos of Moon or far away places like Batam etc...
Just make sure 1 rear tripod leg align with longitudinal of the scope so it can tilt without falling over.

[Airconvent]

Although not a photographic tripod, I think the Vixen Portamount would do as well too!
Otherwise for an 8" OTA, the Manfrotto 055 tripod should suffice and maybe a 405 slomo head?