Modular Telescope Mounts

Описание: A modular telescope mount is one in which the declination axis can be separated from the right ascension axis. This makes the right ascension axis a lighter, more usable component that can easily be adapted for a photographic mount. It appears that Goto Kogaku invented the modular telescope mount (the Mark-X) in 1976 before any other manufacturer. Though it may have been inspired by the Tak TS-40 from 1974. The Mark X was the first to have a removable declination axis unlike the TS-40.

In about 1985 the idea of a modular mount seems to have finally caught on with other makers resulting in the Takahashi Space Boy, the Vixen Super Polaris and the Carton CST all coming along within a couple of years of each other. So, in this instance, as with many others through the years, it looks like Goto was the leader.

These appear to be very rare in modern telescopes. Why are these nearly extinct? The only remaining examples I know of are the Takahashi Teegul sky Patrol and the Takahashi PM-1. My guess is that the demise of this fascinating innovation was brought about, at least partially, by Goto and other manufacturers who developed stand-alone photographic mounts. These small portable mounts can easily be taken to a dark sky site, set up quickly to execute simple wide-angle astrophotography with an ordinary camera. Apparently, the majority of potential buyers were not interested in the modular system and preferred a dedicated small mount. Perhaps the modular mount was over-complicated. Or maybe the buyers simply started with the less expensive single purpose mount and worked up to the more sophisticated devices. In fact, many modern users of the classic modular mounts seem to be completely unaware that these mounts were designed to be disassembled.

Other Videos About Modular Mounts:

Carton CST100NQ Classic Telescope:    • Carton CST100NQ Classic Telescope  
Goto Mark-X Portable Photographic Mount:    • Goto Mark X Portable Photographic Mount  
Takahashi Space Boy mount:    • Takahashi Space Boy Mount