Available in sizes 8” to 16”
(NOTE: 14” is being discontinued and is limited to stock on hand)
Includes:
(1) Mirror Cell
(2) Adjustment Shims
LEAD TIME: 5-6 weeks
Ideal for:
Equatorial mounts: The robust 6-point support system ensures optimal stability for precise astronomical observations.
Large, thin mirrors: The EQ cells offer the necessary rigidity to prevent flexure and maintain accurate mirror alignment.
A variety of applications: While specifically targeting equatorial mounts, the EQ line's versatility makes it suitable for various setups.
Key features:
Precision-engineered support:
PLOP-optimized design: Guarantees optimal support point placement for exceptional mirror stability.
Self-aligning spherical bearings: Ensure accurate mirror alignment, minimizing stress and maximizing image quality.
Adjustable edge support: Customized to your specific mirror's thickness and f-ratio for a perfect fit.
Slotted mounting brackets: Accommodate various tube or box sizes for seamless integration into your existing setup.
Durable construction:
Black anodized aluminum plates: Offer a sleek and corrosion-resistant finish.
Black Delrin: Combine strength, low weight, and dimensional stability.
Stainless steel hardware: Ensures long-lasting performance and reliable operation.
Optional fan kits: Enhance thermal management for heat-sensitive mirrors, maintaining optimal performance.
Addressing thermal expansion:
Telescopes and their components experience temperature fluctuations throughout use. The EQ line's ingenious design incorporates 1/2” diameter rollers that contact the mirror at six points to address this challenge. These rollers, made from a composite plastic material, offer several key benefits:
Accommodate expansion and contraction: As temperatures change, the mirror cell and mirror expand at slightly different rates. The rollers allow for minute adjustments between them, mitigating stress on the mirror caused by friction.
Prevent flat spots: The roller material is slightly softer than glass but resilient enough to resist compression under the weight of the optics. This prevents the development of flat spots on the rollers over time, ensuring continued smooth operation.
In essence, the rollers act as a buffer, allowing the mirror and cell to adapt to temperature changes without compromising the mirror's integrity or image quality.
Pricing
| Model No. | Price | Fan Kit |
|---|---|---|
| EQ-8 Tube | $810 | $56 |
| EQ-10 Tube | $870 | $56 |
| EQ-11 Tube | $940 | $108 |
| EQ-12 Tube | $940 | $108 |
| EQ-12.5 Tube | $970 | $108 |
| EQ-13.1 Tube | $1150 | $108 |
| EQ-14 Tube | $1070 | $108 |
| EQ-14.5 Tube | $1150 | $108 |
| EQ-15 Tube | $1270 | $108 |
| EQ-16 Tube | $1380 | $108 |
| EQ-11 Box | $1040 | $108 |
| EQ-12 Box | $1040 | $108 |
| EQ-12.5 Box | $1070 | $108 |
| EQ-13.1 Box | $1270 | $108 |
| EQ-14 Box | $1190 | $108 |
| EQ-14.5 Box | $1270 | $108 |
| EQ-15 Box | $1390 | $108 |
Information and How-To Documents
| EQ-Cell General Info | Download | Information about materials and design |
Mirror Cells for Tube Scopes
| Model No. | Support Points | Tube Size (in.) | Mechanical Drawing |
|---|---|---|---|
| EQ-8 | 6 point | 9.50 - 10.90 | Download |
| EQ-10 | 6 point | 11.60 - 12.40 | Download |
| EQ-11 | 6 point | 12.88 - 14.88 | Download |
| EQ-12 | 6 point | 13.375 - 14.88 | Download |
| EQ-12.5 | 6 point | 13.80 - 14.92 | Download |
| EQ-13.1 | 6 point | 14.75 - 16.50 | Download |
| EQ-14 | 6 point | 15.25 - 17.68 | Download |
| EQ-14.5 | 6 point | 15.85 - 17.68 | Download |
| EQ-15 | 6 point | 16.40 - 18.10 | Download |
| EQ-16 | 6 point | 17.12 - 18.87 | Download |
Mirror Cells for Box Scopes
| Model No. | Support Points | Box Size (in.) | Mechanical Drawing |
|---|---|---|---|
| EQ-11 | 6 point | 13.875 - 16.875 | Coming Soon |
| EQ-12 | 6 point | 13.875 - 16.875 | Coming Soon |
| EQ-12.5 | 6 point | 13.875 - 16.875 | Download |
| EQ-13.1 | 6 point | 14.75 - 18.00 | Coming Soon |
| EQ-14 | 6 point | 15.50 - 20.00 | Coming Soon |
| EQ-14.5 | 6 point | 15.90 - 19.25 | Download |
| EQ-15 | 6 point | 15.90 - 19.25 | Download |
Designed for equatorial mounted scopes and available in sizes from 8 inches to 16 inches. The EQ pin uses six blocks for edge support and traditional edge clips for retaining mirror. Six-point floating support on Delrin pads. Ideal for thin mirrors with large aspect ratios.
Each block has a roller for contacting the mirror edge. Blocks are customized to match mirror specs to ensure edge support is at the centroid. The significance of the roller is to allow the mirror to move with thermal change and not have friction at the contact points. (To eliminate friction at the edge support contact points.)
