What is a V-series dovetail plate like the Askar 200mm plate?
A V-series, or Vixen-style, dovetail is one of the most common mounting standards in amateur astronomy. It refers to a specific trapezoidal shape and width that fits into the corresponding saddle on many popular telescope mounts. The Askar V-Series 200mm plate adheres to this standard for wide compatibility.
Why would I choose the 200mm Askar V-Series plate over a shorter one?
A longer 200mm plate provides two main benefits. First, it offers more travel for balancing your telescope, which is critical when changing heavy accessories. Second, it allows for wider spacing between tube rings, which increases the mechanical stability and rigidity of your optical tube.
Can I mount my DSLR camera directly to the Askar V-Series 200mm plate?
Yes. The universal slots on the Askar V-Series 200mm plate are typically compatible with the standard 1/4"-20 screw used on most DSLR and mirrorless cameras. This allows you to mount your camera and lens directly to a telescope mount for wide-field astrophotography.
Is the Askar V-Series 200mm plate compatible with Losmandy-style (D-series) saddles?
No, the V-series plate is narrower than a Losmandy D-series plate and will not fit securely in a D-series-only saddle. However, many modern mounts feature a dual V/D saddle that is designed to accept both standards. For heavier telescope setups, a wider D-series plate is recommended for greater stability.
How does the Askar V-Series 200mm plate help with balancing a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope?
Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes (SCTs) often have a limited mounting rail. Replacing it with the 200mm Askar V-Series plate provides a much longer surface area, making it significantly easier to achieve balance, especially after adding a heavy imaging train, a large diagonal, or a guidescope.
Can I use the Askar V-Series 200mm plate to mount a guidescope alongside my main telescope?
Yes. The multiple holes and slots on the Askar V-Series 200mm plate allow for flexible mounting configurations. You can often find a combination of holes that allows you to attach your main telescope's tube rings and a set of smaller guiding rings for your guidescope on the same plate.
