What is the primary use for this M68 to M54 20mm adapter?
This adapter is specifically designed to connect the Pegasus Astro Falcon 2 Rotator (which has an M68 female output) to an accessory with an M54 female input, such as an Off-Axis Guider (OAG) or filter wheel. It adds a precise 20mm of spacing to help you achieve the required backfocus for your camera and reducer/corrector combination.
How do I know if I need exactly 20mm of spacing for my setup?
You need to calculate your backfocus budget. Start with the required backfocus of your flattener or reducer (e.g., 55mm). Then, subtract the backfocus of your camera, OAG, filter wheel, and any other adapters. If the remaining distance is 20mm, this adapter is the correct choice for your imaging train.
Can I place a 2" filter inside this 20mm adapter?
Yes. The adapter features an internal M48x0.75 thread, which is the standard for 2-inch mounted astronomy filters. This allows you to install a light pollution or narrowband filter directly within the adapter itself, saving space in your imaging train.
Will this M68 to M54 adapter work with rotators other than the Falcon 2?
It will work with any rotator or accessory that presents a female M68x1 thread and needs to connect to a device with a female M54x0.75 thread, provided that 20mm is the correct spacing required. However, it was engineered with the Falcon 2 Rotator and common OAGs in mind.
I'm connecting my Falcon 2 Rotator to a Celestron OAG. Is this the right part?
It depends on the rest of your imaging train. The Celestron OAG for EdgeHD telescopes has an M54 female thread on the telescope side, making it mechanically compatible. You must confirm through your own backfocus calculation that the 20mm spacing this adapter provides is the exact distance you need to reach the 55mm (or other) backfocus requirement for your specific setup.
What does "prevents metal collision" mean for this 20mm adapter?
This means the adapter's length and shoulder design ensure that the body of your Falcon 2 Rotator will not make physical contact with the body of your OAG or filter wheel when fully threaded together. This prevents potential binding, scratching, or damage to your equipment.