What is the primary purpose of the Askar MCP90 Finder Plate?
The Askar MCP90 is designed to provide a secure mounting platform for accessories like finderscopes and guidescopes that use a standard Vixen-style dovetail foot. It was made specifically for the Askar FRA400/5.6 but also works with many other Askar and Sharpstar handles.
Is the Askar MCP90 only compatible with the FRA400/5.6?
No. While it was designed for a perfect fit on the Askar FRA400/5.6, the MCP90 is a universal plate. It can be attached to various handles and systems that support its mounting pattern, allowing you to use Vixen-foot accessories on many different telescopes.
What kind of accessories can I mount on the Askar Multi-Connection Finder Plate 90?
You can mount any accessory that uses a standard Vixen-style dovetail foot. This includes a wide variety of:
- Finderscopes
- Guidescopes
- Red dot finders with compatible adapters
- Other aiming devices
Can I use the Askar MCP90 to mount my Vixen-style guidescope onto a Sharpstar telescope handle?
Yes. The Askar MCP90 is explicitly designed to be compatible with various Sharpstar handles. It acts as an adapter, allowing you to attach your Vixen-foot guidescope directly to the handle for a compact and stable autoguiding setup.
How does the Askar MCP90 help when imaging with the FRA400/5.6 astrograph?
For imagers using the FRA400/5.6, the MCP90 provides a dedicated, rigid mounting point for a guidescope. This is critical for long-exposure astrophotography, as it ensures the guidescope is held perfectly parallel to the main telescope without any sagging or flex, leading to sharper stars in your final image.
What does "Multi-Connection" in the Askar MCP90 name refer to?
The "Multi-Connection" aspect refers to its dual compatibility. It connects to the telescope body (like the FRA400) or a handle, and in turn, it connects to a multitude of accessories via its universal Vixen dovetail foot receiver. It serves as a versatile link between your telescope and your essential accessories.