What is the primary function of the IMP85 Adapter S120a to M100i?
This adapter's sole purpose is to create a secure mechanical connection between the IMP85 Imaging Port Selector's S120a thread and a camera or instrument that requires an M100x1 female (M100i) thread for attachment.
How would I use the S120a to M100i adapter in a remote observatory setup?
In a remote observatory using the IMP85 port selector, you would use this adapter to permanently mount your primary deep-sky camera, such as one from Alluna Optics, to one of the IMP85's ports. This allows the system to electronically switch between your main M100i-threaded camera and other instruments like a spectrograph or planetary camera on the other ports without any physical reconfiguration.
Is this IMP85 adapter for the telescope side or the camera side?
This is a camera-side adapter. It attaches to one of the output ports of the IMP85 Imaging Port Selector to match the specific thread of your imaging device.
Why is a dedicated adapter like the S120a to M100i important for the IMP85 system?
A system like the IMP85, which electronically switches between heavy instrument packages, relies on extremely rigid and precise connections to maintain parfocality and alignment. A dedicated, single-piece adapter minimizes flexure and tolerance stacking, ensuring the high-repeatability performance required for automated and remote astronomy.
Can I use this S120a to M100i adapter to mount my Alluna Optics camera to the IMP85?
Yes. The product description specifically mentions that this adapter provides an M100x1 female thread for integrating Alluna Optics cameras with the IMP85 system. It is the correct component for this application.
Are other adapters needed to make the IMP85 system work?
Yes. The IMP85 Port Selector is delivered without any adapters. You must purchase specific adapters, like this S120a to M100i, for both the telescope side and for each instrument you intend to connect to the camera-side ports.