What is the primary purpose of the iOptron MiniPier 8" Pier Extension?
The primary purpose is to add 8" (200 mm) of height to your mount setup. This prevents the optical tube of a long telescope, such as a refractor, from hitting the tripod legs when aimed at or near the zenith, allowing for uninterrupted tracking across the sky.
Will the iOptron MiniPier prevent my 120mm refractor from hitting the tripod legs?
Yes, this is exactly the scenario the MiniPier is designed for. The additional 8 inches of height provide significant clearance for longer instruments like 120mm-class refractors, allowing you to image objects directly overhead without fear of collision.
Which iOptron mounts is the 8" MiniPier compatible with?
The iOptron MiniPier is designed for iOptron mounts that attach to a tripod via a 150mm top plate. You should verify the base specification of your specific iOptron mount to ensure compatibility before purchasing.
Does adding the 8" MiniPier affect the stability of my mount?
Adding height to any system raises its center of gravity, which can potentially reduce stability. However, the iOptron MiniPier is built to be rigid, with a wide Ø5.7" (144 mm) diameter and a weight of 4.5 lbs to minimize flexure and maintain a solid foundation for your equipment.
I'm imaging near the meridian with my Newtonian; will the iOptron MiniPier help?
Yes. By raising the mount head 8 inches, the MiniPier gives a long Newtonian OTA more room to clear the tripod as it tracks through the meridian. This can delay the need for a meridian flip, giving you more continuous imaging time on your target.
How much height does the iOptron MiniPier add to my setup?
The iOptron MiniPier adds exactly 8 inches (200 mm) of vertical height between the top of your tripod and the base of your equatorial mount.