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IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.

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iOptron MiniPier 8" Pier Extension

by iOptron
SKU IOP-8032
Original price $148.00 - Original price $148.00
Original price
$148.00
$148.00 - $148.00
Current price $148.00
Price Match Policy!
  • Adds 8" (200 mm) of Height to Your Mount Setup
  • Prevents Long Telescope Tubes from Colliding with Tripod Legs
  • Features a 150mm Top Plate for iOptron Mount Compatibility
  • Solid Ø5.7" (144 mm) Pier Diameter for Stability
  • Weighs 4.5 lbs, Ensuring a Rigid Connection
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Availability Info
Qualifies for FREE Shipping in CONUS on orders over $350.
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty
  • iOptron MiniPier 8" Pier Extension

    The iOptron MiniPier 8" Pier Extension adds a crucial 8" (200 mm) of height between your tripod and mount, solving the common problem of a long optical tube colliding with the tripod legs when pointed near the zenith. With a solid Ø5.7" (144 mm) diameter and a weight of 4.5 lbs, it provides a stable platform for iOptron mounts that utilize a 150mm top plate, maintaining rigidity in your imaging setup.

    8 Inches of Added Clearance for Long OTAs

    For imagers using long refractors or Newtonian telescopes, the zenith is often a no-go zone where the back of the telescope can strike a tripod leg. The MiniPier provides an additional 8" (200 mm) of clearance, allowing your mount to track objects through the meridian without the risk of a collision. This extra height grants you uninterrupted access to the best part of the night sky.

    A Stable Fit for Mounts with a 150mm Top Plate

    Engineered to integrate seamlessly with iOptron systems, this extension features a 150mm top plate, ensuring a secure fit. The pier's substantial Ø5.7" (144 mm) diameter and 4.5 lbs weight contribute to a rigid connection that minimizes flexure. While any extension raises the center of gravity, the robust build of the MiniPier is designed to preserve the stability of your astrophotography rig.

  • 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.

  • Height 8" (200 mm)
    Pier Diameter Ø5.7" (Ø144 mm)
    Top Plate Diameter 150 mm
    Weight 4.5 lbs
    Shipping Dimensions 10.25 x 7.75 x 7.75 in
    • iOptron MiniPier 8" Pier Extension

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  • iOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty