What is the main advantage of the 350mm PLUS side-by-side plate?
The primary advantage is the ability to mount two telescopes or a telescope and a camera in parallel on a single equatorial mount. This is ideal for applications like simultaneous wide-field and deep-sky imaging, or for using a separate, dedicated guide scope for high-precision autoguiding.
How can I use the PrimaLuceLab side-by-side plate for autoguiding my Celestron 8" SCT?
You would mount your Celestron 8" SCT on one of the clamps and a smaller guide scope, like a 60mm refractor, on the other. This provides a very stable platform for autoguiding, as both telescopes are securely attached to the main plate, minimizing the potential for differential flexure that can occur with piggyback systems.
Can I mount a telescope with a Vixen dovetail and another with a Losmandy dovetail at the same time on this plate?
Yes. Both included clamps are designed to accept both Vixen-style and Losmandy-style dovetail bars. This universal design gives you the flexibility to mount equipment from virtually any manufacturer without needing to change clamps or use adapters.
I want to take wide-field images of the North American Nebula (NGC 7000) while imaging it close-up. Can this plate help?
Absolutely. This is a perfect application for the side-by-side plate. You can mount your primary telescope with a camera to capture a detailed view of a specific region of the North American Nebula (NGC 7000), while simultaneously mounting a DSLR with a wide-angle or telephoto lens on the other clamp to capture the entire nebula complex in its broader context.
What makes the PrimaLuceLab PLUS system different from other mounting hardware?
The PLUS system is a complete, integrated ecosystem of rings, plates, and clamps designed to work together seamlessly. Key features include:
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CNC Machining: Every part is machined from solid aluminum for maximum strength and rigidity.
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Hard Anodizing: Provides a durable, scratch-resistant surface.
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Modular Design: A pattern of threaded holes and slots ensures compatibility across the entire product line, allowing for custom, flex-free setups.
Will this 350mm plate connect directly to my Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro mount?
Yes. The base of the Side by side Losmandy plate 350mm PLUS is a Losmandy-style dovetail bar. It will connect directly to any mount that is equipped with a Losmandy-D compatible saddle, which includes the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro.