What is the main advantage of the SESTO SENSO 3's integrated encoder?
The integrated encoder allows you to manually turn the focuser knob at any time without the SESTO SENSO 3 losing its electronic position. This is a major advantage for users who switch between visual observing and imaging, as you can make coarse adjustments by hand and then switch to fine electronic control without needing to recalibrate.
Can I control the SESTO SENSO 3 without a computer at the telescope?
Yes. The SESTO SENSO 3 has built-in WiFi that creates its own wireless network. You can connect to it with any smartphone or tablet and use the web-based Virtual HandPad to move the focuser, save positions, and make precise adjustments without needing a connected PC.
How does the SESTO SENSO 3 attach to my Crayford focuser?
The SESTO SENSO 3 uses the included Self Centering Clamp 2 (SCC2) system. This allows it to connect directly to the focuser shaft of many popular Crayford and rack-and-pinion focusers without requiring any external, custom-made brackets, which simplifies installation significantly.
I use NINA for imaging. Is the SESTO SENSO 3 compatible?
Absolutely. The SESTO SENSO 3 includes a dedicated ASCOM driver. This ensures full compatibility with a wide range of third-party astrophotography software, including NINA, Sequence Generator Pro (SGP), MaxIm DL, and others that support the ASCOM standard.
My observatory has public viewing nights. How does the SESTO SENSO 3 handle accidental bumps to the focuser knob?
This is a perfect use case for the Automatic Position Recovery feature. When enabled, if the SESTO SENSO 3 detects that the focuser has been moved manually (either intentionally or accidentally), it will automatically move the focuser back to its last commanded position, ensuring your target remains perfectly focused for the next person.
I want to build a fully remote imaging rig with a rotator. How does the SESTO SENSO 3 fit into this system?
The SESTO SENSO 3 is designed for this scenario. It features a dedicated ARCO port that allows you to connect a PrimaLuceLab ARCO rotator with a single cable for both power and data. This creates a clean, compact, and fully integrated system for focusing and framing that can be controlled remotely through the EAGLE or another computer running PLAY or ASCOM-compatible software.