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Baader Planetarium Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool (-55°C–+30°C)
Baader Planetarium Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool (-55°C–+30°C)
Baader Planetarium Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool (-55°C–+30°C)
Baader Planetarium Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool (-55°C–+30°C)
Baader Planetarium Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool (-55°C–+30°C)

Baader Planetarium Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool (-55°C–+30°C)

by Baader Planetarium
SKU BAA-2905115
CA$17.00 - CA$17.00
CA$17.00
CA$17.00 - CA$17.00
CA$17.00
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  • Specialized for extreme cold operation down to -55°C
  • Prevents mount drive stiffening and tracking errors in winter
  • Maintains smooth focuser travel in sub-zero conditions
  • Engineered for equatorial mount gears, bearings, and moving parts
  • Upper operating limit of +30°C requires seasonal application
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Warranty

  • Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool (-55°C–+30°C)

    Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool is engineered to maintain smooth mechanical operation in extreme cold, remaining fluid and effective down to a frigid -55°C. Unlike standard lubricants that stiffen and cause drive errors below freezing, this specialized formula ensures consistent tracking and focusing up to its maximum recommended temperature of +30°C, making it an essential component for any winter observer.

    Low-Temperature Lubrication: Protecting Mounts and Focusers down to -55°C

    Standard greases become thick and paste-like in freezing temperatures, dramatically increasing resistance in your mount's worm gears and bearings. This stiction can lead to motor strain, inconsistent tracking, and even complete stalling. Baader's Arctic-Cool #3 formula is designed specifically to prevent this, maintaining a consistent, low-viscosity state that keeps mechanical parts moving freely even at its -55°C limit.

    By applying this grease to your mount's critical components, you ensure your GoTo slews remain accurate and your autoguiding corrections are precise, regardless of how far the temperature drops. The same benefit applies to focusers, preventing the stiff, jerky motion that can make achieving critical focus impossible on a cold night.

    Arctic-Cool #3 vs. Standard Greases: Why Specialization Matters Below Freezing

    The primary advantage of Arctic-Cool #3 is its uncompromising cold-weather formulation, but this specialization involves a clear trade-off. The grease's chemistry is optimized for fluidity below zero at the expense of high-temperature stability, with a maximum recommended operating temperature of just +30°C. Standard all-purpose lithium greases have a much higher heat tolerance but will fail long before reaching -55°C.

    This makes Arctic-Cool #3 a seasonal or climate-specific lubricant. It is the definitive choice for observers in northern latitudes or for anyone planning to image through the winter months. For warm summer conditions, a different high-temperature grease should be used to prevent breakdown and potential separation of the lubricant.

  • My mount gets very stiff in winter. Will Baader Arctic-Cool #3 grease help?

    Yes, absolutely. This is precisely the problem Baader Arctic-Cool #3 is designed to solve. By replacing the stock, all-weather grease in your mount's gears and bearings with this formula, you will significantly reduce the stiffening (stiction) that occurs in sub-zero temperatures, resulting in smoother tracking and less strain on the drive motors.

    I observe from a location where temperatures often drop to -30°C. Is the Arctic-Cool #3 grease suitable?

    Yes. The Baader Arctic-Cool #3 grease is rated for operation all the way down to -55°C, making it perfectly suited for conditions of -30°C. It will remain fluid and effective, ensuring your equipment continues to function as intended during deep winter observing sessions.

    What is the full temperature range for Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool?

    The specified operating range for Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool is from -55°C to +30°C (-67°F to +86°F). It is a specialized lubricant intended for cold environments.

    Can I use Baader Arctic-Cool #3 grease in the summer?

    It is not recommended if ambient temperatures are expected to exceed its +30°C (86°F) upper limit. The grease is optimized for cold and may lose its ideal viscosity or even break down in high heat. For summer use, you should use a grease formulated for higher temperatures.

    What parts of my telescope mount should I lubricate with Arctic-Cool #3?

    You should apply Arctic-Cool #3 to the primary mechanical contact surfaces as recommended by your mount's manufacturer. This typically includes:

    • The worm gear and ring/spur gear for both axes.
    • Axis bearings (if accessible for re-lubrication).
    • Focuser drawtube tracks and bearings.

    Is Baader Arctic-Cool #3 grease difficult to apply?

    No, but it does require disassembling parts of your mount or focuser. The process involves thoroughly cleaning off the old factory grease before applying a thin, even layer of the new Arctic-Cool #3. Always consult your equipment's manual or tutorials for your specific model before starting.

  • Operating Temperature -55°C to +30°C

    • Baader Machine-Grease #3 Arctic-Cool

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