What telescopes are best suited for the PrimaLuceLab Losmandy Plate 495mm PLUS?
The 495mm PLUS plate is specifically designed for larger telescopes where flexure is a concern. This includes Newtonian reflectors up to 300mm, large refractors, and Schmidt-Cassegrain or Ritchey-Chrétien telescopes with long optical tubes that require widely spaced support rings for stability.
How do I create a side-by-side setup for my SkyWatcher AZ-EQ6 mount using the 495mm PLUS plate?
To create a side-by-side system, you would mount the 495mm Losmandy plate to your AZ-EQ6 mount as the primary base. Then, you can attach two PrimaLuceLab PLUS dovetail clamps onto the plate, allowing you to mount two separate telescopes in parallel. The numerous threaded holes in the plate give you flexibility in positioning the clamps for optimal balance.
Can I use non-PrimaLuceLab rings with the 495mm PLUS plate?
Yes. While the plate is optimized for the PLUS system's hole pattern, it also features a series of central slots. These slots allow you to attach support rings or other accessories from different brands using standard screws, offering broad compatibility with existing equipment.
For a 10-inch (250mm) f/8 Ritchey-Chrétien, should I choose the 495mm or 350mm Losmandy plate?
For a 250mm RC telescope, the 495mm plate is the recommended choice. While a 350mm plate could work, the longer 495mm plate allows you to space the tube rings further apart. This increased separation provides significantly better support and minimizes flexure, which is critical for maintaining optical alignment and achieving sharp stars during long exposures with an RC scope.
How does the 495mm Losmandy Plate PLUS improve telescope rigidity?
Rigidity is improved in two main ways. First, its 495mm length allows for wide separation of the telescope's tube rings, creating a more stable connection that resists bending. Second, it is CNC-machined from a solid aluminum block, making it inherently stiffer and more resistant to twisting forces than standard extruded dovetail bars.
What is the benefit of the hard anodizing on the PrimaLuceLab 495mm plate?
Hard anodizing creates a protective oxide layer on the aluminum that is much tougher and more durable than standard anodizing or paint. This finish makes the PrimaLuceLab 495mm plate highly resistant to scratches from mounting hardware and protects it from corrosion, ensuring a long service life.