{"product_id":"primalucelab-sestosenso3ls","title":"PrimaLuceLab SESTO SENSO 3 LS Robotic Focusing Motor for Telephoto Lenses","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRobotic focusing motor designed for telephoto lenses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLens Gear Clamp (LGC) for direct, backlash-free connection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntegrated position encoder allows manual override without losing focus position\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUSB-C and built-in WiFi for wired or wireless control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArca-Swiss style mount for secure attachment to PLUS system dovetails\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFull integration with PrimaLuceLab PLAY software and ARCO rotator\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSESTO SENSO 3 LS Robotic Focusing Motor for Telephoto Lenses\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SESTO SENSO 3 LS is a dedicated robotic focusing motor engineered to bring high-precision, automated focusing to astrophotography with telephoto lenses from Canon, Nikon, and others. It integrates its motor, high-resolution encoder, and control electronics into a single, compact unit that connects directly to your lens's focus ring via the innovative Lens Gear Clamp (LGC) system, providing backlash-free adjustments. With both USB-C and built-in WiFi connectivity, you can control focus from a computer or wirelessly from a smartphone, fully integrating your camera lens into a modern astrophotography workflow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLGC System: Precision, Backlash-Free Focusing for Telephoto Lenses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike universal motors that rely on external belts, the SESTO SENSO 3 LS uses the new Lens Gear Clamp (LGC) system. This custom mechanical interface engages the lens's manual focus ring with a direct-drive rubber gear, eliminating the slip and backlash common with belt-driven systems. This ensures that every command from the control software translates into precise, repeatable focus adjustments critical for sharp stars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIntegrated Encoder: Manual Override with Automatic Position Recovery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key innovation in the SESTO SENSO 3 LS is its integrated position encoder. This allows you to manually turn the lens's focus ring at any time—even while the motor is powered on—without losing the system's focus position. The focuser instantly knows its new position, enabling seamless transitions between manual tweaks and automated control. The system also features an Automatic Position Recovery function, which can be configured to return the lens to its last commanded position if it's accidentally moved, safeguarding your focus during an imaging session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWireless \u0026amp; Wired Control: USB-C, WiFi, and PLAY Software Integration\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SESTO SENSO 3 LS offers flexible control options to suit any imaging setup. Connect it to an EAGLE control unit or any Windows computer via the modern USB-C port for robust, hardwired control. For a cable-free setup, use the built-in WiFi to connect to the Virtual HandPad on a smartphone or tablet. The motor is fully compatible with PrimaLuceLab's PLAY astrophotography suite, supports ASCOM drivers for third-party software, and features a dedicated ARCO port for single-cable power and control of the ARCO robotic rotator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRig Integration: Compact All-in-One Design with Arca-Swiss Mounting\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDesigned as a self-contained unit, the SESTO SENSO 3 LS houses all its electronics within a single lightweight chassis, minimizing cable clutter. An integrated Arca-Swiss style foot allows for direct and secure mounting to any PLUS Vixen-style dovetail bar. For dark sky imaging, the status LEDs are dimmable and can be turned off completely to prevent any stray light from affecting your exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSESTO SENSO 3 LS vs. SESTO SENSO 3: Choosing the Right Focuser\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile both motors share core technology, their applications are distinct. The standard SESTO SENSO 3 is designed for telescopes, using bushings and couplings to attach to the pinion shafts of traditional Crayford or SCT focusers. The SESTO SENSO 3 LS is engineered exclusively for photographic telephoto lenses, using its unique LGC system to interface directly with the lens's focusing ring. If you are imaging with a telescope, choose the SESTO SENSO 3; for a telephoto lens, the SESTO SENSO 3 LS is the correct tool for the job.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat makes the SESTO SENSO 3 LS different from the standard SESTO SENSO 3?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary difference is the mechanical interface. The \u003cstrong\u003eSESTO SENSO 3 LS\u003c\/strong\u003e is designed specifically for photographic telephoto lenses and uses the \u003cstrong\u003eLens Gear Clamp (LGC)\u003c\/strong\u003e to directly drive the lens's focus ring. The standard SESTO SENSO 3 is for telescopes and connects to the focuser's pinion shaft using various-sized bushings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I still focus my lens manually with the SESTO SENSO 3 LS attached?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Thanks to the integrated high-resolution encoder, you can turn your lens's focus ring by hand at any time. The SESTO SENSO 3 LS will track the movement and update its position in the software, allowing you to switch between manual and automated focusing without needing to recalibrate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the \"Automatic Position Recovery\" feature on the SESTO SENSO 3 LS?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis feature uses the encoder to protect your focus. If the lens focus ring is moved manually or accidentally bumped, the motor can automatically return it to the last commanded position. You can set a delay for this recovery, from an instant reaction to a longer pause, giving you full control over the behavior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow does the Lens Gear Clamp (LGC) on the SESTO SENSO 3 LS work?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe LGC is a gear-based system that clamps around the barrel of your telephoto lens. An integrated rubber gear makes direct, firm contact with the manual focus ring. This eliminates the need for external belts and prevents the mechanical slip and backlash that can ruin focus precision.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eHow would I integrate the SESTO SENSO 3 LS into a portable setup with a Canon 400mm lens and an EAGLE computer?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntegration is straightforward. You would mount your Canon lens and camera to a PLUS Vixen-style dovetail bar. The SESTO SENSO 3 LS attaches to the same bar via its Arca-Swiss foot and is positioned so the LGC engages the lens's focus ring. You would then connect the SESTO SENSO 3 LS to your EAGLE using a single USB-C cable for power and data, allowing for full control through the PLAY software.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan the SESTO SENSO 3 LS compensate for temperature changes when imaging the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) with my lens?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, it is equipped for this. The SESTO SENSO 3 LS includes a dedicated port for an optional temperature probe. When connected, and used with third-party software that supports it (like SGP or N.I.N.A.), you can configure automatic focusing routines that trigger when the ambient temperature changes by a set amount, ensuring M31's details remain perfectly sharp throughout the night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/PrimaLuceLab_SESTO_SENSO_3_Manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/pages\/primalucelab-warranty-policy\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePrimaLuceLab 1-Year Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"PrimaLuceLab","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52913366958365,"sku":"PLL-SESTOSENSO3LS","price":489.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/PrimaLuceLab-SESTO-SENSO-3-LS-robotic-focusing-motor-for-telephoto-lenses-1_0603f9d5-0cde-425a-8180-9edc83694dca.jpg?v=1789089956","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/products\/primalucelab-sestosenso3ls","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}