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Software Bisque Paramount MX/MX+ Pyramid Portable Pier 4" Extension

Software Bisque Paramount MX/MX+ Pyramid Portable Pier 4" Extension

by Software Bisque
SKU SB10245
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CA$364.00 - CA$364.00
CA$364.00
CA$364.00 - CA$364.00
CA$364.00
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  • Adds 4 inches (10.2 cm) of height to the Paramount MX/MX+ Pyramid Portable Pier
  • 8-inch (20.3 cm) diameter matches the pier for a seamless fit
  • Prevents long optical tubes from colliding with pier legs
  • Stackable design allows for creating custom heights (8", 12", etc.)
  • Includes a custom-length threaded rod for secure installation
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Warranty

  • Software Bisque Paramount MX/MX+ Pyramid Portable Pier 4" Extension

    The Software Bisque Paramount MX/MX+ Pyramid Portable Pier 4" Extension adds a critical 4 inches (10.2 cm) of clearance between your mount and pier, weighing just 3 lbs. This 8-inch (20.3 cm) diameter tube is the definitive solution for preventing collisions between longer optical tubes and the legs of your Pyramid Portable Pier, especially when tracking objects near the zenith.

    4-Inch Pier Extension: Prevent OTA Collisions with Your Paramount MX/MX+

    This extension tube is specifically engineered for the Paramount MX/MX+ model of the Pyramid Portable Pier. By raising the mount base by 4 inches, it gives longer instruments, like refractors or fork-mounted SCTs, the room they need to slew across the meridian without risking a damaging impact with a pier leg. The robust 8-inch diameter maintains the pier's stable footprint.

    Stackable Design for up to 8 Inches or More of Custom Clearance

    For observers with exceptionally long optical tubes or complex imaging trains, a single extension may not be enough. Software Bisque designed these 4-inch extensions to be stackable, allowing you to create a custom pier height of 8 inches, 12 inches, or more to meet your specific needs. Each extension kit includes a new, cut-to-length threaded rod that accommodates the total height of your combined extensions, ensuring a secure and rigid assembly.

    Choosing Your Extension: 4-Inch Stability vs. 6-Inch Maximum Clearance

    Software Bisque also offers a 6-inch (15.3 cm) extension tube for the Paramount MX/MX+ pier. The choice between them is a classic trade-off between clearance and stability.

    • 4-Inch Extension: This model provides ample clearance for most common imaging setups while keeping the center of gravity lower. At only 3 lbs, it adds minimal weight and is the ideal choice for maintaining maximum rigidity.
    • 6-Inch Extension: If you use a very long refractor or have a bulky filter wheel and camera assembly, the extra two inches from the 6-inch version might be necessary. The trade-off is a slightly higher center of gravity, which can make the system more sensitive to vibration.

  • Will this 4" extension fit my Paramount ME II Pyramid Pier?

    No. This 4-inch extension tube is exclusively compatible with the Paramount MX and MX+ model Pyramid Portable Pier. It is not compatible with the pier designed for the Paramount ME, ME II, or the dual-compatible ME/ME II/MX/MX+ pier model.

    How many Paramount MX/MX+ 4" extensions can I safely stack?

    While you can physically stack multiple extensions, each one raises the center of gravity of your entire setup. This makes it more susceptible to wind and vibrations. For most applications, stacking two extensions for a total of 8 inches is a practical limit before stability is noticeably impacted. Always ensure your setup is on level, solid ground.

    I use a Paramount MX+ with a long refractor. Is one 4" extension enough to clear the pier legs?

    For many long refractors, a single 4-inch extension provides sufficient clearance to avoid collisions when slewing near the meridian or tracking through the zenith. It is the most common solution for this exact scenario. However, for extremely long tubes or those with bulky rear-cell equipment, you may need to consider stacking two 4" extensions or using the single 6" version.

    What is the included cut-to-length threaded rod for with the 4" extension?

    The threaded rod is the central bolt that secures the pier's top plate to the main body. When you add the 4-inch extension, the original rod is too short. Software Bisque includes a new, longer rod that is the correct length to pass through the extension and securely fasten the components together.

    Why should I choose the 4" Paramount MX+ extension over the 6" model?

    The 4-inch extension is often the better choice if it provides enough clearance for your specific telescope. By keeping the mount lower, you maintain a lower center of gravity, which results in better stability and resistance to vibration—a critical factor for long-exposure astrophotography. It's also lighter, weighing only 3 lbs.

    If I stack two 4" extensions on my Pyramid Pier, how does that affect polar alignment?

    Adding extensions does not fundamentally change the polar alignment process for your Paramount MX/MX+, but it does raise the entire mount. You will simply be performing the azimuth and altitude adjustments at a more comfortable height. The rigidity of the extensions and the included longer threaded rod ensure that the alignment remains stable once set.

  • Extension Height 4 inches (10.2 cm)
    Diameter 8 inches (20.3 cm)
    Weight 3 lbs
    Dimensions 12 × 12 × 6 in
    Compatibility Paramount MX/MX+ Pyramid Portable Pier
    Incompatible With Paramount ME/ME II/MX/MX+ Pyramid Portable Pier

    • Paramount MX/MX+ Pyramid Portable Pier 4" Extension

      × 1

    • Cut-to-Length Threaded Rod

      × 1

  • Software Bisque 2-Year Warranty