What is the real-world instrument capacity of the Paramount MYT?
The Paramount MYT has an official instrument capacity of 70 lb. (32 kg), not including counterweights. The single included 20 lb. (9 kg) counterweight is sufficient to balance a payload of approximately 25-30 lb. (11-15 kg). To utilize the full 70 lb. capacity, you will need to purchase additional counterweights. The total carrying capacity, including instruments and counterweights, is 140 lb. (64 kg).
Do I need the optional on-axis absolute encoders for the Paramount MYT to perform unguided imaging?
No. While the optional 26-bit Renishaw absolute encoders effectively eliminate periodic error, the Paramount MYT's signature unguided tracking performance comes from its software. The combination of TPoint telescope modeling and ProTrack real-time correction is what compensates for system-wide errors like tube flexure and atmospheric refraction, with 5- to 10-minute unguided exposures common and up to 20 minutes possible.
How does TPoint on the Paramount MYT differ from a standard star alignment?
TPoint creates a comprehensive model of your entire optical system by measuring and correcting for numerous repeatable errors, including:
- Tube flexure
- Atmospheric refraction
- Polar misalignment (both altitude and azimuth)
- Harmonic errors from gears and encoders
This detailed model is what allows the Paramount MYT to achieve its all-sky pointing accuracy of 30 arcseconds RMS or less.
Can I control the Paramount MYT from a Mac or a Linux ARM64 computer?
Yes. The included TheSky Universal bundle comes with a Multi-OS+ license, providing native software for macOS, Windows, and Linux. Linux is supported on both x86_64 and ARM64 architectures.
How would the Paramount MYT perform imaging the Orion Nebula (M42) with a 100mm refractor?
A 100 mm refractor sits well within the MYT's 70 lb. (32 kg) instrument capacity. With a well-calibrated TPoint model and ProTrack, 5- to 10-minute unguided exposures are common, which suits long exposures of the faint outer nebulosity of the Orion Nebula (M42) without a separate autoguiding system.
Is the Paramount MYT practical for taking to a dark sky site?
Yes. The MYT is ideal for portable use. The mount weighs 35 lb. (16 kg) without counterweights or counterweight shaft and carries 70 lb. (32 kg) of instruments.
What software is included with the Paramount MYT?
The Paramount MYT includes a coupon for TheSky Universal bundle, a complete observatory software package. It contains six modules: TheSky Professional, Cameras+, Domes, Multi-OS+, TPoint, and Weather. This integrated suite provides all the tools needed for planetarium navigation, telescope control, automated imaging, and dome synchronization.
Can I power the Paramount MYT from a battery in the field?
The mount runs on 48V DC, supplied by the included 90W power supply (100-240V AC input). Software Bisque's MYT material gives no battery specification, so contact us before planning battery operation.