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Closed October 10–12 for Thanksgiving weekend
Closed October 10–12 for Thanksgiving weekend

Software Bisque Taurus Rotator

by Software Bisque
SKU SB10345
Sold out
CA$13,853.00 - CA$13,853.00
CA$13,853.00
CA$13,853.00 - CA$13,853.00
CA$13,853.00
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  • 89 mm (3.5 in.) clear aperture
  • 26-bit absolute encoder resolution
  • 540 degrees of rotational travel
  • 70 mm (2.75 in.) back focus consumption
  • 9 Nm (7 ft-lbs.) of torque
  • Integrates with TheSky software
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Software Bisque Taurus Rotator

    The Software Bisque Taurus Rotator provides automated, high-precision field rotation with its 26-bit absolute encoder and full 540-degree travel range. It maintains a clear optical path of 89 mm while consuming a fixed 70 mm of back focus in your imaging train. Built from machined 6061 aluminum and weighing 4.5 kg, it delivers 9 Nm of torque for reliably rotating heavy camera packages without flexure or slippage.

    3-Axis Controller Integration for Paramount Mounts

    Designed for seamless operation within the Software Bisque ecosystem, the Taurus Rotator is commanded by a three-axis industrial direct drive motor controller and TheSky software. This integration is essential for Paramount Apollo altazimuth mounts, where it actively cancels out field rotation to enable long-exposure astrophotography. For equatorial systems like the Paramount Taurus, it simplifies precise framing and the creation of multi-panel mosaics.

    Robust Mechanics: 89mm Clear Aperture and 70mm Back Focus

    The rotator's mechanical design ensures it won't be the weak link in your optical setup. A generous 89 mm clear aperture prevents vignetting on even full-frame and larger format sensors. The rigid, 200 mm diameter housing is machined from 6061 aluminum to handle heavy loads, while the unit's 70 mm thickness defines its back focus requirement—a critical number for planning your imaging train.

    • Telescope-Side Connection: Features an Optec-style 4300 dovetail for secure, standardized mounting.
    • Camera-Side Connection: Uses a large 89 mm (3.5 in.) 24 TPI threaded interface for direct attachment of heavy camera systems.
    • Weight and Balance: At 4.5 kg (10.2 lbs.), its weight must be factored into the total payload calculation for your mount.

    26-bit Absolute Encoder for Repeatable 540° Rotation

    At the heart of the rotator is a 26-bit absolute encoder, which provides exceptional pointing accuracy and repeatability without ever needing to be homed. The rotator always knows its exact orientation. Its 540 degrees of total travel allows for more than a full rotation, preventing cable wrap and snags when tracking objects across the meridian or slewing between targets.

  • What is the primary function of the Software Bisque Taurus Rotator on an alt-az mount like the Paramount Apollo?

    On an alt-azimuth mount, the sky appears to rotate from the camera's perspective. The Software Bisque Taurus Rotator is essential for long-exposure astrophotography with these systems, as it precisely counter-rotates the camera to match the sky, preventing stars from trailing in your images.

    How does the Software Bisque Taurus Rotator benefit imaging with a Paramount Taurus equatorial mount?

    While an equatorial mount prevents field rotation, the Software Bisque Taurus Rotator provides critical framing control. It allows you to orient your camera to the perfect angle for a specific composition, match guide star availability for an off-axis guider, or automate the precise overlaps needed for large mosaic projects.

    My imaging train is heavy. Can the Software Bisque Taurus Rotator handle a large camera and filter wheel?

    Yes. The rotator is built from machined 6061 aluminum and delivers 9 Nm (7 ft-lbs) of torque. This is more than sufficient to rotate heavy and potentially off-balance camera packages, weighing up to its own 4.5 kg and beyond, without slipping or introducing flexure into the optical path.

    What do I need to control the Software Bisque Taurus Rotator?

    The Software Bisque Taurus Rotator is designed to be controlled by its dedicated three-axis industrial direct drive motor controller and integrated into your workflow using TheSky software. Custom software can also be used to command the controller.

    When imaging the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) across the meridian, how does the Taurus Rotator's 540° travel help?

    The extended 540° rotational travel of the Software Bisque Taurus Rotator prevents cable management issues. As your mount performs a meridian flip, the rotator can continue turning in the same direction without having to unwind, ensuring your USB, power, and data cables do not become tangled or disconnected during a long imaging sequence.

    How much back focus does the Software Bisque Taurus Rotator use and what are its connections?

    The rotator consumes exactly 70 mm (2.75 in.) of back focus. It connects to the telescope side via an Optec-style 4300 dovetail and to the camera side with a large 89 mm (3.5 in.) 24 TPI thread.

  • Clear Aperture 89 mm (3.5 in.)
    Back Focus Consumption 70 mm (2.75 in.)
    Encoder Resolution 26-bit absolute
    Rotational Travel 540 degrees
    Torque 9 Nm (7 ft-lbs.)
    Weight 4.5 kg (10.2 lbs.)
    Outer Diameter 200 mm (8 in.)
    Thickness 70 mm (2.75 in.)
    Telescope Adapter Optec-style 4300 dovetail
    Camera Adapter 89 mm (3.5 in.) 24 TPI thread
    Construction Machined 6061 aluminum housing
    Control System Three-axis industrial direct drive motor controller
    Software Command TheSky software or custom software
  • Software Bisque 2-Year Warranty