What controller do I need for the Feather Touch Gen II focuser?
The Feather Touch Gen II focuser requires an external electronic controller, which is sold separately. You will need either the Starlight Instruments EFS (Electronic Focusing System) or the Focuser Boss II control hub to power and operate the integrated Posi Drive motor.
What is the benefit of the 0.23 micron step size on the Gen II focuser?
A 0.23 micron step size provides extremely fine control over the focus point. This is especially critical for fast telescopes (f/5 or lower) where the zone of sharp focus is very shallow. Such fine resolution allows autofocus software to consistently nail focus to a degree that is impossible to achieve manually, resulting in sharper stars and more detailed images.
How does the 56 lb lifting capacity of the Feather Touch Gen II benefit my imaging rig with a large refractor?
A heavy imaging train on a large refractor—consisting of a large-format cooled CMOS or CCD camera, a 7-position filter wheel, an off-axis guider, and corrective optics—can easily exceed 15-20 lbs. The 56 lb capacity of the Gen II provides a massive safety margin, ensuring the focuser never slips or droops, even when the telescope is pointed near the zenith. This prevents focus shift and tilt, which are common sources of elongated stars at the edge of the field.
Can I still focus the Feather Touch Gen II manually?
Yes. The Feather Touch Gen II retains the signature manual 10:1 dual-speed focus knobs. This allows you to make coarse adjustments quickly for initial setup or eyepiece use, and then use the fine-focus knob for precise manual adjustments before turning control over to your autofocus software.
What's the difference between the Feather Touch Gen II and a standard Feather Touch with an add-on motor?
The primary difference is that the Gen II is an integrated system designed for robotic imaging. Key advantages of the Gen II include:
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Three-point drawtube support to prevent tilt under heavy loads.
- A threaded drawtube for a more secure, flex-free connection to your camera.
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Extremely low backlash from the factory-integrated Posi Drive motor.
A standard focuser with an add-on motor is excellent, but the Gen II is engineered specifically to eliminate the subtle mechanical issues that can affect advanced, automated imaging.
How do I attach the Feather Touch Gen II to my specific telescope?
To mount the focuser, you will need a telescope-specific tube adapter ring. Starlight Instruments makes a wide variety of adapters for most commercial telescopes, including refractors, Ritchey-Chrétiens, and SCTs. You will also need to select the appropriate end cap to connect your camera or accessories to the focuser's drawtube.
