PlaneWave L-550 Direct Drive Telescope Mount
- This item is currently on backorder from the manufacturer.
- Orders are fulfilled in the order they are received once inventory arrives.
Stock count is accurate & shown in real time.
- This item is out of stock.
- Sign up for back-in-stock alerts to be notified when this item becomes available (account login required).
- This item is out of stock.
- Sign up for back-in-stock alerts to be notified when this item becomes available (account login required).
Contiguous US / Lower 48:
Free shipping applies to orders over $50 using our chosen carrier/method. Faster paid options are available at checkout.
Alaska, Hawaii & US Territories:
Free shipping applies to many—but not all—products. Enter your ZIP code in cart or upon checkout to confirm options and costs.
International:
International orders do not qualify for free shipping. Shipping, duties, brokerage, tariffs, and taxes are the customer’s responsibility. Some items may be restricted due to export, size, or manufacturer limitations.
Shipped directly from the PlaneWave factory in Adrian, Michigan. $350 Crating Fee and shipping charges to be billed separately.
-
Direct-Drive Precision: Zero backlash and zero periodic error deliver exceptionally smooth, accurate tracking for imaging and research.
-
Massive Payload Capacity: Supports up to 300 lbs (136.1 kg), making it ideal for large optical systems and professional observatories.
-
Rapid Slew Speeds: Moves at up to 50° per second, allowing you to capture targets across the sky in seconds.
-
Flexible Configuration: Operates in both Alt-Az and Equatorial modes for unmatched versatility in any setup.
PlaneWave L-550 Direct-Drive Telescope Mount
Take your stargazing to the next level with the PlaneWave L‑550 Direct Drive Mount, a powerhouse of precision and versatility. Smooth, responsive movement and effortless tracking make exploring the night sky a joy, while its flexible setup adapts to a wide range of telescopes and observing styles. Whether you’re chasing deep-sky wonders or capturing breathtaking astrophotography, this mount puts the universe at your fingertips. Please note: Price excludes shipping and crating*
L-550 Key Features
- 300 lbs (136.1 kg) load capacity
- Direct drive motors for zero backlash, zero periodic error, and fast 50° per-second slew speeds
- High-resolution encoders for precise positioning
- Enclosed electronics
- Through mount cabling for management
- Alt/Az or equatorial installation orientations
- Ideal for the DeltaRho 500, CDK17, CDK20 f/6.8, CDK20 f/7.7, IRDK17, IRDK20, and RC20 OTAs
Lets Deep Dive in the Core Features
State-of-the-Art Direct-Drive Motors
Equipped with PlaneWave's proprietary direct-drive motors on each axis, the L-550 ensures the telescopes' smooth, fast, and whisper-quiet movement. This capability is crucial for swiftly tracking celestial objects and satellites across the sky with minimal vibration and maximum accuracy.
High Resolution Encoders
With high-resolution encoders on each axis, the L-550 delivers exact positioning, essential for capturing crisp, detailed night sky images. These encoders are vital for scientific applications demanding precise data collection.
Zero Backlash and Periodic Error
The L-550's design eliminates backlash and periodic error, facilitating steady tracking vital for top-notch astrophotography and dependable, long-term observational research.
Flexible Installation Options
The L-550 is available in both Alt/Az and equatorial configurations to meet a variety of observational needs. This versatility makes it suitable for fixed installations in educational observatories and adaptable setups for amateur astronomers.
Through-the-Mount Cabling
The innovative through-the-mount cabling system enhances setup neatness and safety, preventing cable snagging and reducing setup time.
Azimuth Dovetail Balance System
Provides precise center of gravity adjustments, enhancing the stability and performance of the system in both alt-azimuth and equatorial configurations, crucial for maintaining accurate tracking and reducing strain on the mount during extended observations.
Optional Dual Mounting Bracket
Allows for the attachment of additional telescopes or accessories on the mount, enhancing versatility and enabling simultaneous multi-instrument use, ideal for complex observational setups or educational demonstrations.
Rapid Target Acquisition
Equipped with direct-drive motors capable of slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second, enabling quick and efficient targeting of celestial objects and satellites, crucial for dynamic observations and time-sensitive astrophotography.
PointXP Mount Modeling Software
Included with the mount, PointXP software creates precise models of the mount's tracking behavior, improving its accuracy for critical applications. This software is invaluable for projects requiring exact positioning and tracking over extended periods.
Application-Specific Advantages
The PlaneWave L‑550 Direct Drive Mount is designed for a wide range of observational pursuits. Astrophotographers will appreciate its rapid, silent slewing, which allows for quick repositioning between shots to capture stunning celestial images without disturbing the observational environment. Researchers benefit from its robust construction and precise tracking, enabling detailed celestial studies and long-duration monitoring with consistent, high-quality data. The mount’s speed and accuracy also make it capable of tracking satellites and space debris, though for applications requiring extended Space Situational Awareness (SSA) or Space Domain Awareness (SDA) performance, the T‑600 Direct-Drive Gimbal is the ideal solution.
Specifications
Mount System
- Type: Alt-Azimuth / Equatorial Direct-Drive Mount
- Weight: 338 lb (153 kg)
- Max. Load Capacity: 300 lb (136.1 kg)
- Latitude Range: 0 to 90 degrees, Northern and Southern hemispheres
- Cable Management: Equipment cables can be wired through mount
- Swing-Through Length (From Altitude Axis): 650.748 mm (25.62 in)
Control System
- Control Electronics: PlaneWave Interface dual axis telescope control
- Homing Sensors: Home position sensors are included allowing the mount to find its home position on power up
- Slew Rate: 20° per second (standard); 50° per second (maximum), both axes
- Power Requirement: Accepts 100-240 VAC 50/60HZ. Supplied with 120 VAC 15A IEC Type B Regulated Power Adapter
Motion Control
- Motor Control: Industrial grade brushless motor control system and built in electronics
- Motor – Azimuth and Altitude: Direct-Drive 3 Phase Axial-Flux Torque Motors Encoder – Azimuth and Altitude
- Encoder – Azimuth and Altitude: 152 mm stainless steel encoder ring with reader built into the azimuth and altitude axes. 18,880,000 counts per revolution (0.069-arcsecond resolution).
- Motor Torque: Approximately 20 ft-lb continuous; 50 ft-lb peak
- Drive Electronics: Industrial grade, off-the-shelf brushless motor drives for each axis with custom designed interface card
- Telescope Control Software: Uses PWI4. Incorporates PointXP mount modeling software by Dave Rowe. All ASCOM compatible.
System Performance
- Pointing Accuracy: <10-arcsecond RMS with PointXP Model
- Pointing Precision: 2 arcseconds at sidereal velocity
- Tracking Accuracy: 0.3 arcseconds over a 5-minute period at sidereal velocity
- System Natural Frequency: 10 Hz or greater
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: United States
PlaneWave L-550 Direct-Drive Telescope Mount
Take your stargazing to the next level with the PlaneWave L‑550 Direct Drive Mount, a powerhouse of precision and versatility. Smooth, responsive movement and effortless tracking make exploring the night sky a joy, while its flexible setup adapts to a wide range of telescopes and observing styles. Whether you’re chasing deep-sky wonders or capturing breathtaking astrophotography, this mount puts the universe at your fingertips. Please note: Price excludes shipping and crating*
L-550 Key Features
- 300 lbs (136.1 kg) load capacity
- Direct drive motors for zero backlash, zero periodic error, and fast 50° per-second slew speeds
- High-resolution encoders for precise positioning
- Enclosed electronics
- Through mount cabling for management
- Alt/Az or equatorial installation orientations
- Ideal for the DeltaRho 500, CDK17, CDK20 f/6.8, CDK20 f/7.7, IRDK17, IRDK20, and RC20 OTAs
Lets Deep Dive in the Core Features
State-of-the-Art Direct-Drive Motors
Equipped with PlaneWave's proprietary direct-drive motors on each axis, the L-550 ensures the telescopes' smooth, fast, and whisper-quiet movement. This capability is crucial for swiftly tracking celestial objects and satellites across the sky with minimal vibration and maximum accuracy.
High Resolution Encoders
With high-resolution encoders on each axis, the L-550 delivers exact positioning, essential for capturing crisp, detailed night sky images. These encoders are vital for scientific applications demanding precise data collection.
Zero Backlash and Periodic Error
The L-550's design eliminates backlash and periodic error, facilitating steady tracking vital for top-notch astrophotography and dependable, long-term observational research.
Flexible Installation Options
The L-550 is available in both Alt/Az and equatorial configurations to meet a variety of observational needs. This versatility makes it suitable for fixed installations in educational observatories and adaptable setups for amateur astronomers.
Through-the-Mount Cabling
The innovative through-the-mount cabling system enhances setup neatness and safety, preventing cable snagging and reducing setup time.
Azimuth Dovetail Balance System
Provides precise center of gravity adjustments, enhancing the stability and performance of the system in both alt-azimuth and equatorial configurations, crucial for maintaining accurate tracking and reducing strain on the mount during extended observations.
Optional Dual Mounting Bracket
Allows for the attachment of additional telescopes or accessories on the mount, enhancing versatility and enabling simultaneous multi-instrument use, ideal for complex observational setups or educational demonstrations.
Rapid Target Acquisition
Equipped with direct-drive motors capable of slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second, enabling quick and efficient targeting of celestial objects and satellites, crucial for dynamic observations and time-sensitive astrophotography.
PointXP Mount Modeling Software
Included with the mount, PointXP software creates precise models of the mount's tracking behavior, improving its accuracy for critical applications. This software is invaluable for projects requiring exact positioning and tracking over extended periods.
Application-Specific Advantages
The PlaneWave L‑550 Direct Drive Mount is designed for a wide range of observational pursuits. Astrophotographers will appreciate its rapid, silent slewing, which allows for quick repositioning between shots to capture stunning celestial images without disturbing the observational environment. Researchers benefit from its robust construction and precise tracking, enabling detailed celestial studies and long-duration monitoring with consistent, high-quality data. The mount’s speed and accuracy also make it capable of tracking satellites and space debris, though for applications requiring extended Space Situational Awareness (SSA) or Space Domain Awareness (SDA) performance, the T‑600 Direct-Drive Gimbal is the ideal solution.
Specifications
Mount System
- Type: Alt-Azimuth / Equatorial Direct-Drive Mount
- Weight: 338 lb (153 kg)
- Max. Load Capacity: 300 lb (136.1 kg)
- Latitude Range: 0 to 90 degrees, Northern and Southern hemispheres
- Cable Management: Equipment cables can be wired through mount
- Swing-Through Length (From Altitude Axis): 650.748 mm (25.62 in)
Control System
- Control Electronics: PlaneWave Interface dual axis telescope control
- Homing Sensors: Home position sensors are included allowing the mount to find its home position on power up
- Slew Rate: 20° per second (standard); 50° per second (maximum), both axes
- Power Requirement: Accepts 100-240 VAC 50/60HZ. Supplied with 120 VAC 15A IEC Type B Regulated Power Adapter
Motion Control
- Motor Control: Industrial grade brushless motor control system and built in electronics
- Motor – Azimuth and Altitude: Direct-Drive 3 Phase Axial-Flux Torque Motors Encoder – Azimuth and Altitude
- Encoder – Azimuth and Altitude: 152 mm stainless steel encoder ring with reader built into the azimuth and altitude axes. 18,880,000 counts per revolution (0.069-arcsecond resolution).
- Motor Torque: Approximately 20 ft-lb continuous; 50 ft-lb peak
- Drive Electronics: Industrial grade, off-the-shelf brushless motor drives for each axis with custom designed interface card
- Telescope Control Software: Uses PWI4. Incorporates PointXP mount modeling software by Dave Rowe. All ASCOM compatible.
System Performance
- Pointing Accuracy: <10-arcsecond RMS with PointXP Model
- Pointing Precision: 2 arcseconds at sidereal velocity
- Tracking Accuracy: 0.3 arcseconds over a 5-minute period at sidereal velocity
- System Natural Frequency: 10 Hz or greater
-
Dovetail Saddle (200919): PW wide saddle, included as standard with the L‑550 mount.
-
Mounting Hardware: All necessary bolts and washers to secure the mount to a pier or wedge.
-
USB Cable (16 ft): Connects the mount to your observatory control computer.
-
Power Cable (120 VAC): Provides power to the mount.
-
Allen Key Set: Handy tools for tightening all mount bolts.
-
Gamepad: Control mount tracking speeds easily during visual observing.
-
3/8″ Socket: Used to operate the RA balance leadscrew on the mount.
Shipped directly from the PlaneWave factory in Adrian, Michigan. $350 Crating Fee and shipping charges to be billed separately.
-
Direct-Drive Precision: Zero backlash and zero periodic error deliver exceptionally smooth, accurate tracking for imaging and research.
-
Massive Payload Capacity: Supports up to 300 lbs (136.1 kg), making it ideal for large optical systems and professional observatories.
-
Rapid Slew Speeds: Moves at up to 50° per second, allowing you to capture targets across the sky in seconds.
-
Flexible Configuration: Operates in both Alt-Az and Equatorial modes for unmatched versatility in any setup.
PlaneWave L-550 Direct-Drive Telescope Mount
Take your stargazing to the next level with the PlaneWave L‑550 Direct Drive Mount, a powerhouse of precision and versatility. Smooth, responsive movement and effortless tracking make exploring the night sky a joy, while its flexible setup adapts to a wide range of telescopes and observing styles. Whether you’re chasing deep-sky wonders or capturing breathtaking astrophotography, this mount puts the universe at your fingertips. Please note: Price excludes shipping and crating*
L-550 Key Features
- 300 lbs (136.1 kg) load capacity
- Direct drive motors for zero backlash, zero periodic error, and fast 50° per-second slew speeds
- High-resolution encoders for precise positioning
- Enclosed electronics
- Through mount cabling for management
- Alt/Az or equatorial installation orientations
- Ideal for the DeltaRho 500, CDK17, CDK20 f/6.8, CDK20 f/7.7, IRDK17, IRDK20, and RC20 OTAs
Lets Deep Dive in the Core Features
State-of-the-Art Direct-Drive Motors
Equipped with PlaneWave's proprietary direct-drive motors on each axis, the L-550 ensures the telescopes' smooth, fast, and whisper-quiet movement. This capability is crucial for swiftly tracking celestial objects and satellites across the sky with minimal vibration and maximum accuracy.
High Resolution Encoders
With high-resolution encoders on each axis, the L-550 delivers exact positioning, essential for capturing crisp, detailed night sky images. These encoders are vital for scientific applications demanding precise data collection.
Zero Backlash and Periodic Error
The L-550's design eliminates backlash and periodic error, facilitating steady tracking vital for top-notch astrophotography and dependable, long-term observational research.
Flexible Installation Options
The L-550 is available in both Alt/Az and equatorial configurations to meet a variety of observational needs. This versatility makes it suitable for fixed installations in educational observatories and adaptable setups for amateur astronomers.
Through-the-Mount Cabling
The innovative through-the-mount cabling system enhances setup neatness and safety, preventing cable snagging and reducing setup time.
Azimuth Dovetail Balance System
Provides precise center of gravity adjustments, enhancing the stability and performance of the system in both alt-azimuth and equatorial configurations, crucial for maintaining accurate tracking and reducing strain on the mount during extended observations.
Optional Dual Mounting Bracket
Allows for the attachment of additional telescopes or accessories on the mount, enhancing versatility and enabling simultaneous multi-instrument use, ideal for complex observational setups or educational demonstrations.
Rapid Target Acquisition
Equipped with direct-drive motors capable of slew speeds up to 50 degrees per second, enabling quick and efficient targeting of celestial objects and satellites, crucial for dynamic observations and time-sensitive astrophotography.
PointXP Mount Modeling Software
Included with the mount, PointXP software creates precise models of the mount's tracking behavior, improving its accuracy for critical applications. This software is invaluable for projects requiring exact positioning and tracking over extended periods.
Application-Specific Advantages
The PlaneWave L‑550 Direct Drive Mount is designed for a wide range of observational pursuits. Astrophotographers will appreciate its rapid, silent slewing, which allows for quick repositioning between shots to capture stunning celestial images without disturbing the observational environment. Researchers benefit from its robust construction and precise tracking, enabling detailed celestial studies and long-duration monitoring with consistent, high-quality data. The mount’s speed and accuracy also make it capable of tracking satellites and space debris, though for applications requiring extended Space Situational Awareness (SSA) or Space Domain Awareness (SDA) performance, the T‑600 Direct-Drive Gimbal is the ideal solution.
Specifications
Mount System
- Type: Alt-Azimuth / Equatorial Direct-Drive Mount
- Weight: 338 lb (153 kg)
- Max. Load Capacity: 300 lb (136.1 kg)
- Latitude Range: 0 to 90 degrees, Northern and Southern hemispheres
- Cable Management: Equipment cables can be wired through mount
- Swing-Through Length (From Altitude Axis): 650.748 mm (25.62 in)
Control System
- Control Electronics: PlaneWave Interface dual axis telescope control
- Homing Sensors: Home position sensors are included allowing the mount to find its home position on power up
- Slew Rate: 20° per second (standard); 50° per second (maximum), both axes
- Power Requirement: Accepts 100-240 VAC 50/60HZ. Supplied with 120 VAC 15A IEC Type B Regulated Power Adapter
Motion Control
- Motor Control: Industrial grade brushless motor control system and built in electronics
- Motor – Azimuth and Altitude: Direct-Drive 3 Phase Axial-Flux Torque Motors Encoder – Azimuth and Altitude
- Encoder – Azimuth and Altitude: 152 mm stainless steel encoder ring with reader built into the azimuth and altitude axes. 18,880,000 counts per revolution (0.069-arcsecond resolution).
- Motor Torque: Approximately 20 ft-lb continuous; 50 ft-lb peak
- Drive Electronics: Industrial grade, off-the-shelf brushless motor drives for each axis with custom designed interface card
- Telescope Control Software: Uses PWI4. Incorporates PointXP mount modeling software by Dave Rowe. All ASCOM compatible.
System Performance
- Pointing Accuracy: <10-arcsecond RMS with PointXP Model
- Pointing Precision: 2 arcseconds at sidereal velocity
- Tracking Accuracy: 0.3 arcseconds over a 5-minute period at sidereal velocity
- System Natural Frequency: 10 Hz or greater
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: United States
-
Dovetail Saddle (200919): PW wide saddle, included as standard with the L‑550 mount.
-
Mounting Hardware: All necessary bolts and washers to secure the mount to a pier or wedge.
-
USB Cable (16 ft): Connects the mount to your observatory control computer.
-
Power Cable (120 VAC): Provides power to the mount.
-
Allen Key Set: Handy tools for tightening all mount bolts.
-
Gamepad: Control mount tracking speeds easily during visual observing.
-
3/8″ Socket: Used to operate the RA balance leadscrew on the mount.
PlaneWave L-550 Direct Drive Telescope Mount