Planewave L-500 Direct-Drive Telescope Mount

The PlaneWave L-500 Direct Drive Mount embodies the pinnacle of engineering precision, designed to meet the rigorous demands of advanced astrophotographers and astronomical researchers. As a critical part of our L-Series, this mount leverages sophisticated technology to provide an unmatched observational platform.

Key Features Overview

The L-500 distinguishes itself with its significant specifications and features:

• 200 lbs load capacity
• Direct drive motors for zero backlash, zero periodic error, and swift 50-degree-per-second slew speeds
• High-resolution encoders for precise positioning
• Enclosed electronics
• Through the mount cabling
• Alt/Az or equatorial installation orientations
• Ideal for DeltaRho 350, CDK14, CDK17, CDK20 f/6.8, CDK20 f7.7, IRDK14, IRDK17, IRDK20 and RC20 Optical Tube Assemblies
• About the L-500 Direct-Drive Telescope Mount

  Core Features of the L-500 Direct Drive Mount

  State-of-the-Art Direct-Drive Motors

  Equipped with PlaneWave’s proprietary direct-drive motors on each axis, the L-500 ensures smooth, fast, and virtually silent movement of the telescope. This capability is ideal for tracking celestial objects and satellites across the sky with minimal vibration and maximal accuracy.

  High-Resolution Encoders

  With high-resolution encoders on each axis, the L-500 offers exceptionally precise positioning, crucial for capturing sharp, detailed images of the night sky. These encoders are indispensable for scientific applications where exact data collection is paramount.

  Zero Backlash and Periodic Error

  The design of the L-500 eliminates backlash and periodic error, offering stable tracking essential for high-quality astrophotography and dependable, long-term astronomical research.

  Flexible Installation Options

  Available in both Alt/Az and equatorial configurations, the L-500 caters to a variety of observational needs. It is suited for both permanent installations in professional observatories and adaptable setups for serious amateur astronomers.

  Through-the-Mount Cabling

  The innovative through-the-mount cabling system keeps the setup tidy and safe, 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, the PointXP software models the mount’s tracking behavior precisely, enhancing its accuracy for critical applications. This software is invaluable for projects that require exact positioning and tracking over extended periods.

  Application-Specific Advantages

  Astrophotography

  The L-500’s rapid slew speeds and silent operation allow astrophotographers to seamlessly and quietly reposition between shots, capturing stunning celestial images without disturbing the observational environment.

  Research

  Researchers benefit from the L-500’s robust construction and precise tracking capabilities to conduct detailed celestial observations and continuous monitoring with minimal interruption and consistent data quality.

  Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

  With its ability to swiftly and accurately reposition, the L-350 has ben been used for tracking satellites and space debris. However, our L-series mounts work best for astrophotography and research applications. To exceed the ideal performance requirements for SSA/SDA applications, we created the T-600 Direct-Drive Gimbal.

  Type	Alt-Azimuth / Equatorial Direct-Drive Mount
  Weight	257 lbs (100 kg)
  Max. Load Capacity	200 lbs (91 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")

  Control ElectronicsPlaneWave Interface dual axis telescope controlHoming SensorsHome position sensors are included allowing the mount to find its home position on power upSlew Rate20 degrees per second (standard); 50 degrees per second (maximum), both axesPower RequirementAccepts 120 to 240 VAC. Supplied with 120 VAC 15A IEC Type B Regulated Power Adapter.

  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	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-lbs continuous; 50 ft-lbs 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.

  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

  Included Items	Dovetail Saddle (200919) - The PW wide saddle comes standard with the L-500 mount
  	Hardware - Six 1/2-13 x 1 1/4″ socket head cap screws to bolt the mount to the pier or wedge; Six 1/2-13 washers; One extended length shoulder bolt for RA axis to EQ wedge alignment
  	One 16' USB Cable - To connect the mount to the observatory control computer
  	One 120VAC power cable- To provide power to the mount
  	Standard Allen Key Set- For tightening bolts used on the mount
  	Flash drive- Contains PWI4 software for mount control and instructions for installation
  	3/8 Socket - Used for operating the RA balance leadscrew on the mount
  	Gamepad - Used for control of the mount tracking speeds for visual observing
  	Standard Allen Key Set- For tightening bolts used on the mount