New Moonlight Focuser

ReaPerMan (Paul) · #1 29-09-2011, 10:56 AM

I have just received my new Moonlight Focuser for my GSO RC10 and when it arrived it has a new feature of a "slip clutch". This has the addition of a new lock ring next to the stepper motor that allows for an amount of adjustable "slip" when unlocked the Manual knob on the right can then be used to rack the focuser in and out.

Quote from included paperwork:

" The amount of slip can be adjusted on the new slip clutch by adjusting the tightness of the slip clutch ring. For manual knob operation of the focuser, turn the silver knurled ring loose. For motor operation of the focuser, tighten the silver knurled ring.

to adjust the knurled rings tension, it helps to hold the manual knob still with your right hand and turn the clutch ring with your left hand. Holding the manual knob in place will keep the shaft from turning allowing the clutch ring to tighten/loosen the clutch."

I haven't had it out for first light yet but hope this will happen in the next few days.

All the best

Paul

RickS (Rick) · #2 29-09-2011, 06:24 PM

Nice looking focuser, Paul! I just ran out of backfocus on my RC10 so I've ordered an Atlas.

Cheers,
Rick.

Marke (Mark) · #3 29-09-2011, 06:43 PM

Nice , I did consider the moonlight but went with the 3" Feathertouch because it was easier just get another motor for other focusers as needed
and their motor is very small and compact.
Rick how do you run out of backfocus ? there is so much of it.

RickS (Rick) · #4 29-09-2011, 06:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marke

Rick how do you run out of backfocus ? there is so much of it.

Easy, Mark... Focal reducer, AO, OAG, filterwheel + camera. I was fine until I decided I needed the AO, but that chews up another 40mm. I can't think of anything else I need, so that's the end of it

Marke (Mark) · #5 29-09-2011, 06:57 PM

Well in that case i can see how

- have you looked at the SX filter wheel with the OAG or is that what you are using ?

Paul Haese · #6 29-09-2011, 07:19 PM

Nice Paul. I have a Moonlite on the C14 but for the RC's I have Feather touch focusors. I only went with them because of the non manual mode (with electric motor) of the past with the Moonlite. Certainly another option to consider.

RickS (Rick) · #7 29-09-2011, 07:21 PM

Yes, I will be using SX AO-LF, FW/OAG and H-18 camera. I'll have a bit of backfocus to space once I get the Atlas, but the Featherlite 3.5" focuser takes up too much back focus to accommodate that combination.

Marke (Mark) · #8 29-09-2011, 07:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RickS

Yes, I will be using SX AO-LF, FW/OAG and H-18 camera. I'll have a bit of backfocus to space once I get the Atlas, but the Featherlite 3.5" focuser takes up too much back focus to accommodate that combination.

You mean the 3" dont you ? I hope but a nice combo for imaging

RickS (Rick) · #9 29-09-2011, 07:30 PM

Sorry, yes it's the 3". I was considering a 3.5" for my Tak but decided the Atlas will work for both scopes.

ReaPerMan (Paul) · #10 29-09-2011, 08:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paul Haese

Nice Paul. I have a Moonlite on the C14 but for the RC's I have Feather touch focusors. I only went with them because of the non manual mode (with electric motor) of the past with the Moonlite. Certainly another option to consider.

I agree Paul the non manual mode with my last focuser was annoying at times, This should be a nice improvement on a good product. The cost advantage of the Moonlight is also someting to consider

MoonLite CS Model SCT Focusers ($435.00)
Flange=2" RC 10/12" thread size
Drawtube=1.5" travel brass comp ring
Knob/Motor=High Res Stepper motor ( add $190 )

Shipping: $57.00
Grand Total: $492.00 (US$)

The service from Ron is outstanding and he never sleeps all my e-mails have been answered within the shortest space of time ever!

All the best

Paul

Hans Tucker (Hans) · #11 29-09-2011, 10:06 PM

Jeez Paul, that choice of colour for your new focuser would get you crucified on a certain rival Astro website. In their forum there is a thread going about the choice in colour that people make when selecting focuser units...particularly from ML...seems Red & Blue are poor choices...it is brushed aluminium or black...and I didn't think the Amish were into Astronomy.

ReaPerMan (Paul) · #12 29-09-2011, 10:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hans Tucker

Jeez Paul, that choice of colour for your new focuser would get you crucified on a certain rival Astro website. In their forum there is a thread going about the choice in colour that people make when selecting focuser units...particularly from ML...seems Red & Blue are poor choices...it is brushed aluminium or black...and I didn't think the Amish were into Astronomy.

The puritan spirit is alive and well!

I think the trend is that not only do we want terrific optics, we want our "stuff" to look good... Italian optics with a ferrari red look (Officina Stellare), even a WO ferrari scope!! It even goes to Skywatcher black with that extra dazzle to it. Leave the brushed stainless look to microwaves, dishwashers and fridges.

Obviously there has to be a line or we could end up in transparent pink and blue like those Apple computers many years ago!

Anyone else feel the same way?

all the best

Paul

PeterM · #13 30-09-2011, 03:16 PM

I bought the red Moonlite for my 12inch LX200R so I'm in the poor choice colour it seems. Yes Paul it adds to the great look of the scope. The unit itself is superb and with the Rigel motor system it plugs directly into the LX200 base and is controlled well through SkyX/CCD Soft. The service is absolutely outstanding.
Actually why don't we run our own poll on focuser colour choice? Anyone wanna run with it, could be interesting.
PeterM.

Brundah1 (David) · #14 01-10-2011, 03:16 PM

Nice one Paul,

I have a "Red" CFL Moonlite with threaded 3" drawtube, clutched stepper motor & Mini controller due to arrive any day. I also took a 1" DT extension just in case it may be needed later on

(Its going on the 127EDT).

The new clutch and single speed manual may not be ideal. If not happy I can always revert to USB-nSTEP & manual box.

Just thought I would keep it all in the Moonlite

Have to

to Ron Newman he is amazing, over several days about 4 email exchanges to clarify details, most were answered within 20mins. Between my order and final email 3 hours later (which he answered in 10 mins), he had just finished personal assembly of my CFL kit, included some "freebie setscrews" & dispatched the package!

Previously I have had personal service above and beyond by Craig Weatherwax (OPT), similar from Anthony Davoli (ADM) and now Ron Newman at Moonlite! Its no wonder we do direct business with these guys for special equipment.

David

allan gould · #15 01-10-2011, 05:04 PM

I have two moonlight focusers and both are RED
Just love them and thinking of getting another for my new scope, and it will be red also.

PRejto (Peter) · #16 01-10-2011, 05:34 PM

I have 2 red ML focusers......Must say it looks very nice with the red MX mount!

marki · #17 01-10-2011, 06:36 PM

I have two moonlite focusers (in blue of course) one of which is a two speed manual the other a stepper driven unit. I use the moonlite controller to drive the stepper unit which is great. Both focusers are about 4 years old now and still look as new and work as well as the day I got them. Both are rock solid for AP use. I cannot praise Ron highly enough to do him justice. His service is amongst the best in the world bar none. I have even bought anodising supplies from him for my small home workshop and again his service and attention to detail were outstanding. I cannot say the same for the feather touch crew who stuffed me around and treated me like an idiot for 6 months. Will I buy a FT again.....not bloody likely.

Mark