3. Locate the included secondary dovetail adapter
(Fig 38). Note the adapters’ two hex head attaching
screws. Inspect the adapter mounting hole and
verify the attaching screws are suffi ciently screwed
back allowing it to fi t onto the counterweight shaft.
You may need to back the attaching screws out
using the LX80 tool if necessary. Next slip the
dovetail adapter onto the counterweight shaft.
Position the dovetail adapter all the way onto
the shaft so the attaching screws tighten into the
recessed channel at the end of the counterweight
shaft. Position the secondary adapter so it is at the
same angle as the primary OTA dovetail adapter
and tighten to a “snug” fi t using the LX80 tool.
4. Mount the secondary OTA, sliding its dovetail into
the secondary dovetail adapter and secure by
tightening the two dovetail lock knobs.
5 At this point you will need to balance the two OTAs.
Refer back to the section “Balancing the OTA” on
Page 19 for steps balancing in both DEC and RA
axis. Note that to achieve a balance in the RA axis
you may need to add additional counterweights
and or add extensions to the counterweight shaft.
Adding additional counterweight shafts moves
the secondary OTAs mass out further which
will give it greater counter leverage against the
primary OTA.
Balancing the OTAs is especially important when
using the LX80 in the dual OTA mode due to the
higher weight capacity. A balanced telescope in
both the DEC and RA minimizes strain on motors,
gearbox and delivers smoothest operation,
increasing battery life.
Dual OTA Mode
The LX80’s sectional counterweight shaft is designed
to accept a secondary dovetail adapter enabling you
to mount a second optical tube assembly. This offers
you the versatility and convenience of having two
different optical systems mounted and ready for use
at the same time. This is perfect for public outreach
events where dual OTAs allow for multiple viewing of
the same object. LX80’s unique design allows for a
total combined instrument weight of up to 70 pounds in
this confi guration.
The secondary OTA will need to be equipped with a
securely mounted “Vixen®” style dovetail. This OTA
dovetail is not included and will need to be purchased
separately and mounted to your secondary OTA.
Alt-Azimuth Mode
Begin by confi guring the mount in the alt-azimuth
mode. Note that dual OTA usage in the equatorial
mode is not possible, as the second OTA will not clear
the tripod leg.
1 Lock the RA and DEC clutches (Page 8, Fig 1, 29
and 30) so the primary optical tube is stationary.
2. Before beginning the next step it is advised to
enlist the help of a second individual to steady
the primary OTA. Both the counterweight and/or
sections of the counterweight shaft may be removed
and doing so will unbalance the telescope. Having
someone steady the mount while this is being done
will ensure that the un-weighted mount will not tip
over. While being steadied by a second individual,
carefully unscrew and remove the counterweight
safety nut and counterweight shaft(s), leaving
only the fi rst section of the counterweight
shaft attached.
Fig 37: Dual OTA Alt-Az
Fig 38: Secondary mount plate
31
The LX80 Multi-Mount System
