Upgrade in the dome to the Software Bisque MX mount
Ozark Hills Observatory upgrades from an LX850 to the advanced Software Bisque Paramount MX+ mount, enhancing precision and stability for astronomical observations. Experience superior tracking and imaging capabilities with this state-of-the-art equipment. Stay tuned for more stellar updates!
We’re thrilled to announce that Ozark Hills Observatory has upgraded from the Meade LX850 to the cutting-edge Software Bisque Paramount MX+ mount! This upgrade represents a significant leap forward in our observational capabilities, bringing enhanced precision and performance to our astronomical endeavors.
The Paramount MX+ Series 6: Leading-Edge Technology
The Paramount MX+ Series 6 sets the standard for gear-driven German equatorial mounts with its latest features and improvements. Key highlights include:
- Increased Capacity: A 25% increase in instrument capacity, supporting up to 125 lb. (56 kg) and a maximum payload of 250 lb. (113 kg) with counterweights.
- Enhanced Accuracy: All-sky pointing accuracies at or below 30 arcseconds RMS, with motor-based encoders achieving peak-to-peak periodic error of just 1 arcsecond after training.
- Optional On-Axis Encoders: These provide exceptional tracking and pointing accuracy without the need for homing, boasting 0.02 arcsecond resolution and an extended operating temperature range.
- Advanced Control System: The MKS 6000 control system features USB-C, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity, along with three high-power XT60 ports and a versatile drop-in dovetail system for easy telescope installation.
The upgrade to the Paramount MX+ mount at Ozark Hills Observatory significantly boosts our ability to run heavier equipment, including the 14" ACF, TEC 180 FL, and the 12" AGO, for extended observing sessions. The Paramount MX+ offers unparalleled stability and precision, allowing us to fully utilize the potential of our advanced telescopes.
Superior Stability for Longer Sessions
The mount's unibody design, combined with its advanced motor-based encoders and belt-driven pulleys with spring-loaded worm gears, ensures virtually zero backlash and exceptional tracking accuracy. This superior stability is crucial for long observation sessions, reducing the need for frequent adjustments and enhancing the quality of our data and images.
Extended Observing Opportunities
With the Paramount MX+, we can conduct much longer observing sessions with our heaviest and most powerful equipment. This extended residence time means we can capture more detailed and higher-quality astronomical data, pushing the boundaries of our research and astrophotography.
In summary, the Paramount MX+ mount's advanced features and superior stability open new possibilities for Ozark Hills Observatory, allowing us to run our most substantial equipment for prolonged periods and achieve unprecedented observational accuracy.
Looking Forward to Sharing Our Discoveries
We feel incredibly lucky and blessed to own this latest in telescope equipment. The capabilities of the Paramount MX+ mount open up new possibilities for exploring the universe, and we can't wait to share the results with you. From detailed images of distant galaxies to intricate shots of nebulae, our upcoming deep space astrophotography projects are bound to be breathtaking.
Thank you for being a part of our journey. Stay tuned for some incredible images and discoveries from the Ozark Hills Observatory. Here’s to clear skies and exciting adventures ahead!
About the Author
Meet Richard Harris. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of ScopeTrader, with over 30 years of experience in observational astronomy and astrophotography. He serves as the director of the Ozark Hills Observatory, where his research and imagery have been featured in scientific textbooks, academic publications, and educational media. Among his theoretical contributions is a cosmological proposition known as The Harris Paradox, which explores deep-field observational symmetry and time-invariant structures in cosmic evolution. A committed citizen scientist, Harris is actively involved with the Springfield Astronomical Society, the Amateur Astronomers Association, the Astronomical League, and the International Dark-Sky Association. He is a strong advocate for reducing light pollution and enhancing public understanding of the cosmos. In 2001, Harris developed the German Equatorial HyperTune—a precision mechanical enhancement for equatorial telescope mounts that has since become a global standard among amateur and professional astronomers seeking improved tracking and imaging performance. Beyond the observatory, Harris is a serial entrepreneur and founder of several technology ventures, including Moonbeam® (a software company), App Developer Magazine (a leading industry publication for software developers), Chirp GPS (a widely used mobile tracking application), MarketByte, and other startups spanning software, mobile, and cloud-based technologies. Driven by both scientific curiosity and creative innovation, Harris continues to blend the frontiers of astronomy and technology, inspiring others to explore the universe and rethink the possibilities within it. When he's not taking photos of our universe, you can find him with family, playing guitar, or traveling.
