Imaging Train

The imaging train is the hub of the telescope and CCD camera.  This is where all the "action" comes together, so the imaging train must be functional and have a solid platform to which instrumentation can be installed.  The imaging train is the Van Slyke "SuperStack", and is comprised of the OMG 80mm (3") Crayford focuser, Zerotator imaging train rotator, and Sidewinder optical manifold. A RoboFocus stepper motor is installed to the focuser, and controls focuser movements. An Optec 0.7x focal reducer / field flattener is at the back end of the Sidewinder, and receives the QSI imaging camera. The Sidewinder also has three ports for other accessories; two for eyepieces and one for off-axis guiding.