Track The Stars TTS-160 Panther Lite Mount Head with Built-In Encoders, Counterweight Arms &...
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TTS-160 Panther Lite Telescope Mount Head (encoder version)
The TTS-160 Panther Lite is a versatile, lightweight Alt-Az mount that combines smooth manual operation with an innovative design for effortless and enjoyable visual astronomy.
Weighing just 7 kg, the TTS-160 Panther Lite is crafted from anodized aluminium, stainless steel, and a durable plastic cover—delivering both portability and durability. Despite its lightweight, it boasts an impressive capacity: up to 28 kg side-mounted or 25 kg top-mounted telescopes.
The Panther Lite is equipped with optical encoders offering 79,888 pulses per revolution (16 arcseconds per pulse), easily connectable via an RJ45 connector for seamless integration with Nexus DSC units. Smooth and precise control is assured with adjustable slide clutches on both axes and an altitude axle lock for secure setup and configuration changes.
Designed for flexibility, the mount accommodates dovetail saddles with M8 and M6 thread patterns for easy installation. For additional balance, two counterweight arms can be configured for top-mounted setups or eyepiece comfort balancing during side-mounted use.
With options for tripod and pier adapters and mounting holes for accessory trays, the Panther Lite delivers unparalleled versatility and precision for serious visual astronomers.
Key Features
Versatile Mounting
Many amateur astronomers use more than one telescope or dream about it. Sometimes you want to use the ultra-sharp refractor, the bino-scopes for better wide field views, or just a big light bucket. Refractors, Reflectors, Newtonians – with the Panther Lite you are prepared for every setup.
Its unique design can simultaneously accommodate up to three telescopes—two side-mounted and one top-mounted—offering unparalleled flexibility.
One Telescope
The TTS-160 Lite lets you mount a single telescope, with the option of side- or top-mounting. Top-mounting is ideal for large binoscopes and refractors and allows for convenient safe installation in a horizontal dovetail saddle. Side-mounting suits most telescopes and allows for counterweight free setup.
Two Telescopes
Refractor or larger reflector for Jupiter? With the TTS-160 Lite, you can mount multiple telescopes at once, avoiding the hassle and risk of switching mid-session. Chose between two side-mounted or one side-mounted and one top-mounted. It’s up to you.
Three Telescopes
The TTS-160 Lite supports up to three telescopes simultaneously—two side-mounted and one top-mounted—offering exceptional versatility for exploring different perspectives and setups in a single session.
Comfort Balancing
The release of the TTS-160 Panther Lite introduces an innovative Comfort Balancing system designed to enhance your viewing comfort during extended stargazing sessions. By incorporating a smart back-balancing mechanism and easily adjustable counterweights, this system keeps your eyepiece height consistent, no matter where your telescope is pointed in the sky.
How It Works:
- The back-balancing system minimizes the eyepiece height variation, keeping it within a manageable range even when viewing objects high overhead.
- Adjustable counterweights allow for fine-tuning balance based on heavy eyepieces, binoviewers, or finder scopes.
- A two-axis balancing system ensures smooth operation and perfect control at any altitude.
With Comfort Balancing, you can focus more on the stars and less on adjusting your setup. The result? Longer, more enjoyable observing sessions without strain or hassle.
Smooth Manual Operation
The TTS-160 Panther Lite is crafted for astronomers who appreciate hands-on control. Its smooth manual operation offers a truly intuitive and precise experience, allowing you to effortlessly guide your telescope across the night sky.
The key to the mount’s smooth manual operation is the adjustable slide clutches and an innovative two-axis balancing system, which work together to provide fluid, jerk-free motion. Whether you’re trying to track a faint deep-space object or the intricate details of a lunar crater, the Panther Lite responds smoothly to your touch.
What makes it exceptional:
- Adjustable Clutches: Fine-tune the resistance for both altitude and azimuth, ensuring optimal movement with minimal effort.
- Two-Axis Balancing System: Maintain perfect balance regardless of your telescope’s orientation, keeping motion seamless and predictable.
With the TTS-160 Panther Lite, you stay connected to the sky through the pure, uncomplicated joy of manual operation.
Adjustable Slide Clutches
The mount has adjustable slide clutches on both the altitude and azimuth axes. These clutches give you the flexibility to fine-tune the resistance to match your preferred level of control:
- Light Settings for Smooth Motion: Set the clutches lightly to achieve feather-touch movements, allowing you to track objects smoothly, even at high magnifications. Combined with the unique counter weight system the performance is perfect.
- Independent Altitude lock handle: When installing the telescope and when changing heavy accessories it is possible to lock the Altitude axle. This gives a good safety and by having the lock on an individual handle the clutch settings can be left unchanged to keep the smoothest movement.
No Electronic Hassle
In an era dominated by screens, cables, and complicated setups, the TTS-160 Panther Lite offers a refreshing return to simplicity. Designed for visual astronomers who want to focus on the stars—not technology—this mount delivers a pure, uncomplicated observing experience.
With the Panther Lite, there are no electronics, no tangled cables, and no need for power sources. You’re free to set up your mount anywhere, from your backyard to the most remote dark-sky location, without worrying about batteries, chargers, or device compatibility.
Key Benefits of No Electronics:
- Instant Setup: No apps, configurations, or calibrations—just attach your telescope and start observing.
- Freedom from Power Sources: Leave the batteries and extension cords behind; the Panther Lite is always ready to go, no matter where you are.
- No Technical Glitches: Forget about software updates, connection errors, or malfunctions—manual operation is reliable and frustration-free.
- Focus on the Sky: Without screens or controls, your attention stays where it belongs: on the wonders of the universe.
Lightweight and Compact
The TTS-160 Panther Lite is the perfect companion for astronomers who need performance on the go. Weighing just 7 kg (15.4 lbs), this mount offers impressive load capacity without the bulk of traditional mounts. Whether you’re setting up in your backyard or travelling to remote dark-sky sites, the Panther Lite makes portability effortless.
Premium Engineering in a Compact Form
Built with Danish craftsmanship, the Panther Lite maintains a sleek, durable structure without unnecessary bulk. Its folding pier compatibility and versatile mounting options ensure that you have a stable platform wherever your adventures take you.
The Panther Lite is designed for astronomers who refuse to compromise on quality or convenience. Lightweight, compact, and powerful—it’s a mount that keeps up with your passion for exploration.
Travel light. Observe big. The TTS-160 Panther Lite is ready for wherever the sky calls you.
- Easy to Transport: At only 7 kg, the Panther Lite is one of the lightest mounts in its class. It fits easily in a car, backpack, or luggage, making it ideal for road trips, star parties, or air travel.
- High Capacity, Low Weight: Despite its lightweight build, the Panther Lite can carry up to 40 kg (88 lbs). Mount up to three telescopes at once and experience robust performance without sacrificing portability.
- Quick and Simple Setup: The mount’s streamlined design allows for fast assembly and disassembly. Spend less time setting up and more time observing the wonders of the night sky.
Built-In Encoders
The TTS-160 Panther Lite is a manual mount at heart, but for those who crave a touch of modern technology, the built-in encoders provide a seamless way to boost your observing experience. These high-resolution encoders provide the ability to connect to a smartphone for guidance, making it easier than ever to locate and observe celestial objects with confidence.
- High-Resolution Accuracy: The encoders provide an resolution of 80,000 pulses per rotation, delivering pointing accuracy of to 15 arcseconds per pulse.
- Real-Time Object Location: With the encoders, you can easily determine the exact position of your telescope and see what you’re observing in real-time.
- Smartphone Integration: Connect seamlessly with your smartphone or tablet using apps like SkySafari and a Wi-Fi adapter (such as the Nexus II). Effortlessly navigate to objects with on-screen guidance.
- No Sacrifice to Manual Freedom: Even with encoders installed, you retain full manual control of the mount. No motors, no fuss—just enhanced precision when you need it.
- Easy Setup: The encoders are pre-installed and ready to use, making it simple to add digital precision without complicated configurations.
Counterweight Arms and Vertical Balancing Bracket Included
We package this Pather Lite mount with a pair of counterweight arms and a vertical balancing bracket so you do not need to buy these separately.
Specifications
- Weight: 7 kg
- Materials: Aluminum - Anodized black and silver, Stainless steel, Plastic cover.
- Telescope Capacity: Side mounted: 1x28 kg or 2x20 kg, Topmounted: 1x25 kg (note that large diameter and long OTA's puts higher pressure on the mount).
- Dovetail saddle bolt pattern: M8 thread in diamond shape 35mm between holes. M6 Thread in linear pattern distance 60mm and 100mm.
- Encoders: Optical encoders giving 79888 pulses per revolution (16 arcsec per pulse)
- Encoder connector: The RJ45 connector has a wiring matching the Nexus DSC units from Astro Devises.
- Tripod, Pier Interface: The mount head attaches to the adapter with 6 pcs M5 finger screws. Adapter for the TTS 160 Panther folding pier or flat top tripods is included. 3/8" 16tpi center
- thread.
- Axle clutches: Both axles are equipped with an adjustable slide clutch. These can be fine tuned to achieve perfect smooth movement eliminating the need for fine adjustment handles.
- Altitude axle lock: The altitude axle is equipped with a locking device securing the telescope when setting up and when changing heavy eyepiece configurations.
- Accessory tray: Mounting holes for optional trays for Phones or Eyepieces, etc.
| Product Banner Type | new |
|---|---|
| Free Shipping Graphic | Free Contiguous US Shipping |
| Hide Found a better Shipped Price on Frontend? | No |
- TTS-160 Panther Lite mount head with built-in encoders, side-plates, and top-plate
- Pier adapter with flat bottom and central 3/8″ 16tpi thread (fits TTS-160 Panther Folding Pier)
- Set of installation screws for dovetail saddles and counterweight arms
- Pair of counterweight arms # TTS160PL-CA
- Vertical balancing bracket # TTS160PL-VB
TTS-160 Panther Lite Telescope Mount Head (encoder version)
The TTS-160 Panther Lite is a versatile, lightweight Alt-Az mount that combines smooth manual operation with an innovative design for effortless and enjoyable visual astronomy.
Weighing just 7 kg, the TTS-160 Panther Lite is crafted from anodized aluminium, stainless steel, and a durable plastic cover—delivering both portability and durability. Despite its lightweight, it boasts an impressive capacity: up to 28 kg side-mounted or 25 kg top-mounted telescopes.
The Panther Lite is equipped with optical encoders offering 79,888 pulses per revolution (16 arcseconds per pulse), easily connectable via an RJ45 connector for seamless integration with Nexus DSC units. Smooth and precise control is assured with adjustable slide clutches on both axes and an altitude axle lock for secure setup and configuration changes.
Designed for flexibility, the mount accommodates dovetail saddles with M8 and M6 thread patterns for easy installation. For additional balance, two counterweight arms can be configured for top-mounted setups or eyepiece comfort balancing during side-mounted use.
With options for tripod and pier adapters and mounting holes for accessory trays, the Panther Lite delivers unparalleled versatility and precision for serious visual astronomers.
Key Features
Versatile Mounting
Many amateur astronomers use more than one telescope or dream about it. Sometimes you want to use the ultra-sharp refractor, the bino-scopes for better wide field views, or just a big light bucket. Refractors, Reflectors, Newtonians – with the Panther Lite you are prepared for every setup.
Its unique design can simultaneously accommodate up to three telescopes—two side-mounted and one top-mounted—offering unparalleled flexibility.
One Telescope
The TTS-160 Lite lets you mount a single telescope, with the option of side- or top-mounting. Top-mounting is ideal for large binoscopes and refractors and allows for convenient safe installation in a horizontal dovetail saddle. Side-mounting suits most telescopes and allows for counterweight free setup.
Two Telescopes
Refractor or larger reflector for Jupiter? With the TTS-160 Lite, you can mount multiple telescopes at once, avoiding the hassle and risk of switching mid-session. Chose between two side-mounted or one side-mounted and one top-mounted. It’s up to you.
Three Telescopes
The TTS-160 Lite supports up to three telescopes simultaneously—two side-mounted and one top-mounted—offering exceptional versatility for exploring different perspectives and setups in a single session.
Comfort Balancing
The release of the TTS-160 Panther Lite introduces an innovative Comfort Balancing system designed to enhance your viewing comfort during extended stargazing sessions. By incorporating a smart back-balancing mechanism and easily adjustable counterweights, this system keeps your eyepiece height consistent, no matter where your telescope is pointed in the sky.
How It Works:
- The back-balancing system minimizes the eyepiece height variation, keeping it within a manageable range even when viewing objects high overhead.
- Adjustable counterweights allow for fine-tuning balance based on heavy eyepieces, binoviewers, or finder scopes.
- A two-axis balancing system ensures smooth operation and perfect control at any altitude.
With Comfort Balancing, you can focus more on the stars and less on adjusting your setup. The result? Longer, more enjoyable observing sessions without strain or hassle.
Smooth Manual Operation
The TTS-160 Panther Lite is crafted for astronomers who appreciate hands-on control. Its smooth manual operation offers a truly intuitive and precise experience, allowing you to effortlessly guide your telescope across the night sky.
The key to the mount’s smooth manual operation is the adjustable slide clutches and an innovative two-axis balancing system, which work together to provide fluid, jerk-free motion. Whether you’re trying to track a faint deep-space object or the intricate details of a lunar crater, the Panther Lite responds smoothly to your touch.
What makes it exceptional:
- Adjustable Clutches: Fine-tune the resistance for both altitude and azimuth, ensuring optimal movement with minimal effort.
- Two-Axis Balancing System: Maintain perfect balance regardless of your telescope’s orientation, keeping motion seamless and predictable.
With the TTS-160 Panther Lite, you stay connected to the sky through the pure, uncomplicated joy of manual operation.
Adjustable Slide Clutches
The mount has adjustable slide clutches on both the altitude and azimuth axes. These clutches give you the flexibility to fine-tune the resistance to match your preferred level of control:
- Light Settings for Smooth Motion: Set the clutches lightly to achieve feather-touch movements, allowing you to track objects smoothly, even at high magnifications. Combined with the unique counter weight system the performance is perfect.
- Independent Altitude lock handle: When installing the telescope and when changing heavy accessories it is possible to lock the Altitude axle. This gives a good safety and by having the lock on an individual handle the clutch settings can be left unchanged to keep the smoothest movement.
No Electronic Hassle
In an era dominated by screens, cables, and complicated setups, the TTS-160 Panther Lite offers a refreshing return to simplicity. Designed for visual astronomers who want to focus on the stars—not technology—this mount delivers a pure, uncomplicated observing experience.
With the Panther Lite, there are no electronics, no tangled cables, and no need for power sources. You’re free to set up your mount anywhere, from your backyard to the most remote dark-sky location, without worrying about batteries, chargers, or device compatibility.
Key Benefits of No Electronics:
- Instant Setup: No apps, configurations, or calibrations—just attach your telescope and start observing.
- Freedom from Power Sources: Leave the batteries and extension cords behind; the Panther Lite is always ready to go, no matter where you are.
- No Technical Glitches: Forget about software updates, connection errors, or malfunctions—manual operation is reliable and frustration-free.
- Focus on the Sky: Without screens or controls, your attention stays where it belongs: on the wonders of the universe.
Lightweight and Compact
The TTS-160 Panther Lite is the perfect companion for astronomers who need performance on the go. Weighing just 7 kg (15.4 lbs), this mount offers impressive load capacity without the bulk of traditional mounts. Whether you’re setting up in your backyard or travelling to remote dark-sky sites, the Panther Lite makes portability effortless.
Premium Engineering in a Compact Form
Built with Danish craftsmanship, the Panther Lite maintains a sleek, durable structure without unnecessary bulk. Its folding pier compatibility and versatile mounting options ensure that you have a stable platform wherever your adventures take you.
The Panther Lite is designed for astronomers who refuse to compromise on quality or convenience. Lightweight, compact, and powerful—it’s a mount that keeps up with your passion for exploration.
Travel light. Observe big. The TTS-160 Panther Lite is ready for wherever the sky calls you.
- Easy to Transport: At only 7 kg, the Panther Lite is one of the lightest mounts in its class. It fits easily in a car, backpack, or luggage, making it ideal for road trips, star parties, or air travel.
- High Capacity, Low Weight: Despite its lightweight build, the Panther Lite can carry up to 40 kg (88 lbs). Mount up to three telescopes at once and experience robust performance without sacrificing portability.
- Quick and Simple Setup: The mount’s streamlined design allows for fast assembly and disassembly. Spend less time setting up and more time observing the wonders of the night sky.
Built-In Encoders
The TTS-160 Panther Lite is a manual mount at heart, but for those who crave a touch of modern technology, the built-in encoders provide a seamless way to boost your observing experience. These high-resolution encoders provide the ability to connect to a smartphone for guidance, making it easier than ever to locate and observe celestial objects with confidence.
- High-Resolution Accuracy: The encoders provide an resolution of 80,000 pulses per rotation, delivering pointing accuracy of to 15 arcseconds per pulse.
- Real-Time Object Location: With the encoders, you can easily determine the exact position of your telescope and see what you’re observing in real-time.
- Smartphone Integration: Connect seamlessly with your smartphone or tablet using apps like SkySafari and a Wi-Fi adapter (such as the Nexus II). Effortlessly navigate to objects with on-screen guidance.
- No Sacrifice to Manual Freedom: Even with encoders installed, you retain full manual control of the mount. No motors, no fuss—just enhanced precision when you need it.
- Easy Setup: The encoders are pre-installed and ready to use, making it simple to add digital precision without complicated configurations.
Counterweight Arms and Vertical Balancing Bracket Included
We package this Pather Lite mount with a pair of counterweight arms and a vertical balancing bracket so you do not need to buy these separately.
Specifications
- Weight: 7 kg
- Materials: Aluminum - Anodized black and silver, Stainless steel, Plastic cover.
- Telescope Capacity: Side mounted: 1x28 kg or 2x20 kg, Topmounted: 1x25 kg (note that large diameter and long OTA's puts higher pressure on the mount).
- Dovetail saddle bolt pattern: M8 thread in diamond shape 35mm between holes. M6 Thread in linear pattern distance 60mm and 100mm.
- Encoders: Optical encoders giving 79888 pulses per revolution (16 arcsec per pulse)
- Encoder connector: The RJ45 connector has a wiring matching the Nexus DSC units from Astro Devises.
- Tripod, Pier Interface: The mount head attaches to the adapter with 6 pcs M5 finger screws. Adapter for the TTS 160 Panther folding pier or flat top tripods is included. 3/8" 16tpi center
- thread.
- Axle clutches: Both axles are equipped with an adjustable slide clutch. These can be fine tuned to achieve perfect smooth movement eliminating the need for fine adjustment handles.
- Altitude axle lock: The altitude axle is equipped with a locking device securing the telescope when setting up and when changing heavy eyepiece configurations.
- Accessory tray: Mounting holes for optional trays for Phones or Eyepieces, etc.
| Product Banner Type | new |
|---|---|
| Free Shipping Graphic | Free Contiguous US Shipping |
| Hide Found a better Shipped Price on Frontend? | No |
- TTS-160 Panther Lite mount head with built-in encoders, side-plates, and top-plate
- Pier adapter with flat bottom and central 3/8″ 16tpi thread (fits TTS-160 Panther Folding Pier)
- Set of installation screws for dovetail saddles and counterweight arms
- Pair of counterweight arms # TTS160PL-CA
- Vertical balancing bracket # TTS160PL-VB
Track The Stars TTS-160 Panther Lite Mount Head with Built-In Encoders, Counterweight Arms & Vertical Balancing Bracket # TTS160PL-HE