Dual OTA's on AZ-GTI mount

[doublevodka]

So, since getting an AZ-GTI I've had an idea rattling round my head, is it possible to mount 2 OTA's?

My thought is, the thread people commonly add a counterweight bar into to use the mount in EQ mode rotates with the vixen clamp on the other side. So, is it possible to add a second clamp opposite? Or would it be next to impossible to align them and make it useful?

Figured best to ask first in case someone has had the same idea and beat me to it.

My thought is a widefield scope to go with the skymax 127 on the other side, like a mini az-eq6....

[Stu]

In theory it would be possible in altaz mode. You might have to get a custom counterweight bar made up as the standard ones won’t fit.

TS do a couple of adaptors which fit to standard 20mm CW bars

https://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/product_info.php/info/p8268_Giro-GR-2-TV-Arm-to-use-a-second-instrument-with-the-GiRo.html

or

https://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/product_info.php/info/p11334_TS-Optics-Adapter-for-mounting-accessories-to-D-20-mm-counterweight-rods.html
 

which allow you to attach a vixen saddle. May allow you to attach a lightweight small refractor to it. Accurate alignment can’t be guaranteed  but may be less of an issue with a wide fold scope?

Actually a quick Google search turned up this CN thread which may be useful. Shows it can be done.

https://www.cloudynights.com/topic/586532-new-skywatcher-az-gti-goto-wifi-mount/page-80

Hope that helps a bit.

[Elp]

Your OTAs including accessories would have to be fairly light and short in length and the tripod very sturdy to improve dampening. With my imaging rig and counterweights I'm already over the 5kg limit and it autoguides okay so should be within reach.

[doublevodka]

9 hours ago, Stu said:

In theory it would be possible in altaz mode. You might have to get a custom counterweight bar made up as the standard ones won’t fit.

TS do a couple of adaptors which fit to standard 20mm CW bars

https://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/product_info.php/info/p8268_Giro-GR-2-TV-Arm-to-use-a-second-instrument-with-the-GiRo.html

or

https://www.teleskop-express.de/shop/product_info.php/info/p11334_TS-Optics-Adapter-for-mounting-accessories-to-D-20-mm-counterweight-rods.html
 

which allow you to attach a vixen saddle. May allow you to attach a lightweight small refractor to it. Accurate alignment can’t be guaranteed  but may be less of an issue with a wide fold scope?

Actually a quick Google search turned up this CN thread which may be useful. Shows it can be done.

https://www.cloudynights.com/topic/586532-new-skywatcher-az-gti-goto-wifi-mount/page-80

Hope that helps a bit.

Very interesting @Stu Thanks for digging that out 👍 At least I know it's in the realms of possibility now  

[AstroNebulee]

Just resurrecting this thread to include my AzGti dual setup that I've created and will test soon. 

Lee

  https://stargazerslounge.com/topic/387014-skywatcher-az-gti-mount-owners-thread/?do=findComment&comment=4391409