Help Identifying a Mount and Drive

[CurtKinghorn]

I recently bought a C8 telescope and its accompanying mount and drive at an online auction. As I decided to bid on it including looking at the few online pictures provided, I thought the mount was a manual mount and that I would have to update at least the drive and possibly the mount.

 

When I got the scope, I discovered that the drive was actually powered and controlled! But, no control interface came with the scope. The mount and drive appear to be very sturdy and well made. As I looked further, I was surprised that I couldn’t find any indication of who made the drive or any indication of the mount model. I would like to get the interface so I can use the powered drive of the scope and also control it via software.

 

I removed one of the drive modules for the attached pics. Does anyone recognize the maker or model of the mount and drive or have an idea of how I can find out?

[skybadger]

They look identical to vixen mt-1 stepper drives for the super Polaris.

[CurtKinghorn]

Skybadger, thank you so much!  I think your identification is spot on! Based on your report, I have been able to identify the controller (Vixen DD3) as well. Since I can see you have a re-figured Vixen scope, perhaps you are familiar with the DD3 controller (maybe from prior experience). Do you know if the DD3 is compatible with Stellarium? Thanks again for the help! 

[Peter Drew]

I think it is a Vixen Polaris mount, the forerunner of the Super Polaris mount.  Be careful of the polarity of the power input, most Vixen controllers are negative.    🙂

[CurtKinghorn]

Peter, thanks for your confirmation of the mount and that polarity tip! Likely avoided a nasty repair! When everything is up and running properly, I'll report back!