Basalt tripods/mounts

[FLO]

Apparently, Basalt will be the new wonder material for telescope mounts and tripods! The volcanic-based black lightweight rock is pulverized, melted at extreme temperature (2732 degrees F), combined with other materials then spun into a strong fiber which is used to create multi-layer composite tubing.

It is said to have amazing anti vibration characteristics ... better than carbon-fiber!

[Kaptain Klevtsov]

Like Rockwool?

Something quite odd going on here as basalt is quite dense as a rock, melted and spun into fluffy stuff its used for loft insulation (although that IS fake basalt). Could be a cheap high perfomance material if rockwool can be incorporated into fibreglass type composite materials with good characteristics.

Captain Chaos

[Astroman]

Just about the last word I think of when I hear "basalt" is "lightweight". Not sure this one's got legs. I might buy into the vibration damping characteristics, though.

[FLO]

Found a pic!

Source: Photographyreview.com

http://tinyurl.com/gkzwl

Not sure this one's got legs...

scuse the pun

[Astroman]

Not sure this one's got legs...

scuse the pun

No no, I meant the pun. Just forgot the smilie.

[Kenny_10_Bellys]

I think if it were made of solid basalt that it would have excellent anti-vibration properties, but you might need a spotter to help you lift it.