The Twilight I Mount is a dependable, manually operated alt-azimuth mount engineered for quick setup, smooth control, and solid support of small to medium-sized telescopes. Capable of handling optical tubes up to 18 lbs, it’s ideal for refractors like the AR102, ED102, ED80, or short-tube Newtonians equipped with Vixen-style dovetail bars.
Its powder-coated aluminum head features precision worm gears on both altitude and azimuth axes, enabling refined motion for accurate manual tracking. The altitude axis tilts forward or backward up to 45°, giving you zenith clearance for observing high-altitude targets without hitting the tripod or mount.
With slow-motion cables on both axes, you can make fine adjustments easily—even with gloves on—thanks to the oversized knurled knobs. These cables are fully reversible, letting you configure your setup based on telescope style and dominant hand.
The included stainless steel tripod offers a 42" wide footprint for maximum stability and comes with an internal locking spreader bar to reduce vibration and reinforce rigidity—ideal for backyard sessions or on-the-go astronomy.
CA Residents: Prop 65 WARNING(S)
🌟Features & Benefits
- Supports optical tubes up to 18 lbs, perfect for mid-sized refractors and short Newtonians
- Compatible with Vixen-style dovetail bars for easy mounting
- Worm gears on both axes allow ultra-smooth manual tracking
- Tiltable mount head (±45°) for easier access to zenith objects
- Slow-motion cables with oversized knurled knobs for fine control, even with gloves
- Cables install on either side of each axis for full configuration flexibility
- 42" footprint stainless steel tripod provides excellent vibration dampening
- Locking spreader bar reinforces tripod rigidity and includes accessory tray space
🌌 Who It’s For
- Astronomers who use AR102, ED102, ED80, or similarly sized OTA setups
- Visual observers needing precise manual control and quick setup
- Backyard stargazers or mobile astronomers wanting stability without power requirements
🎒 What’s Included
- Twilight I Alt-Azimuth Mount Head (powder-coated aluminum)
- 2x Slow-Motion Control Cables (installable on either side)
- Stainless Steel Adjustable Tripod
- Locking Spreader Bar / Accessory Tray
Specs
| Item Number | MAZ01–00 |
|---|---|
| Mount Type | Alt-Azimuth |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 18 lbs |
| Mount Compatibility | Vixen-style universal dovetail |
| Mount Head Dimensions | 14" x 7" x 4" |
| Mount Head Weight | 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg) |
| Tripod Type | Stainless steel with spreader bar |
| Tripod Weight | 11 lbs (5.0 kg) |
| Total Weight | 16.7 lbs (7.6 kg) |
| Tripod (Collapsed, No Mount Head) | 29.5 in |
| Tripod (Collapsed, With Mount Head) | 42 in |
| Tripod (Open, Legs Retracted, No Mount Head) | 25 in |
| Tripod (Open, Retracted, With Mount Head) | 38.5 in (highest), 36 in (to bracket) |
| Tripod (Open, Legs Fully Extended, No Mount) | 42 in |
| Tripod (Open, Extended, With Mount Head) | 55.5 in (highest), 53 in (to bracket) |
| Tripod Footprint | 42 in |
Warranty Information:
This product is covered by a Limited One-Year USA Warranty, valid when registered within 60 days of purchase. To activate your warranty, please visit the Explore Scientific website and complete the registration form at: