A new Hercules rotating focuser lands from Optec

Optec has introduced the Hercules Rotating Focuser, a new device that merges camera field rotation with telescope focusing capabilities. More compact than its predecessor, the robust Gemini Focusing Rotator, the Hercules offers a full 3-inch clear aperture and 0.35 inches.

Optec Hercules Focusing Rotator specs

• Thickness: 1.81″ to 2.16″ (46.0 to 54.9mm)
• Clear Aperture: 76.2mm
• Height: 8.17″ (208mm)
• Width: 7.48″ (190mm)
• Thickness: 1.81″ to 2.16″ (46.0 to 54.9mm)
• at midpoint: 1.99″ (50.5mm)
• Weight: 3-lb. 8 oz. (1.6 kg)
• Telescope side: OPTEC-3600 receiver
• Camera side: OPTEC-3000 3-inch receiver
• Focuser Total Travel: 0.350″ (8.89mm)
• Focuser Total Steps: 112,000 steps
• Focuser Resolution: 0.079 micron/step
• Rotator Total Steps: 168,000 steps
• Rotator Resolution: 7.7 arc seconds / step
• Rotator Rotation Speed: variable, ~ 3 degrees/second
• Circuit board: Internal
• Communications: USB-C and Ethernet
• Additional: Temperature Probe 3.5mm socket
• 2.5 x 5.5mm power socket
• Power draw: 1.25A max, 0.6A while moving, 0.4A holding
• Input voltage: 12VDC
• Input connector: 2.5×5.5mm barrel plug, center pin positive

Software specifications

• Compatibility: ASCOM and Alpaca
• Capabilities: Focus, Guide star acquisition, field composition, Alt-Az De-rotation
• De-Rotation: Compatible with Planewave L-mounts, TheSky X, Maxim D/L, N.I.N.A.
• Any fully configured mount with ASCOM driver.
   

What's included in the package

• 3.5mm phono style temperature probe
• 12-volt DC switching power supply w/ wall cord
• Cat-6 Ethernet cable, 7-ft. length
• USB-C cable, 6-ft. length
• 5/64″ T-handle hex driver

Available versions of the low profile combination focuser and rotator

• Standard
• Takahashi Epsilon E130 Kit
• Takahashi Epsilon E160 Kit
• Takahashi Epsilon E180 Kit