BRC Astro, LLC, which acquired the ServoCAT product line from RXDesign in 2023, has announced the winding down of its support and sales operations. Beginning October 1, 2025, the company will no longer accept support or repair requests for ServoCAT units outside of warranty, directing customers instead to the Groups.IO message board for community-based assistance. One month later, on November 1, 2025, BRC Astro will also cease taking new orders for ServoCAT products, though the user forum will remain active at least through 2026. With these changes marking a turning point for the renowned telescope control system, it is an apt moment to look back on the history and legacy of ServoCAT.
The ServoCAT system has long been recognized as a significant innovation in the field of amateur astronomy, particularly for owners of Dobsonian telescopes, by bringing advanced motorized tracking and GoTo capabilities to these popular instruments. For many years, it allowed observers to spend more time studying celestial objects without the constant need for manual adjustments, thereby transforming the viewing experience. This comprehensive electronic control package offered a complete solution for automating telescope movement, proving popular across a wide range of telescope manufacturers.
At its core, ServoCAT functioned as a complete electronic control package, capable of controlling telescopes by integrating with Digital Setting Circle (DSC) systems such as Argo Navis or Sky Commander. While it could provide tracking functionality independently, connecting it with a DSC system unlocked full GoTo operation, allowing users to automatically locate and track selected celestial objects. The system was versatile, designed to control both Dobsonian and equatorial mount telescopes, offering abilities like automatically following the sky, slewing at various user-selectable speeds, and executing GoTo commands.
A key tennant of ServoCAT's design was its simplicity of use. Users reported that the system "simply works and works flawlessly," often requiring no parameter settings or complex adjustments. This ease of operation meant that astronomers could perform a quick two-star alignment and immediately begin tracking, slewing, or exploring with minimal fuss. The system boasted a robust design with built-in protection, aiming for years of problem-free operation. Its construction utilized high-quality components, including new, deluxe Lo-Cog Skewed Armature high dynamic range servo motors, precision machined housings, stainless steel precision shafting, and sealed bearings, ensuring reliability and performance. Furthermore, it incorporated a built-in high voltage motor drive and three microprocessors, designed to share the processing load and support future expansions and upgrades. The entire system was characterized as "Plug-n-Play," fully connector-ized, and powered by a low current 12V supply.
ServoCAT introduced several advanced features that significantly enhanced the observing experience. One notable innovation was Local Sync, which allowed the system to remember an offset to an object, thereby improving the pointing accuracy of the DSC system within a 5-10 degree radius. This feature was an early precursor to higher precision pointing capabilities that became more common later in the industry.
Another highly praised feature was the True Spiral Search. For observers struggling to locate faint objects or wishing to explore large nebulous regions, this function allowed the telescope to spiral out from a center point at a constant speed and width. Unlike other search patterns, this "true" spiral was described as the only non-overlapping path, covering an area of up to 12 square degrees if allowed to complete. Users could select from six speeds and widths to match different field sizes and eyepiece combinations, and the search could be stopped at any time, with the system continuing to track from that point.
The system also offered a full-featured Hand Controller with a 4-speed selection and LED indicator, enabling simultaneous axis moves, Local Sync, GoTo functions, and Spiral Search activation. For those interested in connecting their telescope to a digital interface, ServoCAT allowed for PC Planetarium View, displaying the scope's position in the sky when connected to programs like Megastar, Astroplanner, or The Sky. Moreover, for telescopes without a DSC or PC, the EasyTrack mode provided simple tracking by pointing the scope at a celestial pole, a highly accessible feature for many users.
Regarding mechanical considerations, ServoCAT included automatic backlash compensation. Acknowledging that all mechanical systems exhibit some degree of backlash, the ServoCAT was designed to manage this effectively, with a user-adjustable parameter to fine-tune compensation for individual scopes.
One of ServoCAT's appealing aspects was its availability as a complete retrofit kit for Dobsonian telescopes. The kit was designed for relatively straightforward installation, with templates provided to ensure accuracy. Basic tools such as a hand drill, screwdrivers, and drill bits were typically all that was required. The estimated installation time ranged from four to six hours, making it feasible for most individuals to complete the process themselves. For those who preferred not to undertake the installation, some telescope manufacturers, such as Obsession, offered professional installation services as an option with new orders.
The system was designed to fit most Dobsonian telescopes, with assurances that it would fit "in all cases" encountered. For unique or previously unequipped scopes, a rebate program was offered to encourage new installations, requiring photographic documentation and descriptions of the process to assist future users. The kit itself came complete with necessary components, though certain items like a precisely cut, warp-free 3/4-inch thick round ground board or a DSC system (if GoTo was desired) could be purchased separately or were optional. Accessories like a Powered Ground Board option provided a clean power solution, eliminating tangled cords and integrated battery hassles by routing power through the ground board itself. A wireless handpad was also a very popular option, offering full wireless control or functioning alongside a wired handpad for dual control.
For many years, astronomers faced a choice between a ServoCAT system and traditional tracking platforms for their large Dobsonian telescopes. While platforms provided tracking and allowed for astrophotography without field rotation, ServoCAT presented distinct advantages, particularly for scopes 12 inches and larger, and for those prioritizing visual observation or less extensive photography.
Physically, the ServoCAT added minimal weight, approximately 5 pounds, which was integrated directly into the scope. Platforms, conversely, could add significant bulk, ranging from 25 to over 50 pounds, which needed to be separately transported and positioned. Furthermore, ServoCAT added no additional height to the telescope, whereas platforms could necessitate ladders or ramps for access, creating additional logistical challenges.
A frequent complaint among platform owners revolved around balancing issues, often requiring the addition of weights. ServoCAT, by contrast, was noted for reducing balance problems, allowing users to switch eyepieces without needing to re-balance the scope. In terms of space, platforms required considerable storage and transport space, while ServoCAT’s physical footprint was minimal.
While platforms were considered ideal for smaller scopes (under 12 inches) or for dedicated long-exposure astrophotography without a field derotator, ServoCAT offered a more integrated and often more cost-effective solution for tracking and GoTo, especially for larger scopes and general observing.
In a significant development for the astronomy community, BRC Astro LLC acquired the ServoCAT product from RXDesign in 2023. The initial intent behind this acquisition was to ensure the continued availability of support and a clear path forward for existing owners who had invested in the system. The company expressed plans to remodel facilities and order parts to resume production of the Gen3 system, with design work for Gen4 already underway.
However, subsequent announcements have outlined a phased conclusion for new ServoCAT product orders and direct factory support. As of October 1, 2025, BRC Astro LLC will cease accepting support and repair requests for ServoCAT products that are no longer under warranty. Following this date, owners of out-of-warranty units will be directed to the ServoCAT message board on Groups.IO for assistance, a platform where the community has historically shared advice and solutions. Furthermore, beginning November 1, 2025, BRC Astro LLC will no longer accept orders for new ServoCAT products. The Groups.IO message board is expected to be maintained at least through 2026, serving as a primary resource for the user community.
While direct factory support and new sales are drawing to a close, the ServoCAT system remains relevant for its current users. Properly functioning units will continue to operate as they always have, maintaining their tracking and GoTo capabilities. The transition signifies a shift in the support structure, moving the burden towards the robust user community. This evolution is a natural part of technological progress in the amateur astronomy landscape, where new products offering similar or expanded capabilities, along with ongoing development and support, continue to emerge and fill the market.
ServoCAT's journey reflects a pivotal period in making large Dobsonian telescopes more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience. Its enduring legacy will undoubtedly be remembered for its role in bringing advanced motorized tracking and GoTo features to the Dobsonian platform, fundamentally enhancing the deep-sky observing experience for countless astronomers.
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