PrimaLuceLab SESTO SENSO 3 SC Robotic Focusing Motor

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Bring Automated Focusing to your Schmidt-Cassegrain with this SESTO SENSO 3!

The latest and most advanced version of the SESTO SENSO, this third generation blends high precision, ease of use, and effortless adaptability in a small, compact form factor! Pair the SESTO SENSO 3 with your Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with ease thanks to the Direct Pulley Clamp (DPC), offering backlash-free, pulley-driven coupling. This DPC enables installation with telescopes such as Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrains, EdgeHDs, and RASAs (6” to 14”). Also included is a built-in encoder for ultra-precise positioning and freedom of movement. With this encoder, you’re welcome to manually adjust your telescope’s focus for quick, on-the-fly modifications.

Two modes of connection are available: USB-C for computer control, and built-in WiFi for cable-free operation. The Virtual HandPad can be accessed by connecting your smartphone or tablet to the SESTO SENSO 3 WiFi network, enabling you to calibrate and precisely position your focuser for pinpoint stars. The onboard motor is built for precision, offering 2 million steps of resolution. Not only is this optimal for astrophotography, but visual astronomers will be impressed by the level of accuracy delivered as well. Multiple LED lights are fitted on the body of this PrimaLuceLab focuser to provide useful feedback of device statuses. With DARK mode, these LEDs can be dimmed and turned off completely to eliminate stray light during imaging sessions. Ready to pair with PLAY software and ASCOM compliant out of the box, integrating the SESTO SENSO 3 into your astroimaging rig is a breeze!

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Effortless Installation with the Direct Pulley Clamp

Thanks to the innovation from PrimaLuceLab, installing your SESTO SENSO 3 SC to your Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope is a breeze! This electronic focuser utilizes the innovative Direct Pulley Clamp (DPC) for backlash-free control of your focuser. Before installation, it’s recommended to orient your telescope horizontally to prevent mirror shift.The instructions for installation are as follows:

(1) Remove the rubber focus knob and the retaining ring from your focuser.
(2) Attach the appropriate included SESTO SENSO 3 adapter plate in place of the retaining ring, using the original retaining ring’s screws to secure it. Ensure the exposed focusing shaft is centered within the adapter plate.
(3) If needed, insert the included shaft adapter to ensure a proper fit around the exposed focuser shaft. This adapter is typically needed for 6”-9.25” scopes.
(4) Push the SESTO SENSO 3 onto the focuser shaft until it’s flush against the adapter plate.
(5) Rotate the motor knob of the SESTO SENSO 3 until the bushing screw is accessible through the side hole, then tighten this screw to secure the motor shaft to the telescope shaft.
(6) Finally, orient the SESTO SENSO 3 body in a position that is best suited for your setup, then secure it in place with the two screws that adjoin the SESTO SENSO 3 body with the adapter plate. You’re now ready for hands-free, automatic focusing with the PrimaLuceLab SESTO SENSO 3 SC!

This electronic focuser is compatible with many telescopes, including but not limited to: Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain 6” to 14", Celestron EdgeHD Aplanatic SC 8” to 14" (excluding the EdgeHD 9.25"), Celestron RASA 8” to 14", and the SkyWatcher MAK180PRO.

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The Most Advanced SESTO SENSO Model Yet

Building upon the previous generations of the SESTO SENSO robotic focusers, the SESTO SENSO 3 SC takes this series to new heights with its integrated position encoder and upgraded Direct Pulley Clamp. Not only can you enjoy elevated accuracy, installation is a walk in the park! Read on as we take a look at more features offered by this PrimaLuceLab SESTO SENSO 3 SC.

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Power & Ports
On the body of the SESTO SENSO 3 SC you’ll find a number of ports for streamlined connection to your astroimaging rig. To power your focuser, utilize the 12V power input port and included power cable. If using an ARCO rotator (sold separately), the onboard ARCO port enables a streamlined supply of power to your rotator without the need for additional power cables! Connection to your laptop computer or WiFi camera control device is facilitated through the USB-C port, and if utilizing a PrimaLuceLab EAGLE, enjoy cable-free operation of your focuser via GHOST mode. To assist with ultra-precise focusing, the temperature probe port accepts a user-supplied temperature sensor, helping you monitor temperature shifts and plan out your refocusing routine. Three status LEDs give insight to ARCO connection, power, and WiFi states, with these LEDs dimmable and can be turned off completely via DARK mode.

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Extensive Software Control
Numerous means of operation are available for this SESTO SENSO 3 SC. A PrimaLuceLab EAGLE Control Unit (sold separately), is an excellent option, offering streamlined, remote control of your entire astroimaging rig. If you wish to manage your SESTO SENSO 3 with your laptop computer, easily do so with the provided PLAY software or a third-party ASCOM-complaint program. Popular image capture software such as NINA, Sequence Generator Pro, and many more work seamlessly with this PrimaLuceLab focuser. For cable-free operation, either connect your smart phone or tablet to your focuser with its WiFi network and utilize the Virtual HandPad, or utilize GHOST mode featured on PrimaLuceLab EAGLE computers.