Accessories: Mounting Plates

This saddle plate was originally designed with the 3600GTO in mind; however, it is ideal for the 1600GTO and our 1200 mounts. We dubbed this a P-style plate since PlaneWave Instruments originated this dovetail specification for their larger scopes, specifically the 17", 20" and 24" CDKs. With the introduction of our 23" P-style Dovetail Plate (SBPW23), this saddle plate can be used with a wide variety of telescopes.

The plate has a wide slot to accomodate the SBPW23, as well as the 7.65" dovetail plates (width of dovetail portion) available from PlaneWave with their instruments. The tilt-in style of the saddle allows you to mount the dovetail plate as easily as possible with a large instrument. The four spring-loaded clamps lock into place with an allen wrench to hold the plates securely. If you use our SBPW23, you also have the option of bolting the saddle and dovetail together with 1/4-20 screws. This ensures that if the clamps are loosened accidentally, the dovetail will not slip. This feature is particularly useful for permanent installations, especially public observatories.

Please review the Hole Pattern Chart.

Dimensions: 16.5" x 10" x 1.35" (42 cm x 25 cm x 3.4 cm)
Weight: 9.0 lb. (4.1 kg). The plate is ribbed on one side to reduce weight.

Includes:
16.5" Dovetail Saddle Plate
Fasteners listed on Mounting Plate Fastener Chart

DOVEPW $450.00 in stock
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23" P-Style Dovetail Plate (SBPW23)

Our robust P-style Dovetail Plate measures 7.65” at the widest portion of the dovetail and 1.2” thick to carry your heavy loads with ease. This plate bridges the gap between the 3” Losmandy D-style plates and the giant 9.9” dovetail plates that we designed for the 3600GTO (the width dimensions refer to the lower dovetail portion of the plate). We refer to this as a P-Style plate since PlaneWave Instruments originated this dovetail specification for their larger scopes.

The SBPW23 pairs up with our 16.5” P-style Dovetail Saddle (DOVEPW) to make a truly solid “Dynamic Duo”. The DOVEPW saddle can be used with the 3600GTO, 1600GTO or 1200GTO mounts.

This mid-size plate was designed with the increased load capacity of the 1600GTO mount in mind. The plate’s enhanced strength and rigidity, along with a versatile hole-pattern, offers a variety of instrument configurations. It allows the attachment of large instruments lengthwise at a number of balance points and also serves as a rigid side-by-side bar for mounting multiple scopes.

The schematic image below is a link to a PDF file detailing the hole-patterns and showing the many options for attaching a wide variety of mounting rings, as well as our 16” Easy-Balance Dovetail Saddle (DOVELM162) and even the DOVEPW in side-by-side arrangements. Our smaller 8.5" Dovetail Saddle (DOVELM2) can be attached at the ends of the plate, but can not be further inset, as its knobs interfere and do not contain the internal socket screw that allows tightening with a hex key.

For an added measure of safety, a series of matching through-holes in the DOVEPW saddle and tapped ¼ - 20 holes in the 23” dovetail plate allow the setup to be bolted into its final position through both plates once adequate balance is achieved. This is especially useful for permanent installations and ensures piece of mind.

Dimensions: The plate top measures 7.7” (19.6 cm) wide by 22.875” (58.1 cm) long and 1.2” (3.1 cm) thick. The dovetail portion measures 7.65” (19.4 cm). The underside has been milled to reduce weight, while maintaining strength. Weight is 8.6 lb. (3.9 kg.).

Includes:
23" P-style Dovetail Plate
Fasteners listed on Mounting Plate Fastener Chart

Please click on the thumbnail to review the detailed diagram and confirm that your rings are appropriate to use this plate.

SBPW23 $330.00 in stock
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Losmandy D-Style Compatible Mounting Options

8.5" Dovetail Saddle Plate for D-Style Plate (DOVELM2)

This plate is made by Astro-Physics and can be used with a variety of mounts. If you already own the 13.5" male Losmandy D-style plates, this is the dovetail for you. The knob assembly features a brass pin with a tapered end to hold your sliding bar firmly without marring the aluminum. The DOVELM2 is 8.5" (21.6 cm) long and weighs 2.3 lb. (1 kg)

A center hole on the knob side allows you to move one of the knobs to accommodate the short (7") Losmandy Universal plates. The short Losmandy plates should only be used with one of the knobs moved to the center position. Otherwise, the knobs of the DOVELM2 are spaced too far apart to grip the short plate properly. Make sure that you orient the DOVELM2 so that one of the knobs is always at the objective end of the plate. Otherwise, you will not be able to utilize the safety screw on the bottom of the male dovetail. Using the middle hole with the 7" plate gives over three inches of travel for balancing. Note: Use of the middle position may require the Q4047 adapter for additional knob clearance.

Warning: For several years, beginning approximately 2004 until more recently, Celestron delivered their scopes with a dovetail mounting plate that had a different specification. These plates do not anchor securely in the DOVELM2. We encourage everyone using a plate manufactured by Celestron to test that plate in the DOVELM2 before mounting their telescope, in order to ensure that it can be locked down firmly.

Dovetail Saddle attaches to:

400, 600E, 900, 1100, 1200, 1600 or Mach1GTO German equatorial mounts (all models).
All Takahashi mounts with the 2-hole mounting pattern (EM-10, EM-200, Teegul, etc) - use the Q4044 adapter plate.
GiroDX mount - use the Q4044 adapter plate.

In September 2002, we updated this plate to include a wider safety recess to accommodate the safety knobs of the Losmandy D-style plates. This change added 4 3/8 more inches of travel when balancing your telescope. In November 2007, four additional holes in a large bolt circle were added to enable the plate to be off-set while retaining the knobs on the same side of the mount (rather than "flipping" it to the other side). Two 10-32 tapped holes were added to the knob side of the plate in August 2009 to allow for the attachment of clips for better cable management.

This dovetail plate cannot be used as an accessory plate. However if you use Astro-Physics rings or rings from Parallax Instrument (with the Astro-Physics hole pattern), you can attach the same Losmandy D series dovetail to the top of the rings to use as an accessory plate.

If you are using the 17.25" or longer Losmandy D series dovetails with our 900 or Mach1GTO mounts, we recommend the DOVELM16S or DOVELM162. The DOVELM16 was designed to use the longer plates on the 1200 and 1600 mounts.

DOVELM2 $130.00 in stock
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16" Easy-Balance Dovetail Saddle Plate for the D-Style Plate - 900, 1100, 1200, 1600, 3600GTO and Mach1GTO (DOVELM162)

This 16" Dovetail Saddle Plate, designed and manufactured by Astro-Physics, is the ultimate in versatility for customers with instrument packages that are difficult to balance in conventional saddle plates.

A total of 8 mounting positions are available to provide a "best possible" orientation for either front- heavy or rear-heavy instrument packages - especially useful for today's heavy imaging instrument packages. This plate has an inherent 8" (20.3 cm) total offset capability, depending on how you position it on the mount. Due to the addition of a third, center clamp, the DOVELM162 can now maintain at least two clamps engaged on any Losmandy "D-style" or other "D-style" dovetail plate 7" or longer.

As with all of our dovetail saddle plates, it is very easy to attach dovetail plates. Simply tilt your D-style plate, with the scope attached, into position. Then tighten the knobs. There is no need to struggle as you try to insert the Losmandy plate (with your heavy telescope attached) into the end of the dovetail saddle, as with some dovetail saddle plate designs.

Warning: For several years, beginning approximately 2004 until more recently, Celestron delivered their scopes with a dovetail mounting plate that had a different specification. These plates do not anchor securely in the DOVELM162. We encourage everyone using a plate manufactured by Celestron to test that plate in the DOVELM162 before mounting their telescope, in order to ensure that it can be locked down firmly.

The previous, two-clamp version of the DOVELM162 shown at maximum offset on a 900GTO

The DOVELM162 features 1" diameter knobs with 3/16" hex sockets. Tightening with an Allen wrench is strongly recommended as this plate will likely be carrying a heavy load. The smaller design of the knobs prevents interference with the Dec motor box when the plate is mounted in the extreme offset position. The smaller knobs also avoid interference when used on the 22" or 27" sliding bar for the 3600GTO (SB3622 or SB3627) in a side-by-side configuration.

The clamping blocks grip your dovetail plate firmly. Springs keep the blocks in an open position until you tighten them. The unique design of the clamping blocks ensures that they remain properly aligned with no need for additional guide pins, and the brass washer on the knob allows firm tightening with no binding.

This plate includes wide recesses to accommodate the safety knobs of the Losmandy D-style plates. It also features multiple machined cutouts on the underside to reduce weight. Weight is 3.9 lb. (1.8 kg).

A #10-32 tapped hole at each end allows for cable stays to be installed for cleaner routing of accessory cables.

More detailed information regarding the DOVELM162 can be viewed by clicking the thumbnail, including:

offset positions for the 900, 1100, 1200, 1600 and Mach1GTO mounts;
travel distances for commonly used Losmandy dovetail plates;
possible configurations with the 22" Dovetail Sliding Bar for the 3600GTO (SB3622).

Notice: Please note that older styles of this saddle plate utilized a larger diameter knob which will not work with the new, wider SBD16 dovetail plate without installing additional washers. Alternatively, we do offer the newer style knobs (SDOVE162KB), which include a 3/8” socket screw, as a replacement.

DOVELM162 $240.00 in stock
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12" Dovetail Sliding Bar for D-Style Saddle Plates (SBD12)


This 12" Dovetail Sliding Bar was designed with short instruments in mind. The middle portion of the plate is raised 0.5" above the front and back sections. As a result, the plate is long enough for optimal movement without causing interference with the dewcap or focuser. Weight: 1.9 lb. (0.86 kg). The plate is ribbed on the opposite side to reduce weight. Includes screw packet for various configurations. For a detailed instruction sheet, click this link. (PDF file)
Attach directly to the bottom of mounting rings or with a spacer bar 130 mm f6.3 StarFire “Gran Turismo”, 105 mm Traveler, 130 mm f6 StarFire (original version) - attach directly to Astro-Physics rings. With the Traveler, a spacer bar is preferred to allow more finger room on the focuser, but is not required. 130 mm f8 or f8.3 StarFires, 140 mm f7 StarFire, and 155 mm f7 StarFire or similar instruments – use with Losmandy blocks (LMAPBLOCKS) in the outer hole positions. This will space the rings approximately 10" apart. The LMAPBLOCKS rest completely on the sliding bar and do not extend off the side. Instruments that have ¼-20 center holes in the mounting rings. 90 mm f5 Stowaway must be mounted by using the 5.5” sliding bar (SB0550) as a spacer to allow additional clearance for the dewcap. Attach your TeleVue or Takahashi clamshells to our 7” (SB0800) or 10" (SB1000) sliding bars, which have the correct hole pattern for the clamshells and are used as spacers to raise the scope up a little higher. Use with our 8.5" Dovetail Saddle Plate (DOVELM2), 16" Dovetail Saddle Plate version with 3-clamps (DOVELM162) or other similar plates. The 12” Sliding Bar is too short to be used with our older 16" plates: DOVELM16, DOVELM16S or the DOVELM162 version that has only 2 clamps.
Use as an accessory plate Use Losmandy AP Blocks (LMAPBLOCKS – purchased separately) to attach the 12” Sliding Bar to the top of the mounting rings (assuming that the surface is flat and has the Astro-Physics hole pattern - two 10-32 tapped holes with 3" spacing). Use with the following accessories: Losmandy Dovetail Plate Adapter (LMDA). This will allow you to attach the following items: Piggyback Camera Bracket (PGBCBR) , Quick Release Finder Bracket for 8x50 finder (S850QRM), TeleVue Starbeam (STARFMD) or Qwik-Point Finder (QWIKMD), 60 x 700 mm guidescope with 3.4" guidescope rings (previous product no longer available) and various other accessories. Other adapters with a female D-style series dovetail channel.
	For more attachment ideas, click the thumbnail.

SBD12 $98.00 in stock
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16" Versatile Dovetail Plate for D-Style Saddle Plate (SBD16)


This 16" Versatile Dovetail Plate is exceptionally strong, providing a rigid structure to your heaviest payloads. It can be used with our DOVELM2 and the DOVELM162 saddle plates (earlier versions of the DOVELM16x require the minor modification outlined below). It can also be used with many other Losmandy D-style Saddle Plates. Consider the SBD16 for the following configurations:
Astro-Physics mounting rings with 2.362" (60 mm) or 4.5" hole spacing. Note: The 3.2" hole spacing of Astro-Physics rings is not used for this plate. TeleVue, AstroTech, Stellarvue, TMB, ASA rings (confirm your ring spacing with diagram) Parallax rings with 37 mm hole spacing Losmandy Adapter Blocks or AP Riser Blocks (SBDAPB) using 3.5" hole spacing Takahashi clamshells and ring sets Optional blocks (SBDTB) are available for the largest Takahashi scopes: Mewlon, BRC, FRC Optional blocks (SBDAPB) are available if you wish to raise your AP rings in order to incorporate "floating" rings for a guidescope Weight: 4.2 lb. (1.9 kg). The plate is ribbed on one side to reduce weight. Dimensions: 16" x 5" x 1" (40.6 cm x 12.7 cm x 2.5 cm) with 3" (7.6 cm) dovetail Includes: 16" Universal Sliding Bar Fasteners listed on Mounting Plate Fastener Chart
	Please click on the thumbnail to review the detailed diagram and confirm that your rings are appropriate to use this plate. Important: Due to the 5” width of the SBD16 Versatile Dovetail Plate, its use with the pre-March 2007 design of the 16” Dovetail Saddle Plate (DOVELM16x) will require a minor modification of the locking clamp assemblies to ensure that the plate seats and locks properly. See linked PDF file.

SBD16 $140.00 in stock
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Astro-Physics Riser Blocks for 16" Versatile Dovetail Plate, set of 2 blocks (SBDAPB)

The Astro-Physics Riser Blocks are used with the 16" Versatile Dovetail Plate (SBD16) and Astro-Physics Mounting Rings that have 2.362" (6.0 cm) or 4.5" (11.4 cm) hole spacing. These blocks are not required for normal use of the SBD16, however are used when you want to raise up one pair of mounting rings in order to use an extra pair of "floating" rings for guidescope attachment. These blocks can also be used in place of LMAPBLOCKS.

Parts Included:
Two Riser Blocks
Fasteners listed on Mounting Plate Fastener Chart

Please review the Hole Pattern Chart.

SBDAPB $80.00 in stock
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Takahashi Adapter Blocks for 16" Versatile Dovetail Plate, set of 2 blocks (SBDTB)

Use the Takahashi Adapter Blocks with the 16" Versatile Dovetail Plate (SBD16) to attach the Takahashi Mewlon, BRC and FRC. The blocks are designed to accomodate ring sets having fastener spacing at
18.0 cm (optical axis) by 4.8 cm to 15.2 cm in width; utilizing the M10 fasteners typically provided by Takahashi.

Parts Included:
Two Takahashi Adapter Blocks
Fasteners listed on Mounting Plate Fastener Chart

Please review the Hole Pattern Chart.

SBDTB $80.00 in stock
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13" and 16" Side-by-Side Dovetail Plates for D-Style Saddle Plate (SBD13SS, SBD16SS)

Mount your favorite instruments side by side with these versatile plates. The Astro-Physics Side-by-Side Dovetails are just the thing for a tandem mounting arrangement, allowing you to do your own eyepiece or instrument comparisons. Set up a wide-field scope next to a long focal length instrument if your all-night session includes a variety of different-sized objects (dare we say a "modified Messier marathon?").
		Please note that while it might be tempting to use this type of side-by-side setup for guided imaging, that is not necessarily an application we would recommend due to potential pointing and flexure issues of one of the scope relative to the other. This potential is true of any side-by-side setup. Recessed mounting surfaces allow for your preferred dovetail saddle to attach to either end of the plate.
Using either of these side-by-side plates in conjunction with our dovetail plates affords the opportunity to take advantage of the offset position capabilities designed into our saddle plates. Current Astro-Physics saddle plates that can be attached to the Side-by-Side Dovetail Plates include: DOVE08 DOVELM2 DOVELM162 Discontinued saddle plates that can also be bolted onto the Side-by-Sides include the DOVELM, DOVELM16, and DOVELM16S. Note: The DOVE15 saddle plate cannot be attached to these plates. The plates are shipped with two 1/4 - 20 x 3/8 socket head cap screws installed on the bottom to act as a safety stop if the bottom saddle plate clamps are loosened. Any saddle plate will accommodate these side-by-sides bars if they are designed to accept the D-style plate, including the following Astro-Physics plates: DOVELM2 and DOVELM162 (as well as their previous versions - the DOVELM, DOVELM16, and DOVELM16S). Plate specifications Weight: 13" (33.0 cm) plate - 2.5 lb. (1.1 kg); 16" (40.6 cm) plate - 3 lb. (1.4 kg) Plate width, both: 4" (10.2 cm) Distance from optical center to plate's shoulder, both: 1.85" (4.7 cm) Distance to optical centers when two instruments are mounted: 13" plate - 9.5" (25.0 cm); 16" plate - 12.5" (31.8 cm) You can determine which length side-by-side plate you need by answering this question: What is the total distance that my proposed setup actually requires to function without clearance issues? One way to determine this is to do a "trial." Set your intended instruments beside each other so that their optical centers are spaced at the 9.5" (24.1 cm) or 12.5" (31.8 cm) of our plates. Then you can judge whether the space between the two scopes will provide adequate space for fingers and other accessories used in your final setup. Be sure to pay special attention to the space requirements of your mounting rings.

	The photo on the left shows the SBD13SS with a DOVELM (top) and a DOVELM2 installed. The photo on the right shows the DOVELM2 and the DOVELM162 (the version with 2 clamps is shown) attached to the 16" Side-by-Side plate.

SBD13SS $95.00 in stock

SBD16SS $115.00 in stock
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12" Vixen Dovetail Converter - adapts male Vixen-style bars for use in D-Style saddle plates (SBD2V)

		This 12" plate fills the void for those customers whose telescopes use the Vixen-style mounting plate. Now there is no need to replace your existing Vixen-style bar, rings, or clamshell to accommodate your Astro-Physics mount.

The top portion is a female plate that accepts Vixen-style bars. In order to retain the tilt-in feature of the dovetail, the sliding bars must have an approximate width between 1.65" (4.2 cm) and 1.8" (4.5 cm) and that have a 75 degree bevel. Please note that we have not tested all plates that are currently available on the market. We recommend you check your plate for a good fit in this saddle without an instrument attached!
	The bottom dovetail of the plate has the ubiquitous D-style male dovetail, allowing it to be clamped into any saddle plate which accepts this size plate. This includes the following Astro-Physics plates: DOVELM2 DOVELM162 As well as these discontinued, older style saddles: DOVELM DOVELM16 DOVELM16S
The saddle portion of this plate has a hole in the center to relocate one of the knobs for use with a shorter sliding bar (as pointed out in the rollover image above). With a knob in the center and in one of the outer holes, you can use a plate as short as 4.5" (11.4 cm) and still maintain two clamps engaged on your sliding bar. This plate ships with one 1/4 - 20 x 1/4" socket head screw to use in the bottom of the SBD2V plate as a safety screw for this plate. Please install it in the appropriate end to function as a safety stop. The screw packet also includes a 1/4 - 20 x 1/4" low-profile socket head cap screw for use as a safety stop in the bottom of your Vixen-style, male sliding bar. Note that the top portion of this plate is not designed to be used with our SB0800, SB1000 or SB1500 sliding bars. Can't tell the difference between the Vixen and Astro-Physics sliding bars? Click here for a scaled diagram comparing each of the bar profiles. Weight: 2 lb. (0.9 kg). This plate is ribbed on the bottom to remove excess weight yet maintain strength.

SBD2V $155.00 in stock
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Losmandy D-Style Plates

These male dovetail plates are used in conjunction with our DOVELM2 and DOVELM162 described above (also the previous models: DOVELM, DOVELM16 and DOVELM16S. The Losmandy D Series Plate attaches directly to your telescope or your telescope mounting rings and fits into the saddle as shown at right. The most common sizes are listed below. If you have other requirements, please call.

Please refer to the following instruction sheets:

Losmandy Dovetail Plate - attaching the plate to your rings - PDF document
Losmandy Universal Dovetail Plate Hole Pattern - PDF document
Using Your Traveler or Stowaway with 13.5" Losmandy Universal Plate - PDF document

The plates are produced by Hollywood General Machining (makers of Losmandy products), and may have some minor cosmetic flaws, for which we cannot be held responsible.

All required fasteners are included.

LMDAP4/5 13.5" plate with adapters for Astro-Physics rings, can also be used as an accessory plate on top of the rings, weighs 2.0 lb.

LMDAP4/5

$111.00

in stock

LMDAP6/7 17.25" plate with adapters for Astro-Physics rings, can also be used as an accessory plate on top of the rings, weighs 2.5 lb.

LMDAP6/7

$111.00

in stock

LMDC8 13.5" plate for Celestron 8"SCT, weighs 2.0 lb.

LMDC8

$90.00

in stock

LMDC925 19" plate for Celestron 9.25"SCT, weighs 3.5 lb.

LMDC925

$145.00

Call

LMDC11 17.25" plate for Celestron 11" SCT, weighs 2.25 lb.

LMDC11

$100.00

Call

LMDC14 23.75" plate for Celestron 14" SCT, weighs 3.75 lb.

LMDC14

$145.00

Call

LMDM8 13.5" plate for Meade 8" SCT, weighs 2.0 lb.

LMDM8

$86.00

Call

LMDM10 17.25" plate for Meade 10" SCT, weighs 2.5 lb.

LMDM10

$96.00

Call

LMDM12 19" plate for Meade 12" SCT, weighs 3.5 lb.

LMDM12

$145.00

Call

LMDUP 14" Universal plate for the Traveler; Stowaway, TeleVue, Takahashi, Vixen and Meade Refractors; Parks and Questar scopes, weighs 2.6 lb. (For rings or clamshells using M-8 fasteners, you must substitute 5/16-18 fasteners of the appropriate length to use this plate.)

LMDUP $79.00 in stock

LMD1725 17.25" plate without adapter blocks for Astro-Physics 10" f14.6 Maksutov-Cassegrain or other large instrument with rings having a 3.5" hole spacing.

LMD1725

$66.00

in stock

LMD135 13.5" plate without adapter blocks for rings with 3.5" hole spacing.

LMD135

$66.00

in stock

LMAPBLOCKS Losmandy Blocks, used to attach our Mounting Rings (3.2" spacing or center hole) to Losmandy D Series dovetail plates with 3.5" spacing.

LMAPBLOCKS

$72.00

in stock

LMDMM Losmandy D-style male to male dovetail plate - 13.5" length, 0.75" thick, weighs 1.75 lb.

LMDMM

$76.00

Call

LMDVA Losmandy D/V Style Dovetail Plate Adapter : This single-clamp, female adapter is used when you mount a male D-style (or V series) plate on top of your scope as an accessory plate. Use one for a finder or a 35 mm camera (attach our piggyback camera bracket for even more versatility!). Use two (one for each mounting ring) for piggybacking a guidescope or second smaller scope.

LMDVA $42.00 in stock

Losmandy D/V Style Dovetail Plate Adapter (LMDVA)

Astro-Physics 8" and 15" Dovetail Saddle Plates, Traveler Accessory Plate and Sliding Bars

8" Dovetail Saddle Plate (DOVE08) - 400, 600E, 900, 1100 and Mach1GTO

This versatile plate is suited for the 105 f6 Traveler and 130 refractors (we prefer the 15" Dovetail Plate for most applications of the 130 mm f8 StarFire EDT) and other short instruments. The knob assembly features a brass pin with a tapered end to hold your sliding bar firmly without marring the aluminum. Use with the SB0550 (discontinued), SB0800, or SB1000 sliding bars, which are sold separately. Repositioning the sliding bar will aid in adjusting the balance of your instrument.

These are some of the uses:
Mounting saddle plate -

400 or 600E German equatorial mounts (all models) - attaches directly.
Mach1GTO, 1100 and 900 mounts (all models) - Use part # Q4047 to attach this plate.
All Takahashi mounts with the 2-hole mounting pattern (EM-10, EM-200, Teegul, etc)
- use the Q4044 adapter plate.
GiroDX mount - use the Q4044 adapter plate.
Super Polaris - see DOVESP.

Accessory plate - Attach to the top of our Astro-Physics mounting rings (tube diameters 5"-8") or rings from Parallax Instruments that have the Astro-Physics hole pattern (you can request it). For the 105 f6 Traveler, use the Traveler Dovetail Accessory Plate. Note, you must also use a sliding bar on the bottom of the rings with the same distance (6.3" from center to center), i.e. the SB0800, SB1000 or a Vixen Super Polaris mount.

Please note that your telescope rings must be tapped with two 10-32 holes spaced 3" apart to accommodate this plate as an accessory plate. Some of our earliest rings were produced before we included this set of holes in our standard hole patter. To confirm that your rings are appropriately tapped, please refer to our Astro-Physics Mounting Ring Hole Pattern document.

Note also that this saddle plate will NOT accept Vixen-style plates (sliding bars) like the Losmandy V-series. This newer Vixen specification is slightly wider than our long established Astro-Physics 8" specification and has a much less angled bevel to the dovetail. Can't tell the difference between the Vixen and Astro-Physics sliding bars? Click here for a scaled diagram comparing each of the bar profiles.

DOVE08 $105.00 in stock
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8" Dovetail Saddle Plate for Super Polaris Mount (DOVESP)

The DOVESP is the same as the DOVE08 plate above with the addition of two adapter blocks, which allow it to be used on the Vixen Super Polaris Mounts (cannot be used with versions that already have a dovetail plate). Use with the 5.5" Sliding Bar (no longer available), 7" Sliding Bar(SB0800) or 10" Sliding Bar(SB1000).

Please note that this saddle plate will NOT accept Vixen style plates (sliding bars) like the Losmandy V-series. This newer Vixen specification is slightly wider than our long established Astro-Physics 8" specification and has a much less angled bevel to the dovetail. Can't tell the difference between the Vixen and Astro-Physics sliding bars? Click here for a scaled diagram comparing each of the bar profiles.

DOVESP $140.00 in stock
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Traveler Dovetail Accessory Plate (ACPLTR)

Mount this accessory plate atop your Traveler to enable you to use the Straight-through Finders with our Quick Release Bracket (S850QRM) (please note that the Quick Release Brackets shipped prior to June 1994 cannot be used in this manner), 3.4" Guidescope Rings (no longer available), Piggyback Camera Bracket (PGBCNB) and TeleVue Starbeam or TeleVue Qwik-Point Finder. The plate measures 2.75" x 7" and weighs only 8 oz. Use with the 5.5" Sliding Bar (no longer available), 7" Sliding Bar (SB0800), or 10" Sliding Bar (SB1000).

Please note that the Traveler mounting rings must be 6.3" apart (center to center) to accommodate this plate. Be aware that some of our earliest Traveler rings were not tapped on the top side. Please confirm that your rings are appropriately tapped before ordering.

If your scope is mounted in any of the following configurations, the correct spacing will be achieved: any mount with an 8" Dovetail Plate (DOVE08), Vixen DX mount, Celestron (Vixen) Super Polaris or Great Polaris mounts, TeleVue Gibraltar mount with our 7" Sliding Bar (SB0800) as a mounting plate, very heavy-duty camera tripod with 7" Sliding Bar (SB0800) as a mounting plate. To see photos of the Traveler Accessory Plate with a wide variety of accessories, go to our Traveler photo page.

Note also that this accessory plate will NOT accept Vixen style plates (sliding bars) like the Losmandy V-series. This newer Vixen specification is slightly wider than our long established Astro-Physics 8" specification and has a much less angled bevel to the dovetail. Can't tell the difference between the Vixen and Astro-Physics sliding bars? Click here for a scaled diagram comparing each of the bar profiles.

ACPLTR $105.00 in stock
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7" Dovetail Sliding Bar (SB0800)

These are a few of the possible uses:

Attach to the bottom of mounting rings or cradle

Traveler, 130 StarFire f/8.35 EDT or f/6 EDFS, TeleVue and Takahashi refractors or any instrument that has 1/4 - 20 center holes in the mounting rings. Use with 8" Dovetail Plate (DOVE08) or 8" Dovetail Plate for Super Polaris (DOVESP).

Attach accessories

Piggyback Camera Bracket (PGBCBR)
Quick Release Finder Bracket for 8x50 finder (S850QRM)
TeleVue Starbeam or Qwik-Point Finder with our part #A3251-B. (also #A3251-A)
60 x 700 mm guidescope with 3.4" guidescope rings (previous product no longer available)

Use with 8" Dovetail Plate (DOVE08), 8" Dovetail Plate for Super Polaris (DOVESP) and Traveler Dovetail Accessory Plate (ACPLTR). A detailed schematic of the hole pattern can be found here.

Use as a mounting plate or spacer bar

Attach to the rings of the Traveler, 90 mm f/5 Stowaway or 92 mm f/7 Stowaway. The bar functions as stationary mounting plate for either a heavy-duty camera tripod or TeleVue Gibraltar mount by using the predrilled holes. Refer to the Mounting 92 mm f/5 or f/7 to the Gibraltar mount with a 7" Sliding bar instruction sheet. The bar does not "slide" when used in this manner. It can also be used as a spacer to lift the Traveler or Stowaway high enough off the Losmandy LMDUP plate so that the focuser knobs clear the LMDUP (Losmandy Universal Plate). Please refer to Using your Traveler or Stowaway with 13.5" Losmandy Universal Plate to see how this is accomplished.

Please note that this sliding bar can NOT be used with Vixen style saddle plates. The base of this sliding bar is narrower than the receiving channel on the Vixen style mounting system, and the Astro-Physics sliding bar has a more aggressively angled bevel for a secure grip. Can't tell the difference between the Vixen and Astro-Physics sliding bars? Click here for a scaled diagram comparing each of the bar profiles.

SB0800 $32.00 in stock
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10" Dovetail Sliding Bar (SB1000)

Redesigned in Spring 2008, this bar now includes an additional countersunk through-hole and slot. These changes provide greater mounting versatility for owners of small scopes and presents a new option for customers using the TeleVue 127 mm. Can be used in the same manner as the 7" Sliding Bar (SB0800) described above.

It also provides the extra length needed to push the Traveler forward to counterbalance accessories when doing eyepiece projection. Adetailed schematic of the hole pattern can be found here.

SB1000 $45.00 in stock
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15" Dovetail Saddle Plate (DOVE15) - 400, 600E, 900, 1100, 1200, 1600 and Mach1GTO

The 15" version of our dovetail plate is suited for the 130 f/8 StarFire EDT, 155 f/7 StarFire EDFS, ARO Maksutovs, Takahashi scopes and other instruments of similar size. The knob assembly features a brass pin with a tapered end to hold your sliding bar firmly without marring the aluminum

Use with the 15" Sliding Bar (SB1500), which is sold separately. These are some of the applications:

Mounting plate

400, 600E, 900, 1100, 1200, 1600 or Mach1GTO German equatorial mounts (all models).
All Takahashi mounts with the 2-hole mounting pattern (EM-10, Teegul, etc) - use the Q4044 adapter plate.
GiroDX mount - use the Q4044 adapter plate.

Accessory plate - Attach to the top of our Astro-Physics mounting rings (diameters 5" - 8") or rings from Parallax Instruments that have the Astro-Physics hole patterns (you can request it). Note, you must also use a mounting plate on the bottom of the rings with the same distance, i.e. the DOVE15, FP1500, 1200RP15, 900RP, FP1800 (only if you use the innermost hole spacing) or the cradle plate of the Astro-Physics 800 mount (prior model). The distance between these pairs of holes is 13.75".

Please note that your telescope rings must be tapped with two 10 - 32 holes spaced 3" apart to accommodate this plate as an accessory plate. Some of our earliest rings were produced before we included this set of holes in our standard hole patter. To confirm that your rings are appropriately tapped, please refer to our Astro-Physics Mounting Ring Hole Pattern document.

Note also that this plate will NOT accept Vixen style plates (sliding bars) like the Losmandy V-series. This newer Vixen specification is slightly narrower than our long established Astro-Physics 15" specification and has a much less angled bevel to the dovetail. This dovetail saddle will not adequately clamp onto the smaller Vixen style plate (sliding bar). Can't tell the difference between the Vixen and Astro-Physics sliding bars? Click here for a scaled diagram comparing each of the bar profiles.

DOVE15 $150.00 in stock
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15" Dovetail Sliding Bars (SB1500)

Use with 15" Dovetail Plate. These are a few of the possible applications:

Attach to the bottom of mounting rings or cradle - 130 StarFire EDT, 155 f/7 StarFire EDFS or any rings or cradle with a flat mounting surface and 1/4 - 20 holes.

Attach to tube assembly - ARO Maksutovs and other similar instruments.

Attach accessories

4.4" Guidescope Rings (GR4400) for use with your own guidescope.
Piggyback Camera Bracket (PGBCNB)
Quick Release Bracket for 8 x 50 finder (S850QRM)
Quick Release Bracket for 10 x 60 finder (S1060QRM)
TeleVue Starbeam with our part #A3251-B (also #A3251-A)
TeleVue Quik-Point Finder with our part #A3251-B (also #A3251-A)
60 x 700mm Guidescope with 3.4" Guidescope Rings (no longer available)

Please note that this sliding bar can NOT be used with Vixen style saddle plates. The base of this sliding bar is wider than the receiving channel on the Vixen style mounting system, and it will not fit into most Vixen style saddles. In addition, the Astro-Physics sliding bar has a more aggressively angled bevel for a secure grip. Can't tell the difference between the Vixen and Astro-Physics sliding bars? Click here for a scaled diagram comparing each of the bar profiles.

SB1500 $60.00 in stock
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Saddle Plate Adapters

Adapter to Use DOVE08 with 900, 1100 or Mach1GTO Mount (Q4047)

Since the 8" Dovetail Plate (DOVE08) is so short, an adapter is required to raise it up above the top of the 900, 1100 or Mach1GTO declination axis so that the knobs clear. It may also be used to provide additional clearance for the middle knob position of the DOVELM2.

Please Note: This adapter attaches to the Mach1GTO with four 1/4 - 20 x 1" Flat Head Socket Cap Screws. DOVE08's purchased before Nov. 1 2006 did not include these screws in their fastener packets. If you will be using a DOVE08 purchased before Nov. 1, 2006 with this adapter and a Mach1GTO, you will need to order the four 1/4 - 20 x 1 Flat Head Socket Cap Screws separately. If ordering the Q4047 along with a new DOVE08 after Nov. 1, 2006, you will have all the required fasteners. If needed, the screws may be requested at checkout under "Comments / Special Instructions."

Q4047 $60.00 in stock
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Adapter to use Dovetail Saddle Plates with All Takahashi Mounts that Have
2-hole Mounting Pattern and the GiroDX Mount (Q4044)

This adapter will enable you to use our dovetail plates with your EM-10, EM-200, Teegul and other Takahashi mounts; Giro2DX or any mount that has, or can be adapted to have, a 2-hole M8 mounting pattern on the top of the declination axis. The two holes are spaced 1.378" or 35 mm apart. The four outer holes are tapped 1/4 - 20 to accept the Astro-Physics plates.

Bolt the Q4044 adapter to the mount (screws provided), then attach our DOVE08 (as shown), DOVE15, DOVELM2, DOVELM162, or DOVELM16 and DOVELM (previous models). You will also need the corresponding sliding bar. The FP1500 can also be used with this adapter. Note: this adapter is black anodized as shown in the image above.

Q4044 $40.00 in stock
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Flat Mounting Plates

15" Flat Mounting Plate (FP1500) - 400, 600E, Mach1GTO

	This machined aluminum mounting plate measures 15" x 4.6" x 0.5". Two keyhole slots that measure 3.2" between centers are provided at each end of the plate. The distance between these pairs of holes is 13.75". You can drill additional holes to suit your needs. The plate weighs 3.3 lb. (1.5 kg.).
If you plan to use an accessory plate on top of your rings, we suggest the 15" Dovetail Plate (DOVE15. All Astro-Physics rings (except the Traveler and Stowaway) are predrilled to accept the DOVE15. Rings from Parallax Instruments can also be drilled with the Astro-Physics hole pattern.

FP1500 $85.00 in stock
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18" Flat Mounting Plate (FP1800) - 900, 1100, 1200, 1600 and Mach1GTO

This larger machined aluminum plate is available for the Mach1GTO, 900, 1100, 1200 or 1600 mounts. It is 18" long and 7.5" at its widest point in the center. The width of the plate tapers to 5.5" at each end. Four pairs of keyhole slots that measure 3.2" between centers are provided. The two inner pairs are 13.75" apart and the outer two pairs are 17" apart. You can drill additional holes to suit your needs. The plate weighs 6.2 lb. (2.8 kg.).

If you use the innermost holes, you have the option of using the 15" Dovetail Plate (DOVE15) as an accessory plate on top of your Astro-Physics mounting rings. Rings from Parallax Instruments can also be drilled with the Astro-Physics hole pattern.

Please Note: While the 18" Flat Mounting Plate will fit on the Mach1GTO without a problem, you should carefully consider whether the mount is being overloaded. If your instrument is so big that it requires the FP1800, it is probably too big for the Mach1GTO.

FP1800 $110.00 in stock
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Ribbed Mounting Plates

15" Ribbed Mounting Plate (900RP) - 900, 1100 and Mach1GTO

Click here for an image of the ribbed underside

Our CNC machining center started with thick aluminum plate and carved out the excess material leaving a strong rib support structure. The finished plate is 0.75" thick, 14.75 " long and 6.5" at its widest point.The width of the plate tapers to 4.75". A pair of keyhole slots that measure 3.2" between centers are provided at each end.The distance between these pairs of holes is 13.75". Due to the ribbed structure, you may not be able to drill additional holes to suit your mounting rings. The plate weighs 2.3 lb. (1.0 kg.).

Since the rings will be spaced 13.75" apart (center to center), you can use the 15" Dovetail Plate (DOVE15) as an accessory plate on top of your Astro-Physics mounting rings or Parallax Instruments rings with the Astro-Physics hole pattern.

900RP $145.00 in stock
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15" Ribbed Mounting Plate (1200RP15) - 1200 and 1600


	This plate is 14.75" long, 7.75" at its widest point 5" at each end and 1" thick. The underside of the plate is carved into a ribbed pattern to maximize the strength and minimize the weight to a mere 3 lb. A pair of keyhole slots that measure 3.2" between centers are provided at each end. The distance between the pairs is 13.75".
Click here for an image of the ribbed underside
If you plan to use an accessory plate on top of your rings, we suggest the 15" Dovetail Plate (DOVE15). All Astro-Physics rings (except the Traveler and Stowaway) are predrilled to accept the DOVE15. Rings from Parallax Instruments can be drilled with the Astro-Physics hole pattern, as well.

1200RP15 $210.00 Call
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24" Ribbed Plate (1200RP) - 1200 and 1600

Click here for an image of the ribbed underside

For larger instruments, the ribbed structure of this plate provides the maximum support. Again, we start with thick aluminum plate and carve a strong rib structure. The final result is 1.5" thick, in the center, 24" long and 7.6" at its widest point. The width of the plate tapers to 5.5" at each end. A pair of keyhole slots that measure 3.2" between centers are provided at each end. The distance between these pairs of holes is 23". Due to the ribbed structure, you may not be able to drill additional holes to suit your mounting rings. The plate only weighs an amazing 9.5 lb. (4.3 kg.).

There is no corresponding accessory mounting plate available.

1200RP $315.00 in stock
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Astro-Physics, Inc.
11250 Forest Hills Road, Machesney Park, IL 61115, U.S.A.
Phone: 815-282-1513 Fax: 815-282-9847