Description
The Nightfall Astro Ring Platform is a full integrated mounting platform for use with a Rokinon 24mm F1.4 lens for widefield astrophotography. This mounting platform allows the easy attachment of the following components to create a fully automated imaging system which can be used locally or at a remote observatory:
- ZWO Electronic Auto Focuser (EAF)
- Guidescope
- Filter Wheel
- ASIAIR or miniPC
- Power distribution unit
The Rokinon 24mm - Perfect for Widefield Milkyway Compositions
The Rokinon 24mm has an enormous FOV and can capture large sections of the Milkyway as shown above with this image of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) and the Milkyway using this lens and an ASI2600MC camera. With an APS-C sized sensor, this gives a working focal length of 40mm which is perfect for widefield Milkyway compositions or capturing the entire constellation of Orion in a single frame! This lens is also compatible with full frame cameras.
Achieving the Perfect Focus - The Key to Great Astrophotography
I've been doing astrophotography for nearly 30 years and from experience, I've learned focusing has always been the most difficult and challenging aspect of astrophotography especially with fast lenses where the critical focus range is so narrow. With an integrated autofocus system using the ZWO EAF focuser and a backlash-free belt, you can now get perfect focus all the time and through the entire night.
Designed for Automated Remote Operation
Integrating a ZWO EAF focuser, guidescope, and ASIAIR or miniPC, you can now have a fully automated system suitable for full remote operation on the other side of the world. Imagine photographing the Milkyway with a widefield set-up in the high deserts of Chile, in Namibia, South Africa, or at one of the many remote observatories here in the United States, all from the comfort of your home office or living room.
Specifications and Compatability
Nightfall Ring Platforms are designed, manufactured, and assembled here in the USA, with components 3D printed using advanced thermoplastics including PETG and PLA+(tough) which are water-resistant and can withstand harsh outdoor conditions in temperatures from below freezing at -15F up to +175F. All hardware used is 18-8 stainless steel with thumbscrews being red or black anodized aluminum.
This Nightfall Astro Ring Platform is compatible with the following lenses:
- Rokinon 24mm F1.4
- Samyang 24mm F1.4
What's included in the standard mounting kit:
- Two (2) heavy-duty mounting rings
- Vixen accessory saddle rail
- Two (2) anodized thumbscrews for mounting rings
- Two (2) anodized thumbscrews for accessory saddle
- Misc. 18-8 stainless steel mounting screws
- Two (2) M6 socket screws for mounting rings to a dovetail bar
What's included in the ZWO EAF mounting kit:
- Everything in the standard mounting kit above
- Focus gear assembly
- Timing belt
- Timing pulley
- ZWO EAF mounting bracket with stainless steel mounting screw
- Misc. 18-8 stainless steel mounting screws
Terms and Conditions
For complete Terms and Conditions, please click here.