ZWO PE160 Pier Extension for Mount

Description

ZWO PE160 Pier Extension for AM3 & AM5 Mounts

The ZWO PE160 Pier Extension is a 160 mm aluminum pier extension designed to raise a ZWO harmonic equatorial mount above the tripod. It is particularly useful when additional height and clearance are needed between the telescope and tripod during operation.

The PE160 is compatible with both the ZWO AM3 and AM5 harmonic equatorial mounts, making it a useful accessory for portable astrophotography and observing setups. By increasing the height of the mount, it provides more space between the telescope and tripod, helping reduce the possibility of the optical tube or accessories coming into contact with the tripod as the mount moves.

More Clearance for Your Telescope

One of the main purposes of a pier extension is to improve clearance. Depending on the telescope, dovetail position, camera equipment, and the orientation of the mount, a telescope can sometimes come close to the tripod legs during movement. Raising the mount by 160 mm gives the telescope additional room to move.

This can be especially useful with longer optical tubes and astrophotography configurations where a camera, filter wheel, electronic focuser, or other accessories increase the overall length of the imaging train.

The additional height can also provide a more convenient working position when the telescope is used for visual observation.

Strong and Lightweight Construction

The PE160 is constructed from aluminum, providing a rigid support structure while keeping the extension relatively lightweight. At approximately 1 kg, it adds little weight compared with the additional height and clearance it provides.

The extension is designed as a rigid connection between the tripod and mount, helping maintain a stable platform for astronomical equipment. Its compact design also makes it practical for users who frequently transport their equipment to different observing locations.

Designed for ZWO AM3 and AM5

The PE160 is designed for use with ZWO's AM3 and AM5 harmonic equatorial mounts. It can be installed between the mount and a compatible tripod to increase the overall mounting height.

The extension can also be used with compatible third-party tripods when the required mounting interface is available. However, compatibility with a particular tripod should be confirmed before purchase, as tripod mounting standards and thread configurations can vary.

Useful for Astrophotography

The PE160 can be particularly useful in portable astrophotography setups. Modern harmonic-drive mounts such as the AM3 and AM5 are designed to carry relatively substantial imaging equipment while remaining compact and easy to transport. Adding a pier extension can further improve the geometry of the setup without requiring a permanently installed astronomical pier.

For astrophotographers using longer telescopes, the extra 160 mm of height can provide valuable clearance around the tripod. This allows the telescope and imaging accessories more freedom of movement while the mount tracks objects across the sky.

Simple Installation

The PE160 is designed to be installed between the tripod and mount without significantly changing the rest of the setup. Once installed, the mount is positioned higher while retaining the compact and portable nature of the overall system.

With its 160 mm height, approximately 1 kg weight, aluminum construction, and compatibility with the AM3 and AM5, the PE160 is a practical accessory for users who need additional clearance from their tripod.

Please note: The PE160 is a pier extension only. The mount and tripod shown in product images are not included unless specifically stated in the package contents. Compatibility with third-party tripods depends on their mounting interface and may require suitable adapters or hardware.