Altair's TMS system uses durable stainless steel M8 threads, which means they will not corrode, unlike cheaper brands that use low-quality blackened steel threads and screws, which will eventually rust. Instead of cheap plastic knobs that are difficult to grip, Altair's TMS system comes with individually machined knobs that are permanently attached to stainless steel threads, ending in a special cap that will not scratch. This prevents damage to the telescope tube and maintains a rigid connection for autoguiding or even capturing images with a heavy camera. Plastic caps not only offer a more forgiving contact with the optical tube, but are better than soft rubber or vinyl caps, which move and eventually break.
Optical tube size: 100 mm rings range from 45 mm to 80 mm. You can accommodate larger diameter optical tubes by trimming the back of the plastic caps with a sharp knife. For example, if you trim 5mm off the plastic caps, you can mount a 90mm diameter optical tube. The rings have an inside diameter of 100mm.
Direct mounting on bar or plate: The Altair Guide Scope rings are unique (at least at the time of this writing) because they can be mounted on the top or bottom of Altair Losmandy-format or Vixen-format bars by means of two M6 screws on each ring, to prevent twisting as in other brands. All Altair TMS Losmandy plates and Vixen bars have this two-hole pattern, and you can adjust the spacing of the rings by choosing different holes along the plate. The rings have flattened bases, for good contact with the surface of the bar or plate. (See the thumbnail images for an example of how you can attach the Altair guide rings to the underside of Altair plates Losmandy or bars Vixen).
Direct clamp mounting: GSR rings can also be mounted on Altair TMS Small Vixen clamps or Losmandy Saddle Plates to slide back and forth for the best balance. This is perfect for Altair Astro RC and Meade and Celestron SCT scopes with an inverted rail on top. (See the thumbnail images for an example of how you can mount Altair guide scope rings on the bottom of Altair clamps Losmandy or Vixen).
Altair TMS is manufactured in the UK in our local workshop on HAAS CNC milling machines, which means we have total control over quality. Each part is hand polished before anodizing to remove burrs and give a smooth finish. The level of quality and material means a slightly higher price than economy rings. Recommended for those who want the best.
We include the 4 stainless steel M6 screws you need to attach them to your existing TMS plate.
