Dark Clear Skies · ASCENT mounting range
ASCENT 200
More room for your telescope.
A 200mm pier extension for ZWO AM3, AM3N, AM5, AM5N and AM7 mounts. The Standard version raises the mount above the tripod head, giving a long telescope tube, diagonal or camera assembly more space around the tripod legs.
One extension, three tripod routes
Choose the connection to suit the tripod you already own. The upper fitting supports the five ZWO mount models listed above; the lower connection depends on your tripod.
| Your tripod | What you need |
|---|---|
| ZWO TC40 | Direct connection to the ASCENT 200 Standard; no additional tripod adapter required. |
| Sky-Watcher EQ3/EQ5 | AXISBASE EQ3/EQ5 tripod adapter, sold separately. |
| Sky-Watcher EQ6 | AXISBASE EQ6 tripod adapter, sold separately. |
Using a ZWO mount on a Sky-Watcher tripod? Choose this Standard extension with the matching AXISBASE tripod adapter. The dedicated ASCENT 200 EQ3 and EQ6 versions use different mount fittings.
Space to move. Access to fit.
Extra height at the tripod head can help when a refractor, diagonal, filter wheel or rear-mounted camera approaches a tripod leg. The open four-pillar structure also leaves the central fixing area accessible during assembly.
Plan around your complete equipment arrangement. Tube length, mounting position, camera orientation and cable routing all affect clearance, so check the intended movement of the assembled telescope before observing or imaging.
Product specifications
| Specification | ASCENT 200 Standard |
|---|---|
| Brand / model | Dark Clear Skies / ASCENT 200 |
| Version | Standard |
| Product type | Tripod pier extension |
| Size | 200mm |
| Construction | Four pillars with circular mounting plates |
| Mount compatibility | ZWO AM3, AM3N, AM5, AM5N and AM7 |
| Direct tripod fit | ZWO TC40 |
| Tripods requiring an adapter | Sky-Watcher EQ3/EQ5 or EQ6, with the corresponding AXISBASE adapter |
| Finish | Black, with engraved Dark Clear Skies and ASCENT branding |
What comes with it?
Included
- ASCENT 200 Standard pier extension.
- The raised circular mount adapter shown fitted.
- Accompanying fixing screws, washers, thumbscrews and locating post.
- Hex keys shown in the hardware photograph.
Required separately
Your telescope, compatible mount head and tripod.
The matching AXISBASE adapter is required separately for an EQ3/EQ5 or EQ6 tripod.
Choose the ASCENT that fits your setup
| Version | Mount head | Tripod connection |
|---|---|---|
| ASCENT 200 Standard — this model | ZWO AM3, AM3N, AM5, AM5N or AM7 | TC40 directly; EQ3/EQ5 or EQ6 tripod with its matching AXISBASE adapter |
| ASCENT 200 EQ3 | Sky-Watcher EQ3/EQ5 | Dedicated EQ3/EQ5 extension and fittings |
| ASCENT 200 EQ6 | Sky-Watcher EQ6 | Dedicated EQ6 extension and fittings |
Before you order
Do I need an AXISBASE adapter with a TC40 tripod?
No. The ASCENT 200 Standard connects directly to the ZWO TC40. The AXISBASE adapters provide the alternative connections to Sky-Watcher EQ3/EQ5 and EQ6 tripods.
Does the extension guarantee that my telescope clears the tripod?
It provides extra space above the tripod head. Actual clearance depends on the tube, accessories, mounting position and direction of movement. Check the whole system, including cables, through the positions you intend to use.
Can I choose an EQ3 or EQ6 version for my ZWO mount?
The listed ZWO AM mounts use the Standard version. The dedicated EQ3 and EQ6 extensions have fittings for their corresponding Sky-Watcher mount setups.
Let’s check your mount and tripod
Tell us the exact mount and tripod models you use. Dark Clear Skies can help you choose the right ASCENT version and any adapter needed for the connection.
Ask DCS about compatibility
