Build your pier-extension setup around your existing tripod with the Dark Clear Skies AXISBASE EQ3/EQ5. This separate extension adapter is intended for EQ3/EQ5 tripods, giving you the adapter component needed for a compatible installation.
The circular plate has a black finish, a threaded central opening and six mounting positions with recessed bolt seats on one face. Three socket-head fixing bolts are supplied with the adapter.
Key features
- EQ3/EQ5 tripod application: Connects a compatible pier extension to a Sky-Watcher EQ3/EQ5 tripod.
- Circular mounting plate: with six recessed fixing positions and a central threaded opening.
- Black finish: suits a matching black tripod and pier-extension setup.
- Fixing bolts included: supplied with three socket-head bolts.
Product details
- Brand: Dark Clear Skies
- Range: AXISBASE
- Type: Tripod pier extension adapter
- Colour: Black
Included
One AXISBASE EQ3/EQ5 adapter plate and three fixing bolts. The pier extension, tripod and telescope mount are sold separately.
Confirmed pier-extension compatibility
The AXISBASE EQ3/EQ5 connects the Dark Clear Skies ASCENT 200 Standard and the following quick-release pier extensions to a Sky-Watcher EQ3/EQ5 tripod. Pier extensions are sold separately.
| Pier extension | Design | Height | Manufacturer maximum load |
|---|---|---|---|
| TA927 | Full tube | 200 mm | 100 kg |
| TA928 | Full tube | 250 mm | 100 kg |
| TA929 | Lightweight truss | 200 mm | 50 kg |
| TA930 | Lightweight truss | 250 mm | 50 kg |
| TA931 | Lightweight truss | 300 mm | 50 kg |
| TA932 | Heavy-duty dual-locking truss | 200 mm | 100 kg |
| TA933 | Heavy-duty dual-locking truss | 250 mm | 100 kg |
| TA934 | Heavy-duty dual-locking truss | 300 mm | 100 kg |
Two different quick-release systems
TA927–TA931: shared quick-release system. The full-tube and lightweight truss models use the same quick-release plate as the TA900 carbon fibre tripod. The TA927 and TA929 are the corresponding 200 mm full-tube/truss alternatives; the TA928 and TA930 are the 250 mm alternatives. Matching full-tube and truss bodies are interchangeable with the appropriate parts.
TA932–TA934: separate heavy-duty system. These dual-locking pier extensions use a separate quick-release system from the TA900/TA927–TA931 system. This distinction concerns the quick-release interface; both pier families can use the AXISBASE EQ3/EQ5 adapter for the tripod connection described above.
TA900 tripod reference
The TA900 carbon fibre tripod has a height range of 465–805 mm, a weight of 1.97 kg and a manufacturer maximum load rating of 50 kg. It shares its quick-release plate with TA927–TA931.
A safety mode is available on all tripod and pier-extension models shown in the guide. Follow the instructions for the exact model when configuring and using it.
Understanding the load ratings: the figures above are the manufacturer's ratings for the individual pier extensions, not telescope payload ratings for a complete setup. The tripod, adapter and mount retain their own limits. A 100 kg pier extension does not increase the TA900 tripod's 50 kg rating or the payload capacity of your mount.
Using a ZWO mount: combine this adapter with the ASCENT 200 Standard or one of the pier extensions listed above to support a ZWO AM3, AM3N, AM5, AM5N or AM7 on your EQ3/EQ5 tripod. The pier extension provides the mount connection; this adapter connects the pier to the tripod.
Using a ZWO TC40 tripod: the ASCENT 200 Standard and TA927–TA934 pier extensions connect directly to the TC40 without an additional tripod adapter.
Not compatible with the ZWO PE200 pier extension. The PE200 does not have the mounting interface required by this adapter.