Robotic focusing motor PrimaLuceLab SESTO SENSO 3 SC for telescopes type SC

SESTO SENSO 3 SC is a advanced robotic focusing engineFor SC type telescopes with internal focuser

SESTO SENSO 3 SC is an advanced robotic focusing engine for SC type telescopes with internal focusers, such as Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain (6" to 14"), EdgeHD (8", 11" and 14"), RASA (8" to 14") and SkyWatcher MAK180. Building on the success of the first and second generation motors, the SESTO SENSO 3 SC adds incredible new features, integrated into a single housing that houses all the elements that make up a motorized focusing system:

SESTO SENSO 3 SC robotic focusing motorFor SC type telescopes -main characteristics:

• NEWCompact, all-in-one chassis designed to be installed insC type telescopes with internal focusers
• NEWIntegrated encoderFor position tracking and manual movement without losing the position of the motor withoptionAutomatic position recovery
• NEWdirect pulley clamp (DPC)With backlash-free pulley-driven coupling for precise motorized focusing and manual adjustment
• High resolution engine with2 million stepsFor precise control of internal mirror focusers
• USB-C connectivityTo control from computers with astronomy software
• WiFi connectivityTo control it from smartphone or tablet with the included Virtual HandPad, without the need of a computer or physical handpad
• Compatible withpLAY softwareTo control the focus position, also with auto focus
• Supplied withaSCOM controllersTo allow you to control it through third party astronomy software
• ARCO rotator portFor direct connection of the ARCO without the need for additional data or power cables
• DARK modeWith dimmable LED lights, which can even be switched off completely
• GHOST modeTo remove the USB cable when used with EAGLE computer
• Temperature sensor portTo automatically compensate focus caused by ambient temperature change
• Developed and manufactured in Italy
• Weight: 440 gr. (1.0 lbs)

Compact, lightweight andall in one.

The SESTO SENSO 3 SC features a compact, lightweight housing that houses all control electronics, with ports conveniently located on the side. The unit includes dimmable status LEDs, which can also be turned off completely to minimize stray light during night observation or imaging sessions. Connectivity is streamlined and efficient: a USB-C port allows connection to an EAGLE or any Windows® computer via the included USB cable; the dedicated ARCO port allows powering and controlling an optional ARCO camera rotator with a single cable; the 12 V power port (5.5/2.5 mm, center positive) powers both the motor and internal electronics via the included cigarette lighter cable (or via an optional cable for direct connection to the EAGLE); and a temperature sensor port allows the optional probe to be connected for use with third-party software that supports automatic focus compensation based on ambient temperature changes.

Easy installation withdirect pulley clamp (DPC)

The SESTO SENSO 3 SC incorporates the new direct pulley clamp, specifically designed for telescopes with internal mirror focusing mechanisms, such as Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain (6" to 14"), EdgeHD (8", 11" and 14"), RASA (8" to 14") and SkyWatcher MAK180. This innovative pulley-based design eliminates mechanical play and ensures smooth and accurate motorized focusing. It also allows manual focusing at any time via the telescope knob, while the built-in encoder always maintains the focuser position, even after manual adjustments. Thanks to the included adapters, the SESTO SENSO 3 SC is compatible with numerous telescopes, including:

Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain from 6" to 14"
Celestron EdgeHD Aplanatic SC from 8" to 14" (except EdgeHD 9.25")
Celestron RASA from 8" to 14
SkyWatcher MAK180PRO

Integrated encoderPrecise control with freedom of movement

SESTO SENSO 3 SC integrates a high-precision position encoder that continuously monitors the motor axis, even when the focus is manually adjusted with the knob included in the direct pulley clamp. This allows total freedom of movement while maintaining precise position tracking, ideal for telescopes with internal mirror focusing systems such as Schmidt-Cassegrain, EdgeHD or RASA. Whether you switch between visual and imaging configurations, or simply need to make manual adjustments, SESTO SENSO 3 SC ensures that the focus position is always known and reliable.

A key feature unique to the SESTO SENSO 3 SC is the SESTO SENSO modeautomatic CalibrationWhich works in synergy with the integrated encoder to automatically detect the minimum and maximum travel positions of the SC type focuser. This makes the SESTO SENSO 3 SC the ideal solution even for remote observatories, as it allows the focuser to be calibrated remotely without manual intervention, a feature not available in other SESTO SENSO 3 models. Note that the encoder only registers the rotation of the motor shaft and does not detect focus changes caused by mirror oscillation or internal mechanical backlash. Another advanced function is theAutomatic Position RecoveryWhich, when activated, automatically restores the previous focus position if focuser movement is detected. This is especially useful in public or educational observatories, where users may manually turn the focuser knob or if the focuser is accidentally moved. By activating this feature, a customizable recovery time (from 0 seconds for instantaneous reaction to 20 seconds) can be set before the SESTO SENSO 3 SC returns to the previous focuser position.

USB-C portFor fast and reliable computer control

The SESTO SENSO 3 SC includes a USB-C port that enables easy and direct connection to your Windows 10/11 PC or EAGLE computer. Compared to previous USB standards, USB-C offers key advantages: the reversible connector simplifies connections in the dark, while its robust physical interface helps prevent accidental disconnections, ideal for both portable installations and permanent observatories. Thanks to its full compatibility with easily accessible USB-C cables, you can easily integrate the SESTO SENSO 3 SC into your astrophotography system without relying on special or proprietary connectors.

Seamless integration withpLAY astrophotography software

SESTO SENSO 3 SC is fully compatible with PLAY, the astrophotography software developed by PrimaLuceLab to simplify and make astrophotography more effective. With its intuitive interface, PLAY allows you to precisely manage the focuser remotely from your EAGLE computer or any Windows 10/11 PC. The software includes powerful tools such as Auto Focus, which evaluates the sharpness of stars and automatically adjusts the focus for perfect image clarity. Additional features such as temperature compensation, customizable focus presets and real-time monitoring ensure accurate and consistent focus throughout the shoot, making PLAY the ideal companion for astrophotographers.

Full compatibility withPopular ASCOM drivers and astrophotography software

SESTO SENSO 3 SC is compatible with the ASCOM standard, allowing seamless integration with many leading third-party astronomical applications. Whether you prefer to use NINA, Sequence Generator Pro, MaxIm DL or other programs, this focuser fits perfectly into your setup. Its broad software compatibility gives astrophotographers and research observatories the freedom to use their preferred tools without compromise. With reliable performance and precise control in a variety of applications, SESTO SENSO 3 SC is designed to meet the needs of demanding imaging sessions, night after night.

Wireless controlVia integrated WiFi and Virtual HandPad

With the integrated WiFi function, SESTO SENSO 3 SC allows you to operate your focuser wirelessly, without the need for a computer or hand controller. The device generates its own WiFi network, allowing you to connect directly to a smartphone or tablet and access the Virtual HandPad through your browser. This intuitive interface allows you to move the focuser easily and even save custom focus positions for quick recall, making it ideal for both image capture and visual observation. Virtual HandPad control remains active even when the unit is connected to a computer, giving you flexible dual control options from multiple devices.

Direct integration withthe ARCO rotator

SESTO SENSO 3 SC includes a dedicated port that allows direct connection to ARCO, the high-resolution field rotator and de-rotator for cameras developed by SESTO SENSO PrimaLuceLab. This allows you to control camera rotation remotely for precise lens framing or apply automatic field de-rotation when using altazimuth mounts, eliminating the need for equatorial wedges during long exposures. SESTO SENSO 3 SC and ARCO are designed to work seamlessly integrated, using a single compact cable for data and power. This optimized configuration simplifies the imaging process and enables the creation of a fully automated, compact, high-performance astrophotography system.

DARK modeAnd adjustable LED brightness

SESTO SENSO 3 SC has integrated LED indicators that provide clear visual indications of device activity and status. For light-sensitive environments, the brightness of the LEDs can be fine-tuned or turned off completely by activating DARK mode using the PLAY software or ASCOM driver. This helps protect your night vision and eliminates unwanted illumination during image capture. When connected to an EAGLE control unit, DARK mode is automatically activated: as soon as an acquisition sequence starts in PLAY, the system turns off all LEDs to ensure a fully automated, light-controlled astrophotography session.

Connectivity in GHOST modeAnd simple firmware upgrades

The SESTO SENSO 3 SC takes full advantage of GHOST mode by connecting to an EAGLE computer, allowing you to operate the focuser without a USB cable, simplifying setup. GHOST mode also functions as a fail-safe communication path: if the USB connection is lost, the EAGLE can maintain control of the focuser so you can continue capturing images without interruption. In addition, thanks to seamless integration with PLAY software, you can easily install firmware updates, keeping your SESTO SENSO 3 SC up to date with the latest features, performance improvements and compatibility.

Temperature sensor portFor automatic focus compensation

SESTO SENSO 3 SC includes a dedicated port for an optional temperature sensor, allowing dynamic focus compensation according to ambient temperature variations during the night. By connecting the optional probe and running a calibration in PLAY software, you can define how temperature affects the focus position. Once this correlation is established, PLAY or third-party applications can apply the compensation automatically via the ASCOM controller. This is especially useful when using fast optical systems (e.g., greater than f/3) or in environments where the temperature varies significantly during the imaging session.

SESTO SENSO 3 SC:dimensions and weight

The SESTO SENSO 3 SC maintains a compact and lightweight format that mounts directly on your telescope. Weighing only 440 g (1 lb), it minimizes the load on your equipment and delivers high performance. See the image for detailed dimensions and see how easily the SESTO SENSO 3 SC integrates with your telescope.