PlaneWave T-600 Direct-Drive Gimbal

PlaneWave T-600 Gimbal

Versatile, high-capacity direct-drive gimbal engineered for demanding environments and multi-instrument payloads.

The PlaneWave T-600 Gimbal is designed to meet the rigorous demands of scientific, aerospace, and observatory applications. This robust system supports payloads on both sides of the altitude axis, ideal for dual-instrument configurations. Built with rugged environments in mind, the T-600 features two-layer non-contact sealing at each motion surface to guard against light-to-moderate rain and debris infiltration.

Its direct-drive motors and high-resolution encoders enable smooth, ultra-fast movement with precision tracking capabilities—ideal for satellite tracking and rapid target acquisition. The system is ASCOM compatible and offers flexible mounting geometries including Alt/Az, Alt/Alt, or equatorial configurations.

Key Specifications

Mount Type: Alt/Az, Alt/Alt, or Equatorial
Payload Capacity: 600 lbs (272 kg)
Drive Type: Direct-drive motors on each axis
Encoder Type: High-resolution encoders
Acceleration: Up to 70°/s²
Max Slew Speed: Up to 150°/s
Backlash & Periodic Error: Zero backlash, zero periodic error
Electronics: Enclosed electronics with optional ruggedization (rubberized seals)
Cable Management: Through-the-mount cabling

Features & Capabilities

- Dual payload support along the altitude axis

- Compact Alt/Az design for smaller enclosures and reduced cost

- No meridian flips, no protruding counterweights – safer for public observatories

- No polar alignment required

- Compatible with PlaneWave PointXP mount modeling software

- Optimized for intuitive operation and long-term reliability

Note: Performance specs are conservative and based on the current capabilities of PlaneWave’s L-Series gimbals. The T-600 features higher bandwidth drives, higher torque motors, and a more rigid frame, enabling superior performance.