The Panther Lite has ended my search for a robust, enjoyable-to-use alt-az mount capable of accommodating all my scopes – from small, fast refractors to larger, longer refractors and Maks – with perfect balance, friction-free movement, and fingertip control.

With both top and side mounting options, this modular mount can be as simple or as elaborate as you choose. It easily configures to carry two or even three scopes, featuring elegantly designed, freely adjustable counterweights in both the X and Y axes, and an innovative “comfort balance” feature that helps keep the eyepiece positioned in an optimal, accessible sweet spot.

While these features are impressive, what I appreciate most is the way the mount almost vanishes in simplicity under the night sky. Without cables, screens or other electronics, it cradles any scope I choose in near zero-gravity suspension, making it feel as if the instrument is floating in space, guided effortlessly across the sky by my intent alone.