Losmandy MA Tripod/Pier Adapter — GM8, GM811, G11

Product Overview

The MA is the adapter between a Losmandy equatorial head and whatever it stands on. It is 6.0 inches in diameter and 4.0 inches high, machined inside to fit the G-11 and GM 8 mounts. The tube has a 1/2-inch thick bottom with a 1/2-inch hole in the centre, and the posts for the electronics mount on the side. It is also what sits on top of a permanent pier. The electronics bracket is not included unless the adapter is bought with a mount head or a Gemini 2 unit.

Who It's For

Anyone putting a GM 8, GM811 or G-11 head on a tripod or a pier needs one, which is why it comes with the complete mount packages. It is bought on its own for three reasons: adding a second interface so a head moves between tripod and pier without unbolting anything, replacing a damaged adapter, or building a pier top for an observatory.

Key Features & Design

• 6.0 inches in diameter, 4.0 inches high.
• Machined inside to fit the G-11 and GM 8 mounts.
• 1/2-inch thick bottom with a 1/2-inch centre hole.
• Posts for the electronics mounted on the side.
• Works on a tripod or on top of a permanent pier, using the same interface.
• Electronics bracket not included unless purchased with a mount head or Gemini 2 unit.

Recommended Uses

Mounting a GM 8, GM811 or G-11 head on a Losmandy tripod. Building or fitting out a permanent pier top. Keeping a second adapter so one head moves between pier and tripod in minutes. Replacing a damaged or worn adapter.

Compatibility and Accessory Notes

• Mounts: the G-11 and GM 8 families, which includes the GM811. For a G11T or HGM Titan the MAL adapter is the correct part.
• Tripods: the bare HD tripod takes it, or buy the HD tripod with MA top ready assembled. The LW tripod is the lighter option.
• Height: the 4-inch, 8-inch and 12-inch extension tubes raise an MA top, which helps a long refractor clear the legs.
• Mixing standards: the MAL to MA adapter bridges MAL hardware to an MA head.
• Hardware: the tripod knob set attaches a GM 8 or G-11 head without tools, and tripod screws are stocked as spares.

Good to Know Before You Order

• The electronics bracket is not in the box unless the adapter is bought with a head or a Gemini 2 unit. If you need the posts to carry a control box, tell us and we will confirm what your order includes.
• MA or MAL is decided by your mount, not by preference — 6 inches against 7. Tell us the mount and we will confirm.
• A complete mount package already includes one. Buy this separately for a pier, a second tripod, or a replacement.
• Losmandy publishes no weight for this part.
• Specifications are Losmandy's published figures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it difficult to set up?

No. It bolts to the top of the tripod column or the pier, and the equatorial head drops into it and is secured with three screws — or the tripod knob set, which needs no tools.

Which mounts does it fit?

The G-11 and GM 8 families, including the GM811. A G11T or Titan takes the MAL.

Can I use it on a pier?

Yes — Losmandy lists it for both tripod and permanent pier use.

Does it come with the electronics bracket?

Not on its own. That is supplied when the adapter comes with a mount head or Gemini 2 unit.

Do I need one if I bought a complete mount?

No — one came with it. A second is useful if you want a pier and a tripod both ready to receive the head.

Bottom Line

In short: the 6.0 x 4.0-inch machined adapter that takes a GM 8, GM811 or G-11 head on a tripod or a permanent pier, with side posts for the electronics — bracket supplied only with a head or Gemini 2 unit.