ZWO TC40 Heavy-Duty Carbon Fiber Pipe Tripod
The ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod is an engineering marvel designed specifically for portable astrophotography setups. Engineered by ZWO to perfectly complement the ZWO AM5, AM5N, and AM3 harmonic equatorial mounts, this tripod combines lightweight portability with an extraordinary payload capacity of 50 kg (110 lbs) while weighing a mere 2.3 kg (5.07 lbs).
Constructed from high-tensile carbon fiber pipes, the TC40 offers extreme impact resistance, high strength-to-weight ratio, and exceptional vibration-dampening qualities essential for pinpoint long-exposure deep-sky imaging. The dual-section leg design incorporates an upper section measuring 40 mm (1.5 in) in diameter and a lower section measuring 36 mm (1.4 in) in diameter, delivering rigid resistance against twisting and flexure.
Key Performance Highlights
- Unmatched Payload Ratio: Holds up to 50 kg (110 lbs) payload while weighing only 2.3 kg (5.07 lbs).
- Compact Folded Length: Collapses down to 500 mm (19.7 in) for easy storage inside standard airline luggage.
- Thick Carbon Fiber Legs: Large 40 mm (1.5 in) upper and 36 mm (1.4 in) lower leg tube diameters ensure zero flex.
- Multi-Mount Adaptability: Direct 3-point mounting for ZWO AM5/AM3, plus 4x 6 mm (M6) thread holes for third-party adapters.
Key Features
High-Strength Carbon Pipe
Ultra-Compact Folded Design
Spreader & Weight Bag Support
Technical Specifications
| Product Model | ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Pipe Tripod |
|---|---|
| Net Weight | 2.3 kg (5.07 lbs) |
| Maximum Load Capacity | 50 kg (110 lbs) |
| Folded Length | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Adjustable Height | 470 mm – 800 mm (18.5 in – 31.5 in) |
| Leg Sections | 2 Sections (40 mm Upper / 36 mm Lower) |
| Central Thread | 9.52 mm (3/8 in) Reversible Shaft |
Product Dimensions
What's in the Box?
- 1x ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Pipe Tripod
- 1x Heavy-Duty Metal Spreader Plate
- 1x Stabilizing Weight Bag / Sandbag
- 3x Stainless Steel Spiked Feet
- 1x Central 9.52 mm (3/8 in) Locking Shaft Knob
Mount Compatibility & Field Usage
The ZWO TC40 tripod is engineered for versatility. Use the native 3-point alignment for ZWO mounts, or the standard 3/8" thread for third-party mounts.
ZWO Native Fit
- ZWO AM5 / AM5N / AM3 Harmonic Mounts
Third-Party Mounts
- iOptron: GEM45, CEM40
- Rainbow Astro: RST-135, RST-135E
- Sky-Watcher: AZ-GTi Mount
- For ZWO Mounts: Align the mount head pins with the tripod plate's 3 mounting points and tighten from underneath.
- For Third-Party Mounts: Turn the central 9.52 mm (3/8 in) threaded bolt upside down to connect standard mount heads.
Setup Visuals
3-Point Alignment Plate
Locking Knob & Spreader Setup
Extensive Mount Compatibility
| Brand | ZWO |