PrimaLuceLab - EAGLE6 PRO Computer for Astrophotography

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PRI-EAGLE6PRO
$2,295.00
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The PrimaluceLab EAGLE6 PRO is a high-performance computing solution designed specifically for telescopes and astrophotography.

Featuring a powerful Intel i5 processor, 16 GB of industrial-grade DDR4 RAM, and a large, fast 512 GB NVMe industrial-grade SSD, the EAGLE6 PRO ensures seamless operation of even the most demanding astrophotography software. It also includes Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, offering data transfer speeds of up to 40 Gbps for devices such as external storage drives.

Encased in a lightweight, compact all-in-one PLUS aluminum housing, the EAGLE6 PRO can be easily installed on your telescope.

It includes all of the advanced features of the EAGLE6, such as WiFi 6E for enhanced wireless connectivity, a GPS sensor with a high-gain antenna, the EYE sensor for monitoring sky brightness, DARK mode to disable LED lights, and GHOST mode to wirelessly replace USB cables for PLL devices.

Additional features include an inclinometer, motion detector sensors, remote control with Lights-Out Management, and Observatory Actions with dedicated CTRL-IN and CTRL-OUT ports.

PrimaluceLab EAGLE 6 PRO

The EAGLE6 PRO delivers even greater performance than the S model, powered by an advanced Intel 13th generation i5 processor with 12 cores, 12 MB of cache, and a Max Turbo Frequency of 4.60 GHz. This enhanced processing power allows the EAGLE6 PRO to handle demanding astrophotography applications that require extensive calculations and multiple connected devices.

With 16 GB of DDR4 RAM and a larger, faster 512 GB SSD, the EAGLE6 PRO excels in scenarios such as planetary imaging, where high-resolution videos are captured at high frame rates. The additional Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, supporting data transfer speeds of up to 40 Gbps, ensures that the EAGLE6 PRO can easily manage the high data throughput required by the latest USB 3.0 cameras and other high-performance peripherals.

PrimaluceLab EAGLE6 PRO Features

  • A Step Up from the EAGLE6 S: Windows 11 Enterprise, 512GB NVMe SSD, and 16GB of DDR4 RAM with an Intel Core i5-1340P processor. 
  • Ports: 10 USB (including 2 USB-C) and 7 12V power out ports to power and control 12V devices like mounts, dew heaters, etc.
  • Lights-Out Management (LOM): Remote power-on and monitoring via Ethernet, even when powered off.
  • Observatory Actions: CTRL-IN and CTRL-OUT ports for remote control of devices.  Power on and off your devices as needed.  
  • WiFi 6E: Faster speeds, reduced latency, and less interference.
  • Advanced sensors: GPS, sky brightness monitor, inclinometer, motion detector.
  • Modes: DARK mode to disable LEDs, GHOST mode for wireless device connectivity.
  • 3x variable 0-12V power out ports for dew heaters - connect a Primaluce ECCO for automated and optimized heater control. 
  • GHOST mode replaces USB cables for all PrimaluceLab devices for seamless wireless control.  
  • DARK mode turns off LED light indicators 
  • Measure power consumption for every device connected through the 12v power out ports. 
  • Monitor power levels for any device connected to the 12V power in ports. 
  • GPS sensor with high gain antenna for accurate detection of elevation, latitude and longitude, date and time.  
  • Eagle EYE sensor to monitor sky brightness with a 5 degree field of view. 
  • Inclinometer detects the precise angle of your mount. 
  • Motion detector senses unwanted motions of your mount. 
  • Industrial grade hardware.
  • PLUS aluminum casing is compatible with all PrimaluceLab PLUS system dovetails, brackets and rings.  
  • Weighs 2.43lbs (1.1kg)

Observatory Actions 

The Observatory Actions feature in the new EAGLE6 introduces dedicated CTRL IN and CTRL OUT ports, offering powerful remote control capabilities for your telescope. The CTRL IN port allows for a range of remote control options, customizable through the EAGLE Manager X interface. You can remotely power on, off, or power cycle the EAGLE6(without pressing the ON button), manage 12V power out or dew-heater ports (e.g., to pre-heat telescope optics before starting a session), toggle USB 2.0 ports, or activate/deactivate DARK mode. To trigger these actions, simply connect an external device with a dry contact (such as a smart relay switch) to the CTRL IN port via a 2.5mm audio jack cable, and activate the relay switch through your smartphone.

The CTRL OUT port expands functionality by enabling you to turn on/off external devices like mounts, domes, or other observatory equipment that support external switch control. Use a compatible cable (not included, as it depends on the specific mount or dome) to connect the EAGLE6’s CTRL OUT port to the external switch port of the device, then configure the command settings in EAGLE Manager X.

Lights Out Management (LOM)

The Lights-Out Management (LOM) feature in the new EAGLE6 elevates remote control and monitoring, ensuring everything is ready for observation even before the EAGLE6 is powered on. With a dedicated Ethernet port, LOM allows you to remotely monitor the operational status of the computer, power it on, check its sensors, and control switchable power and USB ports—all independently of the operating system. This means you can manage these functions even when the EAGLE6 is off. This functionality is especially useful for remotely controlled telescopes, where physical access to the equipment may be limited or impractical. Lights-Out Management can be accessed by connecting a computer to the same network as the EAGLE6 and plugging an Ethernet cable into the EAGLE6’s dedicated LOM port.

Refined Remote Control & Better Cable Management

Imaging systems rely on other devices like guiding systems, motorized focusers, filter wheels, and computerized mounts.  The EAGLE6 gives you the ability to connect the devices of your choosing, from the brands and models you prefer, and provides seamless and refined remote control.   The EAGLE integrates computer functionality, device connectivity, power distribution, advanced sensors, and dew heater control all directly on the telescope, allowing it to move freely with your entire setup.  The added bonus of using an EAGLE is greatly improved cable management.  By reducing the need for cables in general and centralizing any plugged in devices to a telescope mounted hub, you'll minimize the risk of tangled cables or accidental loss of connection. 

EAGLE6 Windows 11

When it comes to astronomy software and drivers, Windows remains the dominant platform. This is why the EAGLE runs a full Windows environment, similar to a laptop or desktop, ensuring compatibility with the wide range of astronomy devices and software available for Windows 10/11. Manufacturers typically offer official drivers for Windows, and you can easily install the software of your choice—provided it’s compatible with Windows 10/11. This includes popular applications like NINA, Sequence Generator Pro, Voyager, SharpCap, MaximDL, TheSkyX, Stellarium, Cartes du Ciel, PHD Guiding, and PrimaluceLab’s own PLAY software.

With this setup, you’re not restricted to proprietary hardware or software, allowing you the freedom to customize the EAGLE to your exact needs. The EAGLE6 operates on a Windows 11 IoT Enterprise license, which is leaner and more stable than the standard Windows 11 Home or other OEM versions often bundled with unnecessary bloatware. The EAGLE6 is powered by an Intel Celeron Quad-Core J6412 processor with a remarkably low 10W TDP, ensuring minimal power consumption. It also offers robust connectivity options, including four USB 3.2 ports (two Type-C), six USB 2.0 ports, one HDMI 2.0b port, a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, and WiFi 6E 802.11ax for fast and reliable connectivity.

This combination of low power usage and ample connectivity provides all the necessary performance to run deep-sky object (DSO) astrophotography software, while enhancing portability for remote observing and imaging sessions.

Low and Optimized Power Consumption

The EAGLE is designed for seamless integration with a wide range of telescopes, including refractors, Schmidt-Cassegrains, Ritchey-Chrétiens, Newtonians, and more, thanks to its specialized PLUS case. The chassis features multiple threaded holes, and with the availability of various PLUS system accessories (such as support rings, dovetail bars, and dovetail clamps), attaching the EAGLE to your telescope is straightforward and secure.

By using the EAGLE instead of a laptop or desktop, you reduce cable clutter, with shorter cable runs that move in tandem with the telescope. This significantly minimizes the risk of cables snagging or detaching as the telescope tracks objects across the sky. Additionally, the EAGLE has a lower power consumption, which reduces the battery capacity needed to power your telescope for an entire night of observation.

Built for field use, the EAGLE’s internal electronics are designed to withstand extended temperature ranges and high humidity conditions. The processor’s minimal heat output gently warms the EAGLE’s chassis, helping to prevent dew from forming on the device or the EYE lens, ensuring reliable performance throughout the night.

Connect Everything!

The EAGLE consolidates all your astrophotography connections into one hub, offering unparalleled convenience and flexibility. With its numerous USB ports, you can connect cameras, mounts, guiding systems, and other devices without the need for multiple USB hubs. This streamlines your setup, reduces cable clutter, and keeps everything neatly organized. Each port is strategically placed for easy access, minimizing the risk of tangled cables or accidental disconnections during your session.

You can even remotely control four USB 2.0 ports, turning them on or off as needed, saving power and providing a simple solution if a device connection fails. The EAGLE puts all your equipment under one roof, making your setup more efficient, reliable, and easier to manage throughout your astrophotography sessions.

Better Dew Control With ECCO

Adding the ECCO (Environmental Computerized Controller) to your EAGLE, allows you to automatically and continuously monitor the dew point by measuring both the air temperature and humidity around your telescope, as well as the temperature of your lenses. ECCO then adjusts the voltage to the EAGLE's ports connected to your dew heater bands, preventing dew from forming on your optics. This all happens automatically with a simple, user-friendly device that connects directly to one of the EAGLE's USB ports. 

GPS with High Gain Antenna

To achieve maximum precision when controlling your telescope, it's essential to provide accurate geographical and local time data. The EAGLE simplifies this process with an integrated GPS sensor that automatically detects your telescope's elevation, latitude, longitude, and local time by connecting to GPS satellites. The high-gain external antenna ensures rapid and precise data acquisition, even with limited sky visibility or when the EAGLE is installed in a dome observatory.

Once the GPS data is captured, the EAGLE automatically synchronizes the date, time, and position information with the system’s Windows settings. This seamless integration ensures that the astrophotography software you use can control your telescope with enhanced accuracy.

EAGLE EYE Sky Monitor

The EYE sensor provides an automatic solution, measuring sky brightness in magnitude per square arc second (mag/sq arcsec) over a 5-degree field of view, precisely where your telescope is pointed.

The EYE value is displayed in real-time within the EAGLE Manager X interface, allowing you to effortlessly track sky quality measurements. The EAGLE is equipped with two EYE sensors, one located at each end of the device. Depending on the orientation of the EAGLE on your telescope, you can simply rotate the lens to the other sensor, point it toward the sky, and select the appropriate lens position within the EAGLE Manager X interface to begin monitoring sky brightness from any setup.

The EYE sensor features a narrow field of view, ensuring it measures only the sky where your telescope is directed. This minimizes interference from clouds or other obstructions in different parts of the sky, providing accurate readings specific to the region you're observing. Additionally, the proximity of your telescope or accessories (such as a dew shield) will not affect the sensor's measurements, even when the EAGLE is mounted close to the telescope or uses a long tube. The small amount of internal heat generated by the processor further reduces the risk of dew formation on the sensor lens, ensuring consistent performance throughout the night.

Inclinometer

The Inclinometer sensor integrated into the EAGLE precisely measures your telescope’s elevation relative to the horizon, with a resolution of 0.1 degrees and an average measurement error of less than 1 degree. Elevation data is displayed in real-time through the EAGLE Manager X interface.

Designed for versatile installation, the EAGLE can be mounted parallel to your telescope, and the elevation is accurately displayed even if the EAGLE is inverted (with the power-out ports facing the sky). This allows you to remotely verify whether your telescope is correctly aligned to the desired elevation, check if the equatorial mount’s elevation setting is properly calibrated for your latitude, or ensure that your Alt-Az mount’s home position is correctly set in terms of elevation.

Motion Detector

During a sequence capture, it’s possible for one image to be blurred while others remain sharp due to external factors like wind gusts or cable snags, which can affect your telescope’s tracking accuracy. The Motion Detector in the EAGLEidentifies and displays any unwanted motion in the EAGLE Manager X interface, distinguishing it from normal mount tracking or goto movements. This allows PLAY (or third-party software that supports the Motion Detector) to automatically repeat the last acquisition if unexpected motion is detected, ensuring your images remain sharp and consistent.

WIFI 6E Powerful and Fast Wireless Connection

The EAGLE can be operated without the need for a monitor, keyboard, or mouse. Instead, you can control it remotely via a free dedicated app, available on smartphones, tablets, or personal computers running Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android. Simply power on the EAGLE, enable your device's Wi-Fi connection, and select the Wi-Fi network created by the EAGLE. Once connected, launch the remote control app to access the EAGLE desktop on your device, with full control over all your astrophotography software.

For added flexibility, you can configure the EAGLE to connect to an existing Wi-Fi or wired Ethernet network, enabling remote access via the internet—ideal for remote observatories. Unlike traditional remote control solutions like VNC, the EAGLE offers faster and more stable performance.

Each EAGLE creates a unique Wi-Fi network to prevent interference from nearby devices, ensuring secure operation. To further enhance security, every EAGLE comes with a unique access password known only to you. For those who prefer a wired connection, the EAGLE also includes a Gigabit Ethernet port, making it an excellent option for large observatories.

DARK and GHOST Mode

Every astronomer is aware that artificial lighting can degrade telescope performance, affecting both visual observations and astrophotography. To mitigate this, PrimaluceLab has equipped the EAGLE with a DARK mode, which allows you to instantly disable all LED lights on the device when necessary. This feature helps eliminate any potential light interference with your telescope, while also ensuring consideration for fellow astronomers, particularly during group observations or star parties. The DARK mode makes the EAGLE an ideal solution for environments where traditional computers, with their bright screens and uncontrolled light emissions, may be restricted. Since the EAGLE operates without a screen, it provides full functionality while minimizing light pollution.

In modern astrophotography setups, the complexity of managing multiple devices and cables can quickly become cumbersome. The EAGLE simplifies this by offering an integrated power distribution system and a variety of USB ports, significantly improving cable management. Furthermore, with the introduction of GHOST mode, the EAGLE can wirelessly control PLL devices (such as SESTO SENSO 2, ESATTO, ARCO, GIOTTO, and ALTO) via Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for USB cables and specialized drivers or software. When activated, GHOST mode allows EAGLE Manager X to wirelessly connect to your PLL devices and create a virtual COM port, just as if a USB cable were connected. This ensures seamless integration with your astrophotography software and the ASCOM platform, all while reducing physical cable clutter and simplifying your setup.

EAGLE vs. Mini PC

The EAGLE is packed with exclusive features tailored for advanced astrophotography, and delivers the full capabilities of a powerful computer, outperforming typical Mini PCs and giving you the flexibility to run any astrophotography software. To assess its performance, we conducted a comparison using the PCMark benchmark, evaluating the EAGLE6, EAGLE6 S, EAGLE6 PRO, and EAGLE6 XTM against a standard Mini PC on the market. As shown in the chart below, the EAGLE6 outperforms a typical Mini PC with an Intel Celeron N3160 processor, 4GB of RAM, and an SSD by 62%. The EAGLE6 S takes the lead with a remarkable 272% performance increase, while the EAGLE6 PRO delivers a 310% boost. The EAGLE6 XTM stands out with an impressive 349% improvement, showcasing unparalleled speed and performance in its class.

EAGLE Manager X - Control Interface

The EAGLE is equipped with EAGLE Manager X software, which launches automatically upon startup and offers a user-friendly, intuitive interface for comprehensive system control. With this software, you can:

  • Enable/Disable 12V Power Out Ports: Remotely activate or deactivate any connected devices (e.g., mount, camera, filter wheel) when powering on the system, keeping everything connected but only powered when needed.

  • Monitor Power Consumption: Track the power usage of each 12V device connected to the EAGLE, along with the total power consumption of your telescope, enabling optimal power management.

  • Rename Power and USB Ports: Assign custom names to each port according to the device it's connected to, making it easier to manage your setup and keep track of associated COM ports.

  • View GPS Data: Access your telescope's GPS information, including elevation, latitude, longitude, date, time, and the number of connected satellites.

  • Monitor EYE Sky Brightness: Select the active EYE sensor facing the sky to view real-time sky brightness data, including the Bortle Scale rating.

  • Adjust 0-12V Power Out Ports: Fine-tune the power output to connected devices like dew heaters, with the ability to monitor current consumption over time.

  • Check Inclinometer Data: Verify the elevation of your telescope relative to the horizon with real-time inclinometer readings.

  • View Motion Detector Data: Detect any unwanted motions, helping identify potential disruptions in tracking during astrophotography sessions.

  • Activate DARK Mode: Disable all LED lights on the EAGLE to prevent light pollution and interference, especially during night observations.

  • Activate GHOST Mode: Wirelessly control PLL devices (e.g., SESTO SENSO 2, ESATTO, ARCO, GIOTTO, ALTO) by replacing USB cables with a wireless connection, simplifying your setup and reducing cable clutter.

  • Set CTRL-IN Port Options: Configure the CTRL-IN port to remotely power on the EAGLE, control 12V power out ports, manage dew heater ports, toggle USB 2.0 ports, or activate DARK mode.

  • Set CTRL-OUT Port Options: Control external devices via the CTRL-OUT port, with options for switching on/off, pulse duration, and repetitions, providing flexible remote control of connected equipment.

  • Manage USB 2.0 Ports (A-B-C-D): Temporarily disconnect and reset devices like auto-guiders or planetary cameras without having to physically access the telescope, saving time and effort during troubleshooting.

  • Configure Connectivity Options: Choose between wireless or wired connections, and set up your device for direct access in AP mode (without a router) or through your existing Wi-Fi or Ethernet network in HOST mode.

  • Define Automatic Power Routines: Set specific power-on and power-off routines for connected devices, automating the startup and shutdown of your equipment based on your preferences.

  • Automatically Connect to ECCO Controller: If using the optional ECCO environmental controller, the EAGLE Manager X will automatically connect at startup, managing dew heater power based on real-time dew point calculations.

  • Save Sensor Data for Later Analysis: Automatically log data from the EAGLE’s sensors for later review and analysis, allowing you to download logs for in-depth post-session processing.

This suite of features ensures seamless integration and efficient management of your astrophotography system, providing enhanced control, automation, and monitoring for a more streamlined observatory experience.

PLUS Aluminium Case - PLUS Compatibility

PrimaluceLab designed the EAGLE case to be exceptionally rigid, capable of supporting even a compact telescope in parallel (up to 8 kg). This allows the EAGLE to be installed directly beneath the main telescope, optimizing space and efficiency. Through precise FEM simulations, PrimaluceLab engineered the EAGLE case to maintain a maximum deformation of just 0.002 millimeters, even when loaded with up to 10 kg of weight. The case is equipped with M5 and M6 threaded holes, enabling the seamless attachment of PLUS accessories (such as support rings, guide rings, dovetail bars, and dovetail clamps) at a minimum of two points to ensure maximum rigidity. For example, the EAGLE can be securely mounted between the PLUS support rings and guiding rings, preventing any flexure and enhancing the portability of the entire telescope setup. This design allows the system to be transported to the field pre-assembled, significantly reducing setup time and improving overall efficiency.

Dimensions and Weight

The EAGLE6 integrates all of these advanced features into a lightweight, compact aluminum chassis, designed for versatile installation on your telescope. This design allows you to easily connect all USB and 12V power cables from your devices to the EAGLE6, significantly improving cable management and organization. Weighing only 2.75 lbs (1.25kg), the EAGLE6 offers a balance of strength and portability. The image shows the precise dimensions, along with the positions of M6 and M5 threaded holes for attaching rings, bars, and clamps, ensuring a secure and customizable installation.

WHICH EAGLE6 IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

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Brand PrimaluceLab
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In The Box
  • EAGLE6 PRO computer
  • 2 WiFi antennas
  • 1x GPS antenna
  • 12V power cable with cigarette plug for EAGLE - 250cm
  • n.4 M6x6 screws + n.4 M6x8 screws + n.4 M6x10 screws + n.4 M6x12 screws + n.4 M6x18 screws + n.4 M6x25 screws + n.4 M6x35 screws
  • Quick guide
  • EAGLE6 PRO computer
  • 2 WiFi antennas
  • 1x GPS antenna
  • 12V power cable with cigarette plug for EAGLE - 250cm
  • n.4 M6x6 screws + n.4 M6x8 screws + n.4 M6x10 screws + n.4 M6x12 screws + n.4 M6x18 screws + n.4 M6x25 screws + n.4 M6x35 screws
  • Quick guide
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