iOptron HAE29B Dual Equatorial and Alt-Azimuth Strain Wave Mount Head with iPolar

iOptron HAE29B Dual Equatorial and Alt-Azimuth Strain Wave Mount Head with iPolar

Go anywhere. Mount anything. No counterweights required.

The iOptron HAE29B merges compact portability with serious mount performance, giving deep-sky imagers and visual observers alike a counterweight-free harmonic drive mount that can travel light and track heavy. With up to 29 pounds of payload capacity—and up to 40 pounds when counterbalanced—this dual-mode mount head handles high-end astrographs, refractors, and imaging trains without the size or setup complexity of traditional equatorial mounts.

This version includes a factory-installed iPolar electronic polar alignment system for fast and accurate alignment in equatorial mode, even if Polaris isn’t visible. It’s a versatile, rugged mount head purpose-built for astrophotographers who want the freedom to go remote without giving up precision.

Compact Powerhouse with Harmonic Drive Performance

The HAE29B uses strain wave gear drives (often called harmonic drives) on both the RA and DEC axes, eliminating backlash while delivering incredible torque in a compact, lightweight form. It’s quiet, smooth, and strong—ideal for carrying your imaging gear without the hassle of counterweights in most setups.

Because the gear system is direct-drive and exceptionally efficient, it draws less power than traditional worm gear mounts. That makes it perfect for field use with battery packs, solar setups, or other off-grid solutions.

Dual Mounting Modes: Equatorial or Alt-Az at Your Command

Whether you're photographing galaxies or hosting a public star party, the HAE29B adapts. Switch to equatorial mode for long-exposure imaging with accurate sidereal tracking, or run it in alt-azimuth mode for fast, intuitive GoTo pointing with zero polar alignment needed. In alt-az mode, there's no meridian flip to worry about—ideal for visual observing, EAA, or planetary imaging sessions.

The mount includes a high-resolution RA encoder for improved tracking and guiding precision, especially critical for imaging at longer focal lengths.

Built-In iPolar for Quick, Accurate Polar Alignment

The HAE29B includes iOptron’s integrated iPolar electronic polar alignment system, installed and aligned at the factory. Using a dedicated Windows-based software interface, iPolar allows you to polar align in minutes—day or night, even when Polaris is obscured by trees or buildings. Just connect the mount via USB, follow the star field alignment steps, and you’re ready to go.

Flexible Control Options, Including ST-4 Autoguiding

The HAE29B offers multiple control options to suit your workflow:

• USB-C connection for computer-based control with iOptron Commander (Windows), INDI (Linux/macOS), or third-party planetarium software

• Built-in Wi-Fi for wireless control via SkySafari or iOptron Commander Lite

• ST-4 autoguiding port for direct guide camera control with PHD2 or standalone guide systems

• Optional Go2Nova 8410 hand controller for easy GoTo navigation without a PC or app

This flexibility makes the mount equally at home in a minimalist, cable-free field rig or a fully automated observatory installation.

Travel-Friendly Design with Dual Saddle Support

Weighing just 8.6 pounds, the HAE29B is incredibly easy to pack, transport, and set up—even with a full-frame imaging scope. The dual saddle clamp accepts both Vixen-style and Losmandy D-style dovetails, so you’re not locked into a single mounting standard. A CNC-machined handle is included for easy lifting and positioning, and a hard case with custom foam keeps the mount protected on the road.

What's Included

• iOptron HAE29B Dual EQ/AZ Mount Head

• Integrated iPolar electronic polar alignment system

• USB-C and DC power cables

• CNC carry handle

• Custom hard shell carrying case
  Tripod, counterweights, and hand controller sold separately

Technical Specifications