iOptron HAZ31 Alt-Azimuth Strain Wave Mount Head – Compact Power with a 31 lb Payload, No Counterweights Needed
iOptron Part Number: HZ312
The iOptron HAZ31 brings high-performance tracking and GoTo capability to alt-az enthusiasts who value portability, simplicity, and clean, cable-free setups. Weighing just 8.2 pounds, yet capable of carrying up to 31 pounds of gear, the HAZ31 combines compact CNC-machined construction with advanced strain wave drive technology—resulting in one of the most versatile, counterweight-free alt-az mounts ever made.
Ideal for grab-and-go observers, wide-field imagers, public outreach presenters, and even binocular astronomers, the HAZ31 is light on weight but heavy on performance.
Strain Wave Gear System – Dual Axis Precision
The HAZ31 features a strain wave drive system on both the altitude and azimuth axes. Also known as harmonic drive systems, these compact gear assemblies deliver high torque, minimal backlash, and quiet, accurate tracking—all without bulky traditional gearboxes or external balance systems.
Whether you’re manually slewing, executing a precise GoTo, or tracking a satellite pass, the HAZ31 responds with smooth movement and a solid feel—despite its featherweight frame.
Portable, But Not Pared Down
Don’t let the small size fool you—this is a full-featured mount. The 8.2 lb CNC-machined aluminum chassis includes a repositionable dual saddle, allowing you to mount scopes either on top or to the side. This makes the HAZ31 especially useful for binocular setups and allows for more flexible telescope orientation with shorter optical tubes or front-heavy payloads.
Despite the mount’s light weight, it supports up to 31 lbs (14 kg) of optical gear without needing a counterweight or shaft, making it ideal for:
“Level and Go” – No Polar Alignment Required
The HAZ31 is powered by iOptron’s “Level and Go” technology. Just set up the tripod, level the base, and power on the mount. It automatically calibrates its internal position and slews to your first target. There's no need for a polar alignment or complicated initialization routine.
This makes it ideal for public outreach, travel observing, or visual astronomy under time constraints.
Go2Nova® 8409 Hand Controller – Intuitive GoTo Control
The included Go2Nova® 8409 hand controller features an intuitive interface with a 212,000+ object database, including:
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Messier, NGC, IC, UGC, MCG, and Caldwell objects
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Solar system targets: planets, comets, and asteroids
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Named stars, double stars, and variable stars
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88 modern constellations
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60 custom user-defined targets
The controller also houses the Wi-Fi and USB interfaces, allowing firmware upgrades and external software control from computers, smartphones, or tablets.
Flexible Control Across Platforms
Whether you prefer to control your mount from a smartphone, tablet, PC, or Raspberry Pi, the HAZ31 is ready:
This allows fully integrated remote control, sky simulation, and telescope automation from your platform of choice.
Smart Safety Features and Memory Functions
The HAZ31 includes several features typically found only in more expensive equatorial mounts:
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Friction brakes on both axes prevent accidental slips during power failures
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Power-down memory preserves pointing position, allowing you to resume slewing and tracking after a reboot
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Zero-position locator simplifies storage and GoTo startup routines
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Leveling bubble helps get your setup square to the ground for best performance
What’s Included
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HAZ31 strain wave alt-az mount head
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Go2Nova® 8409 hand controller
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Dual saddle plate (Vixen and Losmandy D-style compatible)
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Built-in Wi-Fi, GPS, and USB connectivity
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Power cables and user documentation
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Soft carrying case
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Two-year limited warranty
Tripod not included. Recommended pairing: iOptron 8061A carbon fiber tripod with optional 8042 Leveling MiniPier.
Technical Specifications
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Mount Type: Strain wave alt-azimuth
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Payload Capacity: 31 lbs (14 kg)
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Mount Head Weight: 8.2 lbs (3.7 kg)
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Gear Ratio (RA/DEC): 640:1
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Max Slew Speed: 6°/sec
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Power Consumption: 0.7A (tracking), 1.2A (slewing)
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Power Input: DC12V 5A (5.5/2.5mm plug)
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Operation Temperature: -20°C to +40°C
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Hand Controller Operation Temperature: -10°C to +40°C
Observing Tip
For even more ergonomic comfort, especially when using refractors or binoculars, consider pairing the HAZ31 with the iOptron 8042 Leveling MiniPier. This adds nearly 7" of height and offers precise leveling on uneven surfaces, making alignment and sky navigation even easier.
Why Choose the HAZ31?
If you’re looking for a truly portable mount that doesn’t sacrifice payload or performance, the HAZ31 is the perfect balance of capability and simplicity. It’s designed to move with you, set up in minutes, and support serious gear with ease—without the headaches of counterweights, complex alignments, or overbuilt support structures.
Whether you're chasing satellites, showing Jupiter to a group of kids, or catching a deep-sky target from a remote dark site, the HAZ31 is ready to go when you are.
