iOptron CEM26EC “Center Balanced” GoTo Mount with High-Precision Encoders, iPolar, Hard Case, and 1.75" LiteRoc Tripod
Item #: C264A3
If you’re looking for the ultimate portable equatorial mount that offers observatory-grade tracking in a travel-sized package, the iOptron CEM26EC is in a class of its own. With real-time error correction from high-resolution optical encoders, the CEM26EC delivers tracking performance of less than 0.3 arcseconds RMS—all from a mount head that weighs just 10.4 pounds. But don’t be fooled by its precision credentials. This mount is just as at home under a visual observer’s eyepiece as it is under the scrutiny of an astrophotographer’s sensor.
From casual backyard observing to serious deep-sky imaging, the CEM26EC provides a rock-solid, whisper-quiet, and highly efficient foundation that caters to both halves of the astronomy world—visual and photographic.
The Best of Both Worlds: Visual and Imaging Excellence
For visual observers, the CEM26EC offers flawless GoTo accuracy, fast and intuitive setup, and dead-silent tracking that lets you enjoy a relaxed session under the stars. With the Go2Nova 8409 hand controller and its massive 212,000+ object database, you can hop from galaxy to nebula to double star in seconds, with minimal effort and maximum enjoyment. The mount is quiet enough to use on patios, in backyards, or near neighbors without disturbing the peace—and it holds tracking so well you’ll often forget it’s even running.
For imagers, the mount’s sub-arcsecond tracking and encoder-based real-time PEC make it an exceptional performer with or without autoguiding. Long-exposure deep-sky imaging becomes easier, and wide-field refractors often don’t even require guiding for crisp, pinpoint stars.
Whether your interests lean toward visual exploration or imaging faint galaxies, the CEM26EC has the finesse and flexibility to do both—and do them well.
Precision That Travels Light
The CEM26EC features iOptron’s patented "Z" center-balanced architecture, which places the payload directly over the tripod’s center of gravity. This design improves natural stability and reduces the need for heavy counterweights, all while keeping the mount head to a travel-friendly 10.4 lbs (4.7 kg).
With a payload capacity of 26 lbs (11.8 kg), you can easily carry a 4–5" refractor or 6–8" catadioptric telescope with room to spare for accessories. And thanks to the pivoting counterweight shaft, you can operate at latitudes down to 0° without the shaft colliding with the tripod—great for trips closer to the equator.
iPolar and Real-Time PEC: Technology Working With You
The mount includes iOptron’s excellent iPolar electronic polar scope, a software-assisted alignment system that lets you achieve precise polar alignment without kneeling in the dirt or searching for Polaris through a tiny reticle. It works whether Polaris is visible or not, and it stays permanently aligned with the RA axis—no recalibration required after setup.
Paired with the high-precision optical encoders, the CEM26EC provides real-time correction of periodic error. Unlike older mounts that “learn” errors over time, the CEM26EC’s encoders monitor gear motion in real time and make constant adjustments, eliminating backlash and drift for both imaging and visual use. This isn’t just PEC—it’s PEC 2.0.
GoTo Simplicity and Deep Database
The Go2Nova 8409 hand controller gives you fast, fingertip access to over 212,000 celestial objects, from Messier and NGC targets to planets, double stars, and comets. Slews are precise, tracking is seamless, and alignment routines are quick—especially when paired with iPolar for fast setup. For visual astronomers, this means more time observing and less time tinkering. For imagers, it means tighter pointing and less cropping on your frames.
Built for the Field, Designed to Perform
The included 1.75" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod offers excellent rigidity and quick setup without excessive weight. It supports the mount securely for both visual and photographic use and includes a die-cast spreader and accessory tray. Also included is a custom-fit hard case for the equatorial head—an essential upgrade for anyone planning to travel with the mount or protect it during storage.
And with its low power consumption (just 0.5A when tracking), the CEM26EC is well-suited to battery-powered field setups—ideal for remote dark-sky locations where every amp-hour matters.
Observing Tip
For visual users, the real-time PEC doesn’t just benefit imaging—it means smoother star tracking, longer uninterrupted observing sessions, and pinpoint accuracy at high powers. If you’re hunting for planetary detail at 300x or splitting tight doubles, this kind of tracking precision ensures the target stays dead center without fuss.
Final Thoughts
The CEM26EC is one of those rare mounts that truly serves a dual purpose—high-end enough for deep-sky imaging, yet effortless and reliable for visual astronomy. Whether you’re scanning the Virgo Cluster visually or capturing photons from a nebula halfway across the sky, this mount delivers mechanical stability, tracking excellence, and field portability in one intelligent design.
For the astronomer who wants to do it all and go anywhere, the iOptron CEM26EC is an exceptional choice.
