{"title":"iOptron","description":"iOptron specializes in telescope mount systems, from the compact and portable to heavy duty equatorial and hybrid mounts.","products":[{"product_id":"ioptron-11-pound-counterweight-for-ioptron-ieq45-and-cem60-equatorial-mounts","title":"iOptron 11 Pound counterweight for Various iOptron mounts","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"213\" data-end=\"295\"\u003eiOptron 11 lb. (5 kg) Counterweight for iEQ45, GEM45, CEM60, and CEM70 Mounts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"296\" data-end=\"398\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"296\" data-end=\"317\"\u003ePart Number: 8027\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"317\" data-end=\"320\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"320\" data-end=\"398\"\u003eThe standard for serious payload balancing on mid-to-large iOptron mounts.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"400\" data-end=\"800\"\u003eAs your telescope rig grows—adding longer focal lengths, larger OTAs, heavier imaging accessories, or a dual-scope setup—you’ll eventually need more than the standard set of counterweights to maintain proper balance. The iOptron #8027 11 lb. (5 kg) counterweight is the dependable workhorse for that job, designed specifically for mid-to-large capacity iOptron mounts using a \u003cstrong data-start=\"776\" data-end=\"799\"\u003e28mm diameter shaft\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"802\" data-end=\"1311\"\u003eThis weight is ideal for use with the \u003cstrong data-start=\"840\" data-end=\"849\"\u003eiEQ45\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-start=\"851\" data-end=\"860\"\u003eGEM45\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-start=\"862\" data-end=\"871\"\u003eCEM60\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"877\" data-end=\"886\"\u003eCEM70\u003c\/strong\u003e mounts—models known for their solid load ratings and popularity among astrophotographers. While some of these mounts come standard with one or two 11 lb. counterweights (enough to balance a modest 25 lb. load), adding one or more #8027 counterweights allows you to confidently step up to the mount’s \u003cstrong data-start=\"1187\" data-end=\"1220\"\u003efull 45 lb or higher capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e—especially if your gear includes guide scopes, filter wheels, cameras, and mounting rails.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1313\" data-end=\"1748\"\u003eThe #8027 weight features a secure compression ring clamping system with a hand-tighten knob. This design not only provides a firm grip on the shaft without tools, but also protects the finish of the stainless steel counterweight bar from damage—important for long-term use and easy repositioning. The compact design, just over 5 inches in diameter and just over 2 inches tall, provides dense balance without adding unnecessary length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1750\" data-end=\"1979\"\u003eIf you find yourself running out of shaft space, this weight pairs perfectly with the optional \u003cstrong data-start=\"1845\" data-end=\"1870\"\u003e#8026 shaft extension\u003c\/strong\u003e, which threads onto the end of the standard counterweight shaft to add an extra 9.5 inches of usable length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1981\" data-end=\"1984\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1986\" data-end=\"2014\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2016\" data-end=\"2303\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2016\" data-end=\"2046\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2018\" data-end=\"2046\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2018\" data-end=\"2028\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 11 lbs. (5 kg)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2047\" data-end=\"2070\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2070\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2061\"\u003eDiameter\u003c\/strong\u003e: 5.05\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2071\" data-end=\"2092\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2073\" data-end=\"2092\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2073\" data-end=\"2083\"\u003eHeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 2.07\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2093\" data-end=\"2153\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2153\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2118\"\u003eShaft Compatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e: 28mm (1.1\") counterweight shaft\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2154\" data-end=\"2240\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2156\" data-end=\"2240\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2156\" data-end=\"2177\"\u003eAttachment Method\u003c\/strong\u003e: Hand-tighten knob with compression ring clamp (non-marring)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2241\" data-end=\"2303\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2243\" data-end=\"2303\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2243\" data-end=\"2255\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e: Solid metal construction with durable finish\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2305\" data-end=\"2308\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2310\" data-end=\"2339\"\u003eCompatible iOptron Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2341\" data-end=\"2470\"\u003eThis 11 lb. counterweight is designed to work with the following iOptron mounts that use a \u003cstrong data-start=\"2432\" data-end=\"2469\"\u003e28mm diameter counterweight shaft\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2472\" data-end=\"2706\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2472\" data-end=\"2500\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2474\" data-end=\"2500\"\u003eCEM70 \/ CEM70EC \/ CEM70G\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2501\" data-end=\"2520\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2503\" data-end=\"2520\"\u003eCEM60 \/ CEM60EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2521\" data-end=\"2549\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2523\" data-end=\"2549\"\u003eGEM45 \/ GEM45EC \/ GEM45G\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2550\" data-end=\"2571\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2552\" data-end=\"2571\"\u003eiEQ45 \/ iEQ45 Pro\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2572\" data-end=\"2706\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2574\" data-end=\"2706\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2574\" data-end=\"2602\"\u003eCEM40 \/ CEM40EC \/ CEM40G\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"2603\" data-end=\"2706\"\u003e(only compatible with later models that use a 28mm counterweight shaft—please verify before ordering)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"2708\" data-end=\"2806\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2710\" data-end=\"2806\"\u003eIf your CEM40 uses a 20mm counterweight shaft, use the #3006 or #3006-05 counterweights instead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2808\" data-end=\"2811\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2813\" data-end=\"2830\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2832\" data-end=\"3283\"\u003eA properly balanced equatorial mount performs better—plain and simple. But how you add counterweight matters. Instead of stacking multiple small weights high up the shaft (which increases the moment arm and potential flex), adding a single 11 lb. counterweight lower on the shaft or farther out on a shaft extension creates a smoother, more efficient balance. This can reduce gear wear and even improve your tracking performance during long exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3285\" data-end=\"3288\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3290\" data-end=\"3308\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3310\" data-end=\"3755\"\u003eIf you’re upgrading to a larger OTA, adding heavy imaging gear, or simply pushing your iOptron mount closer to its full rated capacity, the #8027 counterweight is an essential tool. Engineered to match the performance and durability of iOptron's professional-grade mounts, it offers a safe, secure, and well-balanced solution for heavier payloads. It’s the standard weight used across the iOptron mid-to-high capacity lineup—and for good reason.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eWeight:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e5 kg (11 lbs)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eOuter diameter :\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e148 mm (5.8\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003einner diameter:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e28.5 mm (1.12\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eHeight:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e38 mm (1.5\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eLocking mechanism:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003eLocking screw\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eLocking screw thread size:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003eM8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40221672210505,"sku":"8027","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/files\/8027-2T.jpg?v=1739992520"},{"product_id":"ioptron-counterweight-shaft-extension-for-ioptron-ieq45-and-ieq45m-equatorial-mount","title":"iOptron Counterweight shaft extension for iOptron iEQ45 and iEQ45M equatorial mount","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"260\" data-end=\"330\"\u003eiOptron Counterweight Shaft Extension for iEQ45 and iEQ45M Mounts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"331\" data-end=\"444\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"331\" data-end=\"352\"\u003ePart Number: 8026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"352\" data-end=\"355\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"355\" data-end=\"444\"\u003eUnlock your mount’s full capacity with this essential extension for heavier payloads.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"446\" data-end=\"836\"\u003eIf you’re upgrading your imaging rig or switching to a larger optical tube assembly, it doesn’t take long to discover the limits of your standard counterweight shaft. Heavier payloads require proper balance—not just to protect your motors, but to maintain tracking accuracy and keep your GoTo slews fast, smooth, and precise. That’s where the iOptron Counterweight Shaft Extension comes in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"838\" data-end=\"1200\"\u003eThis shaft extension is designed specifically for all versions of the \u003cstrong data-start=\"908\" data-end=\"936\"\u003eiOptron iEQ45 and iEQ45M\u003c\/strong\u003e GoTo German equatorial mounts. It threads directly into your mount’s existing counterweight shaft and adds an additional \u003cstrong data-start=\"1058\" data-end=\"1089\"\u003e9.5 inches of usable length\u003c\/strong\u003e (10.5\" total), giving you the room to slide your counterweights farther out—or to add more weights altogether.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1202\" data-end=\"1482\"\u003eMade from precision-machined metal and finished to match the original shaft, the extension maintains the same \u003cstrong data-start=\"1312\" data-end=\"1329\"\u003e28mm diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e as the stock shaft, ensuring a seamless fit and full compatibility with standard iOptron counterweights, including the optional \u003cstrong data-start=\"1458\" data-end=\"1481\"\u003e#8027 11 lb. weight\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1484\" data-end=\"1874\"\u003eBy increasing the moment arm—the distance between your counterweights and the mount’s RA axis—this extension allows you to balance larger payloads using the same weights, or to safely add more weight to reach the iEQ45’s \u003cstrong data-start=\"1705\" data-end=\"1742\"\u003emaximum 45-pound payload capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e. It’s an ideal upgrade for astrophotographers adding a guide scope, filter wheel, full-frame camera, or heavier OTA to their setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1876\" data-end=\"1879\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1881\" data-end=\"1899\"\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1901\" data-end=\"2345\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1901\" data-end=\"1975\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1903\" data-end=\"1975\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1903\" data-end=\"1913\"\u003eLength\u003c\/strong\u003e: 10.5 inches total (adds 9.5 inches of usable shaft length)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1976\" data-end=\"2040\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1978\" data-end=\"2040\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1978\" data-end=\"1990\"\u003eDiameter\u003c\/strong\u003e: 28mm (matches iEQ45 stock counterweight shaft)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2041\" data-end=\"2110\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2043\" data-end=\"2110\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2043\" data-end=\"2056\"\u003eThreading\u003c\/strong\u003e: Threads securely into existing counterweight shaft\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2111\" data-end=\"2174\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2113\" data-end=\"2174\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2113\" data-end=\"2125\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e: Solid metal construction with machined finish\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2175\" data-end=\"2229\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2177\" data-end=\"2229\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2177\" data-end=\"2194\"\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e: iOptron iEQ45 and iEQ45M mounts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2230\" data-end=\"2345\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2232\" data-end=\"2345\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2232\" data-end=\"2263\"\u003eCounterweight Compatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e: Accepts standard iOptron 28mm bore weights, including #8027 11 lb. counterweight\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2347\" data-end=\"2350\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2352\" data-end=\"2369\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2371\" data-end=\"2799\"\u003eIf you find yourself needing to slide your counterweights up the shaft to balance your rig, you’re reducing your mechanical advantage—and putting more strain on the RA motor. Extending the shaft lets you keep the weights lower and farther from the axis, achieving the same balance with less effort from the mount. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve stability when working near the mount’s payload limit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2801\" data-end=\"2804\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2806\" data-end=\"2824\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2826\" data-end=\"3240\"\u003eBalancing heavier payloads doesn’t always mean buying new counterweights. Sometimes, a simple shaft extension is all it takes to unlock your mount’s true carrying potential. Whether you’re adding a larger telescope or just refining your astrophotography gear, this extension is a smart, affordable upgrade that lets your iEQ45 mount operate at its full potential—with safer, smoother performance night after night.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40221672243273,"sku":"8026","price":78.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/19225.jpg?v=1662967962"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cube-pro-go-to-computerized-mount","title":"iOptron Cube Pro Go-To Computerized Mount","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis Product Has Been Discontinued And This Is Here for Informational Purposes Only. It Is No Longer For  Sale.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron CubePro go-to light-duty altazimuth mount with GPS puts and amazing amount of technology into a compact and inexpensive mount package . . .\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis iOptron light-duty CubePro altazimuth go-to mount has:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e• Built-in go-to altazimuth computer drive with 130,000+ object database\u003cbr\u003e• Built-in 32-channel GPS\u003cbr\u003e• Weighs only 12 pounds, with an eight pound payload capacity\u003cbr\u003e• 110 VAC or flashlight battery operation\u003cbr\u003e• Adjustable height tripod with 1\" diameter stainless steel legs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe light-duty iOptron CubePro go-to altazimuth mount is the ideal grab-and-go portable mount to go with your lightweight traveling optical tube that has a Vixen-style dovetail, such as a 60mm or 80mm ED refractor, a 90mm or 100mm Maksutov-Cassegrain, or even a lightweight 114mm Newtonian reflector. It can also be used with many solar scopes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDespite its eight pound payload capacity, built-in 32-channel GPS, easy-to-use go-to computer with a 130,000 object database, and other advanced features, the iOptron CubePro mount is exceptionally affordable. It has a stable stainless steel tripod with 1\" diameter legs, sets up in only five minutes, is powered in the field by eight AA flashlight batteries or an optional DC\/car battery cord adapter (and in your backyard by a supplied household 110V AC adapter), and comes with a USB cable for updating the software online or connecting to your PC. A 3.3 pound counterweight is supplied for balancing your optical tube. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWeighing only 12 pounds (5.5 kg) complete with tripod, the iOptron CubePro mount is extremely portable. This portability, combined with the internal 32-channel GPS system and flashlight battery operation, gives amateur astronomers extreme flexibility in selecting an observing location anywhere on earth.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe dual-axis 12VDC servomotor drive uses aluminum worm wheels and brass worms for smooth and accurate tracking. Four steel ball bearings support the altitude and azimuth axes. The CubePro has four tracking rates (sidereal, solar, lunar, and user-defined), plus nine user-selected centering and slewing speeds: sidereal, 2x, 8x, 16x, 64x, and 128x sidereal for centering; and 256x (1°\/sec), 512x (2°\/sec) sidereal, and a maximum speed of ~4°\/sec for slewing. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe iOptron CubePro is equipped with advanced SmartStar go-to technology, including a built-in 32-channel GPS system for fast and accurate alignment on the sky. The standard hand controller has an 8-line back-lit LCD display and a USB port for easy connection with any ASCOM-compliant PC planetarium program. The iOptron CubePro will consistently bring the celestial object of your choice to the center of the eyepiece field and the touch of a button and keep tracking it accurately for hours.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe supplied GoToNova technology computer hand control has more than 130,000 objects in its go-to database including: 10 solar system objects, including the Sun and the Moon; 60 named deep sky objects; the 110 object Messier Catalog, the 7,840 object NGC Catalog; the 5,386 object IC Catalog; the 12,939 object UGC Catalog; the 29,004 object MCG Catalog; the 109 object Caldwell Catalog; 2712 objects in the Abell Catalog; the 400 object Herschel Catalog; 190 comets (user-upgradeable); 191 named stars; 40 double stars; 38,528 GCVS variable stars; 26,584 stars in the SAO catalog; 4096 asteroids; the 88 modern constellations with their names; plus up to 256 user-defined objects.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere are many useful features built into the CubePro. For example, it has automatic over-current protection; automatic clutch protection; a built-in level; a tripod spreader bar that doubles as an eyepiece tray; and more.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIf you're looking for a light-duty altazimuth mount with advanced features and portability to spare - and one that is very reasonably priced - take a careful look at the new iOptron CubePro. It may be just the grab-and-go mount you have been looking for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e17\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481973272649,"sku":"CUBEPRO","price":428.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/19999.jpg?v=1675378915"},{"product_id":"ioptron-ball-head-for-ioptron-skytracker-camera-tracking-mount","title":"iOptron Ball Head For iOptron Skytracker Camera Tracking Mount","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 12px;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe new iOptron 3305A ball head lets you mount a digital camera weighing up to 6.6 lbs (3 kg) on the iOptron SkyTracker portable camera tracking mount for serious constellation\/Milky Way star field astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe iOptron 3305A ball head's 1.5\" by 2.375\" quick release plate lets you quickly mount and remove your camera and lens from the SkyTracker, yet provides a stable and secure camera platform while your SkyTracker is in operation. The quick release plate has three camera mounting bolt position options to let you balance your camera and lens more precisely. Its large aluminum alloy ball, 1.5 inches (39mm) in diameter, provides smooth movement with a very secure clamping action to prevent camera movement once you have aimed your camera. Safety stops on the ball head's quick release plate prevent your camera from accidentally slipping out of the quick release adapter.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe ball head has an integrated compass and level for easy alignment. It weighs only 14 ounces (including the quick release plate), and measures only 3.875\" high. While the SkyTracker itself has a rated camera payload capacity of 6.6 lbs for imaging, the ball head will actually hold a maximum payload of 20 lbs (9.1 kg), giving you a generous extra margin of safety. The ball head housing can pan 360°, with index marks every 30°, for multi-shot panoramas. The ball head itself can tilt +\/- 90°.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe iOptron 3305A ball head has a 1\/4\"-20 thread bolt in a quick-release plate on top for holding your camera, with a 3\/8\" mounting hole underneath for installing on the SkyTracker on standard tripod legs. A 1\/4\"-20 thread insert is provided for the 3\/8\" mounting hole to allow you to use the 3305A ball head on a a tripod that uses that size mounting bolt. \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eA review in \u003cem\u003eSky \u0026amp; Telescope\u003c\/em\u003e magazine said \"I've spent twice as much for ball heads that weren't nearly as good as the iOptron model, so I highly recommend you buy it if you don't already own one.\" \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 lb.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481974485065,"sku":"3305","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/20078.jpg?v=1675378979"},{"product_id":"ioptron-4-5-lb-counterweight-for-ieq30-and-zeq25-ioptron-mounts","title":"iOptron 4.5 lb. Counterweight For Various iOptron Mounts","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"233\" data-end=\"300\"\u003eiOptron 4.5 lb. (2 kg) Counterweight for Select iOptron Mounts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"301\" data-end=\"411\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"301\" data-end=\"325\"\u003ePart Number: 3006-05\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"325\" data-end=\"328\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"328\" data-end=\"411\"\u003eLightweight flexibility for balancing smaller rigs—or fine-tuning heavier ones.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"413\" data-end=\"784\"\u003eSometimes, balancing your telescope setup isn’t just about raw weight—it’s about precision. That’s where the iOptron 4.5 lb. (2 kg) counterweight comes in. Whether you’re looking to fine-tune balance with an existing setup or avoid over-counterweighting a smaller payload, this compact, easy-to-use weight gives you just the right touch of adjustment without excess mass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"1293\"\u003eThis smaller counterweight is designed to fit iOptron mounts that use a 20mm (0.78\") diameter counterweight shaft. It’s a perfect match for lighter optical tube assemblies and visual configurations, or for imaging rigs where you’ve already maxed out with a 9.8 lb. counterweight and just need a little extra push to bring the system into perfect equilibrium. The solid metal body is machined for snug, secure mounting, and the hand-tighten knob lets you attach or reposition the weight with no tools needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1295\" data-end=\"1582\"\u003eThe counterweight measures approximately 4.6\" in diameter and just 1\" in height—dense enough to do its job, but compact enough to keep your shaft length clear of interference. It’s an excellent choice for observers who are regularly swapping configurations or running lightweight setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1587\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1589\" data-end=\"1616\"\u003eIdeal for These Mounts:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1618\" data-end=\"1729\"\u003eThe 4.5 lb. counterweight is compatible with any iOptron mount that uses a 20mm counterweight shaft, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1731\" data-end=\"2019\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1731\" data-end=\"1750\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1733\" data-end=\"1750\"\u003eCEM26 \/ CEM26EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1751\" data-end=\"1770\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1753\" data-end=\"1770\"\u003eGEM28 \/ GEM28EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1771\" data-end=\"1790\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1773\" data-end=\"1790\"\u003eHEM27 \/ HEM27EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1791\" data-end=\"1810\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1793\" data-end=\"1810\"\u003eHEM44 \/ HEM44EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1811\" data-end=\"1827\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1813\" data-end=\"1827\"\u003eAZ Mount Pro\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1828\" data-end=\"1849\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1830\" data-end=\"1849\"\u003eiEQ30 \/ iEQ30 Pro\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1850\" data-end=\"1878\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1852\" data-end=\"1878\"\u003eCEM25 \/ CEM25P \/ CEM25EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1879\" data-end=\"1888\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1881\" data-end=\"1888\"\u003eZEQ25\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1889\" data-end=\"1931\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1891\" data-end=\"1931\"\u003eMiniTower, MiniTower II, MiniTower Pro\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1932\" data-end=\"2019\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1934\" data-end=\"2019\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1934\" data-end=\"1953\"\u003eCEM40 \/ CEM40EC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"1954\" data-end=\"2019\"\u003e(early versions only—check your shaft diameter before ordering)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"2021\" data-end=\"2162\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2023\" data-end=\"2162\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2023\" data-end=\"2032\"\u003eNote:\u003c\/strong\u003e Some newer CEM40 and CEM40EC mounts use a larger shaft. Be sure to verify your counterweight shaft diameter before purchase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2164\" data-end=\"2294\"\u003eThis counterweight can also be used with other mounts outside the iOptron lineup—as long as the shaft is 20mm (0.78\") in diameter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2296\" data-end=\"2299\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2301\" data-end=\"2318\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2320\" data-end=\"2865\"\u003eProper balance helps reduce wear on your mount’s motors, improves tracking accuracy, and prevents unnecessary strain during slews and GoTo operations. But using a counterweight that’s \u003cem data-start=\"2504\" data-end=\"2515\"\u003etoo heavy\u003c\/em\u003e can actually create its own problems—especially if you’re forced to slide the weight higher on the shaft to achieve balance, increasing the chance of slippage or limited movement near the RA axis. This 4.5 lb. option gives you more granular control, especially valuable when dialing in multiple OTA configurations or fine-tuning an astrophoto setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2867\" data-end=\"2870\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2872\" data-end=\"2890\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2892\" data-end=\"3314\"\u003eNot every telescope configuration demands a massive counterweight. Sometimes what you need is a simple, lightweight, precision option—and the iOptron 4.5 lb. counterweight delivers just that. It’s well made, easy to install, and fits a wide array of mounts with the standard 20mm shaft. Whether you're observing, imaging, or just tweaking your system for better performance, this modest addition can make a big difference.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2 kg (4.5 lbs.)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOuter diameter:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e118 mm (4.6 in.)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInner diameter:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e20.5 mm (0.8 in.)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHeight:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e25 mm (1 in.)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLocking mechanism\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLocking screw with pin\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLocking screw thread size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eM8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481975337033,"sku":"3006-05","price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/3006-05-2.jpg?v=1675379024"},{"product_id":"ioptron-9-8-lb-counterweight-for-ieq30-and-zeq25-ioptron-mounts","title":"iOptron 9.8 Lb. Counterweight For Various iOptron Mounts","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"233\" data-end=\"302\"\u003eiOptron 9.8 lb. (4.5 kg) Counterweight for Select iOptron Mounts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"303\" data-end=\"419\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"303\" data-end=\"324\"\u003ePart Number: 3006\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"324\" data-end=\"327\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"327\" data-end=\"419\"\u003eA perfect fit for balancing heavier payloads across a wide range of iOptron GoTo mounts.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"421\" data-end=\"715\"\u003eAs your imaging or observing rig grows—adding a larger optical tube, guide scope, cameras, filter wheels, or even a piggybacked second scope—you’ll likely find yourself needing more than the single factory-supplied counterweight. That’s where the iOptron 4.5 kg (9.8 lb) counterweight comes in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"717\" data-end=\"1268\"\u003eDesigned to work with a wide variety of iOptron computerized GoTo equatorial and hybrid mounts, this counterweight helps you safely and accurately balance heavier payloads while staying within your mount’s mechanical limits. Most iOptron mounts ship with one roughly 10 lb. counterweight, which is usually sufficient for payloads in the 15–18 lb. range. But when your load starts approaching the mount’s rated capacity, adding this second 4.5 kg weight ensures proper counterbalance and helps protect your gears and motors during tracking and slewing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1270\" data-end=\"1670\"\u003eA large hand-tighten knob makes it easy to secure the weight to your counterweight shaft without tools, and the machined bore fits snugly on all iOptron 20mm (0.78\") diameter counterweight shafts. The weight itself is compact and dense, measuring approximately 4.6\" in diameter and 2.2\" thick—large enough to do the job, but small enough to avoid interference with pier legs or low-slung accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1672\" data-end=\"1675\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1677\" data-end=\"1694\"\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1696\" data-end=\"1806\"\u003eThis 9.8 lb counterweight is compatible with the following iOptron mounts that use a 20mm counterweight shaft:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1808\" data-end=\"2157\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1808\" data-end=\"1827\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1810\" data-end=\"1827\"\u003eCEM26 \/ CEM26EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1828\" data-end=\"1847\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1830\" data-end=\"1847\"\u003eGEM28 \/ GEM28EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1848\" data-end=\"1867\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1850\" data-end=\"1867\"\u003eHEM27 \/ HEM27EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1868\" data-end=\"1887\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1870\" data-end=\"1887\"\u003eHAE29 \/ HAE29EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1888\" data-end=\"1907\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1890\" data-end=\"1907\"\u003eHAE43 \/ HAE43EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1908\" data-end=\"1927\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1910\" data-end=\"1927\"\u003eHAE69 \/ HAE69EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1928\" data-end=\"1947\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1930\" data-end=\"1947\"\u003eHEM44 \/ HEM44EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1948\" data-end=\"1964\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1950\" data-end=\"1964\"\u003eAZ Mount Pro\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1965\" data-end=\"1986\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1967\" data-end=\"1986\"\u003eiEQ30 \/ iEQ30 Pro\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1987\" data-end=\"2015\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1989\" data-end=\"2015\"\u003eCEM25 \/ CEM25P \/ CEM25EC\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2016\" data-end=\"2025\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2018\" data-end=\"2025\"\u003eZEQ25\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2026\" data-end=\"2068\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2028\" data-end=\"2068\"\u003eMiniTower, MiniTower II, MiniTower Pro\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2069\" data-end=\"2157\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2071\" data-end=\"2157\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2071\" data-end=\"2090\"\u003eCEM40 \/ CEM40EC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"2091\" data-end=\"2157\"\u003e(early versions only—verify your shaft diameter before ordering)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"2159\" data-end=\"2352\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2161\" data-end=\"2352\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2161\" data-end=\"2169\"\u003eNote\u003c\/strong\u003e: iOptron CEM40 and CEM40EC mounts were originally shipped with 20mm counterweight shafts. Please confirm your shaft diameter before purchase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2354\" data-end=\"2357\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2359\" data-end=\"2376\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2378\" data-end=\"2889\"\u003eIf you’re adding a heavy camera, filter wheel, or piggybacked gear to your rig, balancing your system isn’t just about avoiding motor strain—it’s also about improving tracking performance. Even a slightly unbalanced load can result in increased periodic error, especially at higher magnifications. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly over-counterweighted and adjust the position of the weights along the shaft for proper balance. This 4.5 kg weight gives you that extra flexibility without excessive bulk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2891\" data-end=\"2894\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2896\" data-end=\"2914\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2916\" data-end=\"3349\"\u003eBalancing your telescope properly is one of the simplest ways to get more out of your mount. Whether you’re optimizing for tracking precision, reducing motor wear, or just preparing for a heavier payload down the road, this iOptron 9.8 lb counterweight is a practical, durable upgrade. Easy to install, perfectly matched to a wide range of mounts, and built to last—it’s one of those accessories that pays off every night you use it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e9.8 lbs.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481975369801,"sku":"3006","price":95.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/3006-10-2.jpg?v=1675379027"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem120-go-to-120-lb-payload-mount-head-with-wifi","title":"iOptron CEM120 Go-To 120lb. Payload Mount Head With Wifi","description":"\u003cp\u003eThere is a point where an imaging system stops being portable in any meaningful sense. A large SCT or Ritchey-Chrétien, heavy camera, filter wheel, off-axis guider, rotator, focuser, and perhaps a second telescope can put more demand on the mount than everything else in the observatory combined.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron CEM120 is built for that kind of system. It carries up to 115 lb (52 kg) of payload, not including counterweights, on a 57 lb (26 kg) mount head. More importantly, it is designed around the things that matter once a mount becomes a permanent part of an observatory: low periodic error, large conventional worm gears, permanent periodic error correction, through-mount cabling, LAN and Wi-Fi control, automatic zero-position sensing, and enough saddle and bearing structure for large optical tubes and complex imaging trains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the standard CEM120 rather than the encoder-equipped CEM120EC or EC2. It uses precision worm gearing and iOptron's Permanent Periodic Error Correction rather than high-resolution tracking encoders. For long-focal-length deep-sky work you will normally guide it, but you start with a published periodic error of less than ±3.5 arcseconds and a 240-second worm period that can be characterized and corrected very effectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are building around a C14, large RC, 6-inch-class refractor, dual-telescope system, or another imaging payload that has outgrown a mid-sized mount, the CEM120 is meant to become part of the observatory rather than something you carry outside every clear night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e115 lb payload capacity.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron rates the CEM120 for 52 kg (115 lb) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e57 lb mount head.\u003c\/strong\u003e A payload-to-mount-weight ratio of roughly 2:1 for a mount intended to carry substantial observatory-class systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial design.\u003c\/strong\u003e The CEM architecture places the system's mass closer to the center of the support structure rather than cantilevering the entire mount head to one side.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePeriodic error under ±3.5 arcseconds.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron specifies PE below ±3.5 arcseconds for the standard CEM120, measured with an encoder on the bench over its 240-second worm period.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can record a PEC curve and store it in the RA motor controller for repeated playback.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e216mm worm wheels on both axes.\u003c\/strong\u003e Each axis uses a 360-tooth worm wheel driven by a 26mm worm.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge steel axles and bearings.\u003c\/strong\u003e Both axes use 80mm steel shafts riding in 125mm bearings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e0.07-arcsecond motor resolution.\u003c\/strong\u003e Precision stepper motors with 128 micro-steps provide fine commanded motion for GoTo and tracking.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e17.2-inch Losmandy-D saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e The long saddle gives large optical tubes and long dovetail plates plenty of clamping area.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in LAN and Wi-Fi.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can connect directly to an observatory network without requiring a separate wireless adapter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB and RS-232 control.\u003c\/strong\u003e Direct computer connections are also available for conventional local control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdvanced through-mount cable management.\u003c\/strong\u003e USB, power, guide, and auxiliary connections can be routed through the mount rather than draped across moving axes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e32-channel GPS.\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies location and UTC information to the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic zero-position search.\u003c\/strong\u003e The CEM120 can electronically locate its reference position for repeatable remote startup.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMultiple park positions.\u003c\/strong\u003e Park horizontally, vertically, at the current position, or at user-entered altitude and azimuth coordinates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfigurable meridian behavior.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can stop or perform an automatic meridian flip, with up to 14° of past-meridian travel available.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eST-4 autoguider port.\u003c\/strong\u003e Traditional guider input is provided in addition to software-based pulse guiding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional internal iPolar.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's #3339A-120 electronic polar scope can be installed internally if you want a dedicated polar-alignment camera.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Center-Balanced?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTraditional German equatorial mounts place the right-ascension axis to one side of the tripod or pier, with the telescope on one side of that axis and the counterweights on the other.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron's CEM layout rearranges that geometry so the RA assembly and combined load sit more directly over the center of the support. The idea is not to eliminate counterweights — the CEM120 still uses them — but to place the total mass in a more naturally centered relationship with the pier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat becomes increasingly useful as payloads get larger. A C14 with a full imaging train or a large RC does not just add weight; it adds leverage. Keeping as much of the system's mass as practical over the center of the pier helps the entire structure behave like one integrated observatory system instead of a large weight hanging beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConventional Gearing Done on a Large Scale\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 is not a strain-wave mount and it is not an encoder mount. It is a large precision worm-driven equatorial mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth axes use 216mm diameter, 360-tooth worm wheels driven by 26mm worms. The RA worm completes one rotation every 240 seconds, giving the mount a relatively short and predictable periodic-error cycle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies periodic error below ±3.5 arcseconds for the standard CEM120. That figure is measured on the bench with an encoder; the production mount itself does not contain the high-resolution tracking encoders found in the CEM120EC and EC2.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor imaging, that distinction matters. The CEM120 does not internally correct its position in real time with a high-resolution RA encoder. Instead, you use its low native periodic error, Permanent Periodic Error Correction, and an autoguider as part of a conventional high-precision imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor many observatory installations, that is a very sensible arrangement. Guiding software already has access to the imaging system, the mount's periodic behavior is slow and repeatable, and PPEC can remove much of the predictable worm error before the guider has to respond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard CEM120 supports Permanent Periodic Error Correction rather than the real-time encoder correction used by the EC versions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDuring PEC training, the mount records corrections over one complete 240-second RA worm cycle. That correction data is then stored in the RA motor controller and remains available until you replace it with a new recording.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron recommends recording PEC with a guiding camera. Once a good curve has been stored, PEC playback can reduce the repeatable part of the RA tracking error while the autoguider handles the remaining slower and non-periodic errors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat division of labor is particularly useful at longer focal lengths. PEC deals with the predictable mechanical pattern of the worm while guiding corrects what is actually happening in the sky and optical system at that moment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eMade to Stay Wired\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the CEM120's strongest features has nothing to do with payload capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLarge observatory systems accumulate cables quickly: main camera, guide camera, filter wheel, focuser, rotator, dew control, flat panel, and sometimes a second complete imaging train. If those cables hang from the telescope to a computer or power distribution box outside the mount, they eventually have to cross a moving axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 was designed around permanent cable management.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt the mount you have dedicated power, USB, guide, and auxiliary paths that pass through the structure and emerge near the telescope. The system includes two USB 2.0 connections, three USB 3.0 connections, two 12V outputs rated to 1A, and two higher-current DC outputs rated to 5A, along with ST-4, auxiliary, and iPolar connections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat lets cameras and accessories connect near the saddle while their computer and power connections remain below the moving axes. In a permanent observatory, fewer external loops mean fewer cables waiting to snag during a slew or meridian flip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBuilt for Remote Operation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 includes Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB, and RS-232 connectivity directly in the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a backyard observatory, Ethernet is often the most important of those. A hard-wired LAN connection lets the mount become another device on the observatory network, with the control computer located at the pier or somewhere else entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAutomatic zero-position search and programmable park positions support the same kind of unattended workflow. A remote system needs to know where the mount is when it starts, where it should go when the night ends, and how to recover from a controlled shutdown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 can park horizontally, vertically, at its current position, or at a user-defined altitude and azimuth. It also retains position information after a power interruption, provided the mount has not been physically moved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eMeridian Management\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA permanent imaging mount needs predictable behavior when a target crosses the meridian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 can be configured either to stop at the meridian limit or to perform an automatic flip. iOptron allows the system to continue tracking up to 14° past the meridian before the selected treatment occurs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat extra travel can be useful when an exposure or sequence is nearing completion, but the appropriate setting depends on the telescope, pier, camera train, and available physical clearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith a large observatory system, always establish safe east- and west-side clearances before allowing automated meridian operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e115 Pounds Needs Context\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 carries a published 115 lb payload, excluding counterweights, but a payload specification is only the beginning of sizing a mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA compact 80 lb telescope and an 80 lb optical tube with a very long moment arm do not place the same demand on the axes. iOptron specifically notes that telescope size and length affect practical capacity, and imaging requirements are more demanding than visual use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 115 lb rating gives you something equally important: margin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA C14 OTA by itself does not come close to using the entire capacity, leaving room for a focuser, reducer, camera, filter wheel, off-axis guider, dew equipment, dovetails, and other accessories without turning every addition into a payload calculation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe same applies to a large Ritchey-Chrétien, substantial refractor, or side-by-side imaging arrangement. Capacity that is not being used becomes mechanical headroom for the system you actually want to build.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 makes the most sense with telescopes where image scale starts exposing weaknesses that a wide-field setup can hide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA large SCT or Ritchey-Chrétien brings smaller galaxies, compact nebulae, planetary nebulae, globular clusters, and detailed structures within larger galaxies into reach. At those focal lengths, a small tracking error that would disappear inside a wide-field pixel scale becomes a visibly elongated star.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is where low periodic error, careful polar alignment, PPEC, and consistent guiding begin to matter more than flashy GoTo numbers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA C14 can work small galaxies and planetary nebulae at an image scale that reveals structure a short refractor simply cannot resolve. A large RC can spend a season working through galaxy groups and small emission regions. A 6-inch refractor can carry a large-format camera and still leave the mount with generous mechanical margin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 is also large enough for side-by-side systems. One telescope might cover a broad nebula while another works a smaller region at longer focal length, or a dedicated solar or photometric instrument can share the pier with a primary imaging telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is really what observatory capacity buys: not simply the ability to put one very heavy telescope on the mount, but the freedom to build the imaging system around the science or targets rather than around what the mount can barely carry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCEM120, CEM120EC, or CEM120EC2?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAll three CEM120 models share the same basic mechanical platform and 115 lb payload rating. The difference is how they handle tracking error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard CEM120 uses conventional precision worm gearing with a published periodic error below ±3.5 arcseconds and Permanent Periodic Error Correction. For demanding long-exposure imaging, it is normally paired with an autoguider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC adds a high-precision encoder to the RA axis and uses real-time periodic error correction to control RA tracking internally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC2 adds high-precision encoders to both RA and DEC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your observatory workflow already assumes guiding and you want the mechanical capacity and cable-management advantages of the CEM120 platform without paying for tracking encoders, the standard CEM120 remains the straightforward version of the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePolar Alignment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 does not include an optical polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor most permanent observatories, that is not much of a limitation. Polar alignment can be performed through the imaging or guide camera using modern software, and once a pier-mounted system is aligned accurately there is little reason to repeat the process unless something physically changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe hand controller also includes iOptron's Polar Iterate Align routine for situations where the pole is obstructed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you prefer a dedicated polar-alignment camera, iOptron's optional #3339A-120 iPolar installs internally in the CEM120 and provides a roughly 13° electronic polar field with plate-solving alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiOptron CEM120 center-balanced equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e17.2-inch Losmandy-D dovetail saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo2Nova hand controller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6P6C hand-controller cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e38.1mm × 540mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo 22 lb (10 kg) counterweights\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12V\/5A AC\/DC power adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFour base mounting screws\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExternal GPS antenna\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExternal Wi-Fi antenna\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot included:\u003c\/strong\u003e pier or tripod, iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe CEM120 ships in two boxes because of the size and weight of the mount and counterweights.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much can the CEM120 carry?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron rates the mount for 115 lb (52 kg) of payload, excluding counterweights. Telescope length, diameter, and imaging requirements still matter, so the number should not be treated as the only factor when sizing a system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much does the mount head weigh?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe CEM120 mount head weighs 57 lb (26 kg).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the standard CEM120 have high-resolution tracking encoders?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. The standard CEM120 uses precision worm gearing and Permanent Periodic Error Correction. The CEM120EC adds an RA encoder, while the CEM120EC2 adds encoders to both RA and DEC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the periodic error?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron specifies periodic error below ±3.5 arcseconds for the standard CEM120, measured with an encoder on the bench over the mount's 240-second worm period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM120 support PEC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The standard CEM120 uses Permanent Periodic Error Correction. A trained PEC curve is stored in the RA motor controller until it is replaced with another recording.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShould I guide the CEM120?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFor demanding long-exposure imaging, particularly at longer focal lengths, guiding is the normal approach. PPEC reduces the predictable worm error and the autoguider corrects the remaining tracking effects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan it carry a C14?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. A C14 OTA leaves substantial room below the published 115 lb capacity for cameras, filter wheels, focusers, guiders, dew-control equipment, and other accessories. The complete system and its moment arm should still be considered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan the CEM120 carry two telescopes?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIt can support many side-by-side systems within its payload and geometry limits. The 17.2-inch Losmandy-D saddle provides ample clamping length for large dovetails and side-by-side plates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I operate it remotely?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The mount has built-in Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB, and RS-232 interfaces, along with automatic zero-position search and programmable park positions. Remote access from outside your local network depends on the observatory's own computer and network configuration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it have through-mount cabling?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The CEM120 provides multiple USB, 12V power, guide, auxiliary, and iPolar connections through the mount so cameras and accessories can be connected near the telescope rather than running loose cables across the axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow far past the meridian can it track?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe mount supports meridian treatment from 0° to 14° past the meridian and can either stop or perform an automatic flip depending on configuration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it have GPS?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. A 32-channel GPS receiver provides UTC time, longitude, and latitude information. Time-zone and daylight-saving settings still need to be set correctly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do I polar align it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYou can use imaging-camera polar-alignment software, the mount's Polar Iterate Align routine, or install the optional internal #3339A-120 iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat power does the CEM120 require?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe mount requires 12V DC at 5A. A 100–240V AC to 12V\/5A adapter intended for indoor use is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat pier should I use?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFor most CEM120 installations, a permanent observatory pier is the natural choice. The mount head alone weighs 57 lb, and the complete installed system can become very heavy once the telescope and counterweights are added. Pier stiffness and foundation design matter as much as the mount itself at this scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron #3339A-120 Internal iPolar Electronic Polar Scope (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: installs inside the CEM120 and provides camera-based polar alignment without requiring the pole star itself to be visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePermanent pier or appropriately rated heavy-duty support (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: the CEM120 is at its best when mounted permanently on a rigid observatory foundation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional CEM120 counterweights (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: useful when the installed payload requires more counterweight than the two included 22 lb weights can provide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLow-latitude counterweight #7326LL (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: required by iOptron for installations below 10° latitude.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 is not trying to be a mount you throw in the car for a quick night at a dark site. Its strength is exactly the opposite: install it on a solid pier, wire the observatory around it, build the imaging system you actually want, and let the mount become part of the infrastructure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 115 lb payload gives large SCTs, RCs, refractors, and dual-telescope systems room to grow. The center-balanced mechanical design keeps that capacity concentrated over the support, while large conventional worm gears, low periodic error, Permanent PEC, and autoguiding provide the tracking foundation for long-focal-length imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eJust as important, the LAN connection, automatic zero search, programmable parking, meridian management, and through-mount cable system are the kinds of features that matter every night in a permanent installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are building an observatory around a substantial imaging system and expect to guide it, the standard CEM120 gives you the full mechanical and infrastructure advantages of the CEM120 platform without paying for the high-resolution encoders of the EC versions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-Balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePayload Capacity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e115 lb (52 kg), excluding counterweights\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e57 lb (26 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2:1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt; ±3.5 arcsec, measured by encoder on the bench over one 240-second worm period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePeriodic Error Correction\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePermanent PEC (PPEC)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eHigh-Precision Tracking Encoders\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eNone; see CEM120EC and CEM120EC2 for encoder-equipped versions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA Worm Period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e240 seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e216mm diameter, 360 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e26mm diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axles\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e80mm diameter, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e125mm diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMotor Drive\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motors with 128 micro-steps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMotor Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.07 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4°\/sec (960×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–68°, with 0.5 arcmin divisions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±5°, with 3 arcmin divisions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e38.1mm × 540mm stainless steel, anti-slip; 9.9 lb (4.5 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCounterweights\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2 × 22 lb (10 kg), included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eLosmandy D, 17.2\" (437mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMount Base Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e210 × 230mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova 8410, 8-line × 21-character LCD\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.7A tracking; 1.8A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eOptional iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop or auto flip; configurable from 0° to 14° past the meridian\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero-position search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePark Positions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eHorizontal, vertical, current position, or user-entered Alt\/Az position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eBuilt-in, 32-channel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eLevel Indicator\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eRS-232, USB, Ethernet LAN, Wi-Fi\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2 × 12V DC (1A), 2 × high-current DC (5A), ST-4 guide, 6P6C, 2 × USB 2.0, 3 × USB 3.0, iPolar USB, AUX\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e14°F to 104°F (−10°C to +40°C)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePier \/ Tripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSold separately\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo-year limited warranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e7300\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481978220617,"sku":"CEM120","price":5799.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7300-3t.jpg?v=1675379209"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem120ec-go-to-120-lb-payload-mount-head-with-precision-encoders-and-wifi","title":"iOptron CEM120EC Go-To 120lb. Payload Mount Head With Precision Encoders And Wifi","description":"\u003cp\u003eOnce an imaging system gets large enough, mount capacity is only part of the problem. A C14, large Ritchey-Chrétien, CDK, or substantial refractor may also carry a camera, filter wheel, rotator, focuser, off-axis guider, dew equipment, and perhaps a second telescope. At that point, the mount has to do more than hold the weight. It has to track predictably at a fine image scale, manage a growing collection of cables, and become something you can operate night after night without rebuilding the system around it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron CEM120EC is built for that kind of observatory. It carries up to 115 lb (52 kg) of payload, excluding counterweights, on a 57 lb (26 kg) center-balanced mount head. Mechanically, it shares the large worm wheels, bearings, axles, cable-management system, networking, and observatory features of the standard CEM120.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe important difference is on the right-ascension axis. The CEM120EC adds a high-resolution encoder with a published resolution of 0.035 arcsecond. Working with iOptron's Real-Time Periodic Error Correction, that encoder continuously measures RA motion and corrects the periodic component of the worm drive internally. iOptron specifies encoder-corrected periodic error of less than 0.15 arcsecond RMS over the mount's 240-second worm period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat does not make every other tracking error disappear, and it does not make guiding automatically obsolete. Polar-alignment error, atmospheric refraction, flexure, seeing, and movement elsewhere in the imaging system still exist. What the encoder does is remove most of the repetitive RA gear error before an external guider has to deal with it. At the long focal lengths this mount is designed to carry, that is a meaningful advantage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-resolution RA encoder.\u003c\/strong\u003e Encoder resolution is 0.035 arcsecond, providing direct measurement of right-ascension motion.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReal-Time Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/strong\u003e The encoder continuously corrects the periodic component of RA tracking rather than relying on a previously recorded PEC curve.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLess than 0.15 arcsecond RMS periodic error.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron specifies encoder-corrected PE below 0.15 arcsecond RMS, measured on the bench over one complete 240-second worm cycle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e115 lb payload capacity.\u003c\/strong\u003e Carries up to 52 kg (115 lb) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e57 lb mount head.\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately a 2:1 payload-to-mount-weight ratio.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial design.\u003c\/strong\u003e The CEM architecture keeps the combined system mass centered more directly over the pier or tripod.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e216mm worm wheels on both axes.\u003c\/strong\u003e RA and DEC each use a 360-tooth worm wheel driven by a 26mm worm.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge steel axles and bearings.\u003c\/strong\u003e Both axes use 80mm steel shafts and 125mm bearings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrecision stepper motors.\u003c\/strong\u003e 128 micro-steps provide a motor resolution of 0.07 arcsecond.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e17.2-inch Losmandy-D saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides substantial clamping length for large OTAs, long dovetails, and side-by-side systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in Ethernet and Wi-Fi.\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed for observatory networking and remote control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB and RS-232 control.\u003c\/strong\u003e Direct wired control is also available for conventional computer connections.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdvanced through-mount cable management.\u003c\/strong\u003e Multiple USB, power, guide, and auxiliary connections pass through the mount to the telescope side.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e32-channel GPS.\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies UTC time and location information to the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic zero-position search.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can electronically find its reference position for repeatable startup.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProgrammable parking.\u003c\/strong\u003e Horizontal, vertical, current-position, and user-defined Alt\/Az parking options are available.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfigurable meridian treatment.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can stop or automatically flip, with settings allowing up to 14° of travel past the meridian.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eST-4 guide port.\u003c\/strong\u003e Traditional autoguiding is supported along with software-based pulse guiding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional internal iPolar.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's CEM120-specific electronic polar scope can be installed for dedicated camera-based polar alignment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat the RA Encoder Changes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA conventional worm-driven equatorial mount has periodic error because the worm and worm wheel are physical mechanical parts. Tiny imperfections repeat as the worm rotates, producing a predictable change in RA tracking rate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard CEM120 addresses that with low native periodic error and Permanent Periodic Error Correction. You can measure the recurring error, record a correction curve, and have the mount replay that correction on later nights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC approaches the same problem differently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIts high-resolution encoder measures the RA axis directly while the mount is tracking. Instead of assuming the worm will repeat a previously measured pattern, Real-Time PEC compares the actual RA motion against where the axis should be and corrects the periodic component as it occurs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is why there is no conventional PEC-training routine to perform on the EC version. The encoder is already doing the measurement and correction continuously.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies the resulting periodic error at less than 0.15 arcsecond RMS. That number describes the encoder-corrected periodic component measured under controlled bench conditions. It should not be interpreted as a promise that every image taken under the sky will have 0.15-arcsecond total tracking error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat the Encoder Does Not Correct\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC has one high-resolution encoder, and it is on the RA axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt can correct the periodic error produced by the RA drive, but it cannot fix an incorrectly aligned polar axis. It does not remove atmospheric refraction. It cannot compensate for differential flexure between a guide scope and the imaging telescope, movement in the optical train, wind, or poor seeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat distinction becomes particularly important when discussing unguided imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt forgiving image scales, a carefully polar-aligned CEM120EC may be capable of useful unguided exposures because one of the largest repeating RA errors has already been reduced dramatically. As focal length and exposure time increase, however, slower errors that have nothing to do with the RA worm become increasingly important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eVery long unguided imaging at fine image scales generally requires more than an encoder. A sophisticated pointing and tracking model may be needed to account for polar misalignment, atmospheric refraction, mechanical flexure, and other position-dependent effects across the sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor most long-focal-length imagers, the practical advantage of the CEM120EC is therefore not that guiding disappears. It is that the guider begins with far less repetitive RA error to correct.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGuiding an Encoder Mount\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere is nothing wrong with guiding the CEM120EC. In fact, with the kinds of telescopes this mount normally carries, guiding remains the most straightforward way to account for errors the RA encoder cannot see.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe difference is how the work is divided.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe encoder handles the fast, repeating periodic component of the RA drive internally. The guider can then respond to the slower residual effects that show up in the actual star position: polar-alignment drift, refraction, flexure, and other changes in the complete imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat can make an off-axis guider particularly attractive. At long focal lengths, an OAG measures motion through the same optical system as the imaging camera and removes differential guide-scope flexure from the equation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGuide cadence and aggressiveness should still be tuned to the individual telescope, camera, seeing conditions, and guiding software rather than set to one universal number simply because the mount has an encoder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Same CEM120 Mechanical Platform\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe encoder is the defining difference between the CEM120 and CEM120EC, but underneath it is the same substantial mechanical platform.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth axes use 216mm diameter worm wheels with 360 teeth, driven by 26mm worms. The RA worm period is 240 seconds. The RA and DEC axes use 80mm steel shafts supported by 125mm bearings, and both axes use precision stepper motors with 128 micro-steps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat scale matters when the payload stops looking like a portable telescope and starts looking like an observatory instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA C14 with a full imaging train, large RC or CDK, substantial refractor, or side-by-side arrangement can impose significant bending moments even before the published weight limit is reached. Large shafts, bearings, and saddle surfaces give the optical system a mechanical foundation appropriate to the image scales those telescopes are capable of producing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Center-Balanced?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTraditional German equatorial mounts position the RA axis to one side of the pier, with the telescope on one side of that axis and the counterweights on the other.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron's CEM layout reorganizes that geometry so more of the combined mass of the mount, payload, and counterweights sits directly over the center of the support.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC still uses counterweights and still needs to be balanced. The center-balanced design is not an alternative to that. Its purpose is to keep the overall mass concentrated more naturally over the pier rather than cantilevering the mount structure farther to one side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat becomes increasingly useful as telescope size and total installed weight increase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e115 Pounds Means Room to Build the System Properly\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC is rated for 115 lb (52 kg) of payload, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat does not mean every 115 lb optical system is equally appropriate. A compact telescope and a very long telescope at the same weight create different loads, and iOptron specifically notes that payload capacity depends on OTA size and length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe real advantage of having this much capacity is often the margin it leaves after the optical tube is mounted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA C14 OTA, for example, still leaves room for the focuser, reducer, filter wheel, rotator, camera, off-axis guider, dew-control equipment, dovetails, and other hardware that turn an optical tube into an imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe same is true for a large RC or CDK. Instead of choosing accessories based on the few remaining pounds available on the mount, you can design the imaging train around the job it needs to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCapacity can also be used for side-by-side systems, where two optical tubes share the same mount and clear night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBuilt for the Observatory\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOnce a mount becomes permanent, seemingly minor convenience features become some of the most important parts of the system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC includes Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB, and RS-232 connections directly on the mount. A hard-wired LAN connection is particularly useful in a permanent installation because the mount can become a stable device on the observatory network rather than relying solely on a local USB connection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAutomatic zero-position search gives the control system a repeatable mechanical reference at startup. Multiple parking options let you put the telescope where it best fits under a roof or dome when the session ends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMeridian treatment can be configured to stop the mount or perform an automatic flip, with up to 14° of post-meridian travel available when the telescope and pier have sufficient clearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThose are not glamorous features, but in a remotely operated or highly automated observatory they are the things that make the system practical night after night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThrough-Mount Cable Management\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA large imaging system can have more cables than some entire telescope setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMain camera, guide camera, filter wheel, electronic focuser, rotator, dew heaters, and other accessories all need power or data. Running those cables externally creates loops that can change tension as the mount moves and can eventually snag during a long slew or meridian flip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC provides a pre-wired cable-management system through the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAvailable connections include two USB 2.0 ports, three USB 3.0 ports, two 12V outputs rated to 1A, two high-current DC outputs rated to 5A, an ST-4 guide connection, AUX, 6P6C, and a dedicated USB path for the optional iPolar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe result is that much of the imaging equipment can connect near the saddle instead of sending a bundle of loose cables across the RA and DEC axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a permanent observatory, that may be one of the most valuable features on the entire mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC belongs with telescopes where fine image scale exposes errors that would be nearly invisible in a small wide-field system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePut a large SCT, RC, or CDK on it and smaller targets become the reason for all that focal length. Spiral structure in M51, dust lanes in edge-on galaxies such as NGC 891, compact galaxy groups, small planetary nebulae, and detailed regions inside larger emission nebulae begin to occupy enough pixels to show structure rather than simply appear as small objects in a wide field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt those image scales, tracking quality becomes part of image resolution. A few arcseconds of repetitive RA error that might disappear inside a short-focal-length system can become visibly elongated stars through a long telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is where the EC version earns its place. The high-resolution encoder is not adding payload or changing the optical system. It is removing most of the periodic RA error before that error has a chance to become part of the image.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 115 lb capacity also leaves room for a second telescope. A wide-field refractor can image a complete nebula while a longer-focal-length instrument works a smaller structure within it, or two different cameras can make use of the same clear hours from the same pier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCEM120, CEM120EC, or CEM120EC2?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAll three models share the same basic 115 lb CEM120 mechanical platform. The difference is the tracking system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEM120:\u003c\/strong\u003e no high-resolution tracking encoder. It uses low native periodic error, Permanent PEC, and conventional autoguiding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEM120EC:\u003c\/strong\u003e adds a high-resolution encoder to the RA axis and Real-Time PEC, reducing encoder-corrected periodic error to less than 0.15 arcsecond RMS under iOptron's bench measurement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEM120EC2:\u003c\/strong\u003e adds high-resolution encoders to both RA and DEC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC is the middle ground for someone who wants the RA axis correcting its own periodic error while still using conventional guiding to handle the slower errors in the complete imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe EC2 adds position feedback on declination as well, but dual encoders by themselves should not be confused with a complete unguided tracking model. Very demanding unguided imaging can still require accurate polar alignment and software capable of modeling the entire system and sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePolar Alignment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC does not include an optical polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a permanent pier installation, that is generally not a disadvantage. Polar alignment can be performed through the imaging or guide camera using modern alignment software, and once the mount is accurately aligned there is little reason to repeat the process unless something physically moves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe hand controller also provides iOptron's Polar Iterate Align routine for locations where the celestial pole cannot be seen directly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you prefer a separate polar-alignment camera, the optional #3339A-120 iPolar installs internally in the CEM120 family and provides a dedicated electronic polar-alignment system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiOptron CEM120EC center-balanced equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh-resolution RA encoder with Real-Time PEC\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e17.2-inch Losmandy-D dovetail saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo2Nova 8410 hand controller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6P6C hand-controller cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e38.1mm × 540mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo 22 lb (10 kg) counterweights\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12V\/5A AC\/DC power adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMount accessories and connection hardware\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot included:\u003c\/strong\u003e pier or tripod, optional iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe CEM120EC ships in two boxes, with the counterweights packaged separately.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much can the CEM120EC carry?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron rates it for 115 lb (52 kg) of payload, excluding counterweights. OTA length and geometry still matter along with actual weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much does the mount head weigh?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe CEM120EC mount head weighs 57 lb (26 kg).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is the high-resolution encoder?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe CEM120EC has a high-resolution encoder on the right-ascension axis. The CEM120EC2 adds an encoder on declination as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the encoder resolution?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron specifies an RA encoder resolution of 0.035 arcsecond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the periodic error?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron specifies encoder-corrected periodic error below 0.15 arcsecond RMS, measured on the bench over the full 240-second worm period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM120EC use conventional PEC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. The EC version uses Real-Time Periodic Error Correction through its high-resolution RA encoder rather than a trained Permanent PEC curve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I still need to guide?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFor demanding long-exposure imaging at fine image scales, guiding is still a sensible and common approach. The encoder corrects RA periodic error, while a guider can handle slower effects such as polar-alignment drift, atmospheric refraction, flexure, and other errors elsewhere in the imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan the CEM120EC image unguided?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIt can reduce one of the major obstacles to unguided imaging by correcting RA periodic error internally. Practical unguided exposure length still depends on focal length, image scale, polar alignment, atmospheric effects, mechanical flexure, and whether a suitable pointing and tracking model is being used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan it carry a C14?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. A C14 OTA leaves considerable room within the 115 lb published rating for a camera, filter wheel, focuser, guider, dovetails, dew equipment, and other accessories. The complete system and its mechanical geometry should still be considered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan it carry a large RC or CDK?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMany large observatory-class RC and CDK systems fall within the CEM120EC's published payload rating. Telescope diameter, length, center of gravity, imaging hardware, and pier stiffness should all be considered in addition to total weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I operate the CEM120EC remotely?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The mount includes Ethernet LAN, Wi-Fi, USB, and RS-232 communication, along with automatic zero-position search and programmable parking. Remote access beyond the local network depends on the observatory's own computer and network configuration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it have through-mount cabling?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. USB, DC power, guide, auxiliary, and iPolar connections are routed through the mount so equipment can connect near the telescope instead of running loose cables across the moving axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhich hand controller is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron's current CEM120EC product listing specifies the Go2Nova 8410 hand controller.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it include a power supply?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. A 12V\/5A AC adapter intended for indoor use is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do I polar align it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYou can use polar-alignment software through the imaging or guide camera, iOptron's Polar Iterate Align routine, or add the optional internal #3339A-120 iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat pier should I use?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA permanent pier is the natural choice for most CEM120EC installations. iOptron also offers heavy-duty support options including the Tri-Pier 360. At this payload level, the stiffness and foundation of the pier are part of the imaging system and should be sized accordingly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron #3339A-120 Internal iPolar Electronic Polar Scope (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: installs inside the CEM120 family and provides dedicated camera-based polar alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Permanent Pier or Tri-Pier 360 (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: substantial support options appropriate for a mount and payload of this scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOff-axis guider and guide camera (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: particularly useful with long-focal-length instruments because guiding through the main optical path eliminates differential guide-scope flexure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional CEM120 counterweights (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: available when the installed payload requires more counterweight than the two included 22 lb weights provide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLow-latitude counterweight #7326LL (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: iOptron specifies a special low-latitude counterweight arrangement for installations below approximately 10° latitude.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC is for the observatory imager who wants the mechanical capacity of the CEM120 platform but does not want the autoguider spending every clear night correcting the worm's repeating RA error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 115 lb payload, large bearings and worm wheels, long Losmandy saddle, center-balanced layout, through-mount cabling, Ethernet connection, automatic zero search, and programmable parking give it the infrastructure needed for a substantial permanent imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe high-resolution RA encoder adds something more specific: it measures and corrects the periodic component of right-ascension tracking inside the mount, reducing encoder-corrected PE to less than 0.15 arcsecond RMS under iOptron's bench test.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat does not remove the atmosphere, polar alignment, flexure, or every other source of tracking error, and it does not mean guiding suddenly becomes pointless. It means the mount itself takes responsibility for one of the largest mechanical errors a conventional worm-driven RA axis normally asks the guider to clean up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you already plan to guide and simply need the CEM120's mechanical capacity, the standard model remains the economical choice. If you want the RA axis correcting its own periodic error while the guider concentrates on everything else, that is the reason to choose the CEM120EC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-Balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePayload Capacity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e115 lb (52 kg), excluding counterweights\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e57 lb (26 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2:1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt;0.15 arcsec RMS with RA encoder, measured on the bench over one 240-second worm period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePeriodic Error Correction\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eReal-Time PEC (RPEC) via high-resolution RA encoder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eHigh-Resolution Encoder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eRA axis, 0.035 arcsec resolution; CEM120EC2 adds a DEC encoder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA Worm Period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e240 seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e216mm diameter, 360 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e26mm diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axles\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e80mm diameter, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e125mm diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMotor Drive\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motors with 128 micro-steps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMotor Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.07 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eEncoder Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.035 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4°\/sec (960×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–68°, with 0.5 arcmin divisions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±5°, with 3 arcmin divisions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e38.1mm × 540mm stainless steel, anti-slip; 9.9 lb (4.5 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCounterweights\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2 × 22 lb (10 kg), included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eLosmandy D, 17.2\" (437mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMount Base Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e210 × 230mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova 8410, 8-line × 21-character LCD\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.7A tracking; 1.8A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eOptional iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop or auto flip; configurable from 0° to 14° past the meridian\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero-position search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePark Positions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eHorizontal, vertical, current position, or user-entered Alt\/Az position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eBuilt-in, 32-channel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eLevel Indicator\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eRS-232, USB, Ethernet LAN, Wi-Fi\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2 × 12V DC (1A), 2 × high-current DC (5A), ST-4 guide, 6P6C, 2 × USB 2.0, 3 × USB 3.0, iPolar USB, AUX\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e14°F to 104°F (−10°C to +40°C)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePier \/ Tripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSold separately\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo-year limited warranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e7301\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481978253385,"sku":"CEM120EC","price":7749.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7301-2t.jpg?v=1675379211"},{"product_id":"ioptron-az-mount-pro-go-to-computerized-mount","title":"iOptron AZ Mount Pro Go-To Computerized Mount","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"310\" data-start=\"235\"\u003eiOptron AZ Mount Pro Go-To Alt-Azimuth Mount with 1.75\" LiteRoc Tripod\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"332\" data-start=\"311\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"332\" data-start=\"311\"\u003ePart Number: 8903\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"396\" data-start=\"334\"\u003eFinally—GoTo Simplicity Without the Polar Alignment Hassle\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"843\" data-start=\"398\"\u003eNot everyone needs a German equatorial mount. For visual astronomers, solar observers, outreach presenters, and casual planetary imagers, a good alt-azimuth GoTo mount offers a faster, simpler, and more intuitive setup. The \u003cstrong data-end=\"646\" data-start=\"622\"\u003eiOptron AZ Mount Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e is one of the few alt-az mounts on the market that delivers true “set it and forget it” performance—with enough precision and payload capacity to handle everything from compact APOs to 9.25\" SCTs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1046\" data-start=\"845\"\u003eThis version includes the \u003cstrong data-end=\"895\" data-start=\"871\"\u003e1.75\" LiteRoc tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e for a rock-solid and lightweight observing platform, and comes ready to go with an onboard battery, counterweight, hand controller, and built-in WiFi.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1051\" data-start=\"1048\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1095\" data-start=\"1053\"\u003eLevel It. Turn It On. Start Observing.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1542\" data-start=\"1097\"\u003eiOptron calls it “level and go,” and it’s exactly as easy as it sounds. With a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1211\" data-start=\"1176\"\u003ebuilt-in precision bubble level\u003c\/strong\u003e, simply adjust the tripod and mount until level, turn on the power, and let the mount do the rest. Thanks to a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1350\" data-start=\"1323\"\u003e32-channel GPS receiver\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-end=\"1394\" data-start=\"1352\"\u003eposition and angular detection sensors\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong data-end=\"1432\" data-start=\"1400\"\u003ezero-backlash stepper motors\u003c\/strong\u003e, the AZ Mount Pro knows where it is and what the sky looks like—no manual input or phone connection required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1700\" data-start=\"1544\"\u003eUpon startup, the mount automatically slews to a bright star. You simply confirm it’s centered, and the system is aligned. No apps. No star charts. No fuss.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1705\" data-start=\"1702\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1741\" data-start=\"1707\"\u003ePortable, Quiet, and Versatile\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2085\" data-start=\"1743\"\u003eDespite its capabilities, the \u003cstrong data-end=\"1816\" data-start=\"1773\"\u003eAZ Mount Pro head weighs only 13 pounds\u003c\/strong\u003e (excluding counterweight and tripod), making it easy to transport and quick to set up in the field. It runs whisper-quiet on \u003cstrong data-end=\"1970\" data-start=\"1942\"\u003elow-power stepper motors\u003c\/strong\u003e, and its \u003cstrong data-end=\"2015\" data-start=\"1980\"\u003eretractable counterweight shaft\u003c\/strong\u003e makes it even more compact when stored in the included aluminum case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2456\" data-start=\"2087\"\u003eIts \u003cstrong data-end=\"2125\" data-start=\"2091\"\u003e33 lb primary payload capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e is enough to handle a wide range of telescopes, including SCTs up to 9.25\", refractors up to 5\", and Newtonians up to 6\" depending on tube length. Want to run a second OTA or DSLR camera simultaneously? Add the optional #8953 Vixen-style secondary saddle and you can mount a second instrument up to 10 pounds on the opposite side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2461\" data-start=\"2458\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2494\" data-start=\"2463\"\u003eIncluded with This Package:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"2917\" data-start=\"2496\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2532\" data-start=\"2496\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2532\" data-start=\"2498\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2532\" data-start=\"2498\"\u003eAZ Mount Pro head (part #8920)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2575\" data-start=\"2533\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2575\" data-start=\"2535\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2575\" data-start=\"2535\"\u003e1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2612\" data-start=\"2576\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2612\" data-start=\"2578\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2612\" data-start=\"2578\"\u003e10 lb counterweight (#3006-10)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2651\" data-start=\"2613\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2651\" data-start=\"2615\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2651\" data-start=\"2615\"\u003eAluminum hard case for the mount\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2701\" data-start=\"2652\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2701\" data-start=\"2654\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2701\" data-start=\"2654\"\u003eRechargeable Li-ion battery with AC charger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2765\" data-start=\"2702\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2765\" data-start=\"2704\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2765\" data-start=\"2704\"\u003eGo2Nova 8407 hand controller with 212,000-object database\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2832\" data-start=\"2766\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2832\" data-start=\"2768\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2832\" data-start=\"2768\"\u003eStar knobs with center post for tripod mounting (#8340-PIER)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2917\" data-start=\"2833\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2917\" data-start=\"2835\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2917\" data-start=\"2835\"\u003eBuilt-in WiFi for wireless control via iOptron Commander, SkySafari, and ASCOM\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2922\" data-start=\"2919\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2952\" data-start=\"2924\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"4334\" data-start=\"2954\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"2981\" data-start=\"2954\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2981\" data-start=\"2954\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2964\" data-start=\"2954\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"2981\" data-start=\"2964\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"4334\" data-start=\"3010\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3047\" data-start=\"3010\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3027\" data-start=\"3010\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3026\" data-start=\"3012\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3047\" data-start=\"3027\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eGoTo Alt-Azimuth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3088\" data-start=\"3048\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3070\" data-start=\"3048\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3069\" data-start=\"3050\"\u003ePrimary Payload\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3088\" data-start=\"3070\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003e33 lbs (15 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3143\" data-start=\"3089\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3124\" data-start=\"3089\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3123\" data-start=\"3091\"\u003eSecondary Payload (optional)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3143\" data-start=\"3124\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003e10 lbs (4.5 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3211\" data-start=\"3144\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3168\" data-start=\"3144\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3167\" data-start=\"3146\"\u003eMount Head Weight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3211\" data-start=\"3168\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003e13 lbs (including battery and CW shaft)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3261\" data-start=\"3212\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3229\" data-start=\"3212\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3228\" data-start=\"3214\"\u003eMotor Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3261\" data-start=\"3229\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003e128X microstep stepper motor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3324\" data-start=\"3262\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3280\" data-start=\"3262\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3279\" data-start=\"3264\"\u003eGear System\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3324\" data-start=\"3280\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eAluminum worm wheel with brass worm gear\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3364\" data-start=\"3325\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3344\" data-start=\"3325\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3343\" data-start=\"3327\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3364\" data-start=\"3344\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3400\" data-start=\"3365\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3382\" data-start=\"3365\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3381\" data-start=\"3367\"\u003eResolution\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3400\" data-start=\"3382\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003e0.1 arc second\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3467\" data-start=\"3401\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3422\" data-start=\"3401\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3421\" data-start=\"3403\"\u003eTracking Modes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3467\" data-start=\"3422\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eCelestial, solar, lunar, and user-defined\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3518\" data-start=\"3468\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3486\" data-start=\"3468\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3485\" data-start=\"3470\"\u003eSlew Speeds\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"3518\" data-start=\"3486\"\u003e1x – MAX (~10°\/sec or 2400x)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3588\" data-start=\"3519\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3542\" data-start=\"3519\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3541\" data-start=\"3521\"\u003eAlignment Method\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3588\" data-start=\"3542\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eLevel and Go (auto GPS + sensor alignment)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3646\" data-start=\"3589\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3611\" data-start=\"3589\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3610\" data-start=\"3591\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3646\" data-start=\"3611\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eGo2Nova® 8407, 212,000+ objects\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3701\" data-start=\"3647\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3669\" data-start=\"3647\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3668\" data-start=\"3649\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3701\" data-start=\"3669\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003e6\" dual Vixen\/Losmandy-style\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3759\" data-start=\"3702\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3731\" data-start=\"3702\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3730\" data-start=\"3704\"\u003eOptional Second Saddle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3759\" data-start=\"3731\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eVixen-style (part #8953)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3828\" data-start=\"3760\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3779\" data-start=\"3760\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3778\" data-start=\"3762\"\u003eWiFi Control\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3828\" data-start=\"3779\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eBuilt-in; ASCOM, iOptron Commander, SkySafari\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3900\" data-start=\"3829\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3848\" data-start=\"3829\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3847\" data-start=\"3831\"\u003ePower Supply\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3900\" data-start=\"3848\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eBuilt-in 11.1V 4.4Ah rechargeable Li-ion battery\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3946\" data-start=\"3901\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3920\" data-start=\"3901\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3919\" data-start=\"3903\"\u003eBattery Life\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3946\" data-start=\"3920\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eUp to 10 hours at 20°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"4015\" data-start=\"3947\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3969\" data-start=\"3947\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3968\" data-start=\"3949\"\u003eBattery Charger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"4015\" data-start=\"3969\"\u003e100–240V AC input \/ 12.6V DC 2000mA output\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"4053\" data-start=\"4016\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"4026\" data-start=\"4016\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4025\" data-start=\"4018\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"4053\" data-start=\"4026\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eBuilt-in 32-channel GPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"4102\" data-start=\"4054\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"4068\" data-start=\"4054\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4067\" data-start=\"4056\"\u003eSensors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"4102\" data-start=\"4068\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003ePosition and angular detection\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"4173\" data-start=\"4103\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"4118\" data-start=\"4103\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4117\" data-start=\"4105\"\u003eLeveling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"4173\" data-start=\"4118\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eInternal bubble level and 3-point tripod adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"4215\" data-start=\"4174\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"4194\" data-start=\"4174\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4193\" data-start=\"4176\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"4215\" data-start=\"4194\"\u003e10 lbs (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"4269\" data-start=\"4216\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"4229\" data-start=\"4216\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4228\" data-start=\"4218\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"4269\" data-start=\"4229\"\u003e1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"4334\" data-start=\"4270\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"4285\" data-start=\"4270\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"4284\" data-start=\"4272\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"4334\" data-start=\"4285\"\u003e2-year limited warranty (90 days for battery)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"4339\" data-start=\"4336\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"4359\" data-start=\"4341\"\u003eObserving Tip:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4750\" data-start=\"4361\"\u003eThe AZ Mount Pro is an excellent choice for public outreach events or solar observing sessions. You don’t need to worry about meridian flips or polar alignment, and its quiet operation means you won’t disturb conversations or nearby observers. For solar use, just add a safe full-aperture solar filter and use the hand controller’s solar tracking mode for hours of hands-free Sun watching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"4755\" data-start=\"4752\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"4776\" data-start=\"4757\"\u003eFinal Thoughts:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5189\" data-start=\"4778\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"4826\" data-start=\"4782\"\u003eiOptron AZ Mount Pro with LiteRoc tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e is a rare find—a portable alt-azimuth GoTo mount that’s both sophisticated and simple to use. Whether you’re running a visual setup, doing sidewalk astronomy, or carrying multiple scopes, it combines high-end engineering with intuitive design. For observers who want less time fiddling and more time observing, this might just be the smartest mount in the field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount - Alt Azimuth Mount\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eBody Materials - Die-cast Aluminum\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eSystem - GoToNova®\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003ePrimary Payload - 33 lb Secondary Payload 10 lb Mount Weight 13 lb (including CW shaft and battery)\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eGear - Aluminum worm wheel\/Brass worm gear \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eMotor  - 128X microstep stepper motor\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTransmission - Sychronous belt\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eResolution - 0.1 arc second\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTracking  - Automatic\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTracking Rate - celestial, solar, lunar and user defined\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eHand controller - Go2Nova® 8407 with over 212,000 object database\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eSlew Speed - 1x, 2×,8×,16x, 64×,128x, 256×,512x and MAX(~10º\/sec, 2400X)\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eGPS - 32-channel GPS\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eSensors - Position and angular detection\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eLevel indicator - Yes\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eDovetail Saddle - 6\" Losmandy\/Vixen dual saddle Optional secondary Vixen saddle Counterweight  - 10 lb Battery Built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery (11.1V, 4.4AH) Battery Running Time - 10 hour at 20ºC\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eBattery Charger - 100-240V AC input \/12.6V DC 2000mA output (Included)\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eWireless Control - Yes, full control via built-in WIFI adapter\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eFirmware Upgrade - Yes, via serial port\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eComputer Control  - Yes. PC via ASCOM and Mac\/Tablet\/SmartPhone via WIFI\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTripod - LiteRoc 1.75\" stainless steel tripod\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eWarranty - Two year limited warranty for mount 90 day limited for battery\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481980383305,"sku":"AZPRO","price":1799.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/20468.jpg?v=1675379334"},{"product_id":"ioptron-secondary-dovetail-saddle-for-ioptron-altazimuth-mounts","title":"iOptron Secondary Dovetail Saddle For Ioptron Altazimuth Mounts","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis iOptron secondary dovetail saddle attaches to the iOptron AZ Mount Pro, MiniTower Pro, and MiniTower II altazimuth mounts to allow two scopes to be used on the mount simultaneously.This iOptron secondary dovetail saddle attaches to the iOptron AZ Mount Pro, MiniTower Pro, and MiniTower II altazimuth mounts to allow two telescopes (or a scope and a DSLR camera\/lens combination) to be used on the mount simultaneously.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe secondary dovetail saddle mounts on the opposite side of the mount head from the primary scope saddle. It has a Vixen-style dovetail slot that is in line with the normal 10 lb. maximum second scope payload capacity of the mounts. A large hand-tighten knob lets you adjust the vertical orientation of the dovetail and second scope in relation to the primary scope. A second hand-tighten knob lets you balance the second scope by sliding the second scope and its dovetail fore and aft in the secondary dovetail saddle's Vixen-style slot.  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eMachined aluminum, anodized black for long life.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e12 ox.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e2 years\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481980416073,"sku":"8953","price":88.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/20469.jpg?v=1675379336"},{"product_id":"ioptron-tri-pier-for-cem60-ieq30-45-white-and-black-8034","title":"iOptron Tri-Pier 8034","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"182\" data-end=\"203\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"204\" data-end=\"225\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"204\" data-end=\"225\"\u003ePart Number: 8034\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"227\" data-end=\"284\"\u003eBeauty, Brawn, and Balance—All in One Compact Package\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"286\" data-end=\"720\"\u003eIf your observing or imaging setup has outgrown the stability of a traditional tripod, the \u003cstrong data-start=\"377\" data-end=\"397\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a rock-solid upgrade with a compact footprint and impressive payload capacity. Designed to combine the rigid strength of a pier with the leveling flexibility of a tripod, the Tri-Pier delivers professional-grade support whether you're imaging deep sky targets or running side-by-side telescopes for visual outreach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"722\" data-end=\"771\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"722\" data-end=\"771\"\u003eMount head shown in product image not included.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"773\" data-end=\"776\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"778\" data-end=\"828\"\u003eRock-Solid Design with Field-Ready Flexibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"830\" data-end=\"1186\"\u003eConstructed with a \u003cstrong data-start=\"849\" data-end=\"894\"\u003eCNC-machined aluminum pier and upper legs\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-start=\"899\" data-end=\"933\"\u003estainless steel leg extensions\u003c\/strong\u003e, the iOptron Tri-Pier is built to handle serious payloads while remaining portable. With a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1025\" data-end=\"1062\"\u003emassive 220 lb. (100 kg) capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e, it’s more than capable of supporting large optical tubes, heavy imaging gear, and counterweights—even in field conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1188\" data-end=\"1499\"\u003eEach foot of the tripod is fitted with \u003cstrong data-start=\"1227\" data-end=\"1266\"\u003ebuilt-in vibration suppression pads\u003c\/strong\u003e, helping to dampen minor ground tremors that can ruin astrophotography exposures or high-magnification planetary views. Whether you're setting up on soft soil or hard pavement, the Tri-Pier keeps your telescope locked in and steady.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1501\" data-end=\"1504\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1506\" data-end=\"1538\"\u003eA Wide Base of Compatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1540\" data-end=\"1771\"\u003eThe Tri-Pier is designed to work with a broad range of iOptron mounts, making it a future-proof investment. Some mount models may require additional adapters or accessories, but the flexibility is worth it. Here's what it supports:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable data-start=\"1773\" data-end=\"2192\" class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-start=\"1773\" data-end=\"1802\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"1773\" data-end=\"1802\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"1773\" data-end=\"1793\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eCompatible Mounts\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"1793\" data-end=\"1802\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-start=\"1833\" data-end=\"2192\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"1833\" data-end=\"1878\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"1833\" data-end=\"1864\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1835\" data-end=\"1863\"\u003eCEM70 \/ CEM70EC \/ CEM70G\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"1864\" data-end=\"1878\"\u003eDirect fit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"1879\" data-end=\"1915\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"1879\" data-end=\"1901\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1881\" data-end=\"1900\"\u003eCEM60 \/ CEM60EC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"1901\" data-end=\"1915\"\u003eDirect fit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"1916\" data-end=\"1998\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"1916\" data-end=\"1936\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1918\" data-end=\"1935\"\u003eCEM40 \/ GEM45\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"1936\" data-end=\"1998\"\u003eMay require adapter; GEM45 may be limited at low latitudes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"1999\" data-end=\"2037\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"1999\" data-end=\"2023\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2001\" data-end=\"2022\"\u003eiEQ45 \/ iEQ45 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2023\" data-end=\"2037\"\u003eDirect fit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2038\" data-end=\"2092\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2038\" data-end=\"2062\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2040\" data-end=\"2061\"\u003eiEQ30 \/ iEQ30 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2062\" data-end=\"2092\"\u003eMay limit low-latitude use\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2093\" data-end=\"2192\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2093\" data-end=\"2135\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2134\"\u003eAZ Mount Pro \/ MiniTower \/ II \/ Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2135\" data-end=\"2192\"\u003eRequires #8340-PIER (center post and leveling screws)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2194\" data-end=\"2373\"\u003eWhether you’re upgrading from a 1.75\" tripod or looking for a mobile alternative to a permanent pier, the Tri-Pier provides the versatility to adapt as your astronomy setup grows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2375\" data-end=\"2378\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2380\" data-end=\"2408\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable data-start=\"2410\" data-end=\"2991\" class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-start=\"2410\" data-end=\"2437\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2410\" data-end=\"2437\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"2410\" data-end=\"2420\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"2420\" data-end=\"2437\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-start=\"2466\" data-end=\"2991\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2466\" data-end=\"2508\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2466\" data-end=\"2488\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2468\" data-end=\"2487\"\u003eMaximum Payload\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2488\" data-end=\"2508\"\u003e220 lbs (100 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2509\" data-end=\"2550\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2509\" data-end=\"2527\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2511\" data-end=\"2526\"\u003eSelf Weight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2527\" data-end=\"2550\"\u003e~25.8 lbs (11.7 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2551\" data-end=\"2609\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2551\" data-end=\"2571\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2553\" data-end=\"2570\"\u003ePier Diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2571\" data-end=\"2609\"\u003e5.7\" (144 mm) with 150mm top plate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2610\" data-end=\"2666\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2610\" data-end=\"2634\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2612\" data-end=\"2633\"\u003eAdjustable Height\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2634\" data-end=\"2666\"\u003e31.5\" to 42.5\" (800–1080 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2667\" data-end=\"2710\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2667\" data-end=\"2693\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2669\" data-end=\"2692\"\u003eUneven Ground Range\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2693\" data-end=\"2710\"\u003e3.35\" (85 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2711\" data-end=\"2753\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2711\" data-end=\"2732\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2713\" data-end=\"2731\"\u003eMax Leg Spread\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2732\" data-end=\"2753\"\u003eØ48.8\" (Ø1240 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2754\" data-end=\"2810\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2754\" data-end=\"2778\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2756\" data-end=\"2777\"\u003eFolded Dimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2778\" data-end=\"2810\"\u003eØ12.8\" x 26\" (Ø325 x 660 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2811\" data-end=\"2852\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2811\" data-end=\"2822\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2813\" data-end=\"2821\"\u003eFeet\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2822\" data-end=\"2852\"\u003eVibration suppression pads\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2853\" data-end=\"2946\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2853\" data-end=\"2882\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2855\" data-end=\"2881\"\u003eConstruction Materials\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2882\" data-end=\"2946\"\u003eAluminum (pier \u0026amp; leg tops), Stainless Steel (leg extensions)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2947\" data-end=\"2991\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2947\" data-end=\"2962\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2949\" data-end=\"2961\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-start=\"2962\" data-end=\"2991\"\u003eOne year limited warranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2993\" data-end=\"2996\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2998\" data-end=\"3016\"\u003eObserving Tip:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3017\" data-end=\"3274\"\u003eIf you're using the Tri-Pier with a GEM-style mount at star parties or public events, consider adding soft red LED markers or reflective tape to the feet. Its wide footprint offers fantastic stability but can be a tripping hazard in low light if not marked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3276\" data-end=\"3279\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3281\" data-end=\"3300\"\u003eFinal Thoughts:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3301\" data-end=\"3760\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"3305\" data-end=\"3325\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier\u003c\/strong\u003e is more than just an upgrade—it’s an investment in precision, performance, and portability. With rock-solid construction, high capacity, and adaptable compatibility, it’s the kind of support system that enhances every observing session, whether you’re imaging galaxies or just kicking back with binoculars and a 6\" Mak. For those who want observatory-grade steadiness without losing field flexibility, the Tri-Pier is an ideal choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"colors_descriptionbox\" cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"0\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd valign=\"top\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"ProductDetail_TechSpecs_div\"\u003e\n\u003ctable cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"1\" width=\"500\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody size=\"3\" color=\"black\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"190\"\u003eMax Payload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"310\"\u003e220 lbs (100 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"169\"\u003eSelf Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"276\"\u003e~25.8 lbs (11.7 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"169\"\u003ePier Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"276\"\u003e5.7\" (144 mm) with 150mm top plate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"169\"\u003eAdjustable Height\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"276\"\u003e31.5\"-42.5\" (800-1080 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"169\"\u003eUneven Ground Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"276\"\u003e3.35\" (85 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"169\"\u003eLeg Maximum Spread\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"276\"\u003eØ48.8\" (Ø1240 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"169\"\u003ePier Dimension (folded)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"276\"\u003eØ12.8\"x 26” (Ø325 x 660 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"169\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"276\"\u003eOne year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd valign=\"middle\" background=\"https:\/\/www.ioptron.com\/v\/vspfiles\/templates\/backup1\/images\/DBox_Border_Right.gif\" width=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ioptron.com\/v\/vspfiles\/templates\/backup1\/images\/clear1x1.gif\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr id=\"ProductDetails_MainBorder\"\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"1\" valign=\"bottom\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ioptron.com\/v\/vspfiles\/templates\/backup1\/images\/DBox_Border_Left_Bottom.gif\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd background=\"https:\/\/www.ioptron.com\/v\/vspfiles\/templates\/backup1\/images\/DBox_Border_Bottom.gif\" valign=\"top\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" height=\"1\" width=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ioptron.com\/v\/vspfiles\/templates\/backup1\/images\/clear1x1.gif\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481981628489,"sku":"8034","price":799.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/20515.jpg?v=1675379416"},{"product_id":"ioptron-tri-pier-with-rolling-case-for-cem60-ieq30-45-white-and-black-8034-rc","title":"iOptron Tri-Pier With Rolling Case  8034-RC","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"244\" data-start=\"205\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier with Rolling Case\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"269\" data-start=\"245\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"269\" data-start=\"245\"\u003ePart Number: 8034-RC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"329\" data-start=\"271\"\u003eA Portable Observatory-Class Foundation for Your Mount\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"852\" data-start=\"331\"\u003eWhen you're ready to upgrade from a standard tripod to something more stable, more durable, and more capable—without sacrificing portability—the \u003cstrong data-end=\"514\" data-start=\"476\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier with Rolling Case\u003c\/strong\u003e is your answer. With a 220-pound payload capacity and built-in vibration suppression, the Tri-Pier delivers observatory-grade steadiness with field-ready flexibility. Whether you're supporting a heavy imaging rig or a large optical tube for outreach, the Tri-Pier provides the kind of foundation that makes the rest of your system shine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"911\" data-start=\"854\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"911\" data-start=\"854\"\u003ePlease note: Mount head shown in image is not included.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"916\" data-start=\"913\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"961\" data-start=\"918\"\u003eBuilt Like a Pier. Moves Like a Tripod.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1265\" data-start=\"963\"\u003eThe Tri-Pier gets its name from its hybrid design. It combines the rock-solid center column of a traditional fixed-height pier with the adjustable legs and leveling convenience of a tripod. This means you get the best of both worlds: uncompromising stability \u003cem data-end=\"1227\" data-start=\"1222\"\u003eand\u003c\/em\u003e quick adaptability to uneven terrain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1576\" data-start=\"1267\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"1299\" data-start=\"1271\"\u003epier column and leg tops\u003c\/strong\u003e are CNC-machined from anodized aluminum for strength and corrosion resistance, while the \u003cstrong data-end=\"1407\" data-start=\"1389\"\u003eleg extensions\u003c\/strong\u003e are stainless steel for maximum durability. \u003cstrong data-end=\"1491\" data-start=\"1452\"\u003eBuilt-in vibration suppression pads\u003c\/strong\u003e on each foot help reduce shake for high-magnification observing or astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1756\" data-start=\"1578\"\u003eWhen folded, the pier compacts down to a remarkably manageable 26\" length—and thanks to the \u003cstrong data-end=\"1702\" data-start=\"1670\"\u003eincluded custom rolling case\u003c\/strong\u003e, transport is easy even when loaded with accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1761\" data-start=\"1758\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1813\" data-start=\"1763\"\u003eCompatible with a Wide Range of iOptron Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1945\" data-start=\"1815\"\u003eThe Tri-Pier is designed to fit a variety of iOptron mount heads directly or with available adapter kits. Here's what it supports:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"2413\" data-start=\"1947\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"1978\" data-start=\"1947\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1978\" data-start=\"1947\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1969\" data-start=\"1947\"\u003eMount Compatibility\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"1978\" data-start=\"1969\"\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"2413\" data-start=\"2011\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2047\" data-start=\"2011\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2033\" data-start=\"2011\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2032\" data-start=\"2013\"\u003eCEM70 \/ CEM70EC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2047\" data-start=\"2033\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eDirect fit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2084\" data-start=\"2048\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2070\" data-start=\"2048\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2069\" data-start=\"2050\"\u003eCEM60 \/ CEM60EC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2084\" data-start=\"2070\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eDirect fit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2171\" data-start=\"2085\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2107\" data-start=\"2085\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2104\" data-start=\"2087\"\u003eCEM40 \/ GEM45\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2171\" data-start=\"2107\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eMay require adapter; GEM45 may have low-latitude limitations\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2210\" data-start=\"2172\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2196\" data-start=\"2172\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2195\" data-start=\"2174\"\u003eiEQ45 \/ iEQ45 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2210\" data-start=\"2196\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eDirect fit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2286\" data-start=\"2211\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2235\" data-start=\"2211\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2234\" data-start=\"2213\"\u003eiEQ30 \/ iEQ30 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2286\" data-start=\"2235\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eFits with adapter; may limit low-latitude usage\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2363\" data-start=\"2287\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2306\" data-start=\"2287\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2305\" data-start=\"2289\"\u003eAZ Mount Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2363\" data-start=\"2306\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eRequires center post and leveling screws (#8340-PIER)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2413\" data-start=\"2364\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2387\" data-start=\"2364\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2386\" data-start=\"2366\"\u003eMiniTower Series\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2413\" data-start=\"2387\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eSame adapter as AZ Pro\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2557\" data-start=\"2415\"\u003eThis wide compatibility makes the Tri-Pier an excellent long-term investment—especially if you plan to upgrade or change mounts in the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2562\" data-start=\"2559\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2593\" data-start=\"2564\"\u003eTechnical Specifications:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"3201\" data-start=\"2595\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"2622\" data-start=\"2595\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2622\" data-start=\"2595\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2605\" data-start=\"2595\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2622\" data-start=\"2605\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"3201\" data-start=\"2651\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2698\" data-start=\"2651\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2678\" data-start=\"2651\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2677\" data-start=\"2653\"\u003eMax Payload Capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2698\" data-start=\"2678\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e220 lbs (100 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2739\" data-start=\"2699\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2717\" data-start=\"2699\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2716\" data-start=\"2701\"\u003eSelf Weight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2739\" data-start=\"2717\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e25.8 lbs (11.7 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2794\" data-start=\"2740\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2760\" data-start=\"2740\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2759\" data-start=\"2742\"\u003ePier Diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2794\" data-start=\"2760\"\u003e5.7\" (144 mm), 150mm top plate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2852\" data-start=\"2795\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2819\" data-start=\"2795\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2818\" data-start=\"2797\"\u003eAdjustable Height\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2852\" data-start=\"2819\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e31.5\" – 42.5\" (800 – 1080 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2896\" data-start=\"2853\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2879\" data-start=\"2853\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2878\" data-start=\"2855\"\u003eUneven Ground Range\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2896\" data-start=\"2879\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e3.35\" (85 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2943\" data-start=\"2897\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2922\" data-start=\"2897\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2921\" data-start=\"2899\"\u003eMaximum Leg Spread\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2943\" data-start=\"2922\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eØ48.8\" (Ø1240 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3000\" data-start=\"2944\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2968\" data-start=\"2944\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2967\" data-start=\"2946\"\u003eFolded Dimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3000\" data-start=\"2968\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eØ12.8\" x 26” (Ø325 x 660 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3053\" data-start=\"3001\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3012\" data-start=\"3001\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3011\" data-start=\"3003\"\u003eFeet\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3053\" data-start=\"3012\"\u003eIntegrated vibration suppression pads\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3109\" data-start=\"3054\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3070\" data-start=\"3054\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3069\" data-start=\"3056\"\u003eMaterials\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3109\" data-start=\"3070\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eAnodized aluminum + stainless steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3145\" data-start=\"3110\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3125\" data-start=\"3110\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3124\" data-start=\"3112\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3145\" data-start=\"3125\"\u003eOne year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3201\" data-start=\"3146\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3161\" data-start=\"3146\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3160\" data-start=\"3148\"\u003eIncludes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3201\" data-start=\"3161\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eCustom-fitted rolling transport case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3206\" data-start=\"3203\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3226\" data-start=\"3208\"\u003eObserving Tip:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3464\" data-start=\"3227\"\u003eIf you’re using the Tri-Pier in an outreach or public viewing setting, consider marking the leg positions with glow-in-the-dark tape or soft red lights to prevent nighttime tripping hazards—especially useful given the pier's wide stance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3469\" data-start=\"3466\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3490\" data-start=\"3471\"\u003eFinal Thoughts:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3940\" data-start=\"3491\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"3533\" data-start=\"3495\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier with Rolling Case\u003c\/strong\u003e brings an elegant solution to a practical challenge: creating an ultra-stable platform that can be quickly broken down and moved between sessions. It’s built tough enough to handle observatory-sized mounts but light and compact enough for field use. Whether you’re pushing the limits of long-exposure imaging or simply tired of tripod flex, the Tri-Pier makes a difference you’ll feel every time you focus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable width=\"100%\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" class=\"colors_descriptionbox\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"100%\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n\u003ctable width=\"100%\" cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"ProductDetail_TechSpecs_div\"\u003e\n\u003ctable width=\"500\" border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody color=\"black\" size=\"3\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"190\" align=\"right\"\u003eMax Payload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"310\" align=\"center\"\u003e220 lbs (100 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"169\" align=\"right\"\u003eSelf Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"276\" align=\"center\"\u003e~25.8 lbs (11.7 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"169\" align=\"right\"\u003ePier Diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"276\" align=\"center\"\u003e5.7\" (144 mm) with 150mm top plate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"169\" align=\"right\"\u003eAdjustable Height\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"276\" align=\"center\"\u003e31.5\"-42.5\" (800-1080 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"169\" align=\"right\"\u003eUneven Ground Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"276\" align=\"center\"\u003e3.35\" (85 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"169\" align=\"right\"\u003eLeg Maximum Spread\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"276\" align=\"center\"\u003eØ48.8\" (Ø1240 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"169\" align=\"right\"\u003ePier Dimension (folded)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"276\" align=\"center\"\u003eØ12.8\"x 26” (Ø325 x 660 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"169\" align=\"right\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"276\" align=\"center\"\u003eOne year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"1\" background=\"https:\/\/www.ioptron.com\/v\/vspfiles\/templates\/backup1\/images\/DBox_Border_Right.gif\" valign=\"middle\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.ioptron.com\/v\/vspfiles\/templates\/backup1\/images\/clear1x1.gif\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr id=\"ProductDetails_MainBorder\"\u003e\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481981661257,"sku":"8034RC","price":959.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/20517.jpg?v=1675379418"},{"product_id":"ioptron-skytracker-pro-camera-mount-with-polar-scope-3322","title":"iOptron SkyTracker Pro Camera Mount With Polar Scope","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUpgraded from SkyTracker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csup\u003eTM\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the Pro is more compact, small enough to fit on your palm, better precision, silent tracking, it even has a built-in rechargeable power source that runs for up to 24 hours of continuous operation. With built-in iPolar, quick and accurate polar alignment is just a joy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe SkyTracker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csup\u003eTM\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Pro features four tracking rates, 1X or sidereal, 1\/2X for sky and landscape, solar and lunar. All 4 tracking rates work in both northern and southern hemispheres. We have also added a quick slew mode with both forward and reverse to help quickly reframing your image without disrupting the cameras position.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWe have made big improvements on the SkyTracker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csup\u003eTM\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Pro’s removable alt-azimuth base, which features a precision bubble level, degree markings for the altitude and a built in post for the azimuth control. You can also mount the SkyTracker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csup\u003eTM\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Pro head (without the base) directly to any standard photographic tripod with 1\/4” or 3\/8” threads. The SkyTracker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csup\u003eTM\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Pro is certainly a must have tool for any photographer interested in astroscape or wide field astrophotography.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cb\u003eFeatures\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAll metal structure with ABS covers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttaches to a camera tripod with 3\/8” or 1\/4” threads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAccepts cameras weighing up to 3 kg (6.6 lbs)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilent tracking for smooth camera motion, perfect for long-term exposures\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDetachable alt-azi base with fine latitude and azimuth adjusters for easy polar alignment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReversible mounting post for both 3\/8” and 1\/4” threaded ball head mounting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes iOptron AccuAlign\u003csup\u003eTM\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edark-field illuminated polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdjustable polar scope illumination with eight brightness levels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 tracking speed (1X, 1\/2X, solar and lunar). 1X celestial tracking for imaging the sky and stars; 1\/2X tracking speed for imaging both the starry night and the landscapes at the same time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick slew (180X max.) for camera framing adjustment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOperation in both northern and southern Hemisphere\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilt-in rechargeable battery with USB port for power and charging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUpto 24 hours of operation (20°C)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1\/4\" – 3\/8” thread converter included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePadded carry bag included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptional ball heads available separately (#3305A)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptional tripod (#3221)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptional counterweight balance kit (#3324)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003ePACKAGE CONTENTS\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSkyTracker\u003csup\u003eTM\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ePro camera mount\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlt-azi base (installed)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAccuAlign\u003csup\u003eTM\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003edark field illuminated polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrass 3\/8” and 1\/4” threaded ball head mounting post (installed)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePadded carry bag\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUSB charging cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne Year Limited Warranty (90 days on battery)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"colors_descriptionbox\" cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"0\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd valign=\"top\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"ProductDetail_TechSpecs_div\"\u003e\n\u003ctable cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eMount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eUltra compact single axis EQ\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003ePayload (MAX)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e6.6 lbs (3kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eMount weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e685 gm with battery\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eMount weight with base\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e1150 gm (2.53 lbs) with battery\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eBody material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eDie-cast aluminum with ABS cover\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eRA shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eΦ25mm, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eWorm wheel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eΦ74mm, 144 teeth aluminum alloy\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eWorm gear\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eΦ11mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eWorm period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e600 sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eBearing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e4 pieces\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eMotor drive\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eDC servo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eTracking\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eR.A. automatic\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eTracking speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e1X Cel, 1\/2 Cel, solar, lunar, N\/S\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eFast slew speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e180X, forward and reverse\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003ePolar sight hole\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e~ 8º FOV\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003ePolar scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eiPolar Electronics Polar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003ePower requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eInternal rechargeable battery\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eBattery type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eLi-Poly, 3.7V, 2000mAh\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eDuration of operation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eUp to 24 hours at 20ºC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003ePower charge port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eMiniUSB (5V), 80% charge in 5 hours\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eBody dimension\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e115x115x95 mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eOperation Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e-15~40ºC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eMounting ring\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eØ53 mm, 3\/8” or 1\/4\" post threads\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eBody-base connection\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eVixen dovetail, 3\/8” socket w\/ 1\/4” converter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eAlt-Azi adjustable Base\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eVixen style saddle, 3\/8” socket (1\/4\" converter)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eLatitude adjustment range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e-30º ~ 65º (with Alt-azi base)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eAZ adjustment range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003e±5°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eBase diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eΦ80 mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"199\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"366\"\u003eOne year limited (90 day on battery)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481981694025,"sku":"3322","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/files\/3322-2T.jpg?v=1724781639"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem60-hard-case","title":"iOptron CEM60 Hard Case","description":"\u003cp\u003eYou have an awesome mount, not get a great case to protect your investment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron CEM60 Hard Case is the perfect accessory to keep your investment safe and sound.  The custom-fit foam interior will keep the CEM60 series mount in place while toting it into the field, or free of dust stored at your home.  The exterior of the case has reinforced edges and corners helping protect the case from real world obstacles.  The swinging handle helps keep the handle out of the way when not in use, and the dual trigger latches keep the lid secure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e17 pounds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481983955017,"sku":"7280","price":128.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7280-2.jpg?v=1675379585"},{"product_id":"ioptron-ieq45-az-secondary-dovetail-saddle-and-shaft","title":"iOptron IEQ45-AZ Secondary Dovetail Saddle And Shaft","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf you want to mount a scope on the other side of your iOptron AZ mount, you will need this great saddle. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you put your iOptron IEQ45 Pro AZ mount into AZ mode you may have said to yourself, \"How great would that be to mount another tube on the other end of this mount so I can let two people view at once.\"  Well, this piece will let you accomplish just that.  This saddle and shaft will mount into the other end of your mount, and when in AZ mode you can mount a scope with either a Losmandy style 4\" dovetail or Vixen style 1.7\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\" class=\"table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e2 years\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481983987785,"sku":"8055","price":188.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8055-2t.jpg?v=1675379587"},{"product_id":"ioptron-ieq45-hard-carry-case","title":"iOptron IEQ45 Hard Carry Case","description":"Made out of rugged ABS plastic Custom cut form fitting foam Dual locking latches\n\u003cp\u003eWanting to protect your investment only makes sense.  Consider this case insurance for your IEQ45 mount head.  The custom foam form fitted case will keep your mount head snug, while the rugged ABS plastic exterior will protect it from the outside world.  The case comes with a swing away handle and two heavy duty locking latches to keep everything safe and sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe case dimensions are 18.5\" x 15\" x 8\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\" class=\"table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e2 years\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984020553,"sku":"8080","price":169.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8080-2_1.jpg?v=1675379590"},{"product_id":"ioptron-ieq30-hard-carry-case","title":"iOptron IEQ30 Hard Carry Case","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis Product Has Been Discontinued And This Is Here for Informational Purposes Only. It Is No Longer For  Sale.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMade out of rugged ABS plastic Custom cut form fitting foam Dual locking latches\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWanting to protect your investment only makes sense.  Consider this case insurance for your iEQ30 mount head.  The custom foam form fitted case will keep your mount head snug, while the rugged ABS plastic exterior will protect it from the outside world.  The case comes with a swing away handle and two heavy duty locking latches to keep everything safe and sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe case dimensions are 18.5\" x 15\" x 8\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e2 years\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984053321,"sku":"3080","price":158.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8080-2_1__1.jpg?v=1675379594"},{"product_id":"ioptron-counterweight-shaft-extension-for-ioptron-cem25-and-zeq25-equatorial-mount","title":"iOptron Counterweight Shaft Extension For iOptron CEM25 And ZEQ25 Equatorial Mount","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis Product Has Been Discontinued And This Is Here for Informational Purposes Only. It Is No Longer For  Sale.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis iOptron counterweight shaft extension helps you balance heavy loads mounted on an iOptron ZEQ25 or CEM25 Center Balanced mount . . .\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis iOptron counterweight shaft extension lets you create more counterbalance weight to balance heavier payloads on all versions of the iOptron CEM25 and ZEQ25  go-to center balanced mount. The 20mm diameter x 7.75\" long shaft extension threads into the mount's existing counterweight shaft to increase the length of the shaft by 7.25\". This lets you slide the standard counterweights further down the counterweight shaft, or add an optional counterweight or two. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e2 years\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984086089,"sku":"7126","price":30.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/19225_1.jpg?v=1675379601"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem25-or-zeq25-hard-carry-case","title":"iOptron CEM25 or ZEQ25 Hard Carry Case","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis Hard Case for CEM25\/ZEQ25 mount protects your mount whether you're heading out for a night of observation, or when you need to store it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsider this case insurance for your mount.  You have invested a good amount of money, so why not get something to protect your investment.  This Hard Case for CEM25\/ZEQ25 mount protects your mount whether you're heading out for a night of observation, or when you need to store it. The case features custom-fit foam padding to hold the mount in place and cushion it from impacts. The exterior has reinforced edges on the outside to help minimize denting and damage. There are dual trigger latches to secure the lid in place, and a carry handle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: 15\"X15\"X8.5\"\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 8.5 lbs\u003cbr\u003eWarranty: One (1) year limited\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\" class=\"table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e8.5 pounds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984118857,"sku":"7180HC","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7180-3t.jpg?v=1675379604"},{"product_id":"ioptron-smart-eq-smarteq-pro-hard-case","title":"iOptron Smart EQ\/SmartEQ Pro Hard Case","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis Hard Case for SmartEQ\/SmartEQ Pro mount protects your mount whether you're heading out for a night of observation, or when you need to store it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Hard Case for SmartEQ\/SmartEQ Pro mount protects your mount whether you're heading out for a night of observation, or when you need to store it. The case features custom-fit foam padding to hold the mount in place and cushion it from impacts. The exterior has reinforced edges on the outside to help minimize denting and damage. There are dual trigger latches to secure the lid in place, and a carry handle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions:  15\"x15\"x8.5\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  8.5 pounds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984151625,"sku":"3280HC","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/smarteq_case_closed_1.jpg?v=1675379606"},{"product_id":"ioptron-polar-scope-for-smarteq","title":"iOptron Polar Scope For SmartEQ","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf you have a version of the SmartEQ mount that is not the \"Pro\" version and want to up your astrophotography abilities, then this polar scope is just what you are looking for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a version of the SmartEQ mount that is not the \"Pro\" version and want to up your astrophotography abilities, then this polar scope is just what you are looking for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeatures:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBright field illuminated\u003cbr\u003eFast and quick polar axis alignment with Quick Polar Alignment procedure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePACKAGE CONTENTS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e1X Polar scope\u003cbr\u003e1X Polar scope set screw\u003cbr\u003e1X Polar scope illumination LED\u003cbr\u003e2X M3 screw and nut\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\" class=\"table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984184393,"sku":"3130PS","price":78.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/3130-2t.jpg?v=1675379609"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem25-zeq25-mini-pier-5-5","title":"iOptron CEM25\/ZEQ25 Mini Pier 5.5\"","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis Product Has Been Discontinued And This Is Here for Informational Purposes Only. It Is No Longer For  Sale.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd some extra height to your mount with the ZEQ25\/CEM25 mini pier.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you want a little extra mass (almost two pounds worth) as well some extra height (5.5\" to be exact), the 8035 Mini Pier for the CEM\/ZEQ 25 is a great choice.  It is a mix of diecasting and machined metal, so the pier is light but rigid. It also work for SkyGuide and field tripod #3501.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight: 5.5\"\u003cbr\u003eDiameter: 4\" (100 mm)\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 1lb 9oz\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984217161,"sku":"8035","price":89.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8035-2t.jpg?v=1675379611"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem25-zeq25-mini-pier-8","title":"iOptron Cem25\/Zeq25 Mini Pier 8\"","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis Product Has Been Discontinued And This Is Here for Informational Purposes Only. It Is No Longer For  Sale.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd some extra height to your mount with the ZEQ25\/CEM25 mini pier.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you want a little extra mass (two pounds worth) as well some extra height (8\" to be exact), the 8035-8 Mini Pier for the CEM\/ZEQ 25 is a great choice.  It is a mix of diecasting and machined metal, so the pier is light but rigid. It also work for SkyGuide and field tripod #3501.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight: 8\"\u003cbr\u003eDiameter: 4\" (100 mm)\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 2lb\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984315465,"sku":"8035-8","price":109.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8035-8-2.jpg?v=1675379614"},{"product_id":"ioptron-az-mount-pro-go-to-computerized-mount-with-tri-pier","title":"iOptron AZ Mount Pro Go-To Computerized Mount With Tri-Pier","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"310\" data-start=\"234\"\u003eiOptron AZ Mount Pro Go-To Computerized Alt-Azimuth Mount with Tri-Pier\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"335\" data-start=\"311\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"335\" data-start=\"311\"\u003ePart Number: 8900-TP\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"383\" data-start=\"337\"\u003e\"Level and Go\" Has Never Been This Capable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"586\" data-start=\"385\"\u003eIf you've been searching for a fully GoTo computerized mount that doesn’t require polar alignment and can still carry a serious payload, your answer is here: the \u003cstrong data-end=\"585\" data-start=\"547\"\u003eiOptron AZ Mount Pro with Tri-Pier\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"889\" data-start=\"588\"\u003eThis isn’t your average alt-az mount. The AZ Mount Pro blends intuitive setup, whisper-quiet performance, and advanced automation in a compact, travel-friendly design. And thanks to the included \u003cstrong data-end=\"795\" data-start=\"783\"\u003eTri-Pier\u003c\/strong\u003e, you get rock-solid support for everything from solar scopes to 6\" refractors and 9.25\" SCTs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"894\" data-start=\"891\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"940\" data-start=\"896\"\u003eEasy Setup: Just Level, Power On, and Go\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1297\" data-start=\"942\"\u003eThe AZ Mount Pro is built around iOptron's innovative “Level and Go” alignment routine. Once the mount is leveled using its built-in bubble level, simply power it on. The mount’s \u003cstrong data-end=\"1147\" data-start=\"1121\"\u003eonboard 32-channel GPS\u003c\/strong\u003e, combined with \u003cstrong data-end=\"1195\" data-start=\"1163\"\u003eposition and angular sensors\u003c\/strong\u003e, determines your location and scope orientation in seconds—no input or additional accessories needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1521\" data-start=\"1299\"\u003eThe mount automatically slews to a bright reference object. You confirm the object is centered, and just like that, you're aligned and ready to explore over \u003cstrong data-end=\"1485\" data-start=\"1456\"\u003e212,000 celestial objects\u003c\/strong\u003e from the onboard Go2Nova® database.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1526\" data-start=\"1523\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1572\" data-start=\"1528\"\u003eStrong, Silent, and Surprisingly Compact\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1835\" data-start=\"1574\"\u003eDespite weighing just 13 pounds (not including counterweight or Tri-Pier), the AZ Mount Pro can carry \u003cstrong data-end=\"1708\" data-start=\"1676\"\u003e33 lbs on its primary saddle\u003c\/strong\u003e, plus an additional \u003cstrong data-end=\"1772\" data-start=\"1729\"\u003e10 lbs on the optional secondary saddle\u003c\/strong\u003e. That's enough for many medium-to-large OTAs plus accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2082\" data-start=\"1837\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"1865\" data-start=\"1841\"\u003edual dovetail saddle\u003c\/strong\u003e accepts both Losmandy and Vixen-style plates. Add iOptron’s optional \u003cstrong data-end=\"1967\" data-start=\"1935\"\u003e#8953 secondary Vixen saddle\u003c\/strong\u003e, and you can mount a DSLR or smaller scope opposite your main OTA for grab-and-go imaging or wide-field observing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2307\" data-start=\"2084\"\u003eWhisper-quiet \u003cstrong data-end=\"2126\" data-start=\"2098\"\u003elow-power stepper motors\u003c\/strong\u003e with zero-backlash drive make slewing and tracking smooth and reliable. The mount even memorizes its position in the event of power loss, resuming operation once power is restored.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2312\" data-start=\"2309\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2364\" data-start=\"2314\"\u003eTri-Pier Stability in the Field or Observatory\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2701\" data-start=\"2366\"\u003eIncluded with this configuration is the rugged \u003cstrong data-end=\"2433\" data-start=\"2413\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier\u003c\/strong\u003e, a hybrid pier\/tripod support that provides adjustable height, exceptional vibration damping, and fast setup in uneven terrain. With the pier, counterweight, and mount together, you're ready for serious alt-az observing with the stability of an observatory-class rig.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2706\" data-start=\"2703\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2737\" data-start=\"2708\"\u003eKey Features at a Glance:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"3415\" data-start=\"2739\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2796\" data-start=\"2739\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2796\" data-start=\"2741\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2770\" data-start=\"2741\"\u003eNo polar alignment needed\u003c\/strong\u003e – just level and power on\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2876\" data-start=\"2797\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2876\" data-start=\"2799\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2826\" data-start=\"2799\"\u003eBuilt-in 32-channel GPS\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"2851\" data-start=\"2831\"\u003eposition sensors\u003c\/strong\u003e for hands-free alignment\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2950\" data-start=\"2877\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2950\" data-start=\"2879\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2904\" data-start=\"2879\"\u003e33 lb primary payload\u003c\/strong\u003e, plus 10 lb secondary (optional Vixen saddle)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3017\" data-start=\"2951\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3017\" data-start=\"2953\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2985\" data-start=\"2953\"\u003eWhisper-quiet stepper motors\u003c\/strong\u003e with zero-backlash transmission\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3076\" data-start=\"3018\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3076\" data-start=\"3020\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3044\" data-start=\"3020\"\u003eDual dovetail saddle\u003c\/strong\u003e (Losmandy and Vixen compatible)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3148\" data-start=\"3077\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3148\" data-start=\"3079\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3115\" data-start=\"3079\"\u003eOnboard Go2Nova® 8407 controller\u003c\/strong\u003e with over 212,000 object library\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3224\" data-start=\"3149\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3224\" data-start=\"3151\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3177\" data-start=\"3151\"\u003eBuilt-in Wi-Fi adapter\u003c\/strong\u003e for control via iOptron Commander or SkySafari\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3284\" data-start=\"3225\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3284\" data-start=\"3227\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3262\" data-start=\"3227\"\u003eRetractable counterweight shaft\u003c\/strong\u003e for compact transport\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3353\" data-start=\"3285\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3353\" data-start=\"3287\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3331\" data-start=\"3287\"\u003eOnboard rechargeable lithium-ion battery\u003c\/strong\u003e – 10 hours per charge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3415\" data-start=\"3354\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3415\" data-start=\"3356\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3387\" data-start=\"3356\"\u003eIncluded aluminum hard case\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"3415\" data-start=\"3392\"\u003e10 lb counterweight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3420\" data-start=\"3417\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3444\" data-start=\"3422\"\u003eWhat’s in the Box:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"3728\" data-start=\"3446\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3481\" data-start=\"3446\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3481\" data-start=\"3448\"\u003eiOptron AZ Mount Pro Head (#8920)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3500\" data-start=\"3482\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3500\" data-start=\"3484\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3533\" data-start=\"3501\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3533\" data-start=\"3503\"\u003e10 lb counterweight (#3006-10)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3576\" data-start=\"3534\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3576\" data-start=\"3536\"\u003eStar knobs with center post (#8340-PIER)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3619\" data-start=\"3577\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3619\" data-start=\"3579\"\u003eBuilt-in lithium-ion battery and charger\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3651\" data-start=\"3620\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3651\" data-start=\"3622\"\u003eGo2Nova® 8407 hand controller\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3678\" data-start=\"3652\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3678\" data-start=\"3654\"\u003eHard case for mount head\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3728\" data-start=\"3679\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3728\" data-start=\"3681\"\u003eTwo-year limited warranty (90 days for battery)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"4886\" data-start=\"4883\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"4906\" data-start=\"4888\"\u003eObserving Tip:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5169\" data-start=\"4907\"\u003eAlt-azimuth mounts like the AZ Mount Pro don’t suffer from meridian flips, making them ideal for long stints of visual observing or lunar\/solar imaging. For astrophotography, keep exposure times short or consider adding a field derotator for longer integrations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"5174\" data-start=\"5171\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"5195\" data-start=\"5176\"\u003eFinal Thoughts:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5493\" data-start=\"5196\"\u003eIf you're tired of overcomplicated setups and still want advanced tracking accuracy and GoTo reliability, the iOptron AZ Mount Pro delivers. With its robust payload, rock-solid Tri-Pier support, and user-friendly design, it's a smart investment for serious observers and outreach presenters alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"223\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eMount\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"390\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAltAzimuth Mount\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\" width=\"223\"\u003eBody Materials\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\" width=\"390\"\u003eDie-cast Aluminum\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eSystem\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eGoToNova®\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003ePrimary Payload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e33 lb\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eSecondary Payload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e10 lb\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e13 lb (including CW shaft and battery)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eGear\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eAluminum worm wheel\/Brass worm gear\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e128X microstep stepper motor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eSychronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e0.1 arc second\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eTracking\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eAutomatic\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eTracking Rate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003ecelestial, solar, lunar and user defined\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eHand controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eGo2Nova® 8407 with over 212,000 object database\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eSlew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e1x, 2×,8×,16x, 64×,128x, 256×,512x and MAX(~10º\/sec, 2400X)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e32-channel GPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eSensors\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003ePosition and angular detection\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eLevel indicator\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e6\" Losmandy\/Vixen dual saddle\u003cbr\u003eOptional secondary Vixen saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e10 lb\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eBattery\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eBuilt-in rechargeable Li-ion battery (11.1V, 4.4AH)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eBattery Running Time\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e10 hour at 20ºC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eBattery Charger\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e100-240V AC input \/12.6V DC 2000mA output (Included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eWireless Control\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eYes, full control via built-in WIFI adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eFirmware Upgrade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eYes, via serial port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eComputer Control\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eYes. PC via ASCOM and Mac\/Tablet\/SmartPhone via WIFI\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eTripod\/Pier\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eiOptron Tri-pier\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eTwo year limited warranty for mount\u003cbr\u003e90 day limited for battery\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984348233,"sku":"AZPROTP","price":2211.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8900-tp-2t.jpg?v=1675379617"},{"product_id":"ioptron-az-pro-altitude-lock-lever","title":"iOptron AZ Pro Altitude Lock Lever","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"175\" data-end=\"232\"\u003eiOptron AZ Pro Altitude Lock Lever – Set of 4 (#8954)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"234\" data-end=\"482\"\u003eTired of struggling to get your AZ Mount Pro’s altitude lock tight enough—especially in cold weather when your fingers lose dexterity? The iOptron #8954 Altitude Lock Lever Set gives you the leverage—literally—to get the job done right, every time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"484\" data-end=\"843\"\u003eThese four M6-threaded metal levers thread directly into the altitude lock collar of your iOptron AZ Mount Pro. Once installed, they give you far more gripping surface and torque than the factory configuration. That means greater holding strength, better security for your telescope, and peace of mind that your setup won’t slip once you’ve found your target.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"845\" data-end=\"1149\"\u003eEach lever is knurled for improved grip and designed to function even when wearing gloves in colder conditions—something every winter observer can appreciate. Whether you're tightening down a 4\" refractor or a heavier catadioptric, these levers will help ensure your scope stays locked where you want it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-start=\"1151\" data-end=\"1169\"\u003eKey Features:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1170\" data-end=\"1483\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1170\" data-end=\"1244\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1172\" data-end=\"1244\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1172\" data-end=\"1192\"\u003eCompatible Mount\u003c\/strong\u003e: Designed specifically for the iOptron AZ Mount Pro\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1245\" data-end=\"1315\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1247\" data-end=\"1315\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1247\" data-end=\"1262\"\u003eThread Size\u003c\/strong\u003e: M6 (threads directly into the altitude lock collar)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1316\" data-end=\"1379\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1318\" data-end=\"1379\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1318\" data-end=\"1335\"\u003eEnhanced Grip\u003c\/strong\u003e: Improves hand torque for secure tightening\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1445\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1382\" data-end=\"1445\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1382\" data-end=\"1407\"\u003eCold Weather Friendly\u003c\/strong\u003e: Easier operation when wearing gloves\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1446\" data-end=\"1483\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1448\" data-end=\"1483\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1448\" data-end=\"1464\"\u003eSet Includes\u003c\/strong\u003e: Four metal levers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1485\" data-end=\"1503\"\u003eObserving Tip:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1504\" data-end=\"1781\"\u003eAltitude slips on alt-azimuth mounts often occur when the lock isn’t fully engaged—especially after balancing or adjusting a heavy optical tube. These levers help you apply consistent torque without overtightening or risking hand strain, especially during frigid winter nights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1783\" data-end=\"1802\"\u003eFinal Thoughts:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1803\" data-end=\"2148\"\u003eThe AZ Pro is a remarkably stable and easy-to-use GoTo mount. This simple upgrade gives you the confidence that your telescope will stay put after alignment, which is especially important for public outreach or casual star parties where bumps and nudges are common. A small investment in security and convenience goes a long way under the stars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984381001,"sku":"8954","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8954-2t.jpg?v=1675379621"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cube-secondary-dovetail-saddle-kit","title":"iOptron Cube Secondary Dovetail Saddle Kit","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"224\" data-start=\"177\"\u003eiOptron Cube Secondary Dovetail Saddle Kit\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"246\" data-start=\"225\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"246\" data-start=\"225\"\u003ePart Number: 8253\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"281\" data-start=\"248\"\u003eExpand Your Cube’s Capability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"635\" data-start=\"283\"\u003eUnlock the full potential of your iOptron Cube mount with the \u003cstrong data-end=\"386\" data-start=\"345\"\u003eSecondary Dovetail Saddle Kit (#8253)\u003c\/strong\u003e. Designed for flexibility and functionality, this accessory lets you mount a second optical instrument, camera, or accessory opposite your primary payload—transforming your mount into a more versatile platform for both visual observing and imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"796\" data-start=\"637\"\u003eWhether you're aiming to piggyback a DSLR for wide-field astrophotography or mount a guide scope to refine your tracking, this kit makes it possible with ease.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"801\" data-start=\"798\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"840\" data-start=\"803\"\u003eDual Payload Mounting Made Simple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1199\" data-start=\"842\"\u003eThe secondary saddle attaches securely to the unused side of your Cube mount’s Alt-Az head and features a \u003cstrong data-end=\"990\" data-start=\"948\"\u003estandard Vixen-style dovetail receiver\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it compatible with most small telescopes, camera brackets, and accessories. It also includes a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1129\" data-start=\"1094\"\u003e1\/4\"-20 threaded mounting screw\u003c\/strong\u003e for direct attachment of a DSLR or mirrorless camera via a ball head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1285\" data-start=\"1201\"\u003eNo complicated adapters, no need to rebalance the mount entirely—just fasten and go.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1290\" data-start=\"1287\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1313\" data-start=\"1292\"\u003eCompatible Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"1398\" data-start=\"1315\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1329\" data-start=\"1315\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1329\" data-start=\"1317\"\u003eiOptron Cube\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1347\" data-start=\"1330\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1347\" data-start=\"1332\"\u003eiOptron CubePro\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1364\" data-start=\"1348\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1364\" data-start=\"1350\"\u003eiOptron Cube-E\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1381\" data-start=\"1365\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1381\" data-start=\"1367\"\u003eiOptron Cube-G\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1398\" data-start=\"1382\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1398\" data-start=\"1384\"\u003eiOptron Cube-A\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1475\" data-start=\"1400\"\u003eFits \u003cstrong data-end=\"1424\" data-start=\"1405\"\u003eall Cube series\u003c\/strong\u003e mounts with standard secondary attachment support.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1480\" data-start=\"1477\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1498\" data-start=\"1482\"\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"2319\" data-start=\"1500\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"1580\" data-start=\"1500\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1580\" data-start=\"1500\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1530\" data-start=\"1500\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"1580\" data-start=\"1530\"\u003eSpecification\/Details\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"2319\" data-start=\"1664\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1745\" data-start=\"1664\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1694\" data-start=\"1664\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1689\" data-start=\"1666\"\u003eMount Compatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"1745\" data-start=\"1694\"\u003eAll iOptron Cube series mounts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1827\" data-start=\"1746\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1776\" data-start=\"1746\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1763\" data-start=\"1748\"\u003eSaddle Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"1827\" data-start=\"1776\"\u003eVixen-style dovetail receiver\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1909\" data-start=\"1828\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1859\" data-start=\"1828\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1859\" data-start=\"1830\"\u003eSecondary Mounting Option\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"1909\" data-start=\"1859\"\u003eFor cameras, guide scopes, or small OTAs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1991\" data-start=\"1910\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1940\" data-start=\"1910\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1931\" data-start=\"1912\"\u003eMounting Thread\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"1991\" data-start=\"1940\"\u003e1\/4\"-20 screw (standard camera thread)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2073\" data-start=\"1992\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2022\" data-start=\"1992\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2010\" data-start=\"1994\"\u003eCamera Ready\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"2073\" data-start=\"2022\"\u003eYes – mount DSLR\/mirrorless via ball head\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2155\" data-start=\"2074\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2104\" data-start=\"2074\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2088\" data-start=\"2076\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"2155\" data-start=\"2104\"\u003eAluminum alloy construction\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2237\" data-start=\"2156\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2186\" data-start=\"2156\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2168\" data-start=\"2158\"\u003eFinish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"2237\" data-start=\"2186\"\u003eMatte black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2319\" data-start=\"2238\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2268\" data-start=\"2238\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2256\" data-start=\"2240\"\u003eInstallation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"2319\" data-start=\"2268\"\u003eAttaches to secondary side of Cube mount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2324\" data-start=\"2321\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2343\" data-start=\"2326\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2664\" data-start=\"2345\"\u003eIf you’re using a Cube mount for solar or lunar imaging, try adding a small solar finder or wide-field camera on the secondary saddle to capture real-time context views while your main telescope tracks in high magnification. It’s also a great way to balance small dual-scope setups without needing an equatorial system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2669\" data-start=\"2666\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2689\" data-start=\"2671\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3012\" data-start=\"2691\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"2741\" data-start=\"2695\"\u003eiOptron Cube Secondary Dovetail Saddle Kit\u003c\/strong\u003e gives your Cube mount new life and flexibility. From imaging setups to dual-scoping, this affordable and well-built accessory adds tremendous functionality in a small, lightweight package. Perfect for the hobbyist who wants more options from a compact Alt-Az GoTo mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\" class=\"table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984413769,"sku":"8253","price":108.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8253-2t.jpg?v=1675379623"},{"product_id":"ioptron-2-2-pound-counterweight-for-smarteq-mount","title":"iOptron 2.2 Pound Counterweight For SmartEQ Mount","description":"\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"247\" data-end=\"308\"\u003eiOptron 2.2 lb Counterweight for SmartEQ and SmartEQ Pro\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"333\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"333\"\u003ePart Number: 3106-02\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"335\" data-end=\"377\"\u003eCompact Balance for Lightweight Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"379\" data-end=\"857\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"383\" data-end=\"422\"\u003eiOptron 2.2 lb (1 kg) counterweight\u003c\/strong\u003e is a precision-balanced solution designed specifically for the \u003cstrong data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"497\"\u003eSmartEQ\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-start=\"502\" data-end=\"517\"\u003eSmartEQ Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e mounts. When you're working with compact, portable equatorial systems, even a small imbalance can affect slewing accuracy, tracking precision, and motor performance. This lightweight counterweight allows you to restore proper equilibrium when using slightly heavier accessories or telescopes than your stock configuration was designed for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"859\" data-end=\"1036\"\u003eWhether you're running a compact refractor, a DSLR, or a small guide scope, this weight provides just enough extra mass to get your rig dialed in—without overloading the system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1038\" data-end=\"1041\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1043\" data-end=\"1085\"\u003eDesigned for 16mm Counterweight Shafts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1087\" data-end=\"1357\"\u003eThis counterweight is machined to fit \u003cstrong data-start=\"1125\" data-end=\"1163\"\u003e16mm diameter counterweight shafts\u003c\/strong\u003e, the standard used on both the SmartEQ and SmartEQ Pro. It includes a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1234\" data-end=\"1267\"\u003ebuilt-in hand-tightening knob\u003c\/strong\u003e that allows you to attach or reposition the weight easily in the field—no tools required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1359\" data-end=\"1585\"\u003eIts compact profile—measuring approximately \u003cstrong data-start=\"1403\" data-end=\"1421\"\u003e3\" in diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-start=\"1426\" data-end=\"1437\"\u003e1\" tall\u003c\/strong\u003e—makes it ideal for travel and field use. The black finish matches iOptron’s standard mount aesthetic and blends in cleanly with your existing gear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"1590\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1592\" data-end=\"1613\"\u003eCompatible Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1615\" data-end=\"1710\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1615\" data-end=\"1628\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1617\" data-end=\"1628\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1617\" data-end=\"1628\"\u003eSmartEQ\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1629\" data-end=\"1646\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1631\" data-end=\"1646\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1631\" data-end=\"1646\"\u003eSmartEQ Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1647\" data-end=\"1710\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1649\" data-end=\"1710\"\u003eAny other mount using a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1673\" data-end=\"1710\"\u003e16mm diameter counterweight shaft\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1712\" data-end=\"1715\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1717\" data-end=\"1745\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable data-start=\"1747\" data-end=\"2435\" class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-start=\"1747\" data-end=\"1813\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"1747\" data-end=\"1813\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"1747\" data-end=\"1771\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"1771\" data-end=\"1813\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-start=\"1884\" data-end=\"2435\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"1884\" data-end=\"1952\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"1884\" data-end=\"1909\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1886\" data-end=\"1896\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"1909\" data-end=\"1952\"\u003e2.2 lbs (1.0 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"1953\" data-end=\"2021\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"1953\" data-end=\"1978\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1955\" data-end=\"1978\"\u003eFits Shaft Diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"1978\" data-end=\"2021\"\u003e16mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2022\" data-end=\"2090\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2022\" data-end=\"2047\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2024\" data-end=\"2036\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2047\" data-end=\"2090\"\u003eCast metal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2091\" data-end=\"2159\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2091\" data-end=\"2116\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2093\" data-end=\"2103\"\u003eFinish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2116\" data-end=\"2159\"\u003eMatte black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2160\" data-end=\"2228\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2160\" data-end=\"2185\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2162\" data-end=\"2174\"\u003eDiameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2185\" data-end=\"2228\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e~3 inches (76mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2229\" data-end=\"2297\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2229\" data-end=\"2254\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2231\" data-end=\"2241\"\u003eHeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2254\" data-end=\"2297\"\u003e~1 inch (25mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2298\" data-end=\"2366\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2298\" data-end=\"2323\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2300\" data-end=\"2314\"\u003eAttachment\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2323\" data-end=\"2366\"\u003eHand-tightening knob\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2367\" data-end=\"2435\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2367\" data-end=\"2392\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2369\" data-end=\"2386\"\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2392\" data-end=\"2435\"\u003eSmartEQ, SmartEQ Pro, 16mm-shaft mounts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2437\" data-end=\"2440\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2442\" data-end=\"2459\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2461\" data-end=\"2819\"\u003eIf you're using the SmartEQ or SmartEQ Pro with a DSLR or heavier eyepieces, this 2.2 lb counterweight is an excellent way to restore balance without carrying an extra full-size weight. Keeping your system in balance not only improves GoTo accuracy but also \u003cstrong data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2743\"\u003eextends battery life\u003c\/strong\u003e—since unbalanced systems force the motors to work harder than they need to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2821\" data-end=\"2824\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2826\" data-end=\"2844\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2846\" data-end=\"3207\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"2850\" data-end=\"2893\"\u003eiOptron 2.2 lb Counterweight (#3106-02)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a must-have accessory for any SmartEQ or SmartEQ Pro user looking to expand their payload slightly without compromising performance. Lightweight, durable, and easy to install, it gives you just the right amount of counterbalance to keep your mount performing at its best—especially when you're traveling light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e2.2 pounds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984446537,"sku":"3106-02","price":28.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/3106-02-2t_1.jpg?v=1675379626"},{"product_id":"ioptron-21-pound-counterweight-for-ieq45-and-cem60","title":"iOptron 21 Pound Counterweight For IEQ45, CEM60, and CEM70","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"301\" data-start=\"227\"\u003eiOptron 21 lb Counterweight for iEQ45, CEM60, GEM45, and CEM70 Mounts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"323\" data-start=\"302\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"323\" data-start=\"302\"\u003ePart Number: 7226\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"371\" data-start=\"325\"\u003eHeavy Duty Balance for Heavy Duty Payloads\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"656\" data-start=\"373\"\u003eAs your imaging train grows—larger OTAs, full-frame cooled cameras, filter wheels, guide scopes, dew heaters—the need for precise, reliable counterweighting becomes more than just a mechanical concern. It's the key to smooth tracking, reduced motor stress, and razor-sharp exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1065\" data-start=\"658\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"688\" data-start=\"662\"\u003eiOptron 21 lb (9.5 kg)\u003c\/strong\u003e counterweight is designed for astronomers who are pushing their mounts to full payload capacity or using large optical systems that require more than the standard 11 lb or 5.5 lb weights. Whether you’re balancing a heavy imaging rig or looking to reduce the number of weights stacked on your shaft, this single 21 lb solution simplifies the loadout while increasing stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1070\" data-start=\"1067\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1114\" data-start=\"1072\"\u003eMade for iOptron’s Most Capable Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1443\" data-start=\"1116\"\u003eThis counterweight is machined to fit \u003cstrong data-end=\"1192\" data-start=\"1154\"\u003e29mm diameter counterweight shafts\u003c\/strong\u003e, which are found on iOptron's higher-capacity mounts. It includes a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1291\" data-start=\"1261\"\u003ebuilt-in locking hand knob\u003c\/strong\u003e for easy field adjustments and features a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1386\" data-start=\"1334\"\u003ecompression-ring clamp with a brass-tipped screw\u003c\/strong\u003e, which grips securely without damaging the shaft finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1718\" data-start=\"1445\"\u003eThe weight is finished in \u003cstrong data-end=\"1486\" data-start=\"1471\"\u003ematte black\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a footprint of approximately \u003cstrong data-end=\"1540\" data-start=\"1522\"\u003e6\" in diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"1561\" data-start=\"1545\"\u003e3\" in height\u003c\/strong\u003e. It’s compact enough to stack with other weights if needed, but in many cases, a single 21 lb weight is all you'll need to balance medium-to-heavy payloads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1723\" data-start=\"1720\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1746\" data-start=\"1725\"\u003eCompatible Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1843\" data-start=\"1748\"\u003eThis 21 lb counterweight fits any iOptron mount with a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1831\" data-start=\"1803\"\u003e29mm counterweight shaft\u003c\/strong\u003e, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"1979\" data-start=\"1845\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1865\" data-start=\"1845\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1865\" data-start=\"1847\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1865\" data-start=\"1847\"\u003eCEM70 \/ CEM70G\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1887\" data-start=\"1866\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1887\" data-start=\"1868\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1887\" data-start=\"1868\"\u003eCEM60 \/ CEM60EC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1911\" data-start=\"1888\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1911\" data-start=\"1890\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1911\" data-start=\"1890\"\u003eiEQ45 \/ iEQ45 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1945\" data-start=\"1912\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1945\" data-start=\"1914\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1942\" data-start=\"1914\"\u003eGEM45 \/ GEM45G \/ GEM45EC\u003c\/strong\u003e*\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1979\" data-start=\"1946\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1979\" data-start=\"1948\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1976\" data-start=\"1948\"\u003eCEM40 \/ CEM40G \/ CEM40EC\u003c\/strong\u003e*\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-end=\"2179\" data-start=\"1981\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2179\" data-start=\"1983\"\u003e⚠️ \u003cstrong data-end=\"2009\" data-start=\"1986\"\u003eCompatibility Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Some early-production \u003cstrong data-end=\"2051\" data-start=\"2032\"\u003eCEM40 and GEM45\u003c\/strong\u003e models used \u003cstrong data-end=\"2087\" data-start=\"2064\"\u003e20mm or 28mm shafts\u003c\/strong\u003e. Be sure to \u003cstrong data-end=\"2144\" data-start=\"2100\"\u003everify your counterweight shaft diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e before ordering this 29mm version.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2184\" data-start=\"2181\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2214\" data-start=\"2186\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"2924\" data-start=\"2216\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"2284\" data-start=\"2216\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2284\" data-start=\"2216\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2240\" data-start=\"2216\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"md\" data-end=\"2284\" data-start=\"2240\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"2924\" data-start=\"2357\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2427\" data-start=\"2357\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2382\" data-start=\"2357\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2369\" data-start=\"2359\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2427\" data-start=\"2382\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003e21 lbs (9.5 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2498\" data-start=\"2428\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2453\" data-start=\"2428\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2453\" data-start=\"2430\"\u003eFits Shaft Diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2498\" data-start=\"2453\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003e29mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2569\" data-start=\"2499\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2524\" data-start=\"2499\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2513\" data-start=\"2501\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2569\" data-start=\"2524\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eCast metal with matte black finish\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2640\" data-start=\"2570\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2595\" data-start=\"2570\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2586\" data-start=\"2572\"\u003eClamp Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2640\" data-start=\"2595\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eBrass-tipped screw with compression ring\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2711\" data-start=\"2641\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2666\" data-start=\"2641\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2655\" data-start=\"2643\"\u003eDiameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2711\" data-start=\"2666\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eApprox. 6\" (152mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2782\" data-start=\"2712\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2737\" data-start=\"2712\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2724\" data-start=\"2714\"\u003eHeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2782\" data-start=\"2737\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eApprox. 3\" (76mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2853\" data-start=\"2783\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2808\" data-start=\"2783\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2799\" data-start=\"2785\"\u003eAttachment\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2853\" data-start=\"2808\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eHand knob for tool-free field adjustments\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2924\" data-start=\"2854\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2879\" data-start=\"2854\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2873\" data-start=\"2856\"\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2924\" data-start=\"2879\" data-col-size=\"md\"\u003eCEM70, GEM45*, CEM60, CEM40*, iEQ45 Pro\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2929\" data-start=\"2926\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2948\" data-start=\"2931\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3327\" data-start=\"2950\"\u003eInstead of stacking multiple smaller weights—especially when working with long focal length OTAs or off-axis guide setups—a single 21 lb weight can help lower your system’s center of gravity and reduce the load on the far end of the counterweight shaft. This makes balancing quicker and more precise, and minimizes potential vibration or shaft flex during tracking and slewing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3332\" data-start=\"3329\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3352\" data-start=\"3334\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3711\" data-start=\"3354\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"3397\" data-start=\"3358\"\u003eiOptron 21 lb Counterweight (#7226)\u003c\/strong\u003e is the go-to solution for astronomers running high-capacity systems on CEM70s, CEM60s, and other full-size equatorial mounts. It offers serious counterbalancing power in a clean, compact form. If you’re building a rig to reach the upper limits of your mount’s rated payload, this weight will help you do it right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\" class=\"table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e21 pounds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984544841,"sku":"7226","price":159.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/iop-7226_1.jpg?v=1675379628"},{"product_id":"ioptron-5-5-pound-counterweight-for-ioptron-ieq45-and-cem60-equatorial-mounts","title":"iOptron 5.5 Pound Counterweight For Various iOptron  Equatorial Mounts","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"269\" data-end=\"342\"\u003eiOptron 5.5 lb Counterweight for CEM70, GEM45, CEM40, iEQ45 and More\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"343\" data-end=\"367\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"343\" data-end=\"367\"\u003ePart Number: 8027-05\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"369\" data-end=\"410\"\u003ePrecision Balance for Larger Payloads\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"412\" data-end=\"798\"\u003eWhen your telescope setup starts to grow—adding a guide scope, camera, filter wheel, or heavier optics—maintaining perfect balance becomes more than a luxury; it’s essential. The \u003cstrong data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"632\"\u003eiOptron 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) counterweight\u003c\/strong\u003e is designed to help you fine-tune your balance on medium-to-heavy-duty iOptron equatorial mounts, ensuring accurate tracking and reducing strain on the drive motors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"800\" data-end=\"1013\"\u003eWhether you're refining an astrophotography rig or rebalancing after adding a new dovetail plate, the \u003cstrong data-start=\"902\" data-end=\"928\"\u003e#8027-05 counterweight\u003c\/strong\u003e gives you more flexibility in load management than the standard 11 lb weights alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1015\" data-end=\"1018\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1020\" data-end=\"1062\"\u003eDesigned for 28mm Counterweight Shafts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1064\" data-end=\"1378\"\u003eThis counterweight is machined to fit \u003cstrong data-start=\"1102\" data-end=\"1147\"\u003e28mm (1.1\") diameter counterweight shafts\u003c\/strong\u003e, which are standard on many of iOptron’s most capable mounts. The \u003cstrong data-start=\"1214\" data-end=\"1240\"\u003ecompression ring clamp\u003c\/strong\u003e system secures the weight without marring your shaft’s finish, using a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1312\" data-end=\"1338\"\u003ebrass-tipped hand knob\u003c\/strong\u003e to evenly distribute clamping pressure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1596\"\u003eThe compact body of the counterweight—measuring \u003cstrong data-start=\"1428\" data-end=\"1449\"\u003e5.05\" in diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-start=\"1454\" data-end=\"1473\"\u003e2.07\" in height\u003c\/strong\u003e—makes it easier to stack multiple weights if needed, or position it precisely for balance without overextending the shaft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1598\" data-end=\"1601\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1603\" data-end=\"1624\"\u003eCompatible Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1626\" data-end=\"1738\"\u003eThe iOptron 5.5 lb counterweight is compatible with the following mounts \u003cstrong data-start=\"1699\" data-end=\"1737\"\u003ethat use 28mm counterweight shafts\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1740\" data-end=\"1881\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1740\" data-end=\"1770\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1742\" data-end=\"1770\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1742\" data-end=\"1770\"\u003eCEM70 \/ CEM70EC \/ CEM70G\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1771\" data-end=\"1792\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1773\" data-end=\"1792\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1773\" data-end=\"1792\"\u003eCEM60 \/ CEM60EC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1793\" data-end=\"1823\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1795\" data-end=\"1823\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1795\" data-end=\"1823\"\u003eGEM45 \/ GEM45EC \/ GEM45G\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1824\" data-end=\"1857\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1826\" data-end=\"1857\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1826\" data-end=\"1854\"\u003eCEM40 \/ CEM40EC \/ CEM40G\u003c\/strong\u003e*\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1858\" data-end=\"1881\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1860\" data-end=\"1881\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1860\" data-end=\"1881\"\u003eiEQ45 \/ iEQ45 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"1883\" data-end=\"2105\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1885\" data-end=\"2105\"\u003e⚠️ \u003cstrong data-start=\"1888\" data-end=\"1927\"\u003eCompatibility Note for CEM40 Users:\u003c\/strong\u003e Early production CEM40\/CEM40EC mounts were shipped with \u003cstrong data-start=\"1984\" data-end=\"2013\"\u003e20mm counterweight shafts\u003c\/strong\u003e. Later models were upgraded to 28mm. Please \u003cstrong data-start=\"2058\" data-end=\"2088\"\u003everify your shaft diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2107\" data-end=\"2110\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2112\" data-end=\"2165\"\u003eBalance Up to 45 Pounds with Optional Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2167\" data-end=\"2475\"\u003eMost of these mounts ship with two \u003cstrong data-start=\"2202\" data-end=\"2226\"\u003e11 lb counterweights\u003c\/strong\u003e, which together can balance a payload of roughly 25 pounds. But if you're pushing toward the upper end of your mount’s rated capacity (such as a fully loaded imaging train), you may need one or more \u003cstrong data-start=\"2426\" data-end=\"2451\"\u003e5.5 lb counterweights\u003c\/strong\u003e to dial in your system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2477\" data-end=\"2682\"\u003ePairing this weight with the \u003cstrong data-start=\"2506\" data-end=\"2553\"\u003eiOptron #8026 counterweight shaft extension\u003c\/strong\u003e gives you the added shaft length and mass capacity needed to balance setups \u003cstrong data-start=\"2630\" data-end=\"2646\"\u003eup to 45 lbs\u003c\/strong\u003e on mounts like the CEM70 and GEM45.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2684\" data-end=\"2687\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2689\" data-end=\"2717\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"3476\" class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2785\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2785\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2743\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"2743\" data-end=\"2785\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-start=\"2856\" data-end=\"3476\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2856\" data-end=\"2924\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2856\" data-end=\"2881\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2858\" data-end=\"2868\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2881\" data-end=\"2924\"\u003e5.5 lbs (2.5 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2925\" data-end=\"2993\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2925\" data-end=\"2950\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2927\" data-end=\"2950\"\u003eFits Shaft Diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2950\" data-end=\"2993\"\u003e28mm (1.1\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"2994\" data-end=\"3062\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"2994\" data-end=\"3019\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2996\" data-end=\"3008\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3019\" data-end=\"3062\"\u003eCast metal with protective finish\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3063\" data-end=\"3131\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3063\" data-end=\"3088\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3065\" data-end=\"3084\"\u003eClamp Mechanism\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3088\" data-end=\"3131\"\u003eBrass-tipped screw with hand knob\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3132\" data-end=\"3200\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3132\" data-end=\"3157\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3134\" data-end=\"3154\"\u003eAttachment Style\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3157\" data-end=\"3200\"\u003eCompression ring (no shaft damage)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3201\" data-end=\"3269\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3201\" data-end=\"3226\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3203\" data-end=\"3215\"\u003eDiameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3226\" data-end=\"3269\"\u003e5.05\" (128mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3270\" data-end=\"3338\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3270\" data-end=\"3295\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3272\" data-end=\"3282\"\u003eHeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3295\" data-end=\"3338\"\u003e2.07\" (52.5mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3339\" data-end=\"3407\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3339\" data-end=\"3364\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3341\" data-end=\"3351\"\u003eFinish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3364\" data-end=\"3407\"\u003eMatte black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3408\" data-end=\"3476\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3408\" data-end=\"3433\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3410\" data-end=\"3427\"\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3433\" data-end=\"3476\"\u003eCEM70, GEM45, CEM60, CEM40*, iEQ45\/Pro\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3478\" data-end=\"3481\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3483\" data-end=\"3500\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3502\" data-end=\"3895\"\u003eEven with a perfectly balanced OTA, small accessories can subtly tip the system out of alignment. Use this 5.5 lb counterweight to fine-tune balance when changing cameras, adding off-axis guiders, or using extended dew shields. Proper balance isn’t just about weight—it’s about torque—and this compact weight gives you the flexibility to adjust the moment arm without loading on a full 11 lbs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3897\" data-end=\"3900\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3902\" data-end=\"3920\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3922\" data-end=\"4226\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"3926\" data-end=\"3969\"\u003eiOptron 5.5 lb Counterweight (#8027-05)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a must-have accessory for serious astrophotographers and advanced visual observers using mid-capacity equatorial mounts. Designed for durability, smooth operation, and safe mounting, it lets you extend your system’s payload capabilities with confidence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4228\" data-end=\"4383\"\u003eWhether you're upgrading your gear or refining your balance for better guiding, this counterweight adds the precision your mount needs to perform its best.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.5 kg (5.5 lbs.)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOuter diameter:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e118 mm (4.6 in.)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInner diameter:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e28.5 mm (1.12 in.)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHeight:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e25 mm (1 in.)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLocking mechanism:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLocking screw with pin\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLocking screw thread size:\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eM8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984577609,"sku":"8027-05","price":69.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/files\/8027-05-2T.jpg?v=1739992265"},{"product_id":"ioptron-4-5-pound-counterweight-for-eq2-mount","title":"iOptron 4.5 Pound Counterweight For EQ2 Mount","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"318\" data-start=\"249\"\u003eiOptron 4.5 lb Counterweight for EQ2 Mount (13mm Shaft Diameter)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"340\" data-start=\"319\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"340\" data-start=\"319\"\u003ePart Number: 8446\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"379\" data-start=\"342\"\u003eKeep It Balanced. Keep It Smooth.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"757\" data-start=\"381\"\u003eIf you're using the \u003cstrong data-end=\"433\" data-start=\"401\"\u003eiOptron EQ2 equatorial mount\u003c\/strong\u003e, maintaining proper balance is essential for smooth tracking, accurate GoTo slewing, and reducing long-term wear on the motors. Whether you’re offsetting a slightly heavier optical tube or compensating for a larger finder, camera, or diagonal, this \u003cstrong data-end=\"700\" data-start=\"683\"\u003e4.5 lb (2 kg)\u003c\/strong\u003e counterweight helps keep your setup centered and stable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1067\" data-start=\"759\"\u003eSpecifically designed for use with the EQ2 mount, this weight features a \u003cstrong data-end=\"854\" data-start=\"832\"\u003e13mm bore diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e and fits any counterweight shaft that shares that standard. Its \u003cstrong data-end=\"940\" data-start=\"919\"\u003elocking hand knob\u003c\/strong\u003e allows you to position and secure the weight without tools—ideal for field adjustments under changing loads or configurations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1072\" data-start=\"1069\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1122\" data-start=\"1074\"\u003eDesigned for the EQ2—But Fits Any 13mm Shaft\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1416\" data-start=\"1124\"\u003eWhile intended for iOptron’s EQ2 mount, this counterweight is also compatible with other lightweight mounts that use a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1280\" data-start=\"1243\"\u003e13mm diameter counterweight shaft\u003c\/strong\u003e. The hand knob is built into the body of the weight, so there’s no need for set screws or external tools—it’s simple, fast, and secure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1579\" data-start=\"1418\"\u003eIts compact profile—approximately \u003cstrong data-end=\"1478\" data-start=\"1452\"\u003e3.5 inches in diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"1500\" data-start=\"1483\"\u003e2 inches tall\u003c\/strong\u003e—makes it easy to store in your accessory case or pack along for travel setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1584\" data-start=\"1581\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1614\" data-start=\"1586\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"2254\" data-start=\"1616\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"1677\" data-start=\"1616\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1677\" data-start=\"1616\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1639\" data-start=\"1616\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1677\" data-start=\"1639\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"2254\" data-start=\"1742\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1805\" data-start=\"1742\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1766\" data-start=\"1742\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1754\" data-start=\"1744\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"1805\" data-start=\"1766\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e4.5 lbs (2.0 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1869\" data-start=\"1806\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1831\" data-start=\"1806\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1831\" data-start=\"1808\"\u003eFits Shaft Diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"1869\" data-start=\"1831\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e13mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1933\" data-start=\"1870\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1894\" data-start=\"1870\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1884\" data-start=\"1872\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"1933\" data-start=\"1894\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eCast metal with black powder coat\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1997\" data-start=\"1934\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1958\" data-start=\"1934\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1946\" data-start=\"1936\"\u003eFinish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"1997\" data-start=\"1958\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eMatte black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2061\" data-start=\"1998\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2022\" data-start=\"1998\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2012\" data-start=\"2000\"\u003eDiameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2061\" data-start=\"2022\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eApprox. 3.5\"\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2125\" data-start=\"2062\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2086\" data-start=\"2062\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2074\" data-start=\"2064\"\u003eHeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2125\" data-start=\"2086\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eApprox. 2\"\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2189\" data-start=\"2126\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2150\" data-start=\"2126\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2142\" data-start=\"2128\"\u003eAttachment\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2189\" data-start=\"2150\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eBuilt-in hand-tightening knob\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2254\" data-start=\"2190\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2214\" data-start=\"2190\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2209\" data-start=\"2192\"\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2254\" data-start=\"2214\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eiOptron EQ2, other 13mm-shaft mounts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2259\" data-start=\"2256\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2278\" data-start=\"2261\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2691\" data-start=\"2280\"\u003eEven small changes to your setup—like switching eyepieces or attaching a DSLR—can unbalance an equatorial mount and degrade tracking performance. Having a 4.5 lb weight on hand gives you an easy way to restore equilibrium on lighter mounts. If you're doing any astrophotography on an EQ2, balance becomes even more critical. A small shift in weight can mean the difference between crisp stars and streaked subs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2696\" data-start=\"2693\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2716\" data-start=\"2698\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3056\" data-start=\"2718\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"2762\" data-start=\"2722\"\u003eiOptron 4.5 lb Counterweight (#8446)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a practical, no-fuss solution for balancing lightweight equatorial mounts like the EQ2. It’s compact, easy to install, and designed to keep your system running smoothly under variable payloads. If you own an EQ2—or any mount with a 13mm shaft—this is the counterweight you want in your kit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\" class=\"table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e4.5 pounds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984610377,"sku":"8446","price":20.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8446-2t.jpg?v=1675379632"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cube-counterweight-shaft","title":"iOptron Cube Counterweight Shaft","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"300\" data-start=\"221\"\u003eiOptron Counterweight Shaft for Cube and Cube Pro Mounts – Stainless Steel\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"322\" data-start=\"301\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"322\" data-start=\"301\"\u003ePart Number: 8607\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"364\" data-start=\"324\"\u003eGet Balanced—Even on an Alt-Az Mount\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"688\" data-start=\"366\"\u003eIt’s not just equatorial users who need to think about balance. When your \u003cstrong data-end=\"486\" data-start=\"440\"\u003eiOptron Cube or Cube Pro Alt-Azimuth mount\u003c\/strong\u003e starts to feel a little overloaded—whether from a larger eyepiece, a heavier diagonal, or a piggybacked accessory—adding a counterweight can dramatically improve stability, tracking, and GoTo accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"995\" data-start=\"690\"\u003eThat’s where the \u003cstrong data-end=\"744\" data-start=\"707\"\u003eiOptron #8607 Counterweight Shaft\u003c\/strong\u003e comes in. Made of \u003cstrong data-end=\"788\" data-start=\"763\"\u003esolid stainless steel\u003c\/strong\u003e, this compact, 5.9\" long shaft threads directly into the base of your SmartStar Cube or Cube Pro mount and allows you to attach the \u003cstrong data-end=\"968\" data-start=\"921\"\u003eiOptron 3 lb (1.35kg) counterweight (#8605)\u003c\/strong\u003e to restore proper balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1192\" data-start=\"997\"\u003eEven on Alt-Az mounts, proper balancing reduces strain on the motors, improves battery life, and allows smoother slewing—especially when observing at low altitudes or using higher magnifications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1197\" data-start=\"1194\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1237\" data-start=\"1199\"\u003eBuilt to Fit the Cube and Cube Pro\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1280\" data-start=\"1239\"\u003eThis shaft was designed specifically for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"1333\" data-start=\"1282\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1310\" data-start=\"1282\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1310\" data-start=\"1284\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1310\" data-start=\"1284\"\u003eiOptron SmartStar Cube\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1333\" data-start=\"1311\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1333\" data-start=\"1313\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1333\" data-start=\"1313\"\u003eiOptron Cube Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1676\" data-start=\"1335\"\u003eIt features a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1366\" data-start=\"1349\"\u003e19mm diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e, is \u003cstrong data-end=\"1390\" data-start=\"1371\"\u003e5.9 inches long\u003c\/strong\u003e, and has an \u003cstrong data-end=\"1433\" data-start=\"1403\"\u003eM14 female threaded socket\u003c\/strong\u003e that securely accepts your counterweight. Once installed, you can easily slide the weight into position and lock it down using its built-in hand knob. The shaft weighs \u003cstrong data-end=\"1611\" data-start=\"1602\"\u003e11 oz\u003c\/strong\u003e, giving you a solid base even before the counterweight is added.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1876\" data-start=\"1678\"\u003ePair this shaft with the \u003cstrong data-end=\"1739\" data-start=\"1703\"\u003eiOptron #8605 3 lb counterweight\u003c\/strong\u003e, and you have a compact and customizable balance system for small scopes and accessories that would otherwise tip the system off-center.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1881\" data-start=\"1878\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1911\" data-start=\"1883\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"2477\" data-start=\"1913\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"1973\" data-start=\"1913\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"1973\" data-start=\"1913\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1933\" data-start=\"1913\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"1973\" data-start=\"1933\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"2477\" data-start=\"2037\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2099\" data-start=\"2037\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2057\" data-start=\"2037\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2056\" data-start=\"2039\"\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2099\" data-start=\"2057\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eiOptron SmartStar Cube and Cube Pro\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2162\" data-start=\"2100\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2120\" data-start=\"2100\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2114\" data-start=\"2102\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2162\" data-start=\"2120\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eStainless Steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2225\" data-start=\"2163\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2183\" data-start=\"2163\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2183\" data-start=\"2165\"\u003eShaft Diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2225\" data-start=\"2183\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e19mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2288\" data-start=\"2226\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2246\" data-start=\"2226\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2243\" data-start=\"2228\"\u003eThread Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2288\" data-start=\"2246\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eM14 female\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2351\" data-start=\"2289\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2309\" data-start=\"2289\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2301\" data-start=\"2291\"\u003eLength\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2351\" data-start=\"2309\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e5.9\" (150mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2414\" data-start=\"2352\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2372\" data-start=\"2352\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2364\" data-start=\"2354\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2414\" data-start=\"2372\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e11 oz (312g)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2477\" data-start=\"2415\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2435\" data-start=\"2415\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2431\" data-start=\"2417\"\u003eWorks With\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2477\" data-start=\"2435\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eiOptron 3 lb Counterweight (#8605)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2482\" data-start=\"2479\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2501\" data-start=\"2484\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2820\" data-start=\"2503\"\u003eIf your Cube mount starts slewing erratically when you add a heavier eyepiece or DSLR, it may not be a motor issue—it might be imbalance. Adding this shaft and a small counterweight can drastically improve tracking and accuracy, especially when observing near the horizon or zenith where slewing requires more torque.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2825\" data-start=\"2822\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2845\" data-start=\"2827\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3219\" data-start=\"2847\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"2888\" data-start=\"2851\"\u003eiOptron #8607 Counterweight Shaft\u003c\/strong\u003e is a simple but smart upgrade for users of the Cube and Cube Pro mounts. By enabling use of the 3 lb counterweight, it gives you more control over your setup’s balance and performance—even on a compact Alt-Az platform. If you're running a slightly heavier OTA or accessory, this might be just the tweak your tracking system needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\" class=\"table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e11 oz\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984643145,"sku":"8607","price":28.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8607-2t.jpg?v=1675379634"},{"product_id":"ioptron-3-pound-counterweight-for-various-ioptron-mounts","title":"iOptron 3 Pound Counterweight For Various iOptron Mounts","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"299\" data-start=\"220\"\u003eiOptron 3 lb Counterweight for Select iOptron Mounts (21mm Shaft Diameter)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"321\" data-start=\"300\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"321\" data-start=\"300\"\u003ePart Number: 8605\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"375\" data-start=\"323\"\u003eBalance Matters—Even When It’s Just Three Pounds\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"647\" data-start=\"377\"\u003eWhen it comes to astrophotography or smooth manual slewing, proper balance is critical. The \u003cstrong data-end=\"507\" data-start=\"469\"\u003eiOptron 3 lb counterweight (#8605)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a small but essential component designed to help you achieve precise balance on a wide range of lightweight and portable iOptron mounts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"862\" data-start=\"649\"\u003eWhether you're fine-tuning a compact travel rig or offsetting a DSLR on your star tracker, this \u003cstrong data-end=\"763\" data-start=\"745\"\u003e3 lb (1.35 kg)\u003c\/strong\u003e weight ensures your mount tracks smoothly and evenly—reducing motor strain and improving accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"867\" data-start=\"864\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"907\" data-start=\"869\"\u003eMade for 21mm Counterweight Shafts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1189\" data-start=\"909\"\u003eThis counterweight is designed specifically for \u003cstrong data-end=\"995\" data-start=\"957\"\u003e21mm diameter counterweight shafts\u003c\/strong\u003e, which are common across iOptron’s lighter mount platforms. It includes a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1100\" data-start=\"1070\"\u003ebuilt-in locking hand knob\u003c\/strong\u003e, allowing you to secure or reposition the weight quickly in the field—no tools required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1437\" data-start=\"1191\"\u003eThe weight itself is roughly \u003cstrong data-end=\"1238\" data-start=\"1220\"\u003e3\" in diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"1256\" data-start=\"1243\"\u003e1.5\" tall\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a \u003cstrong data-end=\"1287\" data-start=\"1265\"\u003ematte black finish\u003c\/strong\u003e that blends in with most iOptron mount aesthetics. Its compact size makes it ideal for field use where weight savings and portability are a priority.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1442\" data-start=\"1439\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1473\" data-start=\"1444\"\u003eCompatible iOptron Mounts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1569\" data-start=\"1475\"\u003eThis 3 lb counterweight fits a wide variety of iOptron mounts and tracking systems, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"1987\" data-start=\"1571\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1586\" data-start=\"1571\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1586\" data-start=\"1573\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1586\" data-start=\"1573\"\u003eSkyHunter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1606\" data-start=\"1587\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1606\" data-start=\"1589\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1606\" data-start=\"1589\"\u003eSkyGuider Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1651\" data-start=\"1607\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1651\" data-start=\"1609\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1627\" data-start=\"1609\"\u003eSkyTracker Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e (with CW package #3324)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1678\" data-start=\"1652\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1678\" data-start=\"1654\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1678\" data-start=\"1654\"\u003eSkyGuider (original)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1697\" data-start=\"1679\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1697\" data-start=\"1681\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1697\" data-start=\"1681\"\u003eAZ Mount Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1709\" data-start=\"1698\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1709\" data-start=\"1700\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1709\" data-start=\"1700\"\u003eCEM26\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1721\" data-start=\"1710\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1721\" data-start=\"1712\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1721\" data-start=\"1712\"\u003eGEM28\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1741\" data-start=\"1722\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1741\" data-start=\"1724\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1741\" data-start=\"1724\"\u003eCEM25 \/ ZEQ25\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1767\" data-start=\"1742\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1767\" data-start=\"1744\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1767\" data-start=\"1744\"\u003eiEQ30 and iEQ30 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1814\" data-start=\"1768\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1814\" data-start=\"1770\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1814\" data-start=\"1770\"\u003eMiniTower \/ MiniTower II \/ MiniTower Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1884\" data-start=\"1815\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1884\" data-start=\"1817\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1862\" data-start=\"1817\"\u003eCube \/ CubePro \/ Cube-A \/ Cube-G \/ Cube-E\u003c\/strong\u003e (with CW shaft #8607)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1920\" data-start=\"1885\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1920\" data-start=\"1887\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1920\" data-start=\"1887\"\u003eHEM \/ HAE \/ HAZ series mounts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1987\" data-start=\"1921\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1987\" data-start=\"1923\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1942\" data-start=\"1923\"\u003eCEM40 \/ CEM40EC\u003c\/strong\u003e – \u003cem data-end=\"1987\" data-start=\"1945\"\u003eOnly for early models with 20mm CW shaft\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-end=\"2236\" data-start=\"1989\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2236\" data-start=\"1991\"\u003e⚠️ \u003cstrong data-end=\"2017\" data-start=\"1994\"\u003eCompatibility Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Some early-production \u003cstrong data-end=\"2061\" data-start=\"2040\"\u003eCEM40 and CEM40EC\u003c\/strong\u003e mounts used a 20mm counterweight shaft. Later models use a 28mm shaft and will \u003cstrong data-end=\"2148\" data-start=\"2141\"\u003enot\u003c\/strong\u003e be compatible with this weight. Be sure to measure your shaft diameter before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2241\" data-start=\"2238\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2271\" data-start=\"2243\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"2718\" data-start=\"2273\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"2334\" data-start=\"2273\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2334\" data-start=\"2273\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2296\" data-start=\"2273\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2334\" data-start=\"2296\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"2718\" data-start=\"2399\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2462\" data-start=\"2399\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2423\" data-start=\"2399\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2411\" data-start=\"2401\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2462\" data-start=\"2423\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e3 lbs (1.35 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2526\" data-start=\"2463\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2487\" data-start=\"2463\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2487\" data-start=\"2465\"\u003eShaft Diameter Fit\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2526\" data-start=\"2487\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e21mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2590\" data-start=\"2527\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2551\" data-start=\"2527\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2539\" data-start=\"2529\"\u003eFinish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2590\" data-start=\"2551\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eBlack (powder-coated or anodized)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2654\" data-start=\"2591\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2615\" data-start=\"2591\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2607\" data-start=\"2593\"\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2654\" data-start=\"2615\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e~3\" diameter × 1.5\" tall\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2718\" data-start=\"2655\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2679\" data-start=\"2655\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2671\" data-start=\"2657\"\u003eAttachment\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2718\" data-start=\"2679\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eLocking hand knob (no tools needed)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2723\" data-start=\"2720\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2742\" data-start=\"2725\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3107\" data-start=\"2744\"\u003eIf you're using a \u003cstrong data-end=\"2779\" data-start=\"2762\"\u003eSkyGuider Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e with a longer lens or a full-frame DSLR, you may find the stock counterweight isn’t quite enough—especially if your camera has a battery grip or filter wheel attached. Adding this 3 lb weight to your counterweight shaft can restore perfect balance, improving tracking and reducing the chances of stalling during long exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3251\" data-start=\"3109\"\u003eIt’s also a great solution for outreach setups or light payloads where fine balance is still essential, but space and weight are at a premium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3256\" data-start=\"3253\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3276\" data-start=\"3258\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3599\" data-start=\"3278\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"3320\" data-start=\"3282\"\u003eiOptron 3 lb Counterweight (#8605)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a must-have accessory for users of lightweight mounts and trackers who want more balance flexibility without overdoing it. It’s especially useful for mobile astrophotographers and visual observers who need to fine-tune their rig without hauling around heavier counterweights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3664\" data-start=\"3601\"\u003eJust check your shaft diameter—and your balance will thank you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\" class=\"table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e3 pounds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481984675913,"sku":"8605","price":42.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8605-2t.jpg?v=1675379636"},{"product_id":"ioptron-tri-pier-360","title":"iOptron Tri-Pier 360","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"307\" data-end=\"385\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier 360 Heavy Duty Portable Pier for CEM120 and Large Mounts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"386\" data-end=\"408\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"386\" data-end=\"408\"\u003ePart Number: 8037A\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"410\" data-end=\"464\"\u003eRock-Solid Stability Meets Field-Ready Portability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"466\" data-end=\"899\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"470\" data-end=\"494\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier 360\u003c\/strong\u003e is a heavy-duty field pier designed to support today’s largest portable mounts, including the \u003cstrong data-start=\"589\" data-end=\"599\"\u003eCEM120\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-start=\"601\" data-end=\"610\"\u003eCEM60\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong data-start=\"616\" data-end=\"625\"\u003eiEQ45\u003c\/strong\u003e. Combining the strength and rigidity of a permanent pier with the portability and height adjustment of a tripod, the Tri-Pier 360 offers a best-of-both-worlds solution for astronomers who need observatory-grade stability at remote locations or semi-permanent installations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"901\" data-end=\"1329\"\u003eWith a \u003cstrong data-start=\"908\" data-end=\"943\"\u003e360 lb maximum payload capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e and a rugged construction of \u003cstrong data-start=\"973\" data-end=\"1004\"\u003e¼-inch-thick aluminum alloy\u003c\/strong\u003e, this pier can easily handle fully loaded imaging setups, large optical tubes, counterweights, and accessories—without flexing, wobbling, or shifting under load. Whether you’re running a deep-sky observatory rig or a large refractor for visual use, the Tri-Pier 360 provides a trustworthy foundation that won’t let you down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1331\" data-end=\"1334\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1336\" data-end=\"1385\"\u003eBuilt for the CEM120—But Compatible with More\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1387\" data-end=\"1611\"\u003eDesigned specifically with the \u003cstrong data-start=\"1418\" data-end=\"1436\"\u003eiOptron CEM120\u003c\/strong\u003e in mind, the Tri-Pier 360 is the \u003cstrong data-start=\"1470\" data-end=\"1500\"\u003erecommended field solution\u003c\/strong\u003e for those looking to deploy this heavy-duty mount in the field without the need for a permanent concrete pier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1613\" data-end=\"1690\"\u003eHowever, it’s not limited to just the CEM120. The Tri-Pier 360 also supports:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1692\" data-end=\"1810\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1692\" data-end=\"1711\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1711\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1711\"\u003eiOptron CEM60\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1712\" data-end=\"1745\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1714\" data-end=\"1745\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1714\" data-end=\"1745\"\u003eiOptron iEQ45 and iEQ45 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1746\" data-end=\"1810\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1748\" data-end=\"1810\"\u003eOther mounts using compatible adapter plates (sold separately)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1812\" data-end=\"1981\"\u003eWith its broad \u003cstrong data-start=\"1827\" data-end=\"1850\"\u003e8¼\" × 8¼\" top plate\u003c\/strong\u003e (210mm x 210mm), the pier is ready to accept large-format mounting hardware and offers a spacious surface for secure installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1983\" data-end=\"1986\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1988\" data-end=\"2052\"\u003eBuilt to Withstand the Elements—And Anything You Mount On It\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2054\" data-end=\"2384\"\u003eThe Tri-Pier 360 is CNC machined from \u003cstrong data-start=\"2092\" data-end=\"2116\"\u003esolid aluminum alloy\u003c\/strong\u003e and anodized for a professional, corrosion-resistant finish. The \u003cstrong data-start=\"2182\" data-end=\"2223\"\u003epier wall is a full ¼\" thick (6.35mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e, delivering impressive rigidity that minimizes vibration and ensures long-term structural stability—even under heavy sideloads from wind or asymmetric payloads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2386\" data-end=\"2717\"\u003eThe three \u003cstrong data-start=\"2396\" data-end=\"2417\"\u003eCNC-machined legs\u003c\/strong\u003e are independently adjustable and equipped with precision-ground \u003cstrong data-start=\"2482\" data-end=\"2499\"\u003eleveling feet\u003c\/strong\u003e, allowing you to compensate for up to \u003cstrong data-start=\"2538\" data-end=\"2567\"\u003e2 inches of uneven ground\u003c\/strong\u003e. Whether you're setting up on gravel, grass, or concrete, the Tri-Pier 360 adapts to your environment while keeping your mount level and rock steady.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2722\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2724\" data-end=\"2784\"\u003ePractical Adjustability and Compact Transport Dimensions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2786\" data-end=\"2879\"\u003eAlthough designed for strength, the Tri-Pier 360 is also engineered with portability in mind:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2881\" data-end=\"3236\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2881\" data-end=\"2985\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2883\" data-end=\"2985\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2883\" data-end=\"2904\"\u003eAdjustable Height\u003c\/strong\u003e: 32\" to 40\" (813mm to 1015mm), ideal for varying scopes and viewing conditions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2986\" data-end=\"3078\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2988\" data-end=\"3078\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2988\" data-end=\"3009\"\u003eFolded Dimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e: 11\" diameter x 31\" long (280mm x 785mm) for storage and transport\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3079\" data-end=\"3162\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3081\" data-end=\"3162\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3081\" data-end=\"3095\"\u003eLeg Spread\u003c\/strong\u003e: Up to 42\" diameter (1065mm) for maximum footprint and stability\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3163\" data-end=\"3236\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3236\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3165\" data-end=\"3180\"\u003eSelf-Weight\u003c\/strong\u003e: ~42 lbs (19 kg), manageable by one person in the field\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3238\" data-end=\"3484\"\u003eDespite its robust design, the pier folds down compactly and can be transported in most vehicle cargo areas. This makes it ideal for semi-permanent backyard installations, outreach programs, remote site astrophotography, and mobile observatories.\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4592\" data-end=\"4609\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4611\" data-end=\"5096\"\u003eIf you're upgrading to a CEM120 or running a permanently set-up CEM60 rig, you’ll want to eliminate vibration, flex, and frustration. The Tri-Pier 360 lets you do that without pouring concrete. It’s especially valuable when using \u003cstrong data-start=\"4841\" data-end=\"4874\"\u003elong focal length instruments\u003c\/strong\u003e, where even a subtle tremor can ruin guiding or smear your exposures. With 360 lbs of payload support and 2\" of fine leveling control, this pier keeps your imaging train perfectly aligned—regardless of surface or payload.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"5098\" data-end=\"5101\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"5103\" data-end=\"5121\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5123\" data-end=\"5476\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"5127\" data-end=\"5143\"\u003eTri-Pier 360\u003c\/strong\u003e is not just a tripod—it’s a professional-grade \u003cstrong data-start=\"5191\" data-end=\"5215\"\u003eportable pier system\u003c\/strong\u003e that delivers observatory-level performance in the field. With a massive payload capacity, robust CNC construction, wide leveling range, and generous adjustability, it's the ultimate support platform for high-end GoTo mounts like the iOptron CEM120 and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5478\" data-end=\"5671\"\u003eIf you’re building a serious setup for deep-sky imaging or visual work with large optical tubes, the Tri-Pier 360 gives you the confidence—and the rigidity—to focus on the stars, not your base.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details: \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWeight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e42\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead data-start=\"3521\" data-end=\"3589\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3521\" data-end=\"3589\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"3521\" data-end=\"3545\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-start=\"3545\" data-end=\"3589\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3662\" data-end=\"3733\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3662\" data-end=\"3688\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3664\" data-end=\"3687\"\u003eMount Compatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3688\" data-end=\"3733\"\u003eCEM120, CEM60, iEQ45 \/ Pro (direct fit)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3734\" data-end=\"3804\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3734\" data-end=\"3759\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3736\" data-end=\"3755\"\u003eMaximum Payload\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3759\" data-end=\"3804\"\u003e360 lbs (165 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3805\" data-end=\"3875\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3805\" data-end=\"3830\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3807\" data-end=\"3824\"\u003ePier Diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3830\" data-end=\"3875\"\u003e7⅛\" (181 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3876\" data-end=\"3946\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3876\" data-end=\"3901\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3878\" data-end=\"3901\"\u003ePier Wall Thickness\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3901\" data-end=\"3946\"\u003e¼\" (6.35 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"3947\" data-end=\"4017\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"3947\" data-end=\"3973\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3949\" data-end=\"3973\"\u003eTop Plate Dimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"3973\" data-end=\"4017\"\u003e8¼\" x 8¼\" (210mm x 210mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"4018\" data-end=\"4088\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"4018\" data-end=\"4043\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4020\" data-end=\"4032\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"4043\" data-end=\"4088\"\u003eCNC-machined aluminum alloy\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"4089\" data-end=\"4159\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"4089\" data-end=\"4114\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4091\" data-end=\"4101\"\u003eFinish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"4114\" data-end=\"4159\"\u003eAnodized (corrosion resistant)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"4160\" data-end=\"4230\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"4160\" data-end=\"4185\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4162\" data-end=\"4178\"\u003eHeight Range\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"4185\" data-end=\"4230\"\u003eAdjustable: 32\" to 40\" (813mm–1015mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"4231\" data-end=\"4301\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"4231\" data-end=\"4256\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4233\" data-end=\"4251\"\u003eLeveling Range\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"4256\" data-end=\"4301\"\u003e2\" (51 mm) on uneven ground\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"4302\" data-end=\"4372\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"4302\" data-end=\"4327\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4304\" data-end=\"4324\"\u003eLeg Spread (Max)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"4327\" data-end=\"4372\"\u003eØ42\" (1065 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"4373\" data-end=\"4443\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"4373\" data-end=\"4398\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4375\" data-end=\"4396\"\u003eFolded Dimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"4398\" data-end=\"4443\"\u003eØ11\" x 31\" (280mm x 785mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"4444\" data-end=\"4514\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"4444\" data-end=\"4469\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4446\" data-end=\"4456\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"4469\" data-end=\"4514\"\u003e~42 lbs (19 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-start=\"4515\" data-end=\"4585\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-start=\"4515\" data-end=\"4540\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4517\" data-end=\"4529\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"4540\" data-end=\"4585\"\u003eOne-year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481985888329,"sku":"8037A","price":1199.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8037-2t.jpg?v=1675379708"},{"product_id":"ioptron-mini-pier","title":"iOptron Mini Pier","description":"\u003ch2 data-end=\"356\" data-start=\"282\"\u003eiOptron MiniPier Extension Pier – Adds 8\" of Height for Select Mounts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"378\" data-start=\"357\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"378\" data-start=\"357\"\u003ePart Number: 8032\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"446\" data-start=\"380\"\u003eRaise Your Mount. Improve Your Clearance. Expand Your Options.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"773\" data-start=\"448\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"472\" data-start=\"452\"\u003eiOptron MiniPier\u003c\/strong\u003e is a compact yet sturdy extension pier designed to raise your compatible iOptron GoTo mount an additional \u003cstrong data-end=\"599\" data-start=\"579\"\u003e8 inches (200mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e above your tripod or permanent pier—perfect for observers using long optical tubes, imaging with large camera setups, or simply needing better clearance for full sky access.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1193\" data-start=\"775\"\u003eCrafted from heavy-duty anodized aluminum with a 5.7\" (144mm) diameter base and a \u003cstrong data-end=\"876\" data-start=\"857\"\u003e150mm top plate\u003c\/strong\u003e, the MiniPier offers rock-solid stability with a small footprint. It’s especially useful for setups where your telescope or accessories might otherwise strike the tripod legs during low altitude slews—such as at public outreach events, when imaging near the horizon, or when balancing gear with large counterweights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1198\" data-start=\"1195\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1250\" data-start=\"1200\"\u003eFits a Wide Range of iOptron Tripods and Piers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1380\" data-start=\"1252\"\u003eThe MiniPier is designed to bolt directly to a number of iOptron tripods and piers without the need for modification, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"1629\" data-start=\"1382\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1445\" data-start=\"1382\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1445\" data-start=\"1384\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1402\" data-start=\"1384\"\u003eLiteRoc tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e (used with AZ Mount Pro, CEM60, and CEM70)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1473\" data-start=\"1446\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1473\" data-start=\"1448\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1473\" data-start=\"1448\"\u003eMiniTower 1.5\" tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1499\" data-start=\"1474\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1499\" data-start=\"1476\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1499\" data-start=\"1476\"\u003eMiniTower 2\" tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1525\" data-start=\"1500\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1525\" data-start=\"1502\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1525\" data-start=\"1502\"\u003eAZ Mount Pro tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1550\" data-start=\"1526\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1550\" data-start=\"1528\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1550\" data-start=\"1528\"\u003eiEQ45\/CEM60 tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1606\" data-start=\"1551\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1606\" data-start=\"1553\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1577\" data-start=\"1553\"\u003e48-inch Pier (#8030)\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"1606\" data-start=\"1582\"\u003e42-inch Pier (#8033)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1629\" data-start=\"1607\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1629\" data-start=\"1609\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1629\" data-start=\"1609\"\u003eTri-Pier (#8034)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-end=\"1792\" data-start=\"1631\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1792\" data-start=\"1633\"\u003e⚠️ \u003cstrong data-end=\"1655\" data-start=\"1636\"\u003eImportant Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e The MiniPier \u003cstrong data-end=\"1685\" data-start=\"1669\"\u003edoes not fit\u003c\/strong\u003e the \u003cstrong data-end=\"1706\" data-start=\"1690\"\u003eiEQ30 tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e and is \u003cstrong data-end=\"1732\" data-start=\"1714\"\u003enot compatible\u003c\/strong\u003e with the CEM40\/GEM45 tripod directly. (More on that below.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"1797\" data-start=\"1794\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1822\" data-start=\"1799\"\u003eMount Compatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1923\" data-start=\"1824\"\u003eThe top plate of the MiniPier is pre-drilled to accept a variety of iOptron mount heads, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-end=\"2279\" data-start=\"1925\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"1952\" data-start=\"1925\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1952\" data-start=\"1927\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1936\" data-start=\"1927\"\u003eCEM70\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"1950\" data-start=\"1941\"\u003eCEM60\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2027\" data-start=\"1953\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2027\" data-start=\"1955\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1964\" data-start=\"1955\"\u003eCEM40\u003c\/strong\u003e \/ \u003cstrong data-end=\"1976\" data-start=\"1967\"\u003eGEM45\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-end=\"2025\" data-start=\"1977\"\u003e(mounts fit, but not on their default tripods)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2102\" data-start=\"2028\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2102\" data-start=\"2030\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2039\" data-start=\"2030\"\u003eHAE43\u003c\/strong\u003e \/ \u003cstrong data-end=\"2051\" data-start=\"2042\"\u003eHEM44\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-end=\"2100\" data-start=\"2052\"\u003e(fits but may restrict low-latitude observing)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2134\" data-start=\"2103\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2134\" data-start=\"2105\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2114\" data-start=\"2105\"\u003eiEQ45\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"2132\" data-start=\"2119\"\u003eiEQ45 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2208\" data-start=\"2135\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2208\" data-start=\"2137\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2146\" data-start=\"2137\"\u003eiEQ30\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"2164\" data-start=\"2151\"\u003eiEQ30 Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-end=\"2206\" data-start=\"2165\"\u003e(mounts fit, but not with iEQ30 tripod)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2279\" data-start=\"2209\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2279\" data-start=\"2211\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2227\" data-start=\"2211\"\u003eAZ Mount Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-end=\"2242\" data-start=\"2229\"\u003eMiniTower\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-end=\"2260\" data-start=\"2244\"\u003eMiniTower II\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-end=\"2279\" data-start=\"2262\"\u003eMiniTower Pro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2520\" data-start=\"2281\"\u003eOther mounts can also be adapted to the MiniPier using iOptron’s \u003cstrong data-end=\"2363\" data-start=\"2346\"\u003e#8036 adapter\u003c\/strong\u003e, sold separately. This adapter opens up additional flexibility for DIY mounting solutions, or for use with non-iOptron heads on compatible tripods or piers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-end=\"2746\" data-start=\"2522\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2746\" data-start=\"2524\"\u003e⚠️ \u003cstrong data-end=\"2552\" data-start=\"2527\"\u003eLow Latitude Warning:\u003c\/strong\u003e For some equatorial mounts like the \u003cstrong data-end=\"2604\" data-start=\"2589\"\u003eCEM40\/GEM45\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"2624\" data-start=\"2609\"\u003eHAE43\/HEM44\u003c\/strong\u003e, the extra 8\" of height may \u003cstrong data-end=\"2693\" data-start=\"2653\"\u003elimit access to low-altitude targets\u003c\/strong\u003e—especially if you're observing close to the equator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2751\" data-start=\"2748\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2781\" data-start=\"2753\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableContainer_16hzy_1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"_tableWrapper_16hzy_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-end=\"3277\" data-start=\"2783\"\u003e\n\u003cthead data-end=\"2837\" data-start=\"2783\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2837\" data-start=\"2783\"\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2804\" data-start=\"2783\"\u003eFeature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2837\" data-start=\"2804\"\u003eDetail\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody data-end=\"3277\" data-start=\"2893\"\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"2947\" data-start=\"2893\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2914\" data-start=\"2893\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2912\" data-start=\"2895\"\u003ePier Diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"2947\" data-start=\"2914\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e5.7\" (144mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3002\" data-start=\"2948\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"2969\" data-start=\"2948\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2963\" data-start=\"2950\"\u003eTop Plate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3002\" data-start=\"2969\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e150mm diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3057\" data-start=\"3003\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3024\" data-start=\"3003\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3015\" data-start=\"3005\"\u003eHeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3057\" data-start=\"3024\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003e8\" (200mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3112\" data-start=\"3058\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3079\" data-start=\"3058\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3072\" data-start=\"3060\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3112\" data-start=\"3079\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eAluminum, anodized finish\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3167\" data-start=\"3113\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3134\" data-start=\"3113\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3124\" data-start=\"3115\"\u003eColor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3167\" data-start=\"3134\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eBlack\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3222\" data-start=\"3168\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3189\" data-start=\"3168\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3180\" data-start=\"3170\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3222\" data-start=\"3189\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eApprox. 4.5–6 lbs (estimated)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-end=\"3277\" data-start=\"3223\"\u003e\n\u003ctd data-col-size=\"sm\" data-end=\"3244\" data-start=\"3223\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3237\" data-start=\"3225\"\u003eHardware\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-end=\"3277\" data-start=\"3244\" data-col-size=\"sm\"\u003eMounting bolts included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3282\" data-start=\"3279\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3301\" data-start=\"3284\"\u003eObserving Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3758\" data-start=\"3303\"\u003eIf you're using a longer refractor or a Newtonian with a large camera rig, the MiniPier can make all the difference when slewing near zenith or scanning the horizon. It’s also a smart upgrade for public observing nights, where tripod leg collisions or awkward eyepiece positions can ruin the experience for guests. Just remember to rebalance your mount after adding the pier—your center of gravity has changed, and your tracking performance depends on it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"3763\" data-start=\"3760\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3783\" data-start=\"3765\"\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4140\" data-start=\"3785\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-end=\"3817\" data-start=\"3789\"\u003eiOptron MiniPier (#8032)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a compact, affordable, and field-proven solution for raising your mount’s height while maintaining rigidity and stability. Whether you're looking to prevent tripod collisions, improve viewing comfort, or adapt your setup to new equipment, this accessory offers versatility without compromising your mount’s performance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481986347081,"sku":"8032","price":148.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8032-2.jpg?v=1675379735"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem40","title":"iOptron CEM40 Center Balanced GoTo Equatorial Mount With 1.5\" Tripod","description":"\u003cp\u003eThere comes a point when a smaller mount starts telling you what telescope you can own instead of the other way around. Maybe the new refractor takes too long to settle after you touch the focuser. Maybe you've added a camera and guider and there just isn't much capacity left. Or maybe you've decided that the five-minute exposure you couldn't take last year is exactly what you want to try this year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe C401A1 is a straightforward way into the CEM40. You get the same 40-pound-capacity CEM40 head used in the other standard packages, with iPolar built in, a 1.5\" stainless-steel tripod, and a 5 kg counterweight. What you don't get is the hard case or the heavier LiteRoc tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a lot of people, that's exactly enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe head weighs only 17.4 pounds (7.9 kg), so it is still easy to carry outside, but iOptron rates it for up to 40 pounds (18 kg) of telescope and equipment, excluding the counterweight. That gives you room to start with a modest visual or imaging system without buying another mount the moment the telescope grows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Mount You Can Grow Into\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePayload numbers never tell the entire story, but 40 pounds gives the CEM40 a lot more breathing room than a small introductory mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA 4\" refractor with a camera, filter wheel, guider, and focuser is not asking much of it. Neither is a compact SCT or one of the smaller astrographs. Owners also use the CEM40 with larger systems. What begins to matter as the telescope grows is not simply its weight, but its length, center of gravity, wind exposure, and how demanding the focal length is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat distinction matters with this particular package because it uses iOptron's 1.5\" stainless-steel tripod. The tripod weighs about 11 pounds (5 kg), making it the lighter support offered with the CEM40. It is a legitimate CEM40 tripod, not something intended only for camera lenses and tiny refractors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe heavier 1.75\" LiteRoc simply puts more mass underneath the same mount. If your telescope becomes long, the imaging train becomes heavy, or you routinely set up in the wind, the LiteRoc or a Tri-Pier may be worthwhile. If you carry the mount in and out every clear night, there is something to be said for keeping the tripod lighter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrom Visual Observing to Long-Exposure Imaging\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 works perfectly well as a visual mount. The Go2Nova 8410 hand controller gives you a database of more than 212,000 objects, the 6\" saddle accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetails, and built-in GPS supplies the mount with time and location information.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBut one of the nice things about buying a mount with some room to grow is that you don't have to replace it when curiosity turns toward astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth axes use 110mm, 216-tooth worm wheels driven by 17mm brass worms through synchronous belts. iOptron specifies the standard CEM40's periodic error at less than ±7.5 arcseconds over its 400-second worm cycle, and Permanent Periodic Error Correction can store a trained correction for the repeating part of that error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAdd an autoguider and the same mount that spent last night showing you Saturn can spend tonight collecting long exposures of a nebula or galaxy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the standard CEM40 rather than the encoder-equipped CEM40EC, so I would plan to guide for demanding long-exposure imaging rather than buy it with the expectation of running unguided. That is not really a shortcoming. It is how a great many successful imaging systems are built.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eiPolar Takes Some of the Mystery Out of Polar Alignment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolar alignment can sound more intimidating than it really is, especially when you're moving up to your first serious equatorial mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 has iOptron's iPolar camera built into the RA axis. Instead of crouching behind an optical polar scope and trying to put Polaris in exactly the right place on a reticle, you connect a computer and let iPolar photograph and plate-solve the surrounding polar sky. The software then shows you which way to adjust the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolaris itself does not have to be visible. The camera still needs enough surrounding polar sky to identify the field, but you are not dependent on seeing the pole star itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOnce you're aligned, the mount's automatic zero-position search gives it a known mechanical reference, while GPS supplies the location and time it needs for accurate operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40 lb (18 kg) payload capacity.\u003c\/strong\u003e Payload rating excludes the counterweight; telescope size and length also matter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e17.4 lb (7.9 kg) mount head.\u003c\/strong\u003e A useful amount of carrying capacity without a heavy head.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1.5\" stainless-steel tripod.\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 11 lb (5 kg), making this the lighter complete CEM40 package.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/strong\u003e Camera-based polar alignment is built into the RA axis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/strong\u003e Stores a trained correction for the repeating component of RA worm error.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePeriodic error below ±7.5 arcseconds.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's specification over the 400-second worm period.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBelt-driven worm system.\u003c\/strong\u003e 110mm, 216-tooth worm wheels on both axes with 17mm brass worms.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e6\" dual saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetails.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e32-channel GPS.\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies time and location information automatically.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic zero-position search.\u003c\/strong\u003e Gives the mount a repeatable mechanical reference.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGo2Nova 8410 hand controller.\u003c\/strong\u003e More than 212,000 objects and a built-in heater for cold nights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB and ST-4 guiding connections.\u003c\/strong\u003e Ready to work with common imaging and guiding software.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThrough-mount cable management.\u003c\/strong\u003e USB, ST-4, and a 12V output rated to 3A are routed through the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional Wi-Fi.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the more useful things about reading owner discussions of the CEM40 is seeing how different the real-world systems can be.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I am quite happy with my CEM40 with my 102\/714 APO.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat owner was running a 102mm apo with camera, filter wheel, and the rest of the imaging equipment at around 9 kg, or about 20 pounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOther CEM40 owners have pushed the 1.5\" tripod considerably farther. One reported using a Takahashi TSA-120 with guider, filter wheel, cooled camera, electronic focuser, ASIAIR, and power equipment. He felt he was approaching the tripod's practical limit and planned to move to a Tri-Pier, but the system was producing images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is a more useful way to think about this package than drawing an arbitrary line at a certain telescope aperture. Start with the equipment you actually intend to use. As the telescope gets longer and heavier, the support underneath it becomes increasingly important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor visual observing, a CEM40 gives a medium-size telescope the kind of steady tracking that lets you spend time looking instead of continually nudging the scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePut an SCT on it and Jupiter can stay centered while you wait for the atmosphere to settle enough to show another little curl in a belt. A globular cluster like M13 can sit in the middle of a high-power eyepiece while you begin resolving stars across its face. Double stars, lunar detail, and planetary observing all benefit from having the object simply stay where you put it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThen, when you decide to attach a camera, the mount doesn't suddenly become obsolete. Add a guider, learn the imaging workflow a piece at a time, and the same CEM40 becomes the foundation for long-exposure astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat ability to grow with the observer is probably the best reason to move into a mount of this class in the first place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron CEM40 Center-Balanced Equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Internal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 6\" Losmandy D \/ Vixen dual saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Go2Nova 8410 hand controller with built-in heater\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron 1.5\" stainless-steel tripod, approximately 5 kg (11 lb)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 28mm × 280mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 100–240V AC adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMount connection accessories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHard case not included. A fitted CEM40 hard case is available separately and is included with the C402A1 package.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cdl\u003e\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhy choose the C401A1?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eIt is the straightforward CEM40 package: the standard 40 lb-capacity CEM40 with internal iPolar, the lighter 1.5\" stainless tripod, and a 5 kg counterweight. You are not paying for a hard case or the heavier LiteRoc tripod if you do not need them.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eIs the CEM40 a good upgrade from a smaller mount?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eIt can be a substantial one. The 40 lb payload rating gives you room for a more capable visual or imaging system, while the 17.4 lb head remains manageable enough to carry outside regularly.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eIs the 1.5\" tripod only for small telescopes?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNo. It is iOptron's standard lighter tripod for this CEM40 package, and owners use it successfully with complete refractor imaging systems. Longer tubes, heavier payloads, wind, and demanding image scales can make the additional support of the LiteRoc or a Tri-Pier worthwhile.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eHow much can the CEM40 carry?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eiOptron rates it for up to 40 lb (18 kg) of telescope and equipment, excluding counterweights. Telescope length, center of gravity, wind exposure, and focal length should also be considered.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eCan I use the CEM40 for astrophotography?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eYes. The CEM40 is designed for both visual observing and astrophotography. For demanding long-exposure imaging, plan to use an autoguider. The mount provides both an ST-4 guide port and USB computer control.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes the CEM40 include iPolar?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eYes. The iPolar electronic polar scope is installed inside the RA axis.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes iPolar require a clear view of Polaris?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNo. Polaris itself does not have to be visible, although the iPolar camera still needs enough surrounding polar sky to plate-solve successfully.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes this package include a hard case?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNo. The fitted CEM40 hard case is available separately. The C402A1 package includes the same basic 1.5\" tripod configuration with the hard case added.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eCan I upgrade the tripod later?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eYes. If the telescope grows or you decide you want a more substantial support, the CEM40 can be moved to a compatible LiteRoc or Tri-Pier.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes the CEM40 have Wi-Fi?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNot built in. The mount communicates over USB, and iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount control.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuide scope and guide camera (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: the usual next step when you begin long-exposure astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron CEM40 Hard Case (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: protects the mount head for storage and travel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 1.75\" LiteRoc Tripod (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: puts a more substantial portable support underneath the CEM40 as the telescope grows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron MiniPier for CEM40 (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: provides additional clearance for longer refractors and camera trains near the tripod legs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 2.5 kg #8027-05 Counterweight (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: adds balancing capacity when the complete telescope system requires more than the included 5 kg weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: adds wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe C401A1 makes sense for someone who wants the CEM40 without buying more package than they need.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou get the same 40-pound-capacity head, internal iPolar, GPS, Permanent Periodic Error Correction, dual saddle, and guiding-ready electronics as the other standard CEM40 packages. Underneath it is the lighter 1.5\" stainless tripod, and beside it is the 5 kg counterweight you need to get started.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere is no hard case, and there is no LiteRoc. You can add either one later if the way you use the mount changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor now, what you are buying is the important part: a CEM40 with enough capacity to let the telescope, the camera, and probably the observer grow for quite a while before the mount becomes the thing holding them back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n  \u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e40 lb (18 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.4 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.28\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; anodized red\/black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–60° (special counterweight-shaft mounting below 10°)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt; ±7.5 arcsec (measured with encoder, 400-second period)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePermanent PEC (PPEC)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ45mm, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e5 kg (11 lb), #8027, included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motor, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec (1080×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova 8410, 8-line, 21-character LCD, built-in heater; 212,000+ object database\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); AC adapter included, indoor use only\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.6A tracking, 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–10° past meridian), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D and Vixen\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB; Wi-Fi via optional external iStarFi adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC 12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10 °C to 40 °C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron 1.5″ stainless steel tripod, approx. 5 kg (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eNot included (see C402A1)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eShipping Weight \/ Box\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eMount: 25 lb, 16 × 15 × 10 in; tripod with counterweight: 29 lb, 34 × 9 × 9 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eC401A1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481986936905,"sku":"CEM40","price":2689.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/cem40_jpg.jpg?v=1675379768"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem40ec-center-balanced-goto-equatorial-mount","title":"iOptron CEM40EC Center Balanced GoTo Equatorial Mount With 1.5\" Tripod","description":"\u003cp\u003eThere are a couple of ways to buy a CEM40EC, and the difference between them is not really the mount. The head is the same 40-pound-capacity CEM40EC either way, with the same high-resolution RA encoder, the same internal iPolar, and the same 17.4-pound mount head. What changes is the tripod underneath it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis C404A1 package comes with iOptron's 1.5\" stainless steel tripod, which weighs about 11 pounds (5 kg). The C404A3 package uses the larger 1.75\" LiteRoc, which weighs about 15.4 pounds (7 kg). Four pounds does not sound like much when you're reading a specification table. It feels a little more important when you're carrying the mount, tripod, counterweight, telescope, camera case, battery, and laptop from the car to an observing field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is the reason this version exists. You still get the full CEM40EC mount, a 5 kg counterweight, internal iPolar, and a fitted hard case for the head. You simply get it on the lighter tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf the mount is going to travel, move around the yard, or regularly come out of the garage for a clear night, that can be a very sensible trade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Lighter Tripod Does Not Mean a Smaller Mount\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt is tempting to look at the 1.5\" tripod and think this must be the version for camera lenses and tiny refractors. That sells the package short.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron still rates the CEM40EC for up to 40 pounds (18 kg) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding the counterweight. The head itself has not changed. It still weighs 17.4 pounds (7.9 kg), uses the same 110mm worm wheels, the same belt drive, the same 6\" Losmandy D\/Vixen dual saddle, and the same encoder-corrected RA drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat does change is the amount of support underneath it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA short, compact imaging system is easier on a tripod than a long refractor of the same weight. Wind matters. So does the height of the tripod, the center of gravity of the telescope, and how much equipment is hanging behind the focuser. That is why there is no single payload number that tells the whole story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're building a long or particularly heavy imaging system, or the mount is going to live at home where four pounds of tripod weight does not matter very much, I would lean toward the 1.75\" LiteRoc or a Tri-Pier. If you're actually going to carry the system somewhere, the lighter 1.5\" tripod starts making a lot more sense.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat the Encoder Actually Does\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEvery worm-driven equatorial mount has some periodic error. The worm turns once every few minutes, and very small imperfections in the drive repeat with each rotation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard CEM40 deals with that in the traditional way: Permanent Periodic Error Correction can reduce the repeating error, and an autoguider can correct what remains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC does something different. A high-resolution encoder watches the right-ascension axis while the mount is tracking. iOptron's Real-Time Periodic Error Correction uses that feedback to correct the repeating RA drive error as it happens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies encoder-corrected periodic error below 0.3 arcsecond RMS, measured over the mount's 400-second worm period. That is a bench measurement of the corrected RA drive, not a promise that your guiding graph will read 0.3 arcsecond or that every exposure will suddenly be perfect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSeeing still exists. So do wind, flexure, balance, polar-alignment error, and everything else happening between the ground and the camera sensor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat the encoder gives you is a mount that is already correcting one of its own major repeating errors before your guider ever has to respond to it. That is the useful part.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDo You Still Guide It?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUsually, yes, particularly as focal length gets longer and image scale becomes more demanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eI would not buy the CEM40EC because someone told you an encoder means you'll never guide again. The encoder is correcting the RA drive. A guider can still see movement caused by polar alignment, flexure, wind, atmospheric seeing, and the rest of the telescope system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe difference is that the guider is working with a cleaner RA drive to begin with.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt shorter focal lengths, some combinations of polar alignment, exposure time, and image scale can make unguided imaging practical. That is a useful possibility, but it is better treated as something your particular system may allow rather than as a reason to buy the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSetting Up at a New Site\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA portable equatorial mount has one unavoidable job every time it changes locations: you have to point the RA axis at the celestial pole again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC has iOptron's iPolar camera built into the RA axis. Instead of looking through a traditional polar scope and trying to place a star on a reticle, iPolar photographs the surrounding polar sky, plate-solves the field, and shows you on the computer which way to adjust the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolaris itself does not have to be visible. The camera still needs enough of the surrounding polar region to recognize the star field, but you are not dependent on seeing the pole star itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is especially handy with this version of the CEM40EC because this is the package most likely to change locations. Built-in GPS supplies the new time and location, while the automatic zero-position search gives the mount a known mechanical starting point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 6\" saddle accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetails, so you are not committed to one rail system as the telescope changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Few Cables You Don't Have to Chase Around the Mount\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCable management is one of those features that looks fairly unimportant on a product page and becomes more important after you've spent a few nights imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC routes a 12V output rated to 3A, an ST-4 guide connection, and USB through the mount. That gives you a way to bring some of the connections up to the moving side of the system instead of letting every cable drape across the axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt is not a built-in multi-port USB hub, so a larger imaging train may still use a small hub or mini computer near the telescope. The mount itself communicates through USB, and Wi-Fi can be added with iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40 lb (18 kg) payload capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e on a 17.4 lb (7.9 kg) mount head.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-resolution RA encoder\u003c\/strong\u003e with Real-Time Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEncoder-corrected periodic error below 0.3 arcsecond RMS\u003c\/strong\u003e over the 400-second worm period under iOptron's bench measurement.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/strong\u003e for camera-based polar alignment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1.5\" stainless steel tripod\u003c\/strong\u003e weighing approximately 11 lb (5 kg).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 kg (11 lb) counterweight\u003c\/strong\u003e and stainless steel counterweight shaft included.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFitted hard case\u003c\/strong\u003e for the mount head included.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6\" Losmandy D\/Vixen dual saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGPS, automatic zero-position search, and power-down memory.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB, ST-4, and 12V cable management\u003c\/strong\u003e routed through the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGo2Nova hand controller\u003c\/strong\u003e with built-in heater and 212,000+ object database.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 1.5\" tripod has generated plenty of discussion over the years, which is not surprising. People see a 40-pound mount riding on relatively light legs and wonder whether the tripod is enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I'm using it as a portable mount to carry around, so 1.5\" tripod is definitely a proper start.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat came from a CEM40EC owner using roughly 20 pounds of equipment. Other owners have used the same tripod with complete 4\" refractor imaging systems and been satisfied with the result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere are also owners who eventually move to a heavier tripod, MiniPier, or Tri-Pier as the telescope gets longer or the imaging system gets heavier. That does not make the 1.5\" tripod a mistake. It simply reflects the same thing we see with every mount: the support becomes more important as the telescope asks more of it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor us, the useful community takeaway is that the 1.5\" tripod is a legitimate portable foundation for the CEM40EC. It is not restricted to camera lenses. The heavier supports simply give you more margin when portability becomes less important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis package naturally appeals to people carrying smaller refractors and compact imaging systems to darker skies, but there is no reason to think of it as a wide-field-only mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith a short refractor, the targets can be enormous: the North America and Pelican Nebulae together, the California Nebula, the broad clouds around Sadr, the dusty fields of Taurus, or Rho Ophiuchi spreading around Antares.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMove up in focal length and the mount does not suddenly become a different CEM40EC. Galaxies, planetary nebulae, globular clusters, and smaller emission regions are still on the menu. You simply begin paying more attention to the length of the telescope, wind, tripod height, and the rigidity of the complete setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is one of the nicer things about buying more mount than your first telescope needs. The telescope can change without forcing you to start over underneath it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron CEM40EC Center-Balanced Equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x High-resolution RA encoder with Real-Time Periodic Error Correction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Internal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 6\" Losmandy D \/ Vixen dual saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Go2Nova hand controller with built-in heater\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron 1.5\" stainless steel tripod, approximately 5 kg (11 lb)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 28mm × 280mm stainless steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Fitted hard carrying case for the mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 100–240V AC adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMount connection accessories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cdl\u003e\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhy choose the C404A1 instead of the C404A3?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eThe mount head is the same CEM40EC. The difference is the tripod. The C404A1 uses iOptron's 1.5\" stainless tripod, which weighs about 11 pounds. The C404A3 uses the larger 1.75\" LiteRoc at about 15.4 pounds. Choose this version when easier transport matters more; choose the LiteRoc when you would rather put more tripod underneath the mount.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eIs the 1.5\" tripod only for small refractors?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNo. It is the standard lighter tripod iOptron supplies with this CEM40EC package, and owners use it with complete refractor imaging systems. Long tubes, heavier payloads, wind, and very demanding image scales can make a heavier tripod or pier worthwhile.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eHow much can the CEM40EC carry?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eiOptron rates the mount for up to 40 pounds (18 kg) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights. As always, OTA size and length matter in addition to weight.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 1.75\" LiteRoc Tripod (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: the next step when you want a more substantial portable support under the same CEM40EC head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron MiniPier for CEM40 (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: useful when a longer refractor or camera train needs additional clearance from the tripod legs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 2.5 kg #8027-05 Counterweight (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: adds balancing capacity when the included 5 kg counterweight is not enough for the complete telescope system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Tripod Carry Bag (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: gives the 1.5\" stainless tripod its own bag for travel and storage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: adds wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe C404A1 is not a stripped-down CEM40EC, and it is not a special version meant only for camera lenses. It is the same encoder-equipped CEM40EC placed on the lighter of iOptron's two common tripod choices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou still get the 40-pound payload rating, 17.4-pound head, high-resolution RA encoder, Real-Time Periodic Error Correction, internal iPolar, GPS, dual saddle, through-mount connections, counterweight, and hard case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe thing you save is weight underneath it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your mount lives ten feet from its observing spot, the heavier LiteRoc may be the easy choice. If you're the person who has to carry the whole system across the yard, through a campground, or from the car to a dark-sky field, four pounds starts to feel like a specification worth paying attention to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is the reason to choose this CEM40EC package.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e40 lb (18 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.4 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.28\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; anodized red\/black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–60° (special counterweight-shaft mounting below 10°)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt; 0.3 arcsec RMS (with encoder, measured on the bench, 400-second period)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eReal-time PEC (RPEC), via high-resolution RA encoder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ45mm, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e5 kg (11 lb), included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motor, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec (1080×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova, 8-line, 21-character LCD, built-in heater; 212,000+ object database\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); AC adapter included, indoor use only\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.6A tracking, 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–10° past meridian), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D and Vixen\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB; Wi-Fi via optional external iStarFi adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC 12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10 °C to 40 °C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron 1.5″ stainless steel tripod, approx. 5 kg (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eShipping Weight \/ Box\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eMount: 33 lb, 21 × 16 × 9 in; tripod with counterweight: 29 lb, 34 × 9 × 9 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eC404A1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481986969673,"sku":"CEM40EC","price":4289.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/cem40.jpg_1.jpg?v=1675379770"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem40-center-balanced-goto-equatorial-mount-with-1-5-tripod-and-case","title":"iOptron CEM40 Center Balanced GoTo Equatorial Mount With 1.5\" Tripod And Case","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe C402A1 is the CEM40 package for the observer or imager who expects the mount to travel. You get the same 40 lb (18 kg) CEM40 head, internal iPolar, 5 kg counterweight, and fitted hard case, but the support is iOptron's lighter 1.5-inch stainless-steel tripod rather than the heavier 1.75-inch LiteRoc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe result is a complete equatorial mount system that is easier to move from the house to the yard, load into a vehicle for a star party, or pack for a longer trip. The mount head weighs just 17.4 lb (7.9 kg), the tripod about 11 lb (5 kg), and each major piece travels separately instead of becoming one large, awkward load.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou are not giving up CEM40 capability to get there. The mount still carries up to 40 lb of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights, with internal iPolar, Permanent Periodic Error Correction, GPS, automatic zero-position sensing, and a 6-inch dual saddle for Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetails.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTravel-oriented CEM40 package.\u003c\/strong\u003e Includes the mount head, 1.5-inch stainless-steel tripod, 5 kg counterweight, internal iPolar, hand controller, and fitted hard case.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40 lb payload capacity.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron rates the CEM40 for up to 18 kg (40 lb) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e17.4 lb mount head.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 7.9 kg, the CEM40 provides substantial imaging capacity without requiring a heavy head.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1.5-inch stainless-steel tripod.\u003c\/strong\u003e The included tripod weighs approximately 11 lb (5 kg), about 4.4 lb (2 kg) less than iOptron's 1.75-inch LiteRoc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHard carrying case included.\u003c\/strong\u003e Protects the mount head during storage and transportation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 kg counterweight included.\u003c\/strong\u003e One 11 lb counterweight is supplied for the 28mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCenter-Balanced Equatorial design.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's CEM layout places more of the combined mount and payload mass directly over the tripod.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/strong\u003e Camera-based polar alignment is built directly into the RA axis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePeriodic error below ±7.5 arcseconds.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron specifies native PE below ±7.5 arcseconds over the mount's 400-second worm period.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/strong\u003e A trained correction can be stored in the mount to reduce the repeating component of RA tracking error.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBelt-driven worm system.\u003c\/strong\u003e Both axes use 110mm diameter, 216-tooth worm wheels driven by 17mm brass worms through synchronous belts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e45mm steel axles and 68mm bearings.\u003c\/strong\u003e Substantial internal components for a mount head weighing less than 18 pounds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrecision stepper motors.\u003c\/strong\u003e 128 micro-steps provide a specified motor resolution of 0.08 arcsecond.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUp to 4.5°\/sec slewing.\u003c\/strong\u003e Maximum GoTo speed is approximately 1080× sidereal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGo2Nova 8410 hand controller.\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides an 8-line × 21-character display, built-in heater, and a database of more than 212,000 objects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in 32-channel GPS.\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies time and location information when the mount arrives at a new observing site.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic zero-position search.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can electronically locate its mechanical reference position.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePower-down memory.\u003c\/strong\u003e Positional information can be retained after a normal power-down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfigurable meridian treatment.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can stop or flip, with settings allowing up to 10° of travel past the meridian when clearance permits.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e6-inch dual saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetail plates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThrough-mount connections.\u003c\/strong\u003e A 12V DC output rated to 3A, ST-4 guide connection, and USB are routed through the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional Wi-Fi.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's external iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Choose the 1.5-Inch Tripod Package?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron offers the CEM40 with more than one support option because portability and maximum rigidity are not always the same priority.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 1.5-inch stainless-steel tripod included here weighs approximately 5 kg (11 lb). The 1.75-inch LiteRoc supplied with the C402A3 weighs approximately 7 kg (15.4 lb). That difference of about 4.4 pounds may not sound dramatic on paper, but it is noticeable when every component has to be carried from the vehicle to an observing site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe important point is that the mount head itself is unchanged. This is still the 40 lb-capacity CEM40. The lighter tripod simply makes this package the more transportable choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your system is particularly long, heavy, exposed to wind, or normally stays close to home, the additional mass of the 1.75-inch LiteRoc may be worthwhile. If you regularly move the system and value keeping each component manageable, the 1.5-inch package has an obvious advantage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA 40-Pound Mount Head You Can Actually Carry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40's payload-to-head-weight ratio is especially useful when the mount travels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe head itself weighs only 17.4 lb, yet iOptron rates it for up to 40 lb of telescope and imaging equipment. Cameras, filter wheels, electronic focusers, guide equipment, rotators, rings, dovetails, and cabling all count toward that payload, so having capacity beyond the optical tube alone gives you room to build a complete system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePayload weight is not the entire story. Tube length, diameter, center of gravity, wind exposure, focal length, and image scale all affect how demanding a telescope will be on a mount. A compact system and a long refractor of identical weight do not necessarily behave the same way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBut the basic attraction remains: the CEM40 gives you serious equatorial-mount capacity without asking you to transport a 30- or 40-pound mount head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eiPolar for a Mount That Changes Locations\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA portable equatorial mount has to be polar aligned every time it arrives at a new observing site, which makes the CEM40's internal iPolar especially useful in this package.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInstead of looking through a traditional polar scope and positioning a star on a reticle, iPolar photographs the surrounding polar sky and plate-solves the field. The software determines where the mount's RA axis is pointing relative to the celestial pole and shows you how to adjust the altitude and azimuth controls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolaris itself does not have to be visible. The iPolar camera still needs enough surrounding polar sky to solve successfully, but you do not need to identify or manually position the pole star.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBuilt-in GPS supplies the mount with time and location information after you move to a new site, while automatic zero-position sensing gives it a repeatable mechanical reference.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTracking and Guiding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard CEM40 uses a precision worm drive rather than a high-resolution tracking encoder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth RA and DEC use 110mm diameter, 216-tooth worm wheels driven by 17mm brass worms through synchronous belts. The RA worm completes one cycle every 400 seconds, and iOptron specifies native periodic error below ±7.5 arcseconds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction allows the mount to store a correction for the repeating component of that RA worm error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor demanding long-exposure astrophotography, particularly as focal length and image scale increase, conventional autoguiding remains the normal approach. If you specifically want a high-resolution RA encoder and Real-Time Periodic Error Correction, the CEM40EC is the corresponding step up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnections in the Field\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 includes a straightforward through-mount cable-management system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA 12V DC output rated to 3A, an ST-4 guide connection, and USB are routed through the mount so those particular cables do not have to cross the moving axes externally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a USB pass-through rather than a multi-port imaging hub. A more complicated imaging train may still use a small hub or mini computer mounted near the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount itself communicates with a computer through USB. Built-in Wi-Fi is not included, but iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTravel with a conventional equatorial mount always involves some planning, especially when a tripod and counterweight are part of the system. But CEM40 owners do take these mounts on the road.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Went to Nevada last month with my CEM40. Put the head in the case and packed inside a suit case.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat Cloudy Nights owner used a lighter carbon-fiber tripod rather than the standard iOptron tripod and packed the counterweight separately. The useful takeaway is not that there is one correct way to fly with a CEM40, but that the relatively light head and separate hard case make the mount realistic to transport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe same discussion also shows why airline travel should be planned around the carrier rather than assumed from the dimensions of the equipment. Carry-on and checked-baggage limits vary by airline, aircraft, route, and fare, and heavy counterweights deserve particular attention when planning baggage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor automobile travel, the division into a 17.4 lb head, 11 lb tripod, separate counterweight, and telescope makes the system much easier to load and move than one large assembled mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder Dark Skies\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe reason to move an imaging mount at all is what happens when you put it under a sky worth traveling for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA short refractor or camera lens can take advantage of the enormous structures that become difficult from brighter suburban skies: the Rho Ophiuchi complex around Antares, the dark lanes of the Pipe Nebula, the North America and Pelican Nebulae, or the sprawling dust and emission regions running through Cygnus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAdd more focal length and the same CEM40 can carry a substantially more ambitious imaging system. The mount is not limited to a particular type of travel telescope simply because this package uses the lighter tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is really the appeal of the C402A1: you can take a full CEM40 platform with you instead of stepping down to a much smaller mount simply because the observing site is away from home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron CEM40 Center-Balanced Equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Internal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 6-inch Losmandy D \/ Vixen dual saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Go2Nova 8410 hand controller with built-in heater\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron 1.5-inch stainless-steel tripod, approximately 5 kg (11 lb)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 28mm × 280mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Fitted hard carrying case for the mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 100–240V AC adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMount connection accessories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is special about the C402A1 package?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIt combines the CEM40 with iOptron's lighter 1.5-inch stainless-steel tripod, one 5 kg counterweight, and a fitted hard case for the mount head. It is the more transport-oriented CEM40 package.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much does the tripod weigh?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron lists the 1.5-inch stainless-steel tripod at approximately 5 kg (11 lb).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does that compare with the 1.75-inch LiteRoc?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe 1.75-inch LiteRoc supplied with the C402A3 weighs approximately 7 kg (15.4 lb), making it about 4.4 lb (2 kg) heavier than the 1.5-inch tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes using the 1.5-inch tripod change the CEM40's payload rating?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe mount itself retains iOptron's published 40 lb payload rating. As with any telescope mount, tube geometry, wind, center of gravity, focal length, and the rigidity of the complete support system should also be considered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShould I choose the 1.5-inch tripod or the 1.75-inch LiteRoc?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nChoose the 1.5-inch package when easier transportation is a priority. Choose the heavier 1.75-inch LiteRoc when additional support mass is more important than saving roughly 4.4 pounds of tripod weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes this package include a hard case?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. A fitted hard case for the CEM40 mount head is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it include a counterweight?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. One 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight is included. Depending on the complete telescope system, additional counterweight may be required for proper balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I fly with the CEM40?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCEM40 owners do travel by air with their mounts, but there is no universal airline packing rule. Baggage dimensions, weight limits, carry-on allowances, and security requirements vary, so check the current rules for your airline and itinerary before traveling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 include iPolar?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. Internal iPolar is installed in the RA axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes iPolar require Polaris to be visible?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Polaris itself does not have to be visible, although enough surrounding polar sky must remain unobstructed for the camera to plate-solve successfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 need guiding?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFor demanding long-exposure astrophotography, particularly at longer focal lengths, guiding is the normal approach. The standard CEM40 uses PPEC but does not have the high-resolution RA encoder of the CEM40EC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I upgrade the tripod later?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. A 1.75-inch LiteRoc or an appropriate Tri-Pier can be used when you want a more substantial support.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 1.75-inch LiteRoc Tripod (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: a more substantial portable support when additional tripod mass is preferred.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 2.5 kg #8027-05 Counterweight (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: useful when the complete telescope system requires more counterweight than the included 5 kg weight provides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Tripod Carry Bag (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: gives the 1.5-inch tripod its own bag for transportation and storage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: adds wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe C402A1 makes sense when you want to travel with a CEM40 without giving up the CEM40 itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou still get 40 lb of payload capacity on a 17.4 lb head, internal iPolar, PPEC, GPS, automatic zero search, through-mount connections, and the dual saddle. The difference is underneath it: the 1.5-inch stainless-steel tripod weighs about 4.4 pounds less than the 1.75-inch LiteRoc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe included hard case protects the head, while the tripod, counterweight, telescope, and mount remain separate pieces that can be packed and carried individually.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf maximum portability matters more to you than having the heavier tripod, this is the CEM40 package built around that priority.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e40 lb (18 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.4 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.28\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; anodized red\/black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–60° (special counterweight-shaft mounting below 10°)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt; ±7.5 arcsec (measured with encoder, 400-second period)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePermanent PEC (PPEC)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ45mm, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e5 kg (11 lb), #8027, included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motor, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec (1080×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova 8410, 8-line, 21-character LCD, built-in heater; 212,000+ object database\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); AC adapter included, indoor use only\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.6A tracking, 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–10° past meridian), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D and Vixen\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB; Wi-Fi via optional external iStarFi adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC 12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10 °C to 40 °C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron 1.5″ stainless steel tripod, approx. 5 kg (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eShipping Weight \/ Box\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eMount: 33 lb, 21 × 16 × 9 in; tripod with counterweight: 29 lb, 34 × 9 × 9 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eC402A1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481987166281,"sku":"CEM40C","price":2779.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/cem40.jpg_3.jpg?v=1675379780"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem40-center-balanced-goto-equatorial-mount-with-2-tripod","title":"iOptron CEM40 Center Balanced GoTo Equatorial Mount With 1.75\" Literoc Tripod","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe C401A3 gives you the complete CEM40 mount system without adding a hard travel case you may not need. It includes the CEM40 head with internal iPolar, the matched 1.75-inch stainless-steel LiteRoc tripod, one 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight, counterweight shaft, and Go2Nova hand controller.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount itself carries up to 40 lb (18 kg) of telescope and imaging equipment on a head weighing just 17.4 lb (7.9 kg). That combination gives you useful room for cameras, filter wheels, focusers, guiding equipment, and future changes to the telescope without turning the mount head into something difficult to move.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your CEM40 will spend most of its time at home, move between the garage and backyard, or travel in storage you already own, the C401A3 gives you the important pieces without including the fitted hard case. If you want the same mount, tripod, and counterweight with iOptron's hard case for the head, choose the C402A3 package instead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComplete CEM40 mount system.\u003c\/strong\u003e Includes the mount head, 1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod, 5 kg counterweight, internal iPolar, hand controller, and counterweight shaft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40 lb payload capacity.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron rates the CEM40 for up to 18 kg (40 lb) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e17.4 lb mount head.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 7.9 kg, the CEM40 provides substantial imaging capacity without requiring a heavy mount head.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCenter-Balanced Equatorial design.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's CEM layout places more of the combined mount and payload mass directly over the tripod.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/strong\u003e Camera-based polar alignment is built directly into the RA axis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePeriodic error below ±7.5 arcseconds.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron specifies native PE below ±7.5 arcseconds over the mount's 400-second worm period.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/strong\u003e A trained correction can be stored in the mount to reduce the repeating component of RA tracking error.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBelt-driven worm system.\u003c\/strong\u003e Both axes use 110mm diameter, 216-tooth worm wheels driven by 17mm brass worms through synchronous belts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e45mm steel axles and 68mm bearings.\u003c\/strong\u003e Substantial internal components for a mount head weighing less than 18 pounds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrecision stepper motors.\u003c\/strong\u003e 128 micro-steps provide a specified motor resolution of 0.08 arcsecond.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUp to 4.5°\/sec slewing.\u003c\/strong\u003e Maximum GoTo speed is approximately 1080× sidereal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGo2Nova hand controller.\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides an 8-line × 21-character display, built-in heater, and a database of more than 212,000 objects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in GPS.\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies time and location information to the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic zero-position search.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can electronically locate its mechanical reference position.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePower-down memory.\u003c\/strong\u003e Positional information can be retained following a normal power-down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfigurable meridian treatment.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can stop or flip, with settings allowing up to 10° of travel past the meridian when clearance permits.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e6-inch dual saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetail plates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThrough-mount connections.\u003c\/strong\u003e A 12V DC output rated to 3A, ST-4 guide connection, and USB are routed through the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional Wi-Fi.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's external iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod included.\u003c\/strong\u003e Stainless-steel legs provide a portable support matched to the CEM40.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 kg counterweight included.\u003c\/strong\u003e One 11 lb counterweight is supplied for the 28mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA CEM40 System Without the Hard Case\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe difference between the C401A3 and C402A3 packages is straightforward. Both give you the CEM40 with internal iPolar, the 1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod, and one 5 kg counterweight. The C402A3 also includes iOptron's fitted hard case for the mount head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf the mount normally moves from a garage or storage room to the same observing area outside, the case may not be important to you. The C401A3 lets you buy the mount, matched tripod, and counterweight together without making the case part of the package.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe LiteRoc's stainless-steel legs give the CEM40 a portable foundation sized for this mount family. The included 5 kg counterweight rides on a 28mm × 280mm stainless-steel shaft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe exact amount of counterweight required depends on the complete telescope and imaging train. Some heavier or differently balanced systems may require another weight, but additional counterweight does not increase the mount's 40 lb payload rating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e40 Pounds of Capacity on a 17.4-Pound Head\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe payload-to-head-weight ratio is one of the reasons the CEM40 has found such a useful place between smaller portable mounts and heavier equatorial systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn imaging payload is more than the optical tube. Cameras, filter wheels, electronic focusers, guide equipment, rotators, rings, dovetails, dew-control hardware, and cables all count toward the weight riding on the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 gives you up to 40 lb of rated capacity for that complete system while keeping the mount head itself at 17.4 lb.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePayload weight is not the only consideration. Tube length, diameter, center of gravity, wind exposure, focal length, and image scale all affect how demanding a telescope will be. A compact 25 lb system and a long 25 lb optical tube do not necessarily ask the same thing of the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTracking and Guiding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard CEM40 uses a conventional precision worm drive rather than a high-resolution tracking encoder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth RA and DEC use 110mm diameter, 216-tooth worm wheels driven by 17mm brass worms through synchronous belts. The RA worm completes one cycle every 400 seconds, and iOptron specifies native periodic error below ±7.5 arcseconds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction allows the mount to store a correction for the repeating component of that RA worm error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor demanding long-exposure astrophotography, particularly as focal length and image scale increase, conventional autoguiding remains the normal approach. PPEC handles the predictable repeating component while the guider can respond to movement in the complete telescope system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want the same basic CEM40 platform with a high-resolution RA encoder and Real-Time Periodic Error Correction, the CEM40EC is the step up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eiPolar Built Into the RA Axis\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 includes iOptron's iPolar electronic polar scope inside the RA axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRather than looking through a traditional optical polar scope and positioning a star on a reticle, iPolar photographs the surrounding polar sky and plate-solves the field. The software determines where the mount's RA axis is pointing relative to the celestial pole and shows you how to adjust the altitude and azimuth controls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolaris itself does not have to be visible. The camera still needs enough surrounding polar sky to identify the star field successfully, so iPolar cannot work through a building, tree, or other obstruction that blocks the entire area it needs to see.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a mount that gets placed in the same backyard or patio location repeatedly, iPolar can make returning to an accurate polar alignment much simpler.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnections for an Imaging System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 includes a straightforward through-mount cable-management system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA 12V DC output rated to 3A, an ST-4 guide connection, and USB are routed through the mount so those particular connections do not have to cross the moving axes externally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a USB pass-through rather than a multi-port imaging hub. A system with several USB devices may still use a small hub or mini computer near the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount itself communicates with a computer through USB. Built-in Wi-Fi is not included, but iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCloudy Nights owners repeatedly come back to the same things that make the CEM40 attractive on paper: useful capacity without a heavy mount head, convenient cable routing, and iPolar for a mount that is regularly set up and taken down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It's a powerhouse of a mount for its size.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat early CEM40 owner also singled out the through-mount USB, guide, and 12V connections as a useful part of the design and was particularly impressed with iPolar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOther CEM40 owners describe the through-mount cabling, fit and finish, and relatively low weight as some of their favorite parts of the mount. For people who set up in the yard repeatedly, several owners have also described marking permanent tripod-foot locations so the mount returns close to polar alignment before iPolar makes the final adjustment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat owner experience is more useful than assigning the CEM40 an unofficial imaging payload or promising a particular guiding RMS. The recurring story is that it offers a lot of imaging mount for its physical size and remains manageable enough to set up regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA backyard is exactly where the CEM40's combination of capacity and portability can make sense. It is substantial enough to become the center of a complete imaging system without requiring the mount to live permanently outdoors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith a shorter refractor and a narrowband filter, suburban light pollution does not have to end the night. Large emission nebulae such as the Rosette, California, Heart and Soul, Veil, and North America Nebula can become multi-night projects collected from home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMove to more focal length and smaller targets come into reach as well. The important part is that the mount has room for the complete imaging train while remaining light enough to carry back inside when the session is over.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSetup Tip for a Repeated Backyard Location\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you normally use the mount in the same place, mark the tripod-foot positions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThree small pavers set flush with the lawn, discreet marks on a patio, or another repeatable reference can put the LiteRoc back in nearly the same orientation each night. Mark which leg faces north as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou will still verify and refine polar alignment with iPolar, but beginning from the same physical position can reduce how much adjustment is required and make repeated setup more consistent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron CEM40 Center-Balanced Equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Internal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 6-inch Losmandy D \/ Vixen dual saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Go2Nova hand controller with built-in heater\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron 1.75-inch LiteRoc stainless-steel tripod\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 28mm × 280mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 100–240V AC adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMount connection accessories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHard case not included.\u003c\/strong\u003e The C402A3 package adds iOptron's fitted hard case for the mount head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the difference between the C401A3 and C402A3?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBoth packages include the CEM40 with internal iPolar, the 1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod, and one 5 kg counterweight. The C402A3 also includes iOptron's fitted hard case for the mount head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much can the CEM40 carry?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron rates the CEM40 for up to 40 lb (18 kg) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights. Tube geometry, center of gravity, wind exposure, focal length, and image scale should also be considered when choosing a mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShould I limit an imaging payload to 30 pounds?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThere is no separate official 30 lb imaging rating. iOptron publishes a 40 lb maximum payload, with the qualification that optical-tube size and length matter. A lighter payload generally gives a mount more operating margin, but there is no single reduced number that applies to every telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the package include a tripod and counterweight?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. It includes the matched 1.75-inch stainless-steel LiteRoc tripod and one 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it include a hard case?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. A hard case is optional with the C401A3. Choose the C402A3 package if you want the fitted hard case included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 include iPolar?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. Internal iPolar is installed in the RA axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes iPolar require Polaris to be visible?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Polaris itself does not have to be visible, but iPolar does require enough unobstructed surrounding polar sky to plate-solve successfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 need guiding?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFor demanding long-exposure astrophotography, especially at longer focal lengths, guiding is the normal approach. The standard CEM40 uses PPEC but does not have the high-resolution RA encoder of the CEM40EC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEM40 or CEM40EC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBoth share the same basic 40 lb mechanical platform. The standard CEM40 uses conventional worm tracking with Permanent Periodic Error Correction. The CEM40EC adds a high-resolution RA encoder with Real-Time Periodic Error Correction. If you expect to guide and do not specifically want encoder correction, the standard CEM40 gives you the same basic payload class for less.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 have built-in Wi-Fi?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. The mount communicates over USB. iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it have a built-in USB hub?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. USB is routed through the mount along with a 12V\/3A output and ST-4 connection, but it is not a multi-port USB imaging hub.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use a pier later?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The included LiteRoc can remain your portable support while an appropriate Tri-Pier or permanent pier is used for a more fixed installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Hard Case for CEM40 (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: useful if you later decide to transport or store the mount head in a fitted case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 2.5 kg #8027-05 Counterweight (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: useful when the complete telescope system requires more counterweight than the included 5 kg weight provides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier #8034 (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: a more substantial support option when portability is less important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: adds wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe C401A3 makes sense when you want the CEM40 as a complete working mount system but do not need the fitted travel case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou still get the pieces that matter every night: a 40 lb-capacity CEM40 head weighing 17.4 lb, internal iPolar, the matched 1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod, a 5 kg counterweight, PPEC, GPS, automatic zero search, and through-mount connections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCloudy Nights owners consistently point to the CEM40's relatively low weight, cable management, and easy polar-alignment system as some of the reasons it works well for repeated setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf the mount mostly moves between storage and your observing spot rather than spending its life on the road, the C401A3 gives you the CEM40 system you need and leaves the hard case out of the box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e40 lb (18 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.4 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.28\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; anodized red\/black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–60° (special counterweight-shaft mounting below 10°)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt; ±7.5 arcsec (measured with encoder, 400-second period)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePermanent PEC (PPEC)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ45mm, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e5 kg (11 lb), #8027, included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motor, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec (1080×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova, 8-line, 21-character LCD; 212,000+ object database\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); AC adapter included, indoor use only\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.6A tracking, 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–10° past meridian), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D and Vixen\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB; Wi-Fi via optional external iStarFi adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC 12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10 °C to 40 °C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron 1.75″ LiteRoc, stainless steel legs, 7 kg (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eNot included (see C402A3)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eShipping Weight \/ Box\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eMount: 25 lb, 16 × 15 × 10 in; tripod: 22 lb, 34 × 9 × 9 in; counterweight: 12 lb, 10 × 10 × 4 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eC401A3\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481987199049,"sku":"CEM402","price":2799.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/cem40.jpg_4.jpg?v=1675379782"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem40-center-balanced-goto-equatorial-mount-with-2-tripod-and-case","title":"iOptron CEM40 Center Balanced GoTo Equatorial Mount With iPolar 1.75\" Literoc Tripod And Case","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe C402A3 package takes the guesswork out of putting together a CEM40 system. Instead of buying the mount head and then working out which tripod and counterweight you need, this version arrives with the CEM40, a matched 1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod, one 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight, internal iPolar, and a hard case for the mount head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUnderneath the package is the same reason the CEM40 has become such a useful imaging mount: it carries up to 40 lb (18 kg) of telescope and imaging equipment on a head weighing just 17.4 lb (7.9 kg). That gives you meaningful room for cameras, filter wheels, focusers, guide equipment, and future telescope changes without turning the mount itself into something you hesitate to carry outside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInternal iPolar provides camera-based polar alignment, Permanent Periodic Error Correction helps reduce the repeating component of RA tracking error, GPS supplies time and location, and automatic zero-position sensing gives the mount a repeatable mechanical reference. A 6-inch dual saddle accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetails.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want the CEM40 as a complete portable system rather than as a head you still have to build around, this is the package to choose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComplete CEM40 package.\u003c\/strong\u003e Includes the mount head, 1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod, 5 kg counterweight, internal iPolar, counterweight shaft, hand controller, and hard case.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40 lb payload capacity.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron rates the CEM40 for up to 18 kg (40 lb) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e17.4 lb mount head.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 7.9 kg, the CEM40 provides considerably more payload capacity than its own weight might suggest.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCenter-Balanced Equatorial design.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's CEM layout places more of the combined mount and payload mass directly over the tripod.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/strong\u003e Camera-based polar alignment is built into the RA axis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePeriodic error below ±7.5 arcseconds.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron specifies native PE below ±7.5 arcseconds over the mount's 400-second worm period.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/strong\u003e A trained PEC curve can be stored in the mount to reduce the repeating component of RA tracking error.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBelt-driven worm system.\u003c\/strong\u003e Both axes use 110mm diameter, 216-tooth worm wheels driven by 17mm brass worms through synchronous belts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e45mm steel axles and 68mm bearings.\u003c\/strong\u003e Substantial internal components for a mount head weighing less than 18 pounds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrecision stepper motors.\u003c\/strong\u003e 128 micro-steps provide a specified motor resolution of 0.08 arcsecond.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUp to 4.5°\/sec slewing.\u003c\/strong\u003e Maximum GoTo speed is approximately 1080× sidereal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGo2Nova hand controller.\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides an 8-line × 21-character display, built-in heater, and a database of more than 212,000 objects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in 32-channel GPS.\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies time and location information to the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic zero-position search.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can electronically locate its mechanical reference position.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePower-down memory.\u003c\/strong\u003e Positional information can be retained after a normal power-down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfigurable meridian treatment.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can stop or flip, with settings allowing up to 10° of travel past the meridian when clearance permits.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e6-inch dual saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetail plates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThrough-mount connections.\u003c\/strong\u003e A 12V DC output rated to 3A, ST-4 guide connection, and USB are routed through the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional Wi-Fi.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's external iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHard carrying case included.\u003c\/strong\u003e Protects the mount head during storage and transportation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Complete CEM40 System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBuying a mount head by itself makes sense when you already own the support and counterweights you want. If you are starting from scratch, however, the tripod and counterweight are not optional details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis package takes care of those choices for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe included LiteRoc uses 1.75-inch stainless-steel legs and is matched to the CEM40 platform. One 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight is supplied for the mount's 28mm × 280mm stainless-steel shaft, and the CEM40 head travels in its own fitted hard case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe amount of counterweight required ultimately depends on the complete telescope and imaging train. Some heavier or differently balanced systems may require additional counterweight, but adding counterweight does not increase the mount's 40 lb payload rating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe advantage of the package is simply that the basic mount, support, and balancing system have already been matched for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e40 Pounds of Capacity Without a Heavy Head\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 occupies a useful middle ground between small portable equatorial mounts and larger systems such as the CEM70.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eForty pounds of payload capacity gives you room for more than the telescope itself. Cameras, filter wheels, electronic focusers, guide equipment, rotators, dew-control hardware, rings, dovetails, and cables all become part of the load the mount actually carries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt the same time, the mount head remains under 18 pounds. That matters when the system gets carried into the backyard after work, packed into a vehicle for a dark-sky trip, or taken down at the end of the night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePayload weight is still only part of choosing a mount. A compact telescope and a long telescope at the same weight do not place the same demands on the axes. Tube length, diameter, center of gravity, wind exposure, focal length, and image scale should all be considered along with total weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTracking and Guiding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard CEM40 is a precision worm-driven equatorial mount rather than an encoder-corrected model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth RA and DEC use 110mm diameter, 216-tooth worm wheels driven by 17mm brass worms through synchronous belts. The RA worm completes one cycle every 400 seconds, and iOptron specifies native periodic error below ±7.5 arcseconds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction allows the mount to store a correction for the repeating component of that RA worm error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor demanding long-exposure astrophotography, particularly as focal length and image scale increase, conventional autoguiding remains the normal approach. PPEC can reduce the predictable repeating component while the guider responds to the behavior of the complete telescope and imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you specifically want a high-resolution RA encoder correcting periodic error inside the mount, the CEM40EC package is the corresponding step up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eiPolar Built Into the RA Axis\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 includes iOptron's iPolar electronic polar scope inside the RA axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInstead of looking through an optical polar scope and positioning a star on a reticle, iPolar photographs the surrounding polar sky and plate-solves the field. The software determines where the RA axis is pointing relative to the celestial pole and shows you how to adjust the mount's altitude and azimuth controls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolaris itself does not have to be visible. Enough of the surrounding polar sky still needs to be available for the camera to solve successfully, but you do not have to identify the pole star and manually place it on a reticle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is especially useful on a mount intended to be transported and set up repeatedly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnections for an Imaging System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 includes a straightforward through-mount cable-management system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA 12V DC output rated to 3A, an ST-4 guide connection, and USB are routed through the mount so those connections do not have to cross the moving axes externally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is not a multi-port USB imaging hub. A more complicated imaging train may still use a small USB hub or mini computer mounted near the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount communicates with a computer through USB. Built-in Wi-Fi is not included, but iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCloudy Nights discussions about the CEM40 tend to come back to the same qualities that make the specification sheet interesting in the first place: a relatively light mount head, useful payload capacity, internal cable routing, and an electronic polar-alignment system that works well for a mount that is regularly set up and taken down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Well built ... solid performer ... relatively lightweight and portable.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat description from a CEM40 owner captures the appeal of the mount better than a single guiding number. Other owners in the same discussions have specifically praised the through-mount USB and 12V connections and described iPolar as convenient and easy to use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOwners also report using the CEM40 with complete imaging trains rather than just lightweight telescope tubes, which is where the 40 lb payload and low head weight begin to make sense together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGuiding results vary with seeing, telescope, focal length, balance, guide equipment, and setup, so we would not use one owner's RMS number as a specification. The more useful community takeaway is that the CEM40 has earned a reputation as a capable imaging mount that remains relatively easy to move and set up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 works well for the kind of imaging system that needs more than a small portable mount but does not yet require CEM70-class capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith a lighter imaging train, the 40 lb payload leaves room for cameras, filter wheels, focusers, guide equipment, and future additions instead of forcing every accessory to compete for the last few pounds of capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs the telescope becomes longer, heavier, or more sensitive to wind, mechanical demands rise even when the system remains below the published payload limit. That is where tube geometry and focal length become just as important as total weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe useful part is that the CEM40 gives you room to grow while the 17.4 lb head remains something you can reasonably carry outside on an ordinary clear night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron CEM40 Center-Balanced Equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Internal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 6-inch Losmandy D \/ Vixen dual saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Go2Nova hand controller with built-in heater\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron 1.75-inch LiteRoc stainless-steel tripod\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 28mm × 280mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Hard carrying case for the mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 100–240V AC adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMount connection accessories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much can the CEM40 carry?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron rates the CEM40 for up to 40 lb (18 kg) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights. Telescope geometry, center of gravity, focal length, wind exposure, and imaging requirements should be considered along with total weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much does the mount head weigh?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe CEM40 head weighs 17.4 lb (7.9 kg).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included in this package?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThis C402A3 package includes the CEM40 mount head with internal iPolar, 1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod, one 5 kg counterweight, counterweight shaft, Go2Nova hand controller, hard case, and AC adapter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is this different from the CEM40 head-only version?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe mount itself is the same basic CEM40. The head-only package leaves the tripod and counterweight to you. This package includes the matched LiteRoc tripod and one 5 kg counterweight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the periodic error?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron specifies native periodic error below ±7.5 arcseconds, measured over the mount's 400-second worm period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 have PEC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The standard CEM40 supports Permanent Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 need guiding?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFor demanding long-exposure astrophotography, particularly at longer focal lengths, guiding is the normal approach. The standard CEM40 does not have the high-resolution RA encoder used by the CEM40EC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEM40 or CEM40EC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBoth share the same basic 40 lb mechanical platform and are available as complete packages. The standard CEM40 uses conventional worm tracking with PPEC. The CEM40EC adds a high-resolution RA encoder with Real-Time Periodic Error Correction. If you already expect to guide and do not need encoder correction, the standard CEM40 gives you the same basic payload class for less.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 include iPolar?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. This package includes iOptron's internal iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes iPolar require Polaris to be visible?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Polaris itself does not have to be visible, although enough surrounding polar sky must be available for the camera to plate-solve successfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs one 5 kg counterweight enough?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThat depends on the weight and center of gravity of the complete telescope system. One 5 kg weight is included, and additional compatible counterweights can be added when required for proper balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 have built-in Wi-Fi?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. The mount communicates over USB. iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it have a built-in USB hub?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. USB is routed through the mount as part of its cable-management system, along with a 12V\/3A output and ST-4 connection, but there is no multi-port imaging hub.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use a pier later?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The LiteRoc can remain your portable support while an appropriate Tri-Pier or permanent pier is used for a fixed setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat power does the CEM40 require?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe mount uses 12V DC at up to 5A with a 5.5mm\/2.5mm connector. iOptron lists typical consumption at approximately 0.6A while tracking and 0.9A during GoTo. A 100–240V AC adapter intended for indoor use is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 2.5 kg #8027-05 Counterweight (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: useful when the complete telescope system requires more counterweight than the included 5 kg weight provides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier #8034 (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: a more substantial support option when portability is less important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: adds wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe point of the C402A3 package is not simply that more pieces come in the box. It is that the pieces you need to turn a CEM40 into a working portable mount system are already there and matched to one another.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40 provides 40 lb of payload capacity on a 17.4 lb head, along with internal iPolar, PPEC, GPS, automatic zero search, through-mount connections, and a dual saddle. The package adds the 1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod, 5 kg counterweight, and hard case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCloudy Nights owners tend to praise the same combination the specifications suggest: useful capacity, relatively low weight, easy transport, and convenient features such as iPolar and through-mount cabling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want a complete CEM40 system rather than a mount head that still needs a tripod and counterweight, this is the straightforward way to buy it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e40 lb (18 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.4 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.28\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; anodized red\/black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–60° (special counterweight-shaft mounting below 10°)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt; ±7.5 arcsec (measured with encoder, 400-second period)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePermanent PEC (PPEC)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ45mm, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e5 kg (11 lb), #8027, included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motor, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec (1080×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova, 8-line, 21-character LCD, built-in heater; 212,000+ object database\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); AC adapter included, indoor use only\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.6A tracking, 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–10° past meridian), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D and Vixen\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB; Wi-Fi via optional external iStarFi adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC 12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10 °C to 40 °C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron 1.75″ LiteRoc, stainless steel legs (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eShipping Weight \/ Box\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eMount: 33 lb, 21 × 16 × 9 in; tripod: 22 lb, 34 × 9 × 9 in; counterweight: 12 lb, 10 × 10 × 4 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eC402A3\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481987231817,"sku":"CEM402HC","price":2889.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/cem40.jpg_3_1.jpg?v=1675379784"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem40ec-center-balanced-goto-equatorial-mount-with-2-tripod","title":"iOptron CEM40EC Center Balanced GoTo Equatorial Mount With 1.75\" Literoc Tripod","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC is for the imager who wants tighter tracking without giving up the reason the CEM40 is so useful in the first place: a lot of mount without a lot of mount head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt carries up to 40 lb (18 kg) of telescope and imaging equipment on a head weighing just 17.4 lb (7.9 kg). The EC version adds a high-resolution encoder on the right-ascension axis and iOptron's Real-Time Periodic Error Correction, continuously correcting the repeating error of the RA worm drive as the mount tracks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies encoder-corrected periodic error below 0.3 arcsecond RMS, measured over the mount's 400-second worm period. Internal iPolar handles camera-based polar alignment, GPS supplies time and location, automatic zero-position sensing gives the mount a repeatable mechanical reference, and the 6-inch dual saddle accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetails.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis C404A3 package also includes the support and balancing equipment needed to turn the head into a complete mount system: a 1.75-inch stainless-steel LiteRoc tripod, one 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight, counterweight shaft, Go2Nova hand controller, and hard carrying case. It is encoder-corrected tracking in a system designed to be carried outside and used regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40 lb payload capacity.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron rates the CEM40EC for up to 18 kg (40 lb) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e17.4 lb mount head.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 7.9 kg, the CEM40EC provides substantial imaging capacity without requiring a heavy mount head.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-resolution RA encoder.\u003c\/strong\u003e Encoder feedback monitors the right-ascension drive while the mount tracks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReal-Time Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/strong\u003e The EC version continuously corrects the repeating RA worm error rather than relying on a conventional trained PPEC curve.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEncoder-corrected PE below 0.3 arcsecond RMS.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron specifies this performance over the 400-second worm period under bench measurement.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/strong\u003e Camera-based polar alignment is built directly into the RA axis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod included.\u003c\/strong\u003e Stainless-steel legs provide a portable support matched to the CEM40 family.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 kg counterweight included.\u003c\/strong\u003e One 11 lb counterweight is supplied for the 28mm counterweight shaft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCenter-Balanced Equatorial design.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's CEM layout places more of the combined mount and payload mass directly over the tripod.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBelt-driven worm system.\u003c\/strong\u003e Both axes use 110mm diameter, 216-tooth worm wheels driven by 17mm brass worms through synchronous belts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e45mm steel axles and 68mm bearings.\u003c\/strong\u003e Substantial internal components for a mount head weighing less than 18 pounds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrecision stepper motors.\u003c\/strong\u003e 128 micro-steps provide a specified motor resolution of 0.08 arcsecond.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUp to 4.5°\/sec slewing.\u003c\/strong\u003e Maximum GoTo speed is approximately 1080× sidereal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGo2Nova hand controller.\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides an 8-line × 21-character display, built-in heater, and a database of more than 212,000 objects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in 32-channel GPS.\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies time and location information to the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic zero-position search.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can electronically locate its mechanical reference position.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePower-down memory.\u003c\/strong\u003e Positional information can be retained after a normal power-down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfigurable meridian treatment.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can stop or flip, with settings allowing up to 10° of travel past the meridian when clearance permits.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e6-inch dual saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetail plates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThrough-mount connections.\u003c\/strong\u003e A 12V DC output rated to 3A, ST-4 guide connection, and USB are routed through the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional Wi-Fi.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's external iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHard carrying case included.\u003c\/strong\u003e Protects the mount head during storage and transportation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat the Encoder Adds\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEvery worm-driven equatorial mount has some amount of repeating error as the worm rotates. On a conventional mount, Permanent Periodic Error Correction and an autoguider are commonly used to reduce that repeating component.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC handles the RA drive differently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA high-resolution encoder monitors the right-ascension axis while the mount is tracking. The control system uses that feedback for Real-Time Periodic Error Correction, continuously correcting the repeating RA worm error as it occurs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies encoder-corrected periodic error below 0.3 arcsecond RMS, measured on the bench over one 400-second worm period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat number describes the performance of the encoder-corrected RA drive itself. It is not a promise that every telescope will produce 0.3-arcsecond guiding or 0.3-arcsecond stars. Seeing, polar alignment, wind, telescope flexure, image scale, guiding, and the rest of the imaging system still matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat the encoder does is remove much of the predictable repeating RA worm error before the rest of the imaging system has to deal with it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGuiding and the CEM40EC\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe RA encoder does not make conventional autoguiding obsolete.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor demanding long-exposure astrophotography, particularly as focal length increases and the image scale becomes smaller, guiding can still respond to movement caused by the complete telescope system and observing conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe difference is that the guider is starting with an RA drive whose repeating worm error is already being corrected internally by the encoder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is the better way to think about the EC version. You are not buying a promise that you will never guide again. You are buying a CEM40 whose RA tracking system is actively correcting its own periodic error in real time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e40 Pounds of Capacity on a 17.4-Pound Head\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe payload-to-head-weight ratio is a big part of what makes the CEM40 family useful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eForty pounds of payload capacity gives an imaging system room for more than the optical tube. Cameras, filter wheels, electronic focusers, rotators, guide equipment, dew-control hardware, rings, dovetails, and cabling all become part of the load the mount actually carries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt the same time, the mount head itself remains under 18 pounds. That matters when the system has to be carried into the yard, packed for a dark-sky trip, or taken down after an ordinary weeknight session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePayload weight is still only one part of choosing a mount. A compact telescope and a long telescope of the same weight do not place the same demands on the axes. Tube length, diameter, center of gravity, wind exposure, focal length, and image scale should all be considered along with the number on the scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eiPolar Built Into the RA Axis\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC includes iOptron's iPolar electronic polar scope inside the RA axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInstead of looking through a traditional optical polar scope and positioning a star on a reticle, iPolar photographs the surrounding polar sky and plate-solves the field. The software determines where the mount's RA axis is pointing relative to the celestial pole and shows you how to adjust the altitude and azimuth controls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolaris itself does not have to be visible. Enough surrounding polar sky still needs to be available for the camera to solve successfully, but you do not have to identify the pole star and manually position it on a reticle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a mount designed to be transported and set up repeatedly, having the polar-alignment camera permanently installed is particularly useful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Complete Portable Package\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis version of the CEM40EC includes the basic pieces needed to build a working equatorial mount rather than leaving you to choose them separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe included LiteRoc tripod uses 1.75-inch stainless-steel legs and is matched to the CEM40 platform. It provides the portable foundation that makes sense for a mount head weighing only 17.4 pounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight is included along with the mount's 28mm × 280mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft. The amount of counterweight ultimately required depends on the complete telescope and imaging train, so some heavier or differently balanced systems may require an additional weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount head travels in its own hard case, allowing the tripod, counterweight, and head to remain separate pieces when the system is moved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnections for an Imaging System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC includes a straightforward through-mount cable-management system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA 12V DC output rated to 3A, an ST-4 guide connection, and USB are routed through the mount so those cables do not have to cross the moving axes externally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe USB connection is a pass-through rather than a multi-port imaging hub. A more complicated imaging train may still use a small hub or mini computer near the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount itself communicates with a computer through USB. Built-in Wi-Fi is not included, but iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC has been discussed extensively by owners on Cloudy Nights, and the comments that come up repeatedly help explain why the mount has remained attractive even as newer mount designs have appeared.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Very light weight and easy to handle.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat comment from a CEM40EC owner gets to one of the mount's biggest real-world advantages. The published payload number matters, but so does whether you actually want to carry the mount outside. Owners regularly come back to the relatively low head weight and portability of the CEM40 platform.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Compact, effective and cost-effective.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnother owner used those words after living with a CEM40EC and working through how the encoder and guiding interact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOwner discussions also make an important distinction about the EC system. Experienced imagers generally do not treat the RA encoder as a reason to abandon guiding in every situation. Instead, they value it for reducing the periodic component of RA tracking error inside a compact mount. For mobile imagers in particular, some CEM40EC owners have called the encoder version especially useful because it adds that tracking correction without moving to a larger mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiPolar receives similar praise in owner discussions. CEM40EC owners have repeatedly described it as easy to use and particularly convenient on a mount that is regularly set up and taken down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC makes the most sense when you want meaningful imaging capacity and tighter RA tracking without building the entire system around a much heavier mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt shorter and moderate focal lengths, its 40 lb payload gives a complete imaging train room to grow instead of forcing every accessory to compete for the final few pounds of capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs focal length increases and image scale becomes more demanding, the high-resolution RA encoder becomes increasingly relevant because the mount is correcting the repeating component of its own worm-drive error internally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat gives the CEM40EC a broad working range: light enough to be moved regularly, substantial enough for a serious imaging system, and precise enough to make sense when the telescope begins asking more of the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron CEM40EC Center-Balanced Equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh-resolution RA encoder with Real-Time Periodic Error Correction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Internal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 6-inch Losmandy D \/ Vixen dual saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Go2Nova hand controller with built-in heater\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron 1.75-inch LiteRoc stainless-steel tripod\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 28mm × 280mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Hard carrying case for the mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 100–240V AC adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMount connection accessories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much can the CEM40EC carry?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron rates it for up to 40 lb (18 kg) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights. Telescope geometry, center of gravity, focal length, wind exposure, and imaging requirements should be considered along with total weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much does the mount head weigh?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe CEM40EC head weighs 17.4 lb (7.9 kg).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the difference between the CEM40 and CEM40EC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThey share the same basic 40 lb CEM40 platform. The standard CEM40 uses conventional worm tracking with Permanent Periodic Error Correction. The CEM40EC adds a high-resolution RA encoder and Real-Time Periodic Error Correction, with iOptron specifying encoder-corrected PE below 0.3 arcsecond RMS.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is the encoder?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe high-resolution tracking encoder is on the right-ascension axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the periodic-error specification?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron specifies encoder-corrected periodic error below 0.3 arcsecond RMS, measured on the bench over the mount's 400-second RA worm period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40EC use PEC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIt uses iOptron's Real-Time Periodic Error Correction, or RPEC, in conjunction with the high-resolution RA encoder rather than relying on a conventional trained PPEC curve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I still need to guide the CEM40EC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nGuiding can still be useful for demanding long-exposure astrophotography, particularly at longer focal lengths and smaller image scales. The encoder corrects the repeating error of the RA drive; a guider can still respond to movement elsewhere in the complete telescope system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan the CEM40EC be used unguided?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nEncoder correction can make unguided operation more practical in some combinations of focal length, exposure time, image scale, and polar alignment, but it does not correct every source of image motion. It should not be viewed as a guarantee of unguided long-exposure imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the RA encoder correct polar-alignment error?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. The encoder corrects the behavior of the RA tracking drive. It does not physically correct a misaligned polar axis, atmospheric refraction, seeing, wind, or flexure elsewhere in the telescope system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40EC include iPolar?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. iOptron's internal iPolar electronic polar scope is installed in the RA axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes iPolar require Polaris to be visible?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Polaris itself does not have to be visible. Enough surrounding polar sky still needs to be available for the camera to plate-solve successfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes this package include a tripod?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. This C404A3 package includes iOptron's 1.75-inch stainless-steel LiteRoc tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it include a counterweight?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. One 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight is included. Some heavier or differently balanced telescope systems may require additional counterweight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40EC have built-in Wi-Fi?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. The mount communicates over USB. iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter can add wireless mount control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it have a built-in USB hub?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. USB is routed through the mount as part of its cable-management system, along with a 12V\/3A output and ST-4 connection, but there is no multi-port USB imaging hub.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat power does the CEM40EC require?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe mount uses 12V DC at up to 5A with a 5.5mm\/2.5mm connector. iOptron lists typical consumption at approximately 0.6A while tracking and 0.9A during GoTo. A 100–240V AC adapter intended for indoor use is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 2.5 kg #8027-05 Counterweight (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: useful when the complete telescope system requires more counterweight than the included 5 kg weight provides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier #8034 (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: a more substantial support option when portability is less important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: adds wireless mount communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM40EC works because the encoder is added to a mount that was already built around a useful balance of capacity and portability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIts 40 lb payload gives a complete imaging train room to grow, while the 17.4 lb head remains easy enough to move on an ordinary clear night. The high-resolution RA encoder and Real-Time Periodic Error Correction address the repeating worm error inside the mount itself, while internal iPolar, GPS, automatic zero search, through-mount connections, and the dual saddle handle the rest of the imaging platform.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis package adds the 1.75-inch LiteRoc tripod, 5 kg counterweight, and hard case, so the basic mount system arrives together instead of being assembled piece by piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCloudy Nights owners tend to come back to the same qualities: it is compact, easy to handle, and capable of carrying a serious imaging system. The EC version adds tighter control of the RA drive without giving up those qualities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want encoder-corrected tracking in a mount that is still easy to carry outside and use regularly, that is the reason to choose the CEM40EC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e40 lb (18 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.4 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.28\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; anodized red\/black\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–60° (special counterweight-shaft mounting below 10°)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt; 0.3 arcsec RMS (with encoder, measured on the bench, 400-second period)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eReal-time PEC (RPEC), via high-resolution RA encoder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ45mm, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e5 kg (11 lb), included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motor, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec (1080×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova, 8-line, 21-character LCD, built-in heater; 212,000+ object database\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); AC adapter included, indoor use only\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.6A tracking, 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–10° past meridian), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D and Vixen\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB; Wi-Fi via optional external iStarFi adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC 12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10 °C to 40 °C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron 1.75″ LiteRoc, stainless steel legs (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eShipping Weight \/ Box\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eMount: 33 lb, 21 × 16 × 9 in; counterweight: 12 lb, 10 × 10 × 4 in; tripod: 22 lb, 34 × 9 × 9 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eC404A3\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481987264585,"sku":"CEM402EC","price":4399.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/cem40.jpg_1_1.jpg?v=1675379786"},{"product_id":"ioptron-gem45-ec-equatorial-mount-head-with-hard-case","title":"iOptron GEM45EC Equatorial Mount Head With Hard Case","description":"\n\u003cp\u003eThere comes a point in astrophotography when finding the object is no longer the difficult part. The telescope is accurately pointed, the camera is focused, and the subject is sitting exactly where you want it. Now the mount has to follow that object for several minutes while the camera collects light, ideally without allowing the stars to move noticeably across the sensor. At longer focal lengths, even very small tracking errors can become apparent in the finished photograph.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron GEM45EC addresses one of those errors with a high-resolution optical encoder on its right ascension axis. Rather than relying entirely on the accuracy of its worm gears or a previously recorded periodic error correction curve, the GEM45EC continuously measures the position of the RA axis and makes corrections as the mount tracks. iOptron calls this Real-Time Periodic Error Correction (RPEC), and specifies less than 0.3 arcsecond RMS periodic tracking error under its bench test conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat's particularly interesting is that iOptron has incorporated this technology into a traditional German equatorial mount head weighing only 17.5 pounds (7.9 kg). The GEM45EC carries up to 45 pounds (20 kg) of telescope and accessories, excluding counterweights, giving it substantial carrying capacity without requiring a mount head that takes two people to lift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis #7620ECA package includes the GEM45EC mount head, high-resolution RA encoder, built-in iPolar electronic polar scope, GPS, computerized Go2Nova hand controller, and aluminum hard carrying case. It does not include a tripod, pier, or counterweights. For someone who already has a compatible support, or is building an imaging system around a permanent pier, that avoids purchasing equipment they may not need.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy an Optical Encoder Matters\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA conventional equatorial mount follows the stars by slowly rotating its right ascension axis to compensate for the rotation of the Earth. The motor drives a small screw-shaped gear, called a worm, which turns a much larger toothed wheel connected to the telescope's RA axis. This arrangement provides the enormous reduction in speed needed for sidereal tracking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUnfortunately, even precisely machined worm gears contain minute imperfections. As the worm turns, these variations can cause the telescope to move very slightly ahead of or behind its intended position. Since the same portion of the worm comes around with each revolution, the error repeats in a predictable pattern. Astronomers call this periodic error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOn the standard GEM45, iOptron specifies periodic error of less than ±7.5 arcseconds over the 400-second worm period. That mount includes Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC), which allows the owner to record a correction curve and have the electronics repeat those corrections as the worm rotates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC approaches the problem differently. Its high-resolution optical encoder monitors the actual position of the right ascension axis and compares that position with where the axis should be. When a discrepancy is detected, the electronics can adjust the drive to compensate. Because the system measures the movement directly, it does not need a previously trained PEC curve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies less than 0.3 arcsecond RMS periodic error for the GEM45EC with its encoder operating, measured on a test bench over the worm's 400-second cycle. For perspective, one arcsecond is just 1\/3600th of a degree. Reducing the repeating error to such a small value represents a substantial improvement in the mount's specified mechanical tracking performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat specification should not be confused with a guarantee of identical tracking accuracy beneath the night sky. The encoder monitors the RA axis, not the position of a star on your camera's sensor. Poor polar alignment, atmospheric refraction, telescope flexure, wind, and other disturbances can still produce movement in the image. Nevertheless, removing much of the worm's periodic error gives the rest of the imaging system one less problem to overcome.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes the GEM45EC Still Need an Autoguider?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat depends on the telescope, camera, exposure length, and the accuracy you're trying to achieve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith a short focal length and careful polar alignment, an encoder-equipped mount may allow useful unguided exposures. As the focal length increases and the camera records smaller portions of the sky per pixel, errors that were previously invisible become much easier to detect. A slight amount of drift that makes no practical difference at 300mm may be troublesome at 1,500mm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn autoguider provides a different kind of information from the encoder. Instead of measuring the rotation of the mount's axis, it watches an actual star and detects its movement through the optical system. This allows guiding software to respond to errors that the RA encoder cannot measure directly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor serious long-exposure imaging with a long-focal-length refractor, Ritchey-Chrétien, or Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, I would still plan on autoguiding. An off-axis guider is particularly useful with these systems because it samples the same optical path as the main camera, reducing the potential for differential flexure between separate guide and imaging telescopes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC provides ST-4-compatible guiding and USB computer control through ASCOM. Encoder-equipped mounts can also behave differently from conventional mounts when receiving guiding corrections, so it's worth following iOptron's current guidance for configuring your guiding software and RA corrections rather than assuming that settings developed for a standard GEM45 will necessarily be optimal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a legitimate purchasing decision here. An experienced imager with a carefully tuned autoguiding system may find that the standard GEM45 already provides the tracking performance needed for their images. The GEM45EC is most attractive to someone who specifically wants its real-time encoder correction, whether for experimenting with unguided exposures or for reducing the mount's inherent periodic tracking error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Traditional German Equatorial with Substantial Capacity\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe optical encoder is the principal difference between the GEM45EC and the standard GEM45, but the underlying mechanical design is worth examining as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth axes use 4.33\" (110mm) diameter aluminum worm wheels with 216 teeth, driven by 0.67\" (17mm) brass worms through synchronous belt transmissions. The 1.77\" (45mm) steel axis shafts are supported by 2.68\" (68mm) bearings. These are substantial mechanical components for a mount head weighing less than 18 pounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe worm gears provide the controlled movement necessary for accurate slewing and tracking, while the bearings support the telescope as its position changes across the sky. The synchronous belts transmit power from the stepper motors to the worm assemblies without the additional meshing gear stages used in some mount designs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLarge quick-lock gear engagement levers allow the axes to be disengaged for balancing and re-engaged for normal operation. They are designed to be manageable even when wearing gloves, although the telescope and counterweight assembly should always be supported when releasing the drives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC has a 6\" dual-format dovetail saddle that accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style mounting plates. That flexibility is useful when moving between smaller refractors and larger optical tubes, since you don't necessarily have to change saddles to accommodate a different dovetail format.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 45-pound payload rating allows a substantial imaging system, but telescope dimensions remain important. A long refractor presents more leverage and wind resistance than a compact telescope of the same weight. The encoder improves right ascension tracking accuracy; it does not increase the mount's mechanical capacity or eliminate vibration caused by an oversized optical tube.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eInternal Cable Management\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA large astrophotography system can accumulate a surprising collection of cables. The camera needs power and a data connection, the autoguider needs to communicate with the mount or computer, and additional equipment may include a filter wheel, electronic focuser, and dew heaters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThose cables become a problem when the telescope slews across the sky. An exposed cable loop can catch on a tripod leg, become stretched during a meridian flip, or pull against the camera as the telescope changes position.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC provides an internal cable-management arrangement with a 12V accessory power connection rated for 3 amps, an ST-4 guiding connection, and USB 2.0 pass-through wiring to the saddle end of the mount. This allows some connections to be made close to the telescope while their corresponding cables exit through the lower portion of the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe benefit is fewer long cables hanging freely around the moving telescope. The USB connection is a pass-through rather than a complete powered USB hub, so an imaging system with several USB accessories may still require a separate hub or computer mounted near the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eProper cable routing remains important even with internal connections. Before beginning an unattended imaging session, check that every cable has adequate clearance through the telescope's expected movements and that nothing can be pulled tight against the camera or other accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eiPolar, GPS, and GoTo Control\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccurate polar alignment is especially important when using a mount with very low mechanical tracking error. A well-corrected right ascension drive cannot prevent declination drift caused by poor polar alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC includes iOptron's iPolar electronic polar scope built into the right ascension axis. It uses a small camera to recognize the star field surrounding the celestial pole, then software on a connected computer shows you how to adjust the mount's altitude and azimuth controls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike a conventional optical polar finder, iPolar does not require Polaris itself to be visible. It does, however, need enough unobstructed sky near the pole to identify the surrounding stars. The system is particularly convenient for observers who regularly transport their equipment and must establish polar alignment at a new location each night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC also includes a 32-channel GPS system that supplies location and time information automatically. Its latitude adjustment range extends from 14° to 68°, accommodating observing locations across a broad range of northern and southern latitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe supplied Go2Nova hand controller has an eight-line, 21-character LCD display with a built-in heater for cold-weather operation. Its database contains more than 212,000 astronomical objects, including familiar deep-sky catalogs, stars, and solar system targets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAutomatic zero-position searching helps establish the mount's reference position, while configurable meridian handling allows tracking beyond the meridian by a selected amount, up to 20°. As with any German equatorial mount, the actual clearance between telescope, camera, counterweights, and support must be checked before allowing extended tracking past the meridian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWi-Fi is optional rather than built in. iOptron's iStarFi adapter provides wireless mount communication through compatible software, while USB allows conventional computer control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Head-Only Package for Your Existing Support\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe #7620ECA includes the GEM45EC mount head and its accessories, but not a tripod, pier, or counterweights. The included stainless steel counterweight shaft measures 1.10\" (28mm) in diameter and approximately 11\" (280mm) long. Compatible counterweights must be purchased separately according to the telescope and equipment being carried.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor someone who already owns a suitable iOptron Tri-Pier or another compatible support, this arrangement avoids paying for a second tripod. It also makes sense for an observer building a more permanent installation, where the mount will eventually sit on a properly designed pier rather than a portable tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe included aluminum carrying case protects the mount head during storage and transportation. At 17.5 pounds, the GEM45EC remains manageable for one person to carry, despite its substantial payload capacity. The counterweights, telescope, and supporting pier or tripod are transported separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount operates from a 12V DC power source with a rated 5A supply. iOptron specifies approximately 0.6 amp while tracking and 0.9 amp during GoTo slews, making portable battery operation practical with an appropriately sized power system. Cameras, computers, and dew control equipment will add to the total electrical load.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC has generated some interesting discussions on Cloudy Nights, particularly among astrophotographers trying to decide whether the high-resolution encoder is worth the additional cost over the standard GEM45.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne GEM45EC owner described using the mount as a portable imaging system, where the ability to collect relatively short unguided exposures was particularly useful. He regarded the encoder-equipped version as attractive for mobile observing and reported adjusting his guiding approach when using the encoder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOther experienced imagers have reached different conclusions. In discussions comparing the GEM45 and GEM45EC, some observers have argued that a well-tuned autoguider on the standard GEM45 can already deliver excellent results, reducing the practical advantage of paying for an encoder. Others have discussed the need to configure guiding carefully with encoder-equipped mounts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese are useful perspectives because they address the actual decision a buyer faces. The encoder offers a measurable improvement in the mount's specified periodic tracking error, but the finished photograph depends on much more than the worm drive. Seeing conditions, polar alignment, image scale, guiding configuration, and the rigidity of the complete imaging system all have a part to play.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe best reason to choose the GEM45EC is therefore a specific interest in what its encoder can contribute to your observing or imaging arrangement, rather than assuming that the more expensive mount must automatically produce better results in every situation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA mount with substantial carrying capacity and accurately controlled tracking gives an astrophotographer the freedom to explore objects that don't fill the field of a short, wide-field refractor. Many galaxies and planetary nebulae are comparatively small in apparent size, making them particularly rewarding subjects for telescopes operating at longer focal lengths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eM82 in Ursa Major is a good example. Its bright, elongated body is crossed by dark dust features, while long exposures through suitable narrowband filters can reveal the enormous hydrogen-alpha filaments extending away from the central starburst region. Recording those faint structures requires much more than accurate tracking, but stable imaging equipment makes the job easier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNearby, the Whirlpool Galaxy, M51, offers a different challenge. Its spiral arms and interacting companion provide enough structure to reward nights of careful imaging, particularly when the atmosphere is steady enough to support fine detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Whale Galaxy, NGC 4631, and neighboring Hockey Stick Galaxy, NGC 4656, make a striking pair in Canes Venatici. Their elongated shapes, distorted structures, and surrounding faint features reward a suitable field of view and substantial total exposure time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn Cassiopeia, the Bubble Nebula, NGC 7635, provides an opportunity to examine a delicate shell of gas surrounding a massive star. Narrowband imaging can reveal the brighter portions of the bubble and the surrounding emission nebula. For a more difficult project, the faint outer halo surrounding the Ring Nebula in Lyra can become an interesting target when using appropriate filters and very long integration times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAbell 39 in Hercules presents an entirely different appearance: a faint, nearly spherical planetary nebula with a comparatively uniform shell. It is not an especially bright target, and photographing it successfully requires good sky conditions, careful processing, and patience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC cannot make a small telescope gather the light of a much larger instrument, nor can its encoder eliminate poor seeing. What it offers is a way to reduce a significant source of mechanical tracking error while the rest of the imaging system does its work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eObserving Tip: Set Up Your Off-Axis Guider Before Dark\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're using a long-focal-length telescope with an off-axis guider, one of the most useful things you can do is establish the correct spacing between the main imaging camera and guide camera before your first night outside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn off-axis guider uses a small pickoff prism to direct part of the light entering the main telescope toward a separate guide camera. Since both cameras receive light through the same optical system, the guider avoids much of the differential flexure that can occur when a separate guide telescope moves slightly differently from the main optical tube.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe two cameras need to be parfocal, meaning that when the main camera is correctly focused, the guide camera is also focused. You can establish this during daylight by pointing the telescope at a sufficiently distant object, focusing the main camera, and then adjusting the guide camera's position until its image is also sharp. Final adjustment on stars may still be needed, particularly with systems that have limited focusing travel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the guide camera is correctly positioned, secure its adjustment and make a reference mark if the arrangement is likely to be disassembled. That can save considerable time on subsequent nights, when you'd rather be collecting images than trying to find focus in a small guiding camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith the GEM45EC, also review the mount's recommended encoder and guiding settings before beginning a long exposure sequence. An encoder can reduce mechanical periodic error, but a poorly configured guider can still introduce unnecessary corrections. Start with careful polar alignment, establish a sound guiding calibration, and judge performance from the actual star shapes in your images rather than a single guiding statistic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdl\u003e\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhat is the difference between the GEM45 and GEM45EC?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eThe GEM45EC adds a high-resolution optical encoder on the right ascension axis for Real-Time Periodic Error Correction. The standard GEM45 uses conventional periodic error correction and supports autoguiding. Both have the same 45-pound rated payload capacity and broadly similar mechanical construction.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eCan the GEM45EC take photographs without autoguiding?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eYes, under suitable conditions. Exposure length depends on polar alignment, telescope focal length, camera image scale, atmospheric conditions, and other factors. For demanding long-exposure work, particularly at longer focal lengths, an autoguider remains advisable.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes the optical encoder increase payload capacity?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNo. The encoder reduces periodic tracking error in right ascension. The maximum rated payload remains 45 pounds (20 kg), excluding counterweights, and the practical choice of telescope still depends on its dimensions and weight distribution.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhat do I need to purchase separately?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eA compatible tripod or pier and counterweights for the included 28mm counterweight shaft. The mount head, iPolar, GPS, Go2Nova controller, power adapter, cables, and aluminum hard carrying case are included.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes the GEM45EC have built-in Wi-Fi?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNo. Wi-Fi mount control requires iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter. USB computer control is provided as standard equipment.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSupplied Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiOptron GEM45EC German equatorial mount head with high-resolution RA optical encoder\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilt-in iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6\" Losmandy D\/Vixen dual-format dovetail saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo2Nova computerized hand controller with heated eight-line display\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGEM45 GPS module\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1.10\" (28mm) diameter stainless steel counterweight shaft, approximately 11\" (280mm) long\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluminum hard carrying case for the mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo coiled control cables\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUSB cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100–240V AC power adapter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick Start Guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTripod, pier, and counterweights are not included with the #7620ECA head-only package.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOptional Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 5 kg Counterweight (#8027):\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed for the GEM45's 28mm counterweight shaft. The required number of counterweights depends on the telescope and accessories being carried.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 2.5 kg Counterweight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides a smaller increment of counterweight mass when balancing lighter optical systems or making finer adjustments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier (#8034):\u003c\/strong\u003e A substantial freestanding pier-style support for observers who want a stable mounting platform. Confirm the appropriate GEM45 attachment hardware before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOff-Axis Guider and Guide Camera:\u003c\/strong\u003e Particularly useful for long-focal-length astrophotography, allowing guiding through the main optical path of the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adds wireless mount control through compatible computer and mobile applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC is an interesting instrument because it combines two things that don't always appear together: a traditional German equatorial mount with substantial carrying capacity and a sophisticated real-time tracking correction system, all in a head weighing less than 18 pounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe optical encoder is the reason to consider this version over the standard GEM45. It monitors the actual right ascension axis and compensates for the repeating mechanical errors that conventional mounts must handle through trained correction curves or guiding. That doesn't make autoguiding obsolete, but it does provide a different and potentially valuable approach to accurate tracking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eI wouldn't recommend the GEM45EC merely because someone owns a longer telescope. If the standard GEM45 can carry the equipment comfortably and a well-tuned guiding system already produces satisfactory images, the less expensive mount may be the better use of the money. On the other hand, an observer interested in encoder-based tracking, experimenting with unguided imaging, or reducing periodic error at its source has a genuine reason to consider the EC version.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe head-only configuration is also attractive for someone who already has a suitable support. With iPolar, GPS, internal cable management, a dual-format saddle, and an aluminum carrying case included, the GEM45EC provides the essential components of a capable imaging mount without requiring the purchase of another tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor the right astrophotographer, the appeal is not simply that the GEM45EC can carry 45 pounds or that it has an impressive periodic error specification. It's the opportunity to put a carefully controlled tracking system underneath a telescope while keeping the entire arrangement manageable enough to use regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGerman equatorial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMax Payload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e45 lb (20 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Head Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.5 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.53\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; red\/black anodized\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e14°–68°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUnder 0.3 arcsec RMS (iOptron spec; encoder, bench, 400 sec)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eReal-Time PEC (high-resolution RA encoder)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm Period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e400 sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ45mm steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStepper, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova, 8-line LCD, built-in heater\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDatabase\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e212,000+ objects, star identification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMax Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Alignment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–20° past), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D \u0026amp; Vixen dual\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eNot included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWi-Fi\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eOptional (iStarFi adapter)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAutoguide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); 0.6A tracking \/ 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAC Adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e100–240V (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eNot included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAluminum carrying case, included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10°C to 40°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo-year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e7620ECA\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481988378697,"sku":"7620ECA","price":4149.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7620a-2_1_1.jpg?v=1675379838"},{"product_id":"ioptron-gem45-eq-mount-with-1-75-tripod","title":"iOptron GEM45 EQ Mount With Literoc Tripod","description":"\n\u003cp\u003eMoving up to a 45-pound equatorial mount can involve a surprising amount of shopping. First there's the mount itself, then a tripod substantial enough to support it, the correct counterweights, and the necessary hardware to put everything together. The iOptron GEM45 7603A takes much of that decision-making out of the process. It combines the GEM45 German equatorial mount, a 1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod, and an 11-pound counterweight in one package, with iPolar electronic polar alignment, GPS, and computerized GoTo already included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnd there's something else worth considering. The GEM45 mount head weighs only 17.5 pounds (7.9 kg), yet iOptron rates it to carry 45 pounds (20 kg) of telescope and accessories, excluding the counterweight. That's more than two and a half times its own weight. If you've ever carried a traditional heavy equatorial mount into the backyard after a long day, you'll appreciate what that difference means. The GEM45 gives you the familiar arrangement of a German equatorial without requiring a particularly heavy mount head to get substantial carrying capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis package does not include a hard carrying case. For observers who keep their equipment at home, transport the head in their own protective case, or simply prefer to spend the difference on another accessory, that may be a perfectly reasonable trade. The 7603A-HC offers the same basic mount, tripod, and counterweight combination with iOptron's hard case included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Traditional Equatorial with Room to Grow\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGerman equatorial mounts have been a favorite of amateur astronomers for generations. The telescope sits on one side of the declination axis, counterweights balance it on the other, and the right ascension axis is aligned parallel to the Earth's rotational axis. Once polar aligned, the mount can compensate for the Earth's rotation by moving primarily on that single axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron has retained that familiar arrangement while removing unnecessary weight through its CNC-machined construction and compact mechanical design. The GEM45 uses 4.33\" (110mm) diameter aluminum worm wheels with 216 teeth on both axes, driven by 0.67\" (17mm) brass worms through synchronous belt transmissions. Its 1.77\" (45mm) steel axis shafts are supported by 2.68\" (68mm) bearings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe worm gears provide the very slow, controlled movement necessary to follow celestial objects across the sky. The belt transmissions transfer power from the stepper motors to the worms, while the substantial shafts and bearings support the telescope as its orientation changes during the night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies periodic error of less than ±7.5 arcseconds over the mount's 400-second worm period. Periodic error is the small, repeating variation in tracking speed caused by imperfections in the worm drive. The GEM45 includes Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC), allowing you to record corrections for the predictable portion of that variation and retain them for subsequent observing sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor long-exposure astrophotography, the mount also supports autoguiding through its ST-4-compatible guiding connection and USB computer control. An autoguider monitors a reference star and makes small tracking corrections while the camera collects light. With properly matched equipment, careful polar alignment, and suitable guiding, the GEM45 provides a capable foundation for serious deep-sky imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount's 45-pound capacity is useful when moving from a small refractor to a larger optical tube or adding a cooled camera, filter wheel, electronic focuser, and guiding equipment. However, weight alone doesn't determine whether a telescope is a suitable match. A long 6\" refractor places considerably more leverage on a mount than a compact Schmidt-Cassegrain of similar weight, and wind resistance can become a factor long before the published weight limit is reached.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 has a 6\" dual-format saddle that accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetail plates. This makes it easier to move between compact refractors and larger telescopes without having to replace the saddle. Large quick-lock gear engagement levers allow the axes to be disengaged for balancing and re-engaged for normal operation. As with any equatorial mount, always support the telescope and counterweights when releasing the drives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy the LiteRoc Tripod Matters\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA capable equatorial mount needs a substantial support underneath it. At high magnification, a slight movement of the tripod can make the image shake in the eyepiece. During astrophotography, unwanted movement can affect the shape of stars even when the mount's tracking motors are performing properly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 7603A includes iOptron's 1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod, weighing approximately 17.6 pounds (8 kg). Its steel legs, improved leg-locking arrangement, and spreader provide a firm foundation while retaining the convenience of a portable tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere's a useful balance in this combination. The tripod weighs approximately as much as the mount head, so much of the system's supporting mass is located below the telescope rather than in the part you must lift into position. You can carry the tripod outside, set it up, and then install the 17.5-pound head separately. The counterweight and telescope go on afterward.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe LiteRoc also makes the 7603A practical for observers who travel occasionally. Unlike a permanently installed pier, its legs can be collapsed for transportation, and its adjustable height allows the telescope to be positioned appropriately for the observing location.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe metal accessory tray provides a convenient place for eyepieces and small accessories, keeping them within reach rather than scattered across an observing table or lying in the grass. It's a simple feature, but on a cold night when everything seems to be collecting dew, having a place to keep frequently used accessories is welcome.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor an observer who already has a suitably rigid pier or tripod, the head-only GEM45 package may be the more economical choice. But if you're building a mounting system from the ground up, the 7603A supplies a support chosen by the manufacturer for the mount rather than leaving you to sort through separate mounting arrangements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eiPolar Makes Polar Alignment Easier\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBefore a German equatorial mount can accurately track the sky, its right ascension axis must be aligned with the Earth's rotational axis. This is called polar alignment, and it's particularly important for astrophotography, where a small alignment error can introduce drift during long exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 includes iOptron's iPolar electronic polar scope built into the right ascension axis. Instead of looking through a conventional optical finder and positioning Polaris on an illuminated reticle, iPolar uses a small camera to photograph the star field near the celestial pole. Its software determines where the mount is pointing and shows you how to adjust the altitude and azimuth controls to bring it into alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolaris itself does not have to be visible, provided the camera can see enough surrounding polar sky to identify the star field. This is useful when part of the northern horizon is obstructed by trees or buildings. You still need a compatible computer running iPolar's software, but the mount's normal GoTo and tracking functions can operate afterward through the hand controller without leaving a laptop connected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 provides latitude adjustment from 14° to 68° and approximately ±6° of azimuth adjustment. That broad latitude range accommodates many observing locations, including much of Canada and northern Europe. The relatively limited azimuth adjustment, however, makes it worthwhile to orient the tripod reasonably close to north before starting the electronic alignment procedure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount also includes a 32-channel GPS receiver that automatically supplies location and time information. Its automatic zero-position search provides a reference for computerized operation, while the supplied Go2Nova hand controller handles GoTo alignment, object selection, and tracking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eComputerized GoTo and Internal Cable Management\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Go2Nova hand controller has an eight-line, 21-character LCD display with a built-in heater for cold-weather use. Its database contains more than 212,000 celestial objects, including the Messier, NGC, IC, and Caldwell catalogs, along with thousands of stars and solar system objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOnce properly aligned, the GEM45 can locate an object selected from the database and then track it as the Earth rotates. That is convenient for visual observing and particularly useful for astrophotography, where finding and framing a faint object can otherwise consume a considerable amount of time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 also includes internal cable-management connections for USB 2.0, ST-4 guiding, and a 12V accessory power outlet rated at 3 amps. These connections are routed through the mount to the saddle end, reducing the number of cables that must hang between the moving telescope and stationary equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnyone who has used a telescope with a cooled camera, electronic focuser, filter wheel, and guide camera will appreciate the advantage. A loose cable can snag during a slew or become stretched as the telescope approaches the meridian. Routing some connections through the mount reduces those opportunities, although it doesn't eliminate the need to arrange and check the remaining cables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe USB connection is a pass-through, not a powered multiport USB hub. Depending on how many accessories you're using, a separate hub or imaging computer may still be needed near the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor longer imaging sessions, the GEM45 provides configurable meridian behavior, including the ability to track up to 20° beyond the meridian before stopping or flipping. That can allow a photographic exposure to finish before the telescope changes sides. You must confirm physical clearance with your particular telescope, camera, tripod, and counterweight arrangement before using extended meridian tracking, especially during unattended imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount operates from a 12V DC supply, with iOptron specifying approximately 0.6 amp while tracking and 0.9 amp during GoTo slews. A suitable field battery can power the mount when observing away from an electrical outlet. Wi-Fi is not built in, but wireless control can be added with iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 and LiteRoc combination has attracted considerable discussion on Cloudy Nights, particularly among observers looking for a relatively lightweight mount with enough capacity for more ambitious telescopes and imaging equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne GEM45 owner specifically described the mount's weight-to-payload ratio as an important reason for choosing it. He reported finding the LiteRoc tripod straightforward to set up and was generally pleased with the portability of the combination. His telescope and accessories weighed approximately 13 pounds, considerably less than the mount's maximum rating, so his experience should be understood in that context.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnother owner using the 1.75\" LiteRoc with a GEM45 described it as both light and portable, and considered the larger tripod a worthwhile choice as his equipment grew. Other observers who have used both smaller iOptron tripods and the LiteRoc have favored the larger support for imaging and heavier telescope arrangements, even though it adds weight to the equipment being transported.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere is also a useful practical lesson in the owner discussions. Some observers have found the GEM45's tripod attachment screws and washers awkward to handle in the dark. It's a small part of the setup procedure, but a good reason to practice attaching the mount during daylight and to keep the appropriate Allen wrench with your observing equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThose experiences help explain the appeal of this particular package. The GEM45 provides substantial carrying capacity without an excessively heavy head, while the LiteRoc supplies a more substantial support than the lightest available tripod options. It's a combination designed to remain transportable without making low weight the only consideration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA mount capable of carrying a substantial telescope opens up a variety of observing possibilities, particularly when you enjoy both visual astronomy and astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePut an 8\" Schmidt-Cassegrain on the GEM45 and spend an evening exploring the Moon and planets. Jupiter's Great Red Spot, when visible, and the changing shadows of its Galilean moons are fascinating at higher magnifications. Saturn's rings and the Cassini Division remain perennial favorites, while Mars near a favorable opposition can show its polar cap and darker surface markings when the atmosphere is steady.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGlobular clusters are another pleasure with an 8\" telescope. M3 in Canes Venatici, M13 in Hercules, and M5 in Serpens show increasing numbers of individual stars as magnification, transparency, and sky darkness permit. Accurate tracking lets you concentrate on examining the dense stellar concentrations rather than continually nudging the telescope to keep the cluster centered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExchange the SCT for an appropriately sized imaging refractor and a cooled astronomical camera, and entirely different parts of the sky become attractive projects. The Iris Nebula, NGC 7023, in Cepheus is a delicate reflection nebula surrounded by dark dust. Its blue glow can be photographed against a remarkable background of faint interstellar material under sufficiently dark skies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Elephant's Trunk Nebula winds through the large IC 1396 emission region, while the Wizard Nebula, NGC 7380, presents another intricate combination of glowing hydrogen and dark dust. In winter, the Flaming Star Nebula, IC 405, in Auriga offers reddish emission nebulosity surrounding its bright central star, along with regions of reflected blue light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese objects reward patient imaging, careful framing, and substantial total exposure time. The GEM45 provides the tracking and carrying capacity for a suitably matched imaging system, while the choice of telescope, camera, filters, and observing location determines what details you'll ultimately be able to record.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eObserving Tip: Prepare the Tripod Before Installing the Head\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith a German equatorial mount, a few minutes spent preparing the tripod can save considerable effort later in the evening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBefore installing the GEM45 head, place the LiteRoc in its intended observing position and orient the appropriate tripod reference toward the celestial pole. Adjust the legs until the tripod is reasonably level and securely supported, then tighten the leg locks and spreader according to iOptron's instructions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInstall the mount head using the supplied attachment arrangement, taking care not to lose the small hardware used to secure it. If you regularly disassemble the mount, keeping a dedicated Allen wrench with the tripod is worthwhile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAfter the head is secured, install the counterweight shaft and the appropriate counterweights before mounting the telescope, following the manufacturer's assembly and safety sequence. Never release the gear engagement levers without controlling the telescope and counterweight assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith everything installed and properly balanced, use iPolar to refine the polar alignment. Because the GEM45's azimuth adjustment range is approximately ±6°, starting with the tripod reasonably close to the correct orientation will reduce the amount of adjustment needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you observe from the same patio or backyard pad, small removable marks showing the tripod feet's positions can make subsequent setup more repeatable. You should still verify polar alignment each time the tripod is moved, but those reference points can save some preliminary work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdl\u003e\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhat comes with the GEM45 7603A package?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eThe GEM45 mount head, 1.75\" LiteRoc tripod, one 11 lb (5 kg) counterweight, stainless steel counterweight shaft, built-in iPolar, GPS module, Go2Nova hand controller, power adapter, and connection cables. A hard carrying case is not included.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhat is the difference between the 7603A and 7603A-HC?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eBoth packages include the standard GEM45 with the LiteRoc tripod and counterweight. The 7603A-HC also includes iOptron's hard carrying case for the mount head.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWill the supplied counterweight balance any 45-pound payload?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNo. The included 11 lb (5 kg) counterweight is sufficient for some telescope arrangements, but heavier equipment may require additional counterweights. The number and position of counterweights depend on the telescope's weight distribution and balance.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eCan I use an 8\" Schmidt-Cassegrain with the GEM45?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eAn 8\" SCT is a reasonable telescope to consider for the GEM45, provided the complete system remains within its rated capacity and is properly balanced. Imaging focal length, wind conditions, and the additional weight of photographic accessories should also be considered.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes the GEM45 require a laptop?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eThe iPolar electronic polar alignment system uses a compatible computer running iOptron's software. Once aligned, GoTo and tracking can be controlled independently through the supplied Go2Nova hand controller.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSupplied Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiOptron GEM45 German equatorial mount head with 45 lb rated payload capacity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilt-in iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6\" Losmandy D\/Vixen-style dual dovetail saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo2Nova computerized hand controller with heated eight-line LCD display\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGEM45 GPS module\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod with improved leg locks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne 11 lb (5 kg) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1.10\" (28mm) diameter stainless steel counterweight shaft, 280mm long\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo coiled control cables\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUSB cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100–240V AC power adapter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick Start Guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHard carrying case not included. The 7603A-HC package includes a case for the mount head.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOptional Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 7603A-HC Package:\u003c\/strong\u003e An alternative GEM45 configuration that includes the same mount and LiteRoc tripod along with an aluminum hard carrying case for the mount head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 5 kg Counterweight for 28mm Shaft:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adds balancing mass for heavier telescope and imaging configurations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron 2.5 kg Counterweight for 28mm Shaft:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides a smaller increment of counterweight mass for adjusting balance with different optical tubes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adds wireless mount communication through compatible smartphone, tablet, or computer software.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuide Scope and Guide Camera:\u003c\/strong\u003e Useful for long-exposure astrophotography, allowing compatible guiding software to make tracking corrections during an exposure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron MiniPier:\u003c\/strong\u003e A compatible pier extension can provide additional separation between the mount and tripod when needed for certain telescope arrangements. Verify the correct MiniPier model and attachment hardware before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 is one of those mounts that becomes more interesting when you consider what it weighs rather than simply what it can carry. A 45-pound payload rating is substantial, but a mount head weighing only 17.5 pounds makes that capacity considerably easier to live with when the telescope isn't permanently installed in an observatory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 7603A adds the LiteRoc tripod and a counterweight to make that useful carrying capacity available without requiring a separate search for the proper support. iPolar, GPS, computerized GoTo, permanent periodic error correction, and internal cable management provide the features needed for a capable modern observing or imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eI also like that iOptron offers the choice of purchasing this combination without a hard case. If the mount spends most of its life in the backyard and you're comfortable with your existing storage arrangement, there's little reason to pay for another accessory simply because it comes in a bundle. If you travel frequently and want a fitted case, the 7603A-HC is available for that purpose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor someone moving beyond a smaller equatorial mount, or putting together a serious imaging system without wanting an unnecessarily heavy head, the GEM45 with LiteRoc is a sensible package. It has enough capacity to accommodate a useful range of telescopes, and it remains manageable enough that getting outside for a clear evening doesn't have to become a major undertaking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGerman equatorial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMax Payload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e45 lb (20 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Head Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.5 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.53\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; red\/black anodized\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e14°–68°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUnder ±7.5 arcsec (iOptron spec; bench, 400 sec)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePermanent PEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm Period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e400 sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ45mm steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStepper, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova, 8-line LCD, built-in heater\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDatabase\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e212,000+ objects, star identification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMax Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Alignment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–20° past), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D \u0026amp; Vixen dual\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e11 lb (5 kg) × 1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWi-Fi\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eOptional (iStarFi adapter)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAutoguide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); 0.6A tracking \/ 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAC Adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e100–240V (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eLiteRoc 1.75″ stainless steel (about 8 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eNot included (see 7603A-HC)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10°C to 40°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo-year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e7603A\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481988411465,"sku":"7603A","price":2859.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7603a-2.jpg?v=1675379840"},{"product_id":"ioptron-gem45-eq-mount-with-literoc-tripod-and-hard-case","title":"iOptron GEM45 EQ Mount With Literoc Tripod And Hard Case","description":"\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the frustrations of traveling to dark skies is deciding what equipment to leave behind. You may have a perfectly good telescope and imaging system at home, but the thought of carrying a heavy equatorial mount, tripod, counterweights, and all the associated equipment into the field can make a smaller travel telescope seem awfully attractive. Sometimes that compromise is necessary. Other times, a lighter mount with substantial carrying capacity can let you bring the telescope you really want to use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron GEM45 is an interesting answer to that problem. Its CNC-machined German equatorial mount head weighs only 17.5 pounds (7.9 kg), yet iOptron rates it to carry up to 45 pounds (20 kg) of telescope and accessories, excluding counterweights. That's more than two and a half times the mount's own weight, and a remarkable combination of portability and capacity for a conventional German equatorial design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 7603A-HC package puts that mount together with iOptron's 1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod, an 11-pound counterweight, and a fitted aluminum hard carrying case for the mount head. The mount also includes iPolar electronic polar alignment, GPS, a computerized Go2Nova hand controller, and internal cable management. It's a particularly sensible combination for the observer who regularly travels to a dark sky site and wants a capable equatorial mount without having to assemble a mounting system from several separate purchases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTake the Telescope You Want to Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne advantage of a mount with a 45-pound payload rating is the freedom to consider a substantial range of telescopes. A well-equipped 4\" or 5\" apochromatic refractor, an 8\" Schmidt-Cassegrain, or a compact astrograph with camera, filter wheel, electronic focuser, and guiding equipment may all be reasonable candidates, depending on the complete weight and dimensions of the system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat qualification is important. A long 6\" refractor may fall within the GEM45's published weight rating yet present considerably more leverage and wind resistance than a compact optical tube of similar weight. Likewise, a telescope used for visual observing at moderate magnification places different demands on tracking than the same telescope used for long-exposure imaging at a small image scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 gives you substantial capacity for a portable mount, but that capacity should be matched intelligently to the equipment. If your telescope is already a good mechanical fit for the GEM45, you may not need a separate, smaller mount merely because you're taking it away from home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIts low head weight is especially welcome when loading and unloading the car. The mount, tripod, counterweight, and telescope can all be transported separately, leaving you with pieces that are easier to handle than one large assembled equatorial mount. The included case provides a dedicated place for the head, protecting it from ordinary bumps and handling during travel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Mechanics Behind the GEM45\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough the GEM45 borrows some of its lightweight construction philosophy from iOptron's center-balanced mounts, its geometry is that of a traditional German equatorial. The telescope rides on one side of the declination axis while counterweights balance it on the other. The right ascension axis is aligned parallel to the Earth's rotational axis, allowing the mount to follow celestial objects by rotating that axis at the appropriate tracking rate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth the right ascension and declination axes use 4.33\" (110mm) diameter aluminum worm wheels with 216 teeth. Each wheel is driven by a 0.67\" (17mm) brass worm through a synchronous belt transmission. The 1.77\" (45mm) steel axis shafts are supported by 2.68\" (68mm) bearings, substantial components for a mount head weighing less than 18 pounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe worm and wheel provide the fine mechanical reduction needed to move the telescope at sidereal speed, while the belt transmissions carry power from the stepper motors to the worms. The steel shafts and bearings support the telescope as its position changes during the night. iOptron has removed unnecessary bulk from the CNC-machined housing without abandoning the basic mechanical principles that make a German equatorial mount useful for both visual astronomy and astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies periodic error of less than ±7.5 arcseconds over the GEM45's 400-second worm period. Periodic error is the small, repeating variation in tracking speed caused by imperfections in the worm drive. The GEM45 includes Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC), allowing the owner to record a correction for the repeatable portion of that error and retain it for later observing sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor demanding long-exposure imaging, an autoguider remains advisable. The GEM45 provides an ST-4-compatible guiding interface and USB computer control, allowing compatible guiding software to monitor a reference star and make small corrections while the main camera collects light. The more expensive GEM45EC adds a high-resolution optical encoder on the right ascension axis for real-time correction of periodic tracking error, but the standard GEM45 already provides the mechanical capacity and guiding connections needed for a substantial imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 6\" dual-format saddle accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetail mounting plates, useful if you regularly change between different telescopes. Large quick-lock gear engagement levers make balancing straightforward, although the telescope and counterweight assembly should always be supported when releasing the drives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Substantial Tripod and a Proper Carrying Case\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA lightweight mount head is only part of a good portable system. The support beneath it must be sufficiently rigid to keep the telescope steady, particularly when focusing at high magnification or recording long photographic exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 7603A-HC includes iOptron's 1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod, weighing approximately 17.6 pounds (8 kg). Its steel legs, spreader, and improved leg-locking arrangement provide a substantial foundation while retaining the portability of a folding tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt's worth noticing that the tripod weighs approximately as much as the mount head. That's a sensible arrangement. You can lift the relatively light GEM45 head onto the tripod without struggling with a much heavier assembly, while the supporting mass remains beneath the mount where it can help resist unwanted movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe accompanying aluminum hard case provides fitted foam padding around the mount head. It has reinforced exterior edges, secure latches, and a carrying handle. The case measures approximately 18\" × 15\" × 8.75\" and weighs about 11 pounds by itself, so the head and empty case together account for approximately 28.5 pounds before any additional items are packed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis isn't an airline carry-on guarantee or a substitute for careful handling, but it gives the mount a much better place to travel than loose among counterweights, cables, and telescope accessories. The case is intended for the mount head. The LiteRoc tripod, counterweight, and telescope travel separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor anyone regularly driving to star parties or dark sky locations, that organization can be as valuable as the case's protection. A mount that has a dedicated place in the vehicle is easier to pack, easier to find, and less likely to be damaged by another piece of equipment shifting during the trip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePolar Alignment at a New Observing Site\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEvery time an equatorial mount is moved to a new location, its right ascension axis must be aligned with the Earth's rotational axis before it can accurately follow the sky. That is especially important for astrophotography, where small polar alignment errors can produce tracking drift or field rotation during long exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 includes iOptron's iPolar electronic polar scope built into the right ascension axis. Rather than requiring you to look through a conventional optical finder and position Polaris on an illuminated reticle, iPolar uses a small camera to recognize the star field surrounding the celestial pole.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eConnect iPolar to a compatible computer running iOptron's alignment software, and the program determines where the mount is pointing relative to the pole. It then shows you how to adjust the altitude and azimuth controls to bring the axis into alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolaris itself does not have to be visible, provided enough of the surrounding polar sky remains unobstructed for the camera and software to recognize the star field. This is particularly helpful at unfamiliar observing sites, where a tree or building may block the pole star even though much of the northern sky remains visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 provides a latitude adjustment range of 14° to 68° and approximately ±6° of azimuth adjustment. A broad latitude range is useful when traveling substantial distances north or south, but the limited azimuth adjustment makes it worthwhile to position the tripod reasonably close to the celestial pole before starting the alignment procedure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA built-in 32-channel GPS receiver supplies the mount with location and time information, avoiding the need to enter new coordinates manually at each observing site. The automatic zero-position search establishes a reference position for computerized operation, and the supplied Go2Nova hand controller handles GoTo alignment, object selection, slewing, and tracking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe hand controller has an illuminated eight-line, 21-character LCD display with a built-in heater for cold-weather use. Its database contains more than 212,000 celestial objects, so the GEM45 can be operated for visual observing without keeping a laptop connected after polar alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eInternal Cable Management for Long Imaging Sessions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the more troublesome aspects of astrophotography isn't optical or electronic at all. It's keeping the cables out of the way while the telescope moves around the sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA typical imaging system may have cables for the cooled camera, guide camera, electronic focuser, filter wheel, and dew-control equipment. As the mount slews or performs a meridian flip, those cables must have enough freedom to move without catching on the tripod, pulling against a camera connector, or becoming wrapped around the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 helps simplify this problem with internal cable routing and connections at the saddle end for USB 2.0, ST-4 guiding, and a 12V accessory power outlet rated at 3 amps. Some of the connections can be made near the telescope while their corresponding cables exit through the lower portion of the mount, reducing the number of loose loops hanging around the moving equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe USB arrangement is a pass-through rather than a complete powered multiport hub, so a system with several USB accessories may still require a separate hub or imaging computer near the telescope. Proper cable routing and clearance checks remain necessary, but the built-in connections eliminate some of the clutter that can make an unattended imaging system difficult to manage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 also provides configurable meridian treatment, including the ability to continue tracking up to 20° beyond the meridian before stopping or flipping. This can be useful when an exposure is nearly complete as the telescope approaches the meridian. However, the allowable tracking angle must be checked against the actual clearance of your telescope, camera, tripod, and counterweights. The mount's electronic limit cannot guarantee that every optical tube will safely clear the support.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 operates from a 12V DC power supply, with iOptron specifying approximately 0.6 amp while tracking and 0.9 amp during GoTo slews. Its relatively modest power consumption makes field battery operation practical, although cooled cameras, dew heaters, and computers will increase the total electrical requirements. Wi-Fi control is available through iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn a detailed review published on Cloudy Nights in September 2022, Daniel Moomey described the GEM45 as a lightweight and capable mount that had become part of his regular astrophotography equipment. He reported using it with a small guide scope and PHD2 guiding software to collect five-minute exposures, with guiding performance typically in the 1 to 2 arcsecond RMS range in his particular setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is an owner's measured experience rather than a specification every GEM45 will reproduce, but it provides a useful picture of what a properly configured system can accomplish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHe also discussed the mount's internal cable connections, using an external USB hub to organize several imaging accessories while keeping much of the wiring above the declination axis. The arrangement reduced the loose cables that might otherwise become tangled as the telescope moved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor observers who regularly transport their equipment, he regarded the hard carrying case as particularly worthwhile. He also appreciated iPolar's convenience and the GEM45's ability to work with both Vixen and Losmandy-style telescope mounting plates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHis review included photographs taken with a Takahashi FSQ-85 and a ZWO ASI2600MC Pro camera, as well as a William Optics ZenithStar 71. Subjects included the North America Nebula, Rosette Nebula, and Andromeda Galaxy, demonstrating the GEM45's usefulness with compact refractors and contemporary imaging equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe review wasn't without criticism. He found some of the hex-bolt adjustments less convenient in the dark than conventional knobs, and he noted that careful meridian-limit settings were important to avoid interference between the telescope and support. Those observations are useful reminders that even a capable computerized mount benefits from a familiar setup procedure and careful attention to mechanical clearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe real pleasure of taking a capable imaging system to a dark sky site is discovering what the telescope can record when the background glow of streetlights and buildings is no longer dominating the exposure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Horsehead Nebula in Orion is a good example. The dark silhouette of Barnard 33 stands against the reddish hydrogen emission of IC 434, while the nearby Flame Nebula, NGC 2024, provides an entirely different pattern of illuminated gas and intervening dust. Under dark skies, a suitable telescope and camera can record the broader region with considerably less interference from skyglow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor an even more demanding broadband project, consider the faint dust surrounding M81 and M82 in Ursa Major. The Integrated Flux Nebula is part of our own galaxy, illuminated by the combined light of countless stars. Its low surface brightness makes it exceptionally difficult to separate from an uneven or light-polluted sky background, and successful imaging requires careful calibration, long integration times, and favorable conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Flying Bat Nebula, Sh2-129, and the enormous, extremely faint Squid Nebula, Ou4, in Cepheus provide another ambitious project. The region spans a wide field, and the Squid's oxygen emission is notoriously difficult to record. Appropriate narrowband filters and substantial integration time are essential; simply having a larger telescope or a tracking mount won't make the subject easy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a smaller field, the Draco Trio of galaxies—NGC 5981, NGC 5982, and NGC 5985—offers three very different galactic appearances within a relatively compact region. The edge-on NGC 5981, elliptical NGC 5982, and face-on spiral NGC 5985 make a fascinating combination for a telescope and camera with sufficient focal length to show their individual structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 is not responsible for making those objects bright. That's the job of the telescope, camera, exposure time, and observing conditions. What the mount provides is the ability to carry and accurately track an appropriately sized imaging system while those faint photons are collected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eObserving Tip: Get the Work Done Before Sunset\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhen traveling to a dark sky site, one of the best ways to get more useful observing time is to finish as much of the setup as possible while you can still see what you're doing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSet up the LiteRoc tripod on firm ground, orient it approximately toward the celestial pole, and check that the legs and spreader are securely tightened. Install the GEM45 head, counterweight shaft, and counterweight according to iOptron's assembly instructions, then mount the telescope and complete the balance procedure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eArrange your cameras, guide scope, dew heaters, and other accessories exactly as they'll be used during the night. Connect the power and data cables, verify that they have sufficient freedom to move, and check the telescope's clearance through the range of positions it will encounter during the imaging session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBring up the iPolar software before the sky is fully dark, confirm that the GPS has supplied the correct location and time, and have the imaging software ready. When enough stars become visible for iPolar to identify the polar region, complete the polar alignment and then establish the mount's GoTo alignment or pointing model as required by your observing software.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBefore beginning an unattended sequence, run a short guiding test and inspect a few actual images for star shape and focus. It is much better to discover a loose cable or incorrect guiding setting during a brief test than after collecting several hours of exposures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnd if you expect to return to the same observing site, take a photograph of the completed setup. A simple picture showing tripod orientation, cable routing, and equipment arrangement can be surprisingly helpful the next time you unpack everything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdl\u003e\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhat is the difference between the GEM45 7603A and 7603A-HC?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eBoth packages include the GEM45 mount head, 1.75\" LiteRoc tripod, and one 11 lb counterweight. The 7603A-HC adds iOptron's fitted aluminum hard carrying case for the mount head.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eHow does this differ from the GEM45 head-only package?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eThe 7603A-HC includes the LiteRoc tripod and one 11 lb counterweight in addition to the mount and hard case. The head-only package is intended for customers who already have a compatible tripod or pier and appropriate counterweights.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes the hard case hold the complete mount?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNo. The fitted hard case is intended for the GEM45 mount head. The LiteRoc tripod, counterweight, telescope, and other equipment must be transported separately.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eIs one counterweight enough for every telescope?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNo. The supplied 11 lb (5 kg) counterweight is sufficient for some equipment combinations, but heavier or differently balanced telescopes may require additional counterweights for the GEM45's 28mm shaft.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eCan I use the GEM45 for long-exposure astrophotography?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eYes. The GEM45 supports permanent periodic error correction, USB computer control, and ST-4-compatible autoguiding. For demanding long exposures, an autoguider and careful polar alignment are recommended. Telescope dimensions and weight distribution should also be considered.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSupplied Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiOptron GEM45 German equatorial mount head with 45 lb rated payload capacity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilt-in iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6\" Losmandy D\/Vixen dual-format dovetail saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo2Nova computerized hand controller with heated eight-line LCD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGEM45 GPS module\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod with accessory tray\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne 11 lb (5 kg) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1.10\" (28mm) stainless steel counterweight shaft, 280mm long\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFitted aluminum hard carrying case for the mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo coiled mount control cables\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUSB cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100–240V AC power adapter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick Start Guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOptional Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional iOptron Counterweights:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compatible 2.5 kg and 5 kg counterweights are available for the 28mm shaft when the supplied weight is insufficient to balance your telescope and accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e12V Field Battery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides portable electrical power at sites without AC service. Size the battery for the complete imaging system, including cameras, dew heaters, and computers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adds wireless mount communication through compatible smartphone, tablet, or computer software.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuide Scope and Guide Camera:\u003c\/strong\u003e A useful addition for long-exposure astrophotography, allowing guiding software to make tracking corrections during an exposure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45 has a great deal going for it as a portable equatorial mount. Forty-five pounds of rated carrying capacity is substantial, but a 17.5-pound head makes that capacity considerably easier to transport than many people might expect. It retains the familiar operation of a German equatorial while adding the electronic features that make a modern imaging system more convenient to use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 7603A-HC is the package I would consider if the GEM45 will regularly travel between home and a dark sky site. The LiteRoc provides the matched support, the counterweight gets you started with an appropriately balanced system, and the aluminum case gives the precision mount head a secure place in the car. You aren't left searching for a suitable tripod or improvising protection for the mount during transportation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOf course, if your GEM45 will spend nearly all of its life in the backyard and you already have a safe storage arrangement, the less expensive 7603A without the case may be the more sensible purchase. The telescope and mount will perform the same way. The difference is in how you intend to live with the equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor those who regularly load up the car when a stretch of clear, moonless weather appears, the GEM45 with LiteRoc and hard case offers an appealing combination. It gives you the opportunity to bring a capable telescope and imaging system to a better sky without making the mount itself the most difficult piece of equipment to carry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGerman equatorial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMax Payload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e45 lb (20 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Head Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.5 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.53\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; red\/black anodized\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e14°–68°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUnder ±7.5 arcsec (iOptron spec; bench, 400 sec)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePermanent PEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm Period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e400 sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ45mm steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStepper, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova, 8-line LCD, built-in heater\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDatabase\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e212,000+ objects, star identification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMax Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Alignment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–20° past), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D \u0026amp; Vixen dual\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e11 lb (5 kg) × 1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWi-Fi\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eOptional (iStarFi adapter)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAutoguide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); 0.6A tracking \/ 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAC Adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e100–240V (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eLiteRoc 1.75″ stainless steel (about 8 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded (for the head)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10°C to 40°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo-year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e7603A-HC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481988444233,"sku":"7603AHC","price":2949.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7603a-2_1.jpg?v=1675379842"},{"product_id":"ioptron-gem45ec-eq-mount-with-literoc-tripod-and-hard-case","title":"iOptron GEM45EC EQ Mount With Literoc Tripod And Hard Case","description":"\n\u003cp\u003eIf you've spent enough nights photographing the sky, you've probably learned to recognize the repeating patterns in a guiding graph. Sometimes the right ascension error gradually rises, falls, and then rises again, repeating the same general pattern every few minutes. You can have the telescope properly balanced, the polar alignment carefully adjusted, and the guiding software working correctly, yet that familiar oscillation remains. Much of it may be periodic error originating in the mount's worm drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron GEM45EC addresses that problem with a high-resolution optical encoder on its right ascension axis. Instead of relying exclusively on the mechanical accuracy of the worm gear or a previously recorded correction curve, the encoder continuously measures the actual position of the RA axis and allows the mount to correct periodic tracking errors in real time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies less than 0.3 arcsecond RMS periodic error under its bench testing conditions. That's an impressive mechanical tracking specification, particularly for a conventional German equatorial mount head weighing only 17.5 pounds (7.9 kg) and carrying up to 45 pounds (20 kg) of telescope and accessories, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 7603ECA package includes the encoder-equipped GEM45EC, iOptron's 1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod, an 11-pound counterweight, and an aluminum hard carrying case for the mount head. Built-in iPolar electronic polar alignment, GPS, and the Go2Nova computerized hand controller complete the arrangement. Unlike the GEM45EC head-only package, this version provides the tripod and counterweight needed to get your mounting system started.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat the Optical Encoder Changes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA German equatorial mount tracks the sky by slowly rotating its right ascension axis to compensate for the rotation of the Earth. The motor drives a small screw-shaped gear, called a worm, which turns a much larger toothed wheel attached to the RA axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEven carefully machined worm gears have minute imperfections. As the worm rotates, these can cause the telescope to move slightly faster or slower than intended. Since the same portions of the worm repeat with every revolution, the resulting tracking variation is called periodic error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard GEM45 uses Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC). By recording a correction curve over the worm's 400-second cycle, the mount can compensate for much of the predictable mechanical error during subsequent tracking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC takes a different approach. Its high-resolution optical encoder monitors the actual rotation of the RA axis and compares that position with where the axis should be. The drive electronics then make corrections based on the measured position. iOptron calls this Real-Time Periodic Error Correction, or RPEC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBecause the encoder measures what the axis is doing, you don't need to train and store a conventional periodic error correction curve before using the mount. The tracking correction operates automatically, whether you've set up in the backyard, traveled to a dark sky site, or changed telescopes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron's published figure of less than 0.3 arcsecond RMS periodic error is measured on a test bench with the encoder operating over the 400-second worm period. One arcsecond is only 1\/3600th of a degree, so the remaining error under those conditions is extremely small.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is a measure of the mount's periodic tracking performance, however, rather than a guarantee of how accurately stars will be recorded by every telescope and camera. The encoder measures the position of the RA axis. It cannot directly measure movement from wind, telescope flexure, atmospheric refraction, or errors in polar alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat the encoder provides is a much smaller source of repeating mechanical tracking error. For an astrophotographer trying to record fine details through a suitable telescope, that's a meaningful improvement in the mount's underlying capability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDo You Still Need Autoguiding?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNot necessarily for every exposure, but I would still recommend planning for an autoguider if you intend to photograph faint objects at long focal lengths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUnder suitable conditions, the GEM45EC can make unguided imaging practical. Shorter focal lengths, careful polar alignment, favorable atmospheric conditions, and reasonable exposure lengths all help. As the focal length grows and the camera records smaller portions of the sky per pixel, however, even small remaining errors become more noticeable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn autoguider measures something different from the encoder. It watches the apparent position of a real star through an optical system and uses that information to correct tracking. Consequently, it can respond to some sources of movement that the RA encoder cannot measure directly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor long-focal-length imaging, an off-axis guider can be particularly useful. It monitors a star through the main telescope's optical path, reducing the potential for differential flexure between a separate guide scope and the imaging telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEncoder-equipped mounts can require different guiding settings from conventional worm-driven mounts, especially in right ascension. Guiding corrections that work well on a standard GEM45 may not produce the best results when an encoder is already correcting much of the RA tracking error. Follow iOptron's guidance for configuring the GEM45EC and evaluate the results with actual images rather than assuming that more frequent corrections are always better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere is an important purchasing distinction here. A standard GEM45 with a properly configured autoguider can already produce excellent photographs. The GEM45EC is most attractive to someone who specifically wants the additional precision of real-time encoder correction, whether to explore unguided exposures or reduce periodic tracking error at its source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Substantial Mount in a Remarkably Light Head\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe encoder doesn't change the fundamental mechanical design or carrying capacity of the GEM45. Its German equatorial arrangement places the telescope on one side of the declination axis and balances it with counterweights on the opposite side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth axes use 4.33\" (110mm) diameter aluminum worm wheels with 216 teeth, driven by 0.67\" (17mm) brass worms through synchronous belt transmissions. The 1.77\" (45mm) steel right ascension and declination shafts are supported by 2.68\" (68mm) bearings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese are substantial mechanical components for a head weighing only 17.5 pounds. The CNC-machined construction removes unnecessary bulk while preserving the strength needed to support a useful range of optical tubes and imaging accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 45-pound payload rating provides room for a substantial apochromatic refractor, a compact astrograph, or a suitably sized catadioptric telescope with cameras and other equipment. But telescope dimensions are every bit as important as weight. A long refractor presents more leverage and wind resistance than a compact instrument of the same weight, and the tracking precision of the encoder does not increase the mount's mechanical carrying capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC includes a 6\" dual-format saddle accepting both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetail plates. Large quick-lock gear engagement levers allow the axes to be disengaged for balancing and re-engaged for normal operation. The EC version is also readily identifiable by its red gear engagement switches, compared with the black switches on the standard GEM45.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs with any German equatorial mount, always support the telescope and counterweight assembly when disengaging the gears. A poorly balanced telescope can move unexpectedly if the axis is released without control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe LiteRoc Tripod and Aluminum Carrying Case\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 7603ECA includes iOptron's 1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod, weighing approximately 17.6 pounds (8 kg). Its substantial steel legs, adjustable locks, and metal spreader provide a firm foundation while retaining the portability of a folding tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an important part of the package. A mount with excellent mechanical tracking can still be affected by vibration if its supporting structure moves. At high magnification or fine photographic image scales, a slight movement caused by wind or an unstable tripod may be visible even though the RA encoder is doing its job perfectly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe supplied tripod is a practical compromise between rigidity and transportability. Its weight is approximately the same as the mount head, allowing the two components to be carried and installed separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn 11-pound (5 kg) counterweight is also included, along with the stainless steel counterweight shaft. Heavier telescope and imaging arrangements may require additional counterweights, which are available separately for the GEM45's 28mm shaft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe aluminum carrying case protects the mount head during storage and transportation. Its fitted interior provides a dedicated place for the precision mount, while the tripod, counterweights, telescope, and other equipment travel separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor an observer who regularly visits dark sky locations, that's a particularly useful addition. The GEM45EC combines a relatively light head with a carefully controlled drive system, and the case makes it easier to transport that equipment without leaving it exposed among heavier accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eiPolar, GPS, and Computerized Control\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAccurate polar alignment matters on every equatorial mount, but it is especially worthwhile when the mechanical tracking error is as small as that specified for the GEM45EC. A highly accurate right ascension drive cannot prevent declination drift caused by an incorrectly aligned polar axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe built-in iPolar electronic polar scope uses a small camera to identify the star field near the celestial pole. With iOptron's software running on a compatible computer, the system shows you how to adjust the mount's altitude and azimuth controls to achieve polar alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePolaris itself does not have to be visible, provided enough of the surrounding polar sky is unobstructed for the software to recognize the field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC has a latitude adjustment range of 14° to 68° and approximately ±6° of azimuth adjustment, accommodating observing locations across a broad range of geographical latitudes. Beginning with the tripod reasonably oriented toward the celestial pole makes electronic alignment quicker and easier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA built-in 32-channel GPS receiver supplies time and location information, while automatic zero-position searching helps the mount establish a reliable reference for computerized operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe supplied Go2Nova hand controller has an illuminated eight-line, 21-character LCD with a built-in heater for cold-weather use. Its database includes more than 212,000 astronomical objects, allowing the mount to locate and track targets through the hand controller without requiring a computer for normal GoTo operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC also provides internal cable-management connections for USB, ST-4-compatible guiding, and 12V accessory power. Routing these connections through the mount can reduce exposed cables around the moving telescope, although a separate USB hub may still be required when operating several imaging accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWi-Fi is optional through iOptron's iStarFi adapter. The mount itself operates from a 12V DC supply, with approximately 0.6 amp consumption while tracking and 0.9 amp during GoTo slews according to iOptron. Additional power will be required for cameras, computers, and other accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eConfigurable meridian behavior allows the mount to track beyond the meridian by up to 20° under suitable conditions. This can be helpful when completing exposures, but telescope and tripod clearance must always be checked before enabling extended meridian tracking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Owners Say on Cloudy Nights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC has generated considerable discussion on Cloudy Nights, particularly among imagers deciding whether the optical encoder justifies its additional cost over the standard GEM45.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn a January 2022 discussion, a GEM45EC owner described the mount as particularly useful for mobile observing sessions in which he wanted to collect relatively short exposures without relying heavily on autoguiding. He reported finding two- to three-minute unguided imaging practical for his purposes and also discussed changing his RA guiding behavior when operating with the encoder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInterestingly, that same owner found a heavily equipped 10\" Schmidt-Cassegrain less comfortable on the GEM45 platform despite remaining below the published weight limit. He planned to use a smaller, more compact telescope on the GEM45EC and move the larger SCT to a more substantial mount. It's a useful reminder that a high payload rating doesn't eliminate the effects of telescope size, leverage, and imaging focal length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOther Cloudy Nights members have expressed reservations about encoder-equipped mounts, including concerns about guiding behavior and whether the additional tracking precision produces a noticeable improvement once a conventional mount is already guided accurately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn a July 2025 discussion comparing GEM45 variants, experienced imagers recommended considering the complete guiding arrangement and the intended telescope before assuming that the EC version would be the best choice. Some favored a standard GEM45 with a well-configured guide scope or off-axis guider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThose differing opinions are worth considering. The encoder provides a real and measurable improvement in the mount's specified periodic tracking accuracy, but it is only one part of the imaging system. For someone who wants real-time mechanical correction, the GEM45EC offers a distinctive capability. For someone who already obtains excellent guided results with a conventional GEM45, the additional expense may be less compelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSmall galaxies can be wonderfully rewarding astrophotography subjects, particularly when a telescope and camera provide enough image scale to reveal features that are almost invisible in a wider field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNGC 2903 in Leo is a striking barred spiral galaxy with a bright center and sweeping outer arms. Under good conditions, a suitably sized telescope can reveal knots of star formation and the darker structures that cross its disk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNGC 5907 in Draco is an entirely different kind of subject. Sometimes called the Splinter Galaxy, its thin edge-on appearance makes an elegant contrast against the surrounding star field. Deep imaging can also reveal exceedingly faint stellar streams associated with the galaxy, although recording them requires exceptionally good conditions and substantial integration time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eM77 in Cetus has a bright active nucleus surrounded by a much fainter outer structure. NGC 7479 in Pegasus offers an attractive barred spiral arrangement, with its prominent central bar and curved arms becoming increasingly interesting as resolution improves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a particularly ambitious project, Arp 273 in Andromeda consists of interacting galaxies whose distorted spiral structures resemble a celestial rose. The pair is comparatively small and faint, rewarding suitable image scale, good seeing, careful guiding, and long integration times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese objects illustrate why an astrophotographer might become interested in more precise mechanical tracking. As the focal length increases and the image scale becomes finer, small movements become easier to detect. The encoder reduces an important source of those movements, giving the rest of the system a better opportunity to record the detail the telescope and sky conditions permit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eObserving Tip: Understand Your Image Scale\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBefore deciding whether your mount is guiding well enough, calculate the image scale of the telescope and camera you're using.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe calculation is straightforward: multiply your camera's pixel size in microns by 206.265, then divide the result by your telescope's focal length in millimeters. The answer is the angular size of the sky recorded by one pixel, expressed in arcseconds per pixel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, a camera with 3.76-micron pixels on a telescope operating at 1,200mm focal length has an image scale of approximately 0.65 arcsecond per pixel. A telescope operating at 480mm with that same camera produces approximately 1.62 arcseconds per pixel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis helps explain why guiding becomes more demanding as focal length increases. A one-arcsecond movement shifts the star across substantially more pixels at 1,200mm than it does at 480mm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA useful starting goal is to keep the total guiding RMS comfortably below the image scale, but there is no universal number that guarantees round stars. Atmospheric seeing, optical resolution, camera sampling, exposure length, and the distribution of guiding errors all affect the result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAfter establishing a careful iPolar alignment and configuring the guiding software, collect a few test exposures and inspect the actual star shapes at full resolution. If the stars are round and the detail is satisfactory, the system is doing its job. There's little reason to spend a good observing night chasing an arbitrarily smaller number on the guiding graph.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdl\u003e\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhat is the difference between the GEM45 and GEM45EC?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eThe GEM45EC adds a high-resolution optical encoder on the right ascension axis for Real-Time Periodic Error Correction. The standard GEM45 uses conventional periodic error correction and supports autoguiding. Both have the same 45-pound payload rating.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes the GEM45EC eliminate the need for autoguiding?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eNot for every application. The encoder can make unguided exposures practical under suitable conditions, but it cannot correct all sources of drift and movement. Autoguiding is still recommended for demanding long-exposure imaging, particularly at longer focal lengths.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhat is included with the 7603ECA package?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eThe GEM45EC mount head with RA encoder, iPolar, GPS, Go2Nova hand controller, 1.75\" LiteRoc tripod, one 11 lb counterweight, stainless steel counterweight shaft, aluminum carrying case, cables, and AC power adapter.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eWhat is the difference between the 7603ECA and the GEM45EC head-only package?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eThe 7603ECA includes the LiteRoc tripod and an 11 lb counterweight. The head-only #7620ECA provides the mount and carrying case but leaves the tripod or pier and counterweights to be purchased separately.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eHow can I identify the encoder-equipped GEM45?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eiOptron identifies the GEM45EC with red gear engagement switches, compared with black switches on the standard GEM45. The EC also contains the high-resolution RA encoder and its associated electronics.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\n\u003cdt style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 14px;\"\u003eDoes it include wireless control?\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd style=\"margin: 4px 0 12px 20px;\"\u003eWi-Fi is not built in. Compatible wireless mount control can be added through iOptron's optional iStarFi adapter.\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSupplied Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiOptron GEM45EC German equatorial mount head (#7620ECA) with high-resolution RA optical encoder\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilt-in iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6\" Losmandy D\/Vixen dual-format dovetail saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo2Nova computerized hand controller with heated eight-line LCD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGEM45 GPS module\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1.75\" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne 11 lb (5 kg) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1.10\" (28mm) diameter stainless steel counterweight shaft, 280mm long\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAluminum hard carrying case for the mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo coiled control cables\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUSB cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100–240V AC power adapter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick Start Guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOptional Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOff-Axis Guider and Guide Camera:\u003c\/strong\u003e Particularly useful for long-focal-length imaging, allowing guiding through the main telescope's optical path.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional iOptron Counterweights:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compatible 2.5 kg and 5 kg counterweights for the 28mm shaft can be added when the included weight is insufficient to balance the telescope and accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron iStarFi Wi-Fi Adapter:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adds wireless mount control through compatible computer and mobile applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier (#8034):\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides a substantial freestanding alternative to the LiteRoc tripod for observers developing a more permanent setup. Verify the appropriate mounting hardware before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe GEM45EC is one of those mounts where it's worth understanding the engineering before deciding whether to spend the additional money. Its high-resolution encoder is not merely another convenience feature. It changes how the right ascension drive corrects periodic tracking error, measuring the actual axis position instead of relying solely on a trained correction curve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat's a meaningful capability, particularly for an observer interested in reducing mechanical tracking error or experimenting with unguided imaging. But the encoder does not make a larger telescope easier to carry, eliminate the need for careful polar alignment, or guarantee that every guided exposure will be better than one taken with a properly configured standard GEM45.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat I like about the 7603ECA is that iOptron has provided a complete package around that precision tracking system. The mount head remains comparatively light at 17.5 pounds, the LiteRoc gives it a substantial portable support, and the included counterweight and aluminum case make the equipment practical to set up and transport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your present guided imaging system already produces consistently round stars, the standard GEM45 may be all you need. But if the idea of a mount that measures and corrects its own right ascension tracking in real time appeals to you, the GEM45EC offers a genuine technical difference.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnd for an observer who wants that capability without having to purchase a tripod, counterweight, and protective case separately, the 7603ECA brings the pieces together in one sensible package.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGerman equatorial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMax Payload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e45 lb (20 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Head Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e17.5 lb (7.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.53\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eStructure\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal, CNC machined; red\/black anodized\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e14°–68°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUnder 0.3 arcsec RMS (iOptron spec; encoder, bench, 400 sec)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eReal-Time PEC (high-resolution RA encoder)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm Period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e400 sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ17mm, brass\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ110mm, 216 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axis Shafts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ45mm steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ68mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStepper, 1.8°, 128× micro-step\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.08 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTransmission\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSynchronous belt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova, 8-line LCD, built-in heater\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDatabase\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e212,000+ objects, star identification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMax Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4.5°\/sec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Alignment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–20° past), flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e6″ Losmandy D \u0026amp; Vixen dual\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eØ28 × 280mm, stainless steel (1.2 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e11 lb (5 kg) × 1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWi-Fi\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eOptional (iStarFi adapter)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAutoguide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eDC12V (3A), ST-4, USB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); 0.6A tracking \/ 0.9A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAC Adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e100–240V (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower-Down Memory\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eLiteRoc 1.75″ stainless steel (about 8 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAluminum carrying case, included (for the head)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10°C to 40°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo-year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e7603ECA\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481988477001,"sku":"7603ECA","price":4449.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7603a-2_1_1.jpg?v=1675379844"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem120-ec2-center-balanced-eq-mount-with-dual-high-precision-encoders","title":"iOptron CEM120 EC2 Center Balanced EQ Mount With Dual High Precision Encoders","description":"\u003cp\u003eAt the scale of a permanent observatory, mount errors stop being abstract specifications. Put a C14, large Ritchey-Chrétien, CDK, or substantial refractor on a camera with an image scale below an arcsecond per pixel and small mechanical errors become visible in the stars. The mount has to carry the system, track it precisely, manage all of its cables, and return to the same reliable behavior night after night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron CEM120EC2 is the dual-encoder version of the 115 lb CEM120 platform. The mount head weighs 57 lb (26 kg), carries up to 115 lb (52 kg) of payload excluding counterweights, and adds high-resolution position encoders to both the right-ascension and declination axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe RA encoder works with iOptron's Real-Time Periodic Error Correction to reduce the repeating tracking error of the worm drive. iOptron specifies encoder-corrected periodic error below 0.15 arcsecond RMS over the mount's 240-second worm period. The second encoder gives the mount direct positional feedback on declination as well, rather than relying solely on commanded motor movement and the gear train.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat does not make polar alignment, atmospheric refraction, flexure, guiding, or careful observatory setup disappear. What it does is give the mount accurate position feedback on both axes before the rest of the imaging system ever gets involved. For the largest telescopes and finest image scales in the CEM120 family, that is what separates the EC2 from the standard CEM120 and the single-encoder CEM120EC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-resolution encoders on both axes.\u003c\/strong\u003e The CEM120EC2 adds position feedback on both RA and DEC, with a published encoder resolution of 0.035 arcsecond.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReal-Time Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/strong\u003e The RA encoder continuously measures and corrects the periodic component of the worm drive rather than relying on a previously trained PEC curve.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLess than 0.15 arcsecond RMS periodic error.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron specifies encoder-corrected PE below 0.15 arcsecond RMS, measured on the bench over one complete 240-second worm cycle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e115 lb payload capacity.\u003c\/strong\u003e Carries up to 52 kg (115 lb) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e57 lb mount head.\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately a 2:1 payload-to-mount-weight ratio.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial design.\u003c\/strong\u003e The CEM architecture concentrates the combined mount, payload, and counterweight mass more directly over the support.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePush-to capability.\u003c\/strong\u003e With the mount powered on, the gear switches can be released and the telescope moved manually while the dual encoders maintain positional information.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e216mm worm wheels on both axes.\u003c\/strong\u003e RA and DEC each use a 360-tooth worm wheel driven by a 26mm worm.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge steel axles and bearings.\u003c\/strong\u003e Both axes use 80mm steel shafts supported by 125mm bearings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrecision stepper motors.\u003c\/strong\u003e 128 micro-steps provide 0.07-arcsecond motor resolution.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e17.2-inch Losmandy-D saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides substantial clamping length for large OTAs, long dovetail plates, and side-by-side systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in Ethernet and Wi-Fi.\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed for permanent observatory networking and remote operation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB and RS-232 control.\u003c\/strong\u003e Direct wired connections are also provided for local computer control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdvanced through-mount cabling.\u003c\/strong\u003e USB, 12V power, guide, auxiliary, and iPolar connections can pass through the mount to the telescope side.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e32-channel GPS.\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies location and UTC information to the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic zero-position search.\u003c\/strong\u003e Fixed reference sensors provide a repeatable mechanical starting point for automated operation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProgrammable parking.\u003c\/strong\u003e Horizontal, vertical, current-position, and user-defined Alt\/Az parking positions are available.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePower-down position memory.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can retain positional information after shutdown when the system has not been physically moved.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfigurable meridian treatment.\u003c\/strong\u003e The CEM120EC2 can stop or automatically flip, with settings allowing up to 14° of travel past the meridian.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eST-4 autoguider port.\u003c\/strong\u003e Traditional autoguiding is supported along with software-based pulse guiding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptional internal iPolar.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's CEM120-specific electronic polar scope can be installed for dedicated camera-based polar alignment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Two Encoders?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC already has a high-resolution encoder on right ascension, which is where periodic worm error directly affects tracking. So what does the second encoder on the EC2 actually add?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt gives the mount direct position feedback on declination as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWithout a high-resolution DEC encoder, the control system commands the declination motor to move a certain amount and relies on the mechanical drive to produce that movement. With the EC2, the mount can also measure the resulting position of the declination axis itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat does not mean the DEC encoder eliminates atmospheric seeing, wind, polar-alignment drift, mechanical flexure, or every reason an autoguider might issue a correction. It means the mount has positional feedback on both of its primary axes rather than only one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor an observatory system working at fine image scales, that gives the control system more information about what the mount itself is doing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReal-Time PEC on Right Ascension\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe right-ascension encoder also changes how the CEM120EC2 deals with periodic error.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA traditional worm-driven mount has small mechanical errors that repeat as the worm rotates. On the standard CEM120, those errors can be characterized and reduced with Permanent Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe EC2 instead measures the RA axis directly while it tracks. Real-Time PEC uses the encoder feedback to correct the repeating component as it happens rather than replaying a previously recorded correction curve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron publishes an encoder resolution of 0.035 arcsecond and specifies periodic error below 0.15 arcsecond RMS when measured on the bench over the full 240-second worm cycle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThose numbers should be understood for what they are. The 0.035-arcsecond figure is encoder resolution, not a promise that the telescope points to or tracks every star to 0.035 arcsecond. Likewise, the 0.15-arcsecond figure describes encoder-corrected periodic error under iOptron's bench measurement, not total tracking performance under the night sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eYou May Still Want to Guide\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDual encoders do not make the rest of the universe disappear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount cannot use its encoders to correct atmospheric refraction, differential flexure, movement in the optical train, wind loading, seeing, or drift caused by an imperfectly aligned polar axis. Those effects happen outside the worm gears the encoders are monitoring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat is why guiding can still make sense with the CEM120EC2, particularly at the long focal lengths and fine image scales this mount is capable of supporting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe difference is that an external guider is not starting with an ordinary uncorrected gear train. The mount already has high-resolution positional feedback on both axes and Real-Time PEC on RA, leaving the guider to respond to the residual movement of the complete telescope, atmosphere, and imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere is no single guide cadence or aggressiveness setting that is correct for every EC2. Telescope focal length, camera scale, seeing, guider type, payload, software, and local conditions all matter. Tune the guiding system to the stars produced by your own observatory rather than chasing one set of numbers from someone else's installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnguided Imaging Needs More Than Encoders\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC2's dual encoders make unguided imaging an understandable question, but encoders alone are only part of that problem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThey can tell the mount where its axes are. They cannot, by themselves, tell it how atmospheric refraction changes across the sky, how the telescope structure flexes as gravity changes direction, or exactly how a small polar-alignment error alters the apparent motion of a target over several hours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePremium unguided observatory systems that work at demanding image scales often combine high-resolution encoders with a detailed sky model that measures those position-dependent errors and changes the tracking rates accordingly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC2 does not automatically build that kind of many-point model as part of its native mount operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDepending on focal length, image scale, exposure time, and alignment quality, unguided imaging may still be useful. But we would buy the EC2 for its dual-axis position feedback and exceptionally low RA periodic error, not on the assumption that a guider will never be needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePush-To Without Losing Position\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne unusual benefit of having high-resolution encoders on both axes is that the CEM120EC2 can remain aware of its position even when you move the telescope manually.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith the mount powered on, iOptron allows you to release the RA and DEC gear switches, move the telescope by hand to another part of the sky, and then re-engage the drives. Because both axes are encoded, the control system can retain positional information through that movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat gives a very large equatorial mount some of the immediacy of a manual push-to system without throwing away the alignment information every time the gears are disengaged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt may not be the feature that sells an EC2 to a remote imager, but for an observatory that is also used visually or interactively, it is a useful consequence of having encoders on both axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe CEM120 Mechanical Platform\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUnder the encoders is the same substantial mechanical foundation used throughout the CEM120 family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth RA and DEC use 216mm diameter, 360-tooth worm wheels driven by 26mm worms. The right-ascension worm period is 240 seconds. Each axis turns on an 80mm steel shaft supported by 125mm bearings, and precision stepper motors use 128 micro-steps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThose dimensions matter because observatory-class telescopes create more than simple downward weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA long refractor creates leverage. A large RC or CDK presents a substantial cross-section to the wind. A C14 with a large camera, rotator, filter wheel, reducer, focuser, and off-axis guider hangs considerable equipment behind the optical tube.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 platform is large because those systems need a large mechanical foundation, not simply because the published payload number looks impressive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Center-Balanced?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM design reorganizes the geometry of a traditional German equatorial mount so more of the combined mass sits directly over the pier or tripod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe telescope still needs counterweights and the axes still need to be balanced. \"Center-balanced\" does not mean counterweight-free.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInstead, iOptron's layout reduces how far the mount structure itself is cantilevered away from the support. On a small telescope that may not sound especially important. On a permanent system whose total installed moving mass can easily exceed 150 pounds once the payload and counterweights are included, the geometry becomes much more meaningful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e115 Pounds Gives You Room to Build\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC2 carries up to 115 lb (52 kg) of payload, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat rating is still dependent on the size and length of the optical tube. A compact 70 lb telescope and a very long 70 lb telescope do not place identical loads on the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe greater advantage of the capacity is often not putting a 115 lb telescope on the saddle. It is having mechanical margin once a more reasonable optical tube becomes a complete observatory instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA C14 leaves substantial capacity for a large camera, filter wheel, rotator, focuser, reducer or corrector, off-axis guider, dew equipment, and all of the plates and hardware needed to connect them. Large RC and CDK systems can be configured around the imaging job rather than around the last few available pounds of mount capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe long 17.2-inch Losmandy-D saddle also gives large dovetail plates plenty of clamping surface and makes substantial side-by-side systems practical when the complete load remains within the mount's mechanical limits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBuilt for the Observatory\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC2 makes the most sense once the mount becomes part of the observatory rather than something you carry outside at dusk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEthernet LAN and Wi-Fi are built into the mount, along with USB and RS-232 control. In a permanent installation, a hard-wired Ethernet connection can make the mount another stable device on the observatory network rather than relying on a long USB cable or wireless link for primary control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAutomatic zero-position search provides a known mechanical reference at startup. Programmable park positions let you choose where the telescope belongs when a roof or dome closes. Power-down position memory helps preserve the mount's state when it has been shut down without being physically disturbed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMeridian behavior is configurable as well. The mount can stop or automatically flip, with settings allowing up to 14° of tracking beyond the meridian when the telescope, camera, pier, and observatory have enough clearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThose features are easy to overlook on a specification sheet, but they become some of the most important parts of a mount once nights are automated and nobody is standing beside it watching every slew.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThrough-Mount Cable Management\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA large imaging system can have nearly as much wiring as optical equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMain camera, guide camera, filter wheel, focuser, rotator, dew heaters, flat-field equipment, and other accessories all need data, power, or both. External cable loops can change tension as the telescope moves and eventually become snag points during a slew or meridian flip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC2 includes an extensive through-mount cable system. Available paths include two USB 2.0 ports, three USB 3.0 ports, two 12V outputs rated to 1A, two higher-current DC outputs rated to 5A, ST-4 guiding, 6P6C, AUX, and a dedicated USB connection for the optional iPolar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat allows much of the imaging train to connect near the saddle rather than sending a loose bundle of cables across the moving RA and DEC axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a permanent installation, that is not just tidier. It removes potential cable movement from an imaging system where fractions of an arcsecond matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC2 belongs with telescopes that can actually take advantage of this level of mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA large SCT, Ritchey-Chrétien, or CDK brings small galaxies, compact galaxy groups, planetary nebulae, globular clusters, and fine structure inside larger targets into useful image scale. Objects such as NGC 891, Stephan's Quintet, the Cat's Eye Nebula, M51, and the smaller galaxies scattered through spring skies become more than tiny features in a wide field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt those focal lengths, tracking becomes part of image resolution. A periodic error that would be nearly invisible through a short refractor can spread a star across multiple pixels through a long-focal-length telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe EC2 cannot improve the seeing or make the optical system sharper than physics allows. What it can do is reduce the mount itself as a source of uncertainty, with direct positional feedback on both axes and encoder-corrected periodic error on RA.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere is also enough capacity for dual systems. A wide-field refractor can record an entire nebula while a longer-focal-length instrument works a small structure within it, allowing the same clear hours to serve two very different image scales.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrom the Cloudy Nights Community\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExperienced CEM120EC2 owners tend to make an interesting point about guiding: once the mount is behaving properly, too much guider intervention can become counterproductive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOwners working with large SCTs and other long-focal-length systems have reported excellent guiding after tuning their software to make relatively gentle corrections. Individual RMS figures vary substantially with seeing, payload, image scale, and installation, so we would not turn those owner numbers into a specification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe more useful lesson is that an encoder mount should not necessarily be guided the same way as a conventional mount with larger uncorrected gear error. Let the encoders do the work they were designed to do, then use the guider to correct what remains in the complete telescope and sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCEM120, CEM120EC, or CEM120EC2?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAll three versions share the same basic 115 lb CEM120 mechanical platform. The difference is how much direct positional feedback the mount has.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEM120:\u003c\/strong\u003e conventional precision worm gearing with native periodic error below ±3.5 arcseconds, Permanent PEC, and no high-resolution tracking encoders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEM120EC:\u003c\/strong\u003e adds a high-resolution encoder to right ascension and uses Real-Time PEC to reduce RA periodic error to less than 0.15 arcsecond RMS under iOptron's bench measurement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEM120EC2:\u003c\/strong\u003e uses high-resolution encoders on both RA and DEC, adding direct positional feedback to the declination axis as well as the encoder-corrected RA system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your imaging program assumes conventional guiding and you primarily want the CEM120's mechanical platform and observatory infrastructure, the standard CEM120 is the economical route.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your priority is removing RA periodic error at the mount, the CEM120EC provides the most significant encoder benefit with one high-resolution RA encoder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe EC2 is for the installation where you want positional feedback on both axes and the most complete version of the CEM120 control system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePolar Alignment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC2 does not include an optical polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a permanent observatory, polar alignment is normally performed through the imaging or guide camera using software. Once the pier is accurately aligned and nothing physically moves, that alignment should require little ongoing attention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount also includes iOptron's Polar Iterate Align routine for locations where the celestial pole cannot be seen directly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you prefer a dedicated alignment camera, the optional #3339A-120 iPolar installs internally in the CEM120 family and provides electronic plate-solving polar alignment without requiring Polaris itself to be visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiOptron CEM120EC2 center-balanced equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh-resolution RA and DEC encoders\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e17.2-inch Losmandy-D dovetail saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo2Nova hand controller and connection cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e38.1mm × 540mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo 22 lb (10 kg) counterweights\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12V\/5A AC\/DC power adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMount accessories and connection hardware\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot included:\u003c\/strong\u003e pier or tripod, optional iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe CEM120EC2 ships in two boxes, with the counterweights packaged separately.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much can the CEM120EC2 carry?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron rates the mount for 115 lb (52 kg) of payload, excluding counterweights. Telescope length, diameter, and overall geometry still matter along with actual weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much does the mount head weigh?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe CEM120EC2 weighs 57 lb (26 kg).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow many high-resolution encoders does it have?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTwo: one on right ascension and one on declination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does 0.035 arcsecond mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThat is the published resolution of the high-resolution encoders. It is not a claim that the telescope has 0.035-arcsecond absolute pointing or total tracking accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the periodic error?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron specifies encoder-corrected periodic error below 0.15 arcsecond RMS, measured on the bench over the full 240-second RA worm period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it use conventional PEC training?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. The encoder-equipped CEM120 models use Real-Time Periodic Error Correction rather than the trained Permanent PEC system used by the standard CEM120.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does the DEC encoder add?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIt gives the control system direct high-resolution position feedback on declination instead of relying solely on commanded motor movement through the gear train. The EC2 therefore has encoded position information on both axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I still need to guide?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFor demanding long-exposure work at fine image scales, guiding can still be useful. The encoders monitor the mount's axes, but an autoguider can respond to residual motion caused by polar-alignment error, atmospheric refraction, flexure, wind, and other effects elsewhere in the complete system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan the CEM120EC2 image unguided?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe dual encoders remove important mechanical errors inside the mount, but practical unguided exposure length still depends on focal length, image scale, polar alignment, refraction, flexure, and the availability of a suitable sky-modeling and tracking system. We would not buy the EC2 on the assumption that guiding will never be necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I move the telescope manually without losing position?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. One benefit of the dual encoders is push-to operation. With the mount powered on, the gear switches can be released, the telescope moved manually, and the drives re-engaged while the encoder system preserves positional awareness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan it carry a C14?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. A C14 OTA leaves substantial room within the published 115 lb rating for a camera, filter wheel, focuser, guider, rotator, dew equipment, dovetails, and other accessories. Consider the complete system and its mechanical geometry rather than OTA weight alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan it carry a large RC or CDK?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMany large observatory-class RC and CDK systems fall within the CEM120EC2's published payload range. Tube diameter, length, center of gravity, accessory load, and pier stiffness should all be considered along with total weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I control it remotely?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. Ethernet LAN, Wi-Fi, USB, and RS-232 are built into the mount, and automatic zero search, programmable parking, power-down position memory, and configurable meridian behavior support permanent and automated observatory operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it have through-mount cabling?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. Multiple USB, DC power, guide, auxiliary, and iPolar connections are routed through the mount so cameras and accessories can connect near the telescope rather than running loose cables across the axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it include a power supply?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. iOptron's current specifications state that a 12V\/5A AC adapter intended for indoor use is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do I polar align it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYou can use polar-alignment software through the imaging or guide camera, the mount's Polar Iterate Align routine, or install the optional internal #3339A-120 iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat pier should I use?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA permanent observatory pier is the natural choice for most CEM120EC2 installations. iOptron also offers substantial support options including its Permanent Pier and Tri-Pier 360. At this scale, pier stiffness and the foundation beneath it are part of the tracking system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron #3339A-120 Internal iPolar Electronic Polar Scope (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: installs inside the CEM120 family and provides dedicated camera-based polar alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron Permanent Pier or Tri-Pier 360 (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: substantial support options appropriate for the size and installed mass of a CEM120EC2 system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOff-axis guider and guide camera (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: a natural choice for long-focal-length systems because the guide camera sees motion through the main telescope's optical path rather than through a separate guide scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional CEM120 counterweights (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: available when the installed payload requires more counterweight than the two included 22 lb weights provide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLow-latitude counterweight #7326LL (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: iOptron specifies a special counterweight arrangement for CEM120-family installations below approximately 10° latitude.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120EC2 is the version of the CEM120 platform for an observatory where positional feedback on both axes matters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIts 115 lb payload, large worm wheels and bearings, long Losmandy saddle, center-balanced geometry, through-mount cabling, Ethernet networking, automatic zero search, and programmable parking give it the mechanical and operational foundation for a substantial permanent imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe dual high-resolution encoders add another layer. Right ascension gets Real-Time PEC and extremely low encoder-corrected periodic error, while declination gains its own direct position feedback. Together they let the mount know far more about what its axes are actually doing than a conventional open-loop gear system can.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat still does not remove the atmosphere, polar alignment, flexure, wind, or every reason to use a guider. The encoders solve problems inside the mount; a complete imaging system still has to deal with everything outside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf the standard CEM120 gives you the capacity and the CEM120EC gives you the RA tracking correction you want, the CEM120EC2 completes the idea by putting high-resolution positional feedback on both axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-Balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePayload Capacity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e115 lb (52 kg), excluding counterweights\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e57 lb (26 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2:1\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt;0.15 arcsec RMS with encoder, measured on the bench over one 240-second worm period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePeriodic Error Correction\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eReal-Time PEC (RPEC) via high-resolution RA encoder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eHigh-Resolution Encoders\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eRA and DEC axes; 0.035 arcsec resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA Worm Period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e240 seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e216mm diameter, 360 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e26mm diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axles\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e80mm diameter, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e125mm diameter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMotor Drive\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motors with 128 micro-steps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMotor Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.07 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eEncoder Resolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.035 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4°\/sec (960×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–68°, with 0.5 arcmin divisions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±5°, with 3 arcmin divisions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e38.1mm × 540mm stainless steel, anti-slip; 9.9 lb (4.5 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCounterweights\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2 × 22 lb (10 kg), included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eLosmandy D, 17.2\" (437mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMount Base Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e210 × 230mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova 8410, 8-line × 21-character LCD\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.7A tracking; 1.8A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eOptional iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop or auto flip; configurable from 0° to 14° past the meridian\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero-position search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePark Positions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eHorizontal, vertical, current position, or user-entered Alt\/Az position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eBuilt-in, 32-channel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eLevel Indicator\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eRS-232, USB, Ethernet LAN, Wi-Fi\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2 × 12V DC (1A), 2 × high-current DC (5A), ST-4 guide, 6P6C, 2 × USB 2.0, 3 × USB 3.0, iPolar USB, AUX\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e14°F to 104°F (−10°C to +40°C)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePier \/ Tripod\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eSold separately\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo-year limited warranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e7302\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481989787721,"sku":"7302","price":9569.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7302-2t.jpg?v=1675379924"},{"product_id":"ioptron-22-pound-10kg-for-cem120","title":"iOptron 22 Pound (10Kg) For CEM120","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 family includes two 22 lb (10 kg) counterweights, which is enough for many telescope and imaging configurations. As the payload gets heavier, however, you may reach a point where both counterweights have to sit near the end of the shaft to balance the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat's where an additional counterweight makes sense. The iOptron #7326 is the standard 22 lb (10 kg) counterweight made for the CEM120, CEM120EC, and CEM120EC2. Adding another weight lets you achieve the required counterbalancing force with the weights positioned closer to the RA axis instead of relying on two weights pushed toward the end of the 540mm shaft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt is also the correct standard replacement if one of your original CEM120 counterweights has been lost or damaged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMade for the CEM120 family.\u003c\/strong\u003e Compatible with the CEM120, CEM120EC, and CEM120EC2.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e22 lb (10 kg).\u003c\/strong\u003e Matches the nominal weight of the two counterweights supplied with the CEM120 family.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFits the CEM120 counterweight shaft.\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed for the mount's 38.1mm (1.5\") diameter stainless-steel counterweight shaft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUseful with heavier payloads.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's CEM120 manual specifically notes that additional counterweights may be required for heavier telescope configurations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLets the weights sit closer to the RA axis.\u003c\/strong\u003e Adding counterweight mass allows the same balancing torque to be achieved without moving the existing weights as far down the shaft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReplacement or additional weight.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use it to expand the original two-weight set or replace a standard CEM120 counterweight.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen You Need Another Counterweight\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou do not need to add counterweights simply because the CEM120 is carrying a large telescope. The correct amount is whatever allows the complete system to balance properly in right ascension.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf the two included 22 lb weights balance your finished telescope and imaging train with plenty of adjustment remaining on the shaft, there is no reason to add another one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn additional #7326 becomes useful when the existing weights have to be moved close to the end of the shaft, or when adding equipment such as a larger camera, rotator, filter wheel, focuser, heavier optical accessories, or a second telescope leaves the RA axis telescope-heavy even with the original counterweights positioned near their limit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAdding a third 22 lb weight gives you 66 lb (30 kg) of total counterweight and allows the weights to be positioned farther inboard while still balancing the same telescope load.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBalance the Complete Imaging System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAlways balance the telescope as it will actually be used. Cameras, filter wheels, focusers, rotators, reducers, guide equipment, finder scopes, dew equipment, dovetail plates, and cables all contribute to the final balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron recommends balancing the CEM120 first in declination by moving the telescope in the saddle, then balancing right ascension by moving the counterweights along the shaft. Both axes should be checked before normal operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe goal is proper balance, not simply getting the counterweights as close to the mount as possible. Position the weights wherever they need to be so the complete system remains balanced with the gear switches disengaged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eLoading a CEM120 Safely\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 is a large mount, and a full telescope system plus several counterweights can represent a substantial amount of moving mass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron instructs users to keep the mount in its zero position while installing the counterweights and telescope, with the counterweight shaft pointing toward the ground. Install each counterweight securely on the shaft, tighten its locking screw, and reinstall the shaft's safety cap before proceeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHold the telescope or mount whenever an axis is released for balancing. Once the gear switch is disengaged, a heavily loaded CEM120 can move freely if the system is significantly out of balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron 22 lb (10 kg) counterweight for the CEM120 family\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct code:\u003c\/strong\u003e #7326\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoesn't the CEM120 already include counterweights?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The CEM120, CEM120EC, and CEM120EC2 normally include two 22 lb (10 kg) counterweights. The #7326 is an additional or replacement standard counterweight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do I know whether I need a third counterweight?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBalance the complete telescope and imaging system first. If the two included counterweights can balance the RA axis with usable adjustment remaining on the shaft, you do not need another one. If the weights are near the end of the shaft and the telescope side is still heavy, add another counterweight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it fit the CEM120EC and CEM120EC2?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. All three CEM120 models use the same 38.1mm counterweight shaft and are supplied with 22 lb (10 kg) counterweights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much counterweight will I have with three of them?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThree standard CEM120 counterweights provide a total of 66 lb (30 kg).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes adding another counterweight increase the mount's 115 lb payload rating?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Additional counterweights are used to balance a heavier approved payload. They do not increase iOptron's published 115 lb (52 kg) telescope payload rating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShould I deliberately balance the CEM120 east-heavy for imaging?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron's current CEM120 instructions call for balancing both RA and DEC rather than specifying an east-heavy bias. We recommend following the mount's current balancing procedure and adjusting the counterweights until the RA axis is properly balanced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use this below 10° latitude?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron specifies a special low-latitude counterweight, #7326LL, for CEM120 installations below approximately 10° latitude. If you are installing the mount that close to the equator, use the low-latitude version specified by iOptron rather than assuming the standard #7326 is the correct configuration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill this fit another manufacturer's mount with a 1.5\" shaft?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe #7326 is made specifically for the CEM120 family. Even if another mount has a similar shaft diameter, check the manufacturer's counterweight requirements, shaft dimensions, and locking arrangement before attempting to use it on a different mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe #7326 is a simple accessory with a simple job. If the two counterweights included with your CEM120 balance the finished telescope comfortably, you do not need another one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf a heavier imaging system has pushed those weights toward the end of the shaft, adding another 22 lb counterweight gives you more balancing range and lets the weights sit closer to the RA axis. It is also the standard replacement weight for the CEM120, CEM120EC, and CEM120EC2.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e10 kg (22 lb)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eBore\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e38.1mm (1.5″), fits the CEM120 counterweight shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCompatible Mounts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron CEM120, CEM120EC, CEM120EC2\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLock\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eLock screw\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eShipping Weight \/ Box\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e24.25 lb; 11.75 × 11 × 5.5 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e7326\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481989820489,"sku":"7326","price":189.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/7326-2t.jpg?v=1675379927"},{"product_id":"ioptron-ipolar-cem120-internal-electronic-polarscope","title":"iOptron iPolar Internal Electronic Polarscope","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron iPolar replaces the traditional optical polar scope with a small plate-solving camera mounted directly in the polar axis. Instead of looking through a reticle and trying to place Polaris or Sigma Octantis in the correct position, you connect the iPolar to a computer and let the software determine where the mount's right-ascension axis is pointing relative to the true celestial pole.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis listing covers the \u003cstrong\u003einternal iPolar versions for the CEM40, CEM60, and CEM120 families\u003c\/strong\u003e. The iPolar itself performs the same job in all three. What changes is the internal mounting hardware and cable needed for that particular mount. Simply select your mount family from the pull-down menu above.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOnce installed, the camera lives inside the RA axis and connects through the mount's internal electronics. There is no polar-scope camera hanging from the back of the mount and no extra camera cable moving with the RA axis. For a mount that stays assembled or lives in an observatory, it becomes a dedicated polar-alignment system that is always there regardless of which telescope, camera, reducer, or imaging train happens to be on the saddle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifies an approximately 13° field of view and maximum alignment precision of about 30 arcseconds. The pole star itself does not have to be visible. iPolar plate-solves the surrounding polar star field to determine where the true celestial pole lies, then shows you on screen how to move the mount's altitude and azimuth controls until the RA axis and calculated pole coincide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSelect Your Mount\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCEM40 Internal — #3339A-040.\u003c\/strong\u003e Select this version for the CEM40, CEM40EC, CEM40G, or CEM40NUC. It includes the mount-specific internal adapter and cable for the CEM40 family.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCEM60 Internal — #3339A-060.\u003c\/strong\u003e Select this version for the CEM60 or CEM60EC. Some earlier-production CEM60 mounts use a different RA-axis arrangement and may require different adapter hardware. If you have an early CEM60 and are not sure which version you own, contact us before ordering.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCEM120 Internal — #3339A-120.\u003c\/strong\u003e Select this version for the CEM120, CEM120EC, or CEM120EC2. It includes the mount-specific internal adapter and connection cable for the CEM120 family.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese three selections are specifically for the CEM40, CEM60, and CEM120 families. The GEM45 family uses a different iPolar configuration, so do not order the CEM40 version for a GEM45.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eElectronic polar alignment.\u003c\/strong\u003e A camera installed along the mount's polar axis replaces the traditional optical polar scope and reticle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmart plate solving.\u003c\/strong\u003e iPolar identifies the surrounding polar star field and calculates the relationship between the mount's RA axis and the true celestial pole.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApproximately 13° field of view.\u003c\/strong\u003e The wide field allows the software to solve the surrounding sky rather than depending on one specific pole star.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUp to 30-arcsecond alignment precision.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron publishes a maximum alignment precision of approximately 30 arcseconds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePolaris or Sigma Octantis does not have to be visible.\u003c\/strong\u003e The software determines the pole from the surrounding star field rather than requiring you to identify and place the pole star manually.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWorks in both hemispheres.\u003c\/strong\u003e There is no separate northern- or southern-hemisphere setting to select.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOn-screen alignment guidance.\u003c\/strong\u003e The software displays the calculated celestial pole and the mount's polar-axis position while you make the final altitude and azimuth adjustments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in image enhancement.\u003c\/strong\u003e Exposure and image-processing controls help the software identify usable stars under less-than-ideal sky conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal installation.\u003c\/strong\u003e The camera and connection cable stay inside the mount rather than hanging externally from the RA axis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB 2.0 connection.\u003c\/strong\u003e The computer communicates with the iPolar through the mount's iPolar\/USB connection.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlug-and-play camera support.\u003c\/strong\u003e The iPolar has an embedded driver that installs automatically when first connected, so there is no separate camera-driver download required.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFree iOptron software.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's current iPolar application is available as a free download for supported 64-bit Windows systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOne-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow iPolar Works\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA traditional polar scope asks you to identify a star and position it correctly on a reticle according to the date, time, and your location. iPolar approaches the same problem with a camera and plate solving.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe camera looks through the RA axis at a relatively wide region of sky surrounding the celestial pole. The software identifies stars in the image, determines exactly what part of the sky the camera is seeing, and calculates where the true celestial pole lies relative to the mount's polar axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou still make the physical adjustment at the mount. Turn the azimuth controls to move the RA axis left or right and the altitude controls to move it up or down. The difference is that you are watching the relationship between the axis and the true pole directly on the computer screen rather than estimating it through a reticle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the software's indicators overlap closely enough, the alignment is complete.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eYou Don't Have to See the Pole Star\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the useful differences between iPolar and a traditional optical polar scope is that Polaris in the Northern Hemisphere or Sigma Octantis in the Southern Hemisphere does not itself need to be visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiPolar is not trying to center either star. It plate-solves the surrounding polar field and calculates where the actual celestial pole is located within that field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat does not mean the camera can look through a solid wall or a completely blocked tree. Enough surrounding polar sky still has to be visible for the software to identify stars and solve the image. But a missing pole star by itself does not prevent alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mount also needs to begin reasonably close to the pole. iOptron specifies that the RA axis should initially be pointed within approximately ±6° of true north or true south. Set the mount roughly toward the pole and approximately to your latitude, and iPolar handles the precision work from there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Alignment Looks Like\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eConnect the iPolar to a supported Windows computer and start the iPolar software. Confirm your observing location and, when appropriate, take a dark frame with the camera covered so hot pixels and camera noise are not mistaken for stars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRemove the cover and allow the software to begin solving the polar field. Exposure can be adjusted if the program is seeing too few or too many stars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the first position is established, follow the instructions shown by the software. Depending on the existing camera-center information and how closely the mount is already pointed toward the pole, the program may ask you to rotate the RA axis so it can establish another position and determine the camera's center of rotation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDo not change the mount's altitude or azimuth while it is determining those positions. Once the camera center and virtual pole are established, use the mount's altitude and azimuth adjusters to bring the two indicators together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe important part is to follow the current software prompts rather than assuming that every alignment requires a fixed amount of RA rotation. How much movement is needed can depend on the existing calibration and how close the mount already is to the pole.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Use a Dedicated iPolar?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eModern programs such as NINA, SharpCap, and other imaging packages can perform excellent polar alignment through the main imaging camera. If that method already works reliably for your setup, you may not need a separate polar camera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe advantage of iPolar is that it belongs to the mount rather than the telescope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eChange from a refractor to an SCT, swap cameras, remove the reducer, install a different filter wheel, or rebuild the imaging train and the iPolar does not care. It remains in the RA axis with the same wide view of the polar region.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat can be particularly convenient in a permanent or semi-permanent installation. You have one dedicated system for checking the mount's polar alignment without having to configure the night's imaging telescope first.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eInstallation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese are internal iPolar kits, so installation requires opening the appropriate part of the mount and installing the camera in the RA axis. Each of the three selections includes the mount-specific adapter and internal cable required for that family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe exact installation is different for the CEM40, CEM60, and CEM120. Follow iOptron's installation instructions for the version you select rather than treating them as interchangeable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSome earlier CEM60 mounts deserve particular attention. iOptron notes that older examples can use a different internal arrangement and may require different adapter hardware. If you have an early CEM60 and are not certain which version you have, contact us before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your mount originally came with a factory-installed iPolar, you already have this system. These internal kits are primarily for compatible mounts that were purchased without iPolar or for replacing an existing unit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron iPolar electronic polar-scope camera\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Internal mounting adapter for the selected CEM40, CEM60, or CEM120 family\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Internal connection cable for the selected mount\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoftware:\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron iPolar software is available as a free download.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot included:\u003c\/strong\u003e mount or computer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhich version should I select?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nChoose CEM40 Internal (#3339A-040) for the CEM40 family, CEM60 Internal (#3339A-060) for the CEM60 family, or CEM120 Internal (#3339A-120) for the CEM120 family. The iPolar performs the same basic function in all three; the internal mounting hardware and cable are what change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM40 version fit a GEM45?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Although the GEM45 family can use iPolar, it uses a different iPolar configuration. Do not order #3339A-040 for a GEM45.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I add iPolar to a mount I already own?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes, provided the mount is compatible with the version you select. These kits are intended for compatible CEM40, CEM60, and CEM120 mounts that were purchased without an internal iPolar or need a replacement unit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I have to see Polaris?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Polaris itself does not need to be visible. iPolar plate-solves the surrounding polar star field to calculate the location of the true celestial pole. Enough surrounding sky and stars still need to be visible for the plate solve to succeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it work in the Southern Hemisphere?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The software works in both hemispheres and does not require Sigma Octantis itself to be visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow accurate is iPolar?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron specifies maximum alignment precision of approximately 30 arcseconds. Actual results depend on installation, sky conditions, plate solving, and how carefully the mount's final altitude and azimuth adjustments are made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow close to the pole do I need to be before starting?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron recommends beginning with the RA axis pointed within approximately ±6° of true north or true south so the polar region falls within the camera's approximately 13° field.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I need to rotate the RA axis?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nPossibly. The software may ask you to rotate the RA axis while it establishes the camera center and a second reference position. Follow the current on-screen instructions rather than using a predetermined amount of rotation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I have to recalibrate the camera every night?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Camera-center information can be retained. The software can determine or recalibrate the center again when necessary, such as after the iPolar has been moved or if alignment results no longer appear consistent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes iPolar replace NINA, SharpCap, or another imaging-camera polar-alignment routine?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNot necessarily. If polar alignment through your main imaging camera already works well for you, you may not need a dedicated iPolar. The advantage of iPolar is that it stays with the mount and does not depend on the telescope or imaging train currently installed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes iOptron's software work on a Mac?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron's official current iPolar software is for 64-bit Windows. Third-party macOS software may be available separately, but it is not part of iOptron's official software package.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat if I have an older CEM60?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nSome earlier CEM60 mounts may require different adapter hardware for an internal iPolar installation. If you are unsure which CEM60 you have, contact us before ordering and we'll help identify the correct setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere are several good ways to polar align a modern equatorial mount, and iPolar does not make those other methods obsolete. Its advantage is that the polar-alignment camera belongs to the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt stays inside the RA axis, works independently of the telescope and imaging camera, does not require you to identify the pole star through a reticle, and is ready whenever you want to check or refine the mount's alignment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your CEM40, CEM60, or CEM120 was purchased without iPolar, choose the matching internal version from the pull-down menu above. You get the same iPolar system with the mounting hardware and internal cable appropriate for your particular mount family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eType\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal electronic polar scope installed in the RA axis and wired to the mount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eAvailable Versions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\n3339A-040: CEM40, CEM40EC, CEM40G, CEM40NUC\u003cbr\u003e\n3339A-060: CEM60, CEM60EC\u003cbr\u003e\n3339A-120: CEM120, CEM120EC, CEM120EC2\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eGEM45 Compatibility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eThese three CEM-specific versions do not fit the GEM45 family; GEM45 models use a different iPolar configuration\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eField of View\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eApprox. 13°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eApprox. 30 arcseconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eMaximum Alignment Precision\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e30 arcseconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eInterface\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB 2.0 through the mount's iPolar connection\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eDriver\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eEmbedded driver; installs automatically when first connected\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eSoftware\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron iPolar software, free download; third-party macOS software may be available separately\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eOfficial Operating System Support\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eWindows 7 \/ 8.1 \/ 10 \/ 11, 64-bit, with Microsoft .NET Framework 4.8 or later\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eHemisphere\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eNorthern and Southern Hemispheres; no hemisphere selection required\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003ePole Star Visibility Required\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eNo; Polaris or Sigma Octantis itself does not need to be visible, but enough surrounding polar sky must be available for plate solving\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eInitial RA Axis Pointing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eApproximately within ±6° of the true celestial pole\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eInstallation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal RA-axis installation with mount-specific adapter and internal connection cable\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiPolar camera, mount-specific internal adapter, internal connection cable\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eOne-year limited warranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold;\"\u003eProduct Codes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e3339A-040, 3339A-060, 3339A-120\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"3339A-040 CEM40 Internal","offer_id":41694006771785,"sku":"3339A-120","price":238.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"3339A-120 CEM120 Internal","offer_id":41694006804553,"sku":"3339A-121","price":238.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"3339A-060 CEM60 Internal","offer_id":41694006837321,"sku":"3339A-122","price":238.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/3339-2t.jpg?v=1675379932"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem120-pier-top-adapter","title":"iOptron CEM120 Pier Top Adapter","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe CEM120 is a large mount, and in a permanent installation the pier underneath it becomes part of the system. If you are building your own steel or concrete pier, the important part is having a known interface between the CEM120 base and whatever you build below it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron #8036-120 provides that interface. It is a 210mm square, 14mm-thick machined aluminum adapter plate with the mounting pattern for the CEM120, CEM120EC, and CEM120EC2 on top and additional counterbored mounting patterns underneath. Instead of designing your pier around measurements taken from the mount itself, you can work from iOptron's published CAD drawing and build the pier top to a known set of dimensions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe #8036-120 can also be used to put a CEM120 on iOptron's standard Tri-Pier #8034, but there is an important limitation: iOptron specifically says that combination is intended only for lighter CEM120 payloads. If you are building a heavily loaded CEM120 system, use a substantial permanent pier or iOptron's heavy-duty Tri-Pier 360A rather than treating the standard Tri-Pier as a full-capacity CEM120 support.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMade for the CEM120 family.\u003c\/strong\u003e Fits the CEM120, CEM120EC, and CEM120EC2, which share the same mounting base.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e210mm × 210mm adapter plate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Matches the basic footprint of the CEM120 mounting interface.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e14mm thick.\u003c\/strong\u003e A substantial machined plate designed to provide a solid transition between the mount and the support below it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFour M8 threaded holes for the CEM120.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount-side holes are arranged on 180mm centers to match the CEM120 base.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMultiple lower mounting patterns.\u003c\/strong\u003e Separate counterbored hole patterns accommodate M8- and M10-size fasteners for attaching the adapter to a compatible pier or support.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePublished CAD drawing.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron provides a fully dimensioned drawing so a fabricator can design and drill a custom pier before installation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStandard Tri-Pier compatibility.\u003c\/strong\u003e Allows a CEM120 to be installed on the standard iOptron Tri-Pier #8034 for lighter-payload applications.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUseful for custom piers.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron specifically notes that the adapter can be modified or incorporated into a custom CEM120 pier installation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFor a Custom Observatory Pier\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is where the #8036-120 makes the most sense.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA custom observatory pier might be fabricated from steel tube, built around a concrete column, or incorporated into an existing structure. The dimensions of the pier itself can vary considerably, but the CEM120 still needs the same mounting surface at the top.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe #8036-120 gives the pier builder a finished mount interface instead of asking them to reproduce the CEM120 base directly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron's CAD drawing specifies the plate at 210mm × 210mm and 14mm thick. Four M8 threaded holes on 180mm centers accept the CEM120 mounting pattern. The underside provides separate counterbored mounting holes that can be incorporated into the pier-top design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat means your machinist or fabricator can work from the published drawing before the telescope mount ever reaches the observatory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhen designing the pier, establish the CEM120's north-facing orientation before drilling or welding the final top assembly. The mount itself provides ±5° of azimuth adjustment for fine polar alignment, but the permanent structure should be oriented reasonably close to true north or true south so that adjustment range is available for its intended purpose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUsing It with the Standard Tri-Pier\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe #8036-120 can also adapt a CEM120 to iOptron's standard Tri-Pier #8034.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat does not turn the standard Tri-Pier into a full-capacity CEM120 support.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron specifically warns that because of the payload limitation of the Tri-Pier, the #8036-120 and standard Tri-Pier combination is \u003cstrong\u003enot designed for a CEM120 carrying a heavy payload\u003c\/strong\u003e. iOptron describes the adapter as an option for lighter CEM120 payloads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat can still make the combination useful for testing a mount, temporarily setting up a lighter telescope, or operating a CEM120 before a permanent observatory pier is finished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf the goal is a heavily loaded CEM120 with a large SCT, RC, CDK, substantial refractor, or a complex dual-telescope imaging system, move to a support intended for that scale of installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTri-Pier vs. Tri-Pier 360A\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere are two different products here that are easy to confuse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStandard Tri-Pier #8034:\u003c\/strong\u003e the #8036-120 adapter allows a CEM120 to be installed on it, but iOptron limits that combination to lighter payloads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTri-Pier 360A #8037A:\u003c\/strong\u003e this is iOptron's heavy-duty support. The CEM120 mounts directly to the Tri-Pier 360A, so the #8036-120 is not required simply to put a CEM120 on a current Tri-Pier 360A.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe same distinction matters when shopping for an observatory support. Do not choose the lighter standard Tri-Pier simply because an adapter makes the bolt pattern fit. The support itself still has to be appropriate for the complete mount, counterweights, telescope, and imaging equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eMounting Hardware\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe adapter is the interface plate; mounting hardware is not supplied as a universal hardware kit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe four threaded holes on the mount side are M8 and match the CEM120 base. The underside includes counterbored mounting holes sized for M8- and M10-class fasteners.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a custom pier, the correct fastener type, length, grade, and method of attachment depend on the thickness and construction of the pier top. Use the iOptron CAD drawing when specifying the pier rather than selecting bolt lengths from a generic recommendation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron #8036-120 CEM120 pier adapter plate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot included:\u003c\/strong\u003e CEM120 mount, pier, Tri-Pier, or universal mounting hardware.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the #8036-120 fit all three CEM120 models?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. It is made for the CEM120, CEM120EC, and CEM120EC2, which share the same basic mounting interface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use it on a pier I build myself?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. That is one of its most useful applications. iOptron publishes a fully dimensioned CAD drawing so your machinist or fabricator can incorporate the adapter into a custom steel, aluminum, or concrete pier design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat size is the plate?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe plate is 210mm × 210mm and 14mm thick.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat mounting pattern does the CEM120 use?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe mount side of the adapter has four M8 threaded holes spaced 180mm center-to-center in both directions to match the CEM120 base.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I put a CEM120 on the standard iOptron Tri-Pier?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes, with the #8036-120, but iOptron specifically limits that combination to lighter CEM120 payloads. It is not intended as a full-load support for a heavily equipped CEM120.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I need this adapter for the Tri-Pier 360A?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNot simply to mount a CEM120. The current heavy-duty Tri-Pier 360A is designed to accept the CEM120 directly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat should I use for a heavily loaded CEM120?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA properly designed permanent pier is the natural choice for most observatory installations. iOptron's heavy-duty Tri-Pier 360A is another purpose-built option when a portable or semi-portable support is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre the mounting bolts included?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDo not assume a universal set of pier fasteners is included. The correct lower fasteners depend on the support or custom pier underneath the adapter. Use the CAD drawing when specifying the installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I drill my pier before the adapter arrives?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes, provided your fabricator works from iOptron's current #8036-120 CAD drawing rather than measurements copied from a photograph or third-party drawing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe #8036-120 is a simple part, but it solves an important problem when a CEM120 becomes part of an observatory: it gives the mount and the pier a known interface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a custom pier, the published dimensions let your fabricator build around the actual CEM120 mounting pattern instead of guessing at it. For the standard Tri-Pier #8034, the same adapter provides a temporary or lighter-duty way to support a CEM120, with iOptron's payload limitation kept clearly in mind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are building around a heavily loaded CEM120, CEM120EC, or CEM120EC2, use the #8036-120 as the interface to a properly designed permanent pier, or choose a support such as the heavy-duty Tri-Pier 360A that was built for the weight involved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eType\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePier top adapter plate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCompatible Mounts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron CEM120, CEM120EC, CEM120EC2\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCompatible Piers\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eiOptron Tri-Pier (lighter payloads only); custom piers\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePlate Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e210 × 210 × 14 mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Side\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e4 × M8 threaded holes on a 180 × 180 mm square\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePier Side\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e3 holes counterbored for M8 and 3 for M10 socket screws, on a bolt circle of approx. 120 mm (see CAD drawing)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCenter Hole\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e15 mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eMachined aluminum, anodized\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHardware\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eNot included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCAD Drawing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAvailable from iOptron (8036-120_CAD.pdf)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e8036-120\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481989951561,"sku":"8036-120","price":138.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/8036-6t.jpg?v=1675379934"},{"product_id":"ioptron-6-maksutov-cassegrain-optical-tube","title":"iOptron 6\" Maksutov Cassegrain Optical Tube","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"318\" data-end=\"437\"\u003eiOptron 6\" Rumak Maksutov-Cassegrain OTA – High-Contrast Lunar and Planetary Views Without the Refractor Price Tag\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"438\" data-end=\"574\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"438\" data-end=\"574\"\u003eA compact powerhouse designed for the serious planetary observer or anyone seeking high-definition views in a portable optical tube.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"576\" data-end=\"1012\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"580\" data-end=\"620\"\u003eiOptron 6\" Rumak Maksutov-Cassegrain\u003c\/strong\u003e optical tube offers a rare combination of \u003cstrong data-start=\"663\" data-end=\"749\"\u003erefractor-like clarity, long focal length precision, and high-contrast performance\u003c\/strong\u003e—all in a portable, rugged package that’s easy to transport and use. Whether your passion is resolving Saturn’s Cassini Division, catching subtle albedo features on Mars, or imaging the waxing gibbous Moon in crisp detail, this 150mm Maksutov-Cassegrain delivers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1014\" data-end=\"1383\"\u003eIts \u003cstrong data-start=\"1018\" data-end=\"1048\"\u003eRumak-style optical layout\u003c\/strong\u003e separates the secondary mirror from the corrector plate, allowing for \u003cstrong data-start=\"1119\" data-end=\"1163\"\u003ebetter spherical correction and contrast\u003c\/strong\u003e than Gregory-style Maksutovs. This means you’ll see sharp, pinpoint stars and cleaner planetary edges—without the chromatic aberration common in achromatic refractors and without the hefty cost of a 5\" or 6\" apochromat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1385\" data-end=\"1388\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1390\" data-end=\"1468\"\u003ePerformance That Rivals a Refractor—At Half the Size and a Third the Price\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1470\" data-end=\"1936\"\u003eThe 6\" iOptron MAK provides \u003cstrong data-start=\"1498\" data-end=\"1553\"\u003evisual performance comparable to a 5\" APO refractor\u003c\/strong\u003e, but without the associated price or tube length. With its \u003cstrong data-start=\"1613\" data-end=\"1633\"\u003ef\/12 focal ratio\u003c\/strong\u003e, it’s a natural fit for high-power observing of the Moon and planets, as well as double stars, globular clusters, and planetary nebulae. Its long focal length gives you magnification and image scale that wide-field scopes simply can’t match, while the compact tube makes it easy to transport and store.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1938\" data-end=\"1941\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1943\" data-end=\"1989\"\u003eEnhanced Mechanics Set This Maksutov Apart\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1991\" data-end=\"2366\"\u003eMost Maksutov-Cassegrain scopes come with a single-speed focuser—functional, but often finicky at higher powers. The iOptron MAK150 goes a step further by including a \u003cstrong data-start=\"2158\" data-end=\"2195\"\u003edual-speed Crayford-style focuser\u003c\/strong\u003e, a rare luxury in a Maksutov. This lets you make \u003cstrong data-start=\"2245\" data-end=\"2281\"\u003efine, vibration-free adjustments\u003c\/strong\u003e, crucial for nailing perfect focus on Jupiter’s cloud bands or Saturn’s ring detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2368\" data-end=\"2669\"\u003eiOptron also includes a \u003cstrong data-start=\"2392\" data-end=\"2426\"\u003etwist-lock aluminum dew shield\u003c\/strong\u003e, an accessory many manufacturers sell separately (if they offer it at all). The dew shield reduces thermal turbulence in front of the corrector plate and helps prevent fogging—especially useful during colder nights or long planetary sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2671\" data-end=\"2674\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2676\" data-end=\"2704\"\u003eFeatures and Inclusions:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2705\" data-end=\"3615\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2705\" data-end=\"2811\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2707\" data-end=\"2811\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2707\" data-end=\"2768\"\u003e150mm (6\") aperture Rumak-type Maksutov-Cassegrain optics\u003c\/strong\u003e for high-contrast, high-resolution views\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2812\" data-end=\"2920\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2814\" data-end=\"2920\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2814\" data-end=\"2856\"\u003ef\/12 focal ratio (1800mm focal length)\u003c\/strong\u003e for exceptional lunar, planetary, and double star performance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2921\" data-end=\"3008\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2923\" data-end=\"3008\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2923\" data-end=\"2959\"\u003eBK7 optical glass primary mirror\u003c\/strong\u003e with aluminized and quartz-overcoated surfaces\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3009\" data-end=\"3109\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3011\" data-end=\"3109\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3011\" data-end=\"3032\"\u003eTrue Rumak design\u003c\/strong\u003e with separate secondary mirror for improved image correction and sharpness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3110\" data-end=\"3188\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3112\" data-end=\"3188\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3112\" data-end=\"3149\"\u003eDual-speed Crayford-style focuser\u003c\/strong\u003e for both coarse and fine adjustments\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3189\" data-end=\"3255\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3191\" data-end=\"3255\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3191\" data-end=\"3225\"\u003eTwist-lock aluminum dew shield\u003c\/strong\u003e for thermal and dew control\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3256\" data-end=\"3355\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3258\" data-end=\"3355\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3258\" data-end=\"3296\"\u003eVixen-style dovetail mounting rail\u003c\/strong\u003e for compatibility with most equatorial and alt-az mounts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3356\" data-end=\"3424\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3358\" data-end=\"3424\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3358\" data-end=\"3395\"\u003e8x50 straight-through finderscope\u003c\/strong\u003e with quick-release bracket\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3425\" data-end=\"3474\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3427\" data-end=\"3474\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3427\" data-end=\"3445\"\u003eT-ring adapter\u003c\/strong\u003e for DSLR camera connection\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3475\" data-end=\"3583\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3477\" data-end=\"3583\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3477\" data-end=\"3523\"\u003eAdapter for Schmidt-Cassegrain accessories\u003c\/strong\u003e (use your existing diagonals, reducers, or filter wheels)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3584\" data-end=\"3615\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3586\" data-end=\"3615\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3586\" data-end=\"3615\"\u003eOne-year limited warranty\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3617\" data-end=\"3620\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3622\" data-end=\"3642\"\u003eObserving Tip:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3643\" data-end=\"4027\"\u003eLet your Maksutov cool down! Maksutov-Cassegrains are sealed designs, which makes them rugged and low-maintenance—but they benefit from thermal equilibrium. Give the scope 30–45 minutes to acclimate to outdoor temps before pushing high magnification. And for best lunar and planetary results, use quality Plössl, Abbe orthoscopic, or dedicated planetary eyepieces in the 7–12mm range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"4029\" data-end=\"4032\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4034\" data-end=\"4055\"\u003eFinal Thoughts:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4056\" data-end=\"4604\"\u003eIf you’ve been hunting for a telescope that can resolve fine planetary detail, split tight double stars, and deliver high-contrast views—without the size, weight, or cost of an APO refractor—the \u003cstrong data-start=\"4251\" data-end=\"4291\"\u003eiOptron 6\" Rumak Maksutov-Cassegrain\u003c\/strong\u003e hits the sweet spot. It’s portable, refined, and powerful, with mechanical upgrades that set it apart from typical Maks. Whether you’re a lunar sketcher, a planetary imager, or a visual observer who wants a grab-and-go scope with serious optics, the 6101M offers more performance than you'd expect at this price.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"206\" align=\"right\"\u003eLens Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"396\" align=\"center\"\u003eCatadioptric Rumak style Maksutov-Cassegrain\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eClear Aperture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e150mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e1800mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003ef\/12\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eResolving Power\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e0.77 arc seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eVisual Limiting Magnitude\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e12.8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eHighest Magnification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e300X\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eFinder scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e8x50 w\/ finder ring\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eDew Shield\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eTwist-lock aluminum shield\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eFocuser\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eDual speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eTube Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e21 3\/4” (Without dew shield) 27 1\/8” (With dew shield)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eTube Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e13.4 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eAstrophotography\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eT-ring adapter included for attaching a camera\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eOther Accessories\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e2” to 1.25” compression ring accessory holders;\u003cbr\u003eAdapter Ring for Schmidt-Cass Accessories\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eDust Cover\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eLight reducing lens cover\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eGross Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003e22 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"right\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd align=\"center\"\u003eOne year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"table\" id=\"product-attribute-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAperture\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e150mm (6\")\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFocal Length\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1800mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFocal Ratio\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003ef\/12\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eVisual Limiting Magnitude\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e12.8\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWarranty\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"data\"\u003e1 year\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481990344777,"sku":"6101M","price":749.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/6101-2t.jpg?v=1675379954"},{"product_id":"ioptron-cem70-center-balanced-go-to-equatorial-mount-without-tripod","title":"iOptron CEM70 \"Center-Balanced\" Go-To Equatorial Mount, iPolar Finder, Without Tripod","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs an imaging system grows, the mount usually reaches its limit before the telescope does. A larger optical tube may be only the beginning; add rings, dovetails, a camera, filter wheel, electronic focuser, off-axis guider, reducer or corrector, dew equipment, and perhaps a second telescope, and a system that started comfortably on a mid-size mount can become a very different load.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe iOptron CEM70 is built for that next step. It carries up to 70 lb (31.8 kg) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights, on a mount head that weighs 30 lb (13.6 kg). That gives it considerably more capacity than a typical mid-size imaging mount without moving all the way to the size and weight of the CEM120 observatory platform.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM70 is also designed around astrophotography rather than simply payload capacity. An internal iPolar electronic polar scope handles camera-based polar alignment, Permanent Periodic Error Correction helps reduce the repeating component of RA tracking error, through-mount power and USB connections simplify the imaging train, and automatic zero-position sensing gives the mount a repeatable mechanical reference at startup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the standard CEM70 with internal iPolar and USB 2.0 connectivity. It does not use the high-resolution tracking encoder found on the EC versions, and it does not include the Wi-Fi and USB 3.0 features found on other CEM70 configurations. If you plan to guide your imaging system and want the mechanical capacity of the CEM70 platform without paying for features you may not need, this is the straightforward version.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e70 lb payload capacity.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron rates the CEM70 for up to 31.8 kg (70 lb) of telescope and imaging equipment, excluding counterweights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e30 lb mount head.\u003c\/strong\u003e A relatively manageable head for a mount in this payload class.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCenter-Balanced Equatorial design.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron's CEM layout places more of the combined mount and payload mass directly over the tripod or pier.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/strong\u003e The polar-alignment camera is built into the RA axis and uses plate solving rather than requiring you to position Polaris on a traditional reticle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePeriodic error below ±5 arcseconds.\u003c\/strong\u003e iOptron specifies native PE below ±5 arcseconds, measured on the bench over the 348-second RA worm period.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/strong\u003e A trained PEC curve can be stored in the mount and replayed to reduce the repeatable component of RA tracking error.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e151mm worm wheels on both axes.\u003c\/strong\u003e RA and DEC each use a 248-tooth worm wheel driven by a 21.2mm worm.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e55mm steel axles and 80mm bearings.\u003c\/strong\u003e Substantial mechanical components support the CEM70's larger payload class.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrecision stepper motors.\u003c\/strong\u003e 128 micro-steps provide a specified motor resolution of 0.07 arcsecond.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUp to 3.75°\/sec slewing.\u003c\/strong\u003e Maximum GoTo speed is approximately 900× sidereal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGo2Nova 8410 hand controller.\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides an 8-line × 21-character display and iOptron's extensive GoTo database.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in 32-channel GPS.\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplies UTC time and location information to the mount.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic zero-position search.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can electronically locate its mechanical reference position.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfigurable meridian treatment.\u003c\/strong\u003e The mount can stop or automatically flip, with settings allowing up to 10° of travel past the meridian when clearance permits.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e8-inch spring-loaded dual saddle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetail plates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThrough-mount cable management.\u003c\/strong\u003e Power and USB connections are available near the saddle so fewer cables have to cross the moving axes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHard carrying case included.\u003c\/strong\u003e Protects the 30 lb mount head during storage and transport.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo-year limited warranty.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eRoom for the Complete Imaging System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe real advantage of a 70 lb mount is not necessarily putting a 70 lb optical tube on it. It is having room for everything that turns a telescope into an imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA C11, large refractor, Ritchey-Chrétien, or similar telescope can pick up a surprising amount of weight once the camera, filter wheel, focuser, rotator, guider, corrector, dew equipment, dovetails, and other hardware are installed. A side-by-side system adds even more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM70 gives you space to build that complete system without treating every accessory as the last few pounds the mount can tolerate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePayload weight is still only one part of choosing a mount. A compact telescope and a long telescope at the same weight do not place the same mechanical load on the axes. Tube length, diameter, center of gravity, wind exposure, focal length, and image scale all matter along with total weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTracking and Guiding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard CEM70 is a precision worm-driven equatorial mount rather than an encoder-corrected mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth axes use 151mm diameter, 248-tooth worm wheels, while the RA drive has a 348-second worm period. iOptron specifies native periodic error below ±5 arcseconds for the standard CEM70.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction lets the mount store a correction for the repeating component of the RA worm error. For demanding long-exposure imaging, particularly as focal length and image scale increase, conventional autoguiding remains the normal approach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat makes the standard CEM70 a sensible choice for imagers who already expect to guide. PPEC can reduce the predictable mechanical error while the guider responds to the remaining movement of the complete telescope, atmosphere, and imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want high-resolution encoder feedback and Real-Time Periodic Error Correction inside the mount, the encoder-equipped CEM70 versions are the step up from this model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eiPolar Built Into the RA Axis\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM70 includes iOptron's iPolar electronic polar scope inside the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInstead of looking through an optical polar scope, you connect the iPolar to a supported computer and let the software plate-solve the surrounding polar star field. It determines where the RA axis is pointing relative to the true celestial pole and then shows you how to adjust the mount's altitude and azimuth controls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe pole star itself does not have to be visible. The camera still needs enough of the surrounding polar sky to solve successfully, but you do not have to identify Polaris or Sigma Octantis and place it on a reticle manually.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a mount that travels, having the polar-alignment camera already inside the RA axis is especially convenient. There is no additional polar-scope camera to install or align each time you set up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBuilt for an Imaging Train\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs imaging systems get larger, cable management becomes part of the mount rather than an afterthought.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard CEM70 routes useful power and data connections through the mount to the telescope side. The cable-management system includes two 12V DC outputs rated to 3A, three USB 2.0 ports, DC input and output, iOptron's iPort connection, and a USB input that serves both the mount and internal USB hub.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThat gives cameras and accessories connection points near the saddle instead of requiring every cable to hang from the telescope and cross the moving RA and DEC axes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis C70A version uses USB 2.0 and does not have built-in Wi-Fi. Other CEM70 configurations are available if USB 3.0 or wireless mount control is important to your imaging system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTransportable Without Being a Small Mount\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA 30 lb mount head is not grab-and-go, but it is a very different proposition from an observatory mount that weighs close to 60 pounds before the counterweights or telescope are added.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM70 can live on a backyard pier and still be moved when the occasion calls for darker skies. The included hard case protects the head during storage and transportation, and the mount separates from the tripod and counterweights in manageable pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA complete CEM70 system carrying a large telescope can still become substantial equipment. We would describe it as transportable rather than lightweight. The important point is that choosing 70 lb of mount capacity does not automatically commit the telescope to one permanent observatory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUnder the Night Sky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM70 begins to earn its place when the telescope has enough aperture or focal length that the mount becomes part of image quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA C11 or other long-focal-length telescope can work smaller galaxies, planetary nebulae, globular clusters, and fine structures that remain tiny through a short refractor. A substantial refractor can carry a large-format camera and full imaging train while leaving useful mechanical margin. A side-by-side configuration can use the same clear night at two very different image scales.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThose systems also make proper polar alignment, balance, guiding, and a rigid support more important. The CEM70 gives you the mechanical capacity and tracking platform; the telescope and imaging train still have to be set up carefully enough to take advantage of it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTripod or Pier\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe tripod or pier is sold separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eiOptron pairs the CEM70 with its LiteRoc #8023ACC tripod for a transportable setup. A permanent or more substantial pier is also a natural choice for heavier telescopes, long focal lengths, or an imaging system that does not need to travel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith a mount capable of carrying 70 lb of telescope equipment, the structure underneath it matters. Choose the support for the complete installed system rather than the mount head alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCounterweights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM70 includes one 20 lb (9.5 kg) counterweight and a 28mm × 415mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne counterweight is enough for many moderate telescope configurations, but heavier systems can require additional counterweight to achieve proper RA balance. The amount needed depends on the complete payload and its center of gravity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAdditional compatible 28mm counterweights are sold separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x iOptron CEM70 Center-Balanced Equatorial mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Internal iPolar electronic polar scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 8-inch spring-loaded Losmandy D \/ Vixen dual saddle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Go2Nova 8410 hand controller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 28mm × 415mm stainless-steel counterweight shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 20 lb (9.5 kg) counterweight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x Hard carrying case\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1x 12V\/5A AC adapter for indoor use\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMount connection accessories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot included:\u003c\/strong\u003e tripod or pier, additional counterweights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much can the CEM70 carry?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron rates the CEM70 for up to 70 lb (31.8 kg) of payload, excluding counterweights. Telescope length, diameter, center of gravity, focal length, and imaging requirements should be considered along with total weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much does the mount head weigh?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe CEM70 mount head weighs 30 lb (13.6 kg).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs the CEM70 portable?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIt is transportable rather than grab-and-go. The 30 lb head and included hard case make it practical to move between sites, but a complete setup with tripod, counterweights, telescope, and imaging equipment can still be substantial.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes this CEM70 include iPolar?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. This version includes iOptron's internal iPolar electronic polar scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes iPolar require Polaris to be visible?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Polaris itself does not have to be visible. The camera still requires enough of the surrounding polar sky for its plate solve to succeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the periodic error?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron specifies native periodic error below ±5 arcseconds, measured on the bench over the mount's 348-second RA worm period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM70 have PEC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. The standard CEM70 supports Permanent Periodic Error Correction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the CEM70 need guiding?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFor demanding long-exposure astrophotography, especially at longer focal lengths, guiding is the normal approach. The standard CEM70 does not have the high-resolution tracking encoder found on the EC versions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes this version have Wi-Fi?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. This version uses USB 2.0 for computer communication. Other CEM70 configurations are available with Wi-Fi and USB 3.0.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes this version have USB 3.0?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNo. Its through-mount USB hub is USB 2.0. Choose one of the USB 3.0 CEM70 configurations if higher-speed through-mount USB is important to your equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow many counterweights are included?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nOne 20 lb (9.5 kg) counterweight is included. Heavier telescope systems may require one or more additional counterweights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat dovetail plates fit the saddle?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe 8-inch spring-loaded dual saddle accepts both Losmandy D and Vixen-style dovetail plates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat power does the CEM70 require?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe mount uses 12V DC at up to 5A. iOptron lists typical mount consumption at approximately 0.6A while tracking and 0.8A during GoTo. A 12V\/5A AC adapter intended for indoor use is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat tripod should I use?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\niOptron lists the LiteRoc #8023ACC as a matched tripod for the CEM70. A pier is also an excellent choice for a heavier or permanent imaging installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCEM40, CEM70, or CEM120?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nChoose around the complete imaging system, not just the bare optical tube. The CEM70 is the step up when you need substantially more capacity than a mid-size mount but still want a 30 lb head that can reasonably be transported. The CEM120 moves into a 115 lb payload class and is more naturally suited to a permanent installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAccessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eiOptron LiteRoc Tripod #8023ACC (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: iOptron's matched transportable tripod option for the CEM70 family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional 28mm Counterweight (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: heavier telescope and imaging systems may require more counterweight than the included 20 lb weight provides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOff-Axis Guider and Guide Camera (sold separately)\u003c\/strong\u003e: particularly useful with longer-focal-length telescopes because the guider sees motion through the main optical system rather than through a separate guide scope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Thoughts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe CEM70 fills the space between a mid-size imaging mount and a full observatory-class system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIts 70 lb payload gives larger telescopes and more complex imaging trains room to grow, while the 30 lb head and included hard case preserve the option of taking that capacity somewhere else. Internal iPolar, Permanent PEC, automatic zero-position sensing, GPS, through-mount cabling, and the dual saddle make it a mount designed around the realities of astrophotography rather than payload capacity alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf your imaging system has outgrown the mount underneath it but you are not ready to make the telescope a permanent fixture on one pier, that is where the CEM70 makes sense.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTech Details:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width:100%; border-collapse: collapse;\"\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eCenter-balanced equatorial mount (CEM)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e70 lb (31.8 kg), excluding counterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e30 lb (13.6 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePayload \/ Mount Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2.33\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAll metal\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLatitude Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0°–65°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eAzimuth Adjustment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e±4°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePeriodic Error\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e\u0026lt; ±5 arcsec (measured by encoder on the bench)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm Period\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e348 seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePEC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePermanent PEC (PPEC)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Worm Wheels\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ151mm, 248 teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWorm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ21.2mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Axles\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ55mm, steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eRA \/ DEC Bearings\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ80mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight Shaft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ28 × 415mm, stainless steel (1.9 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCounterweight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e1 × 9.5 kg (20 lb), included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMount Base\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eΦ152mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMotor Drive\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003ePrecision stepper motor, 128 micro-steps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eResolution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.07 arcsec\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMaximum Slew Speed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e3.75°\/sec (900×)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHand Controller\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eGo2Nova 8410, 8-line, 21-character LCD\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Requirement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e12V DC, 5A (5.5\/2.5mm plug); AC adapter included, indoor use only\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e0.6A tracking, 0.8A GoTo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePolar Scope\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eInternal iPolar electronic polar scope (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eMeridian Treatment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eStop (0–10° past meridian), auto flip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eZero Position\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eAutomatic zero search\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003ePark Positions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eHorizontal, vertical, current, alt\/az input\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eLevel Indicator\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eDovetail Saddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e8″ Losmandy D and Vixen dual, spring-loaded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGPS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eBuilt-in, 32-channel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eGuide Port\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eST-4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCommunication\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eUSB 2.0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eCable Management\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e2× DC 12V (3A), 3× USB 2.0, 1× DC in \/ 1× DC out, iPort; 1× USB input for mount and USB hub\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eOperating Temperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003e−10 °C to +40 °C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eHard Case\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eTripod \/ Pier\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eOptional: LiteRoc tripod #8023ACC or pier\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eShipping Weight \/ Boxes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eMount: 51 lb, 21 × 18 × 10 in. Counterweight: 22 lb, 9 × 9 × 5 in.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eWarranty\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eTwo year limited\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"background-color: #f0f4f8;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc; font-weight: bold; width: 50%;\"\u003eProduct Code\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 10px 14px; border: 1px solid #cccccc;\"\u003eC70A\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"iOptron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40481990475849,"sku":"CEM70","price":3549.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/products\/cem70ag_side_1a.jpg?v=1675379962"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0573\/7974\/9961\/collections\/logo.jpg?v=1678525285","url":"https:\/\/astronomics.com\/collections\/ioptron.oembed?page=15","provider":"Astronomics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}