iOptron CEM26 “Center Balanced” GoTo Mount with iPolar, Hard Case, and 1.75" LiteRoc Tripod
Item #: C262A3
Lightweight, precise, and thoughtfully engineered for the field—the iOptron CEM26 offers the perfect blend of portability and performance. This version includes the iPolar electronic polar scope, a rugged hard case for the equatorial head, and the ultra-stable 1.75" LiteRoc stainless steel tripod, making it a complete grab-and-go system for visual observers and astrophotographers alike.
With a 26-pound payload capacity and whisper-quiet stepper motors, the CEM26 delivers accurate tracking, smooth slewing, and a frustration-free setup experience—whether you’re imaging from a dark sky site or scanning the Moon from your backyard.
Smart Design from the Ground Up
The CEM26 gets its name from iOptron’s patented “Center Balanced Equatorial Mount” design. Unlike traditional GEMs, this mount positions the payload directly over the tripod’s center of gravity, reducing torque and improving natural stability. The result? A stronger mount that punches above its weight and minimizes the amount of counterweight you need to bring along.
At just 10.4 lbs (4.7 kg) for the mount head, the CEM26 is easy to transport and fast to assemble. The included 1.75" LiteRoc tripod keeps the setup stable without adding excessive bulk, making this package ideal for backyard sessions, remote dark-sky trips, and everything in between.
Built for Visual and Imaging Excellence
The CEM26 is as much at home with a star diagonal and eyepiece as it is with a camera and filters. Visual observers will love the mount’s ultra-quiet operation, intuitive GoTo control, and smooth tracking that keeps targets centered at high magnifications. Astrophotographers will appreciate the spring-loaded gear system, low periodic error (typically < ±10 arcseconds), and support for permanent periodic error correction (PEC).
The included Go2Nova 8409 hand controller comes preloaded with over 212,000 celestial objects—including Messier, NGC, IC, Caldwell, and more. Slewing is smooth and accurate, and alignment routines are quick and reliable, even for beginners.
iPolar for Fast, Accurate Polar Alignment
This version includes the iPolar electronic polar scope, a game-changing upgrade over traditional polar scopes. iPolar connects to your computer and overlays your polar alignment position on a real-time sky chart, guiding you through a fast, precise alignment—even if Polaris is behind a tree or completely out of view. It stays permanently aligned with the RA axis, so once you're dialed in, you're done.
Ready for the Field
Every detail of the CEM26 has been designed with practical observing in mind. The pivoting counterweight shaft allows you to use the mount at low latitudes without worrying about clearance issues. Built-in Wi-Fi, a USB port, and an ST-4 autoguide port make it easy to control the mount with third-party software, smartphones, or guiding solutions.
Power draw is impressively low—just 0.5A while tracking, or 0.8A when slewing—so you can run the system all night from a compact field battery.
What’s Included
-
CEM26 German Equatorial Mount Head
-
iPolar Electronic Polar Scope (pre-installed)
-
Go2Nova 8409 Hand Controller with Object Database
-
1.75" LiteRoc Stainless Steel Tripod with Die-Cast Accessory Tray
-
10 lb Counterweight and Counterweight Shaft
-
100V–240V AC Adapter
-
Mount Cables and Accessories
-
Hard Case for Mount Head
Observing Tip
If you ever plan to switch between visual and imaging setups, save your preferred balance points with small pieces of tape or velcro markers on your counterweight shaft and dovetail. It makes future setups a breeze—especially when you're racing twilight or dodging clouds.
Final Thoughts
The iOptron CEM26 with iPolar, hard case, and 1.75" LiteRoc tripod is a mount that travels light but performs like a heavyweight. Its precision tracking, smart features, and rugged build make it an excellent choice for beginners ready to get serious—or experienced observers looking for an efficient, capable grab-and-go system.
