iOptron GEM45 German Equatorial Mount with LiteRoc Tripod – Precision GoTo Tracking in a Lightweight, Field-Ready Design
No counterweight case, no fluff—just rock-solid performance for serious visual observers and imagers on the move.
If you're looking for a capable and portable GoTo equatorial mount that punches well above its weight, the iOptron GEM45 is the sweet spot in the GEM lineup. With a rock-steady 45-pound payload, high-precision tracking, and iOptron's proven center-optimized mechanics, the GEM45 is ideal for backyard stargazing, remote dark-sky imaging runs, and even semi-permanent observatory setups.
This version of the GEM45 includes iOptron’s rugged LiteRoc 1.75" stainless steel tripod and essential accessories, but ships without a hard case—perfect for users who plan to keep the mount installed or already own a case solution. Whether you're observing visually with a big SCT or capturing deep-sky images with a refractor and full imaging train, the GEM45 delivers dependable performance in a travel-friendly format.
Refined Design for Real Observers
Inspired by the field-tested CEM series, the GEM45 reimagines the traditional German equatorial mount with updated engineering, refined ergonomics, and an impressive 2.8:1 payload-to-weight ratio. At only 15.8 pounds, the mount head is lighter than many of its competitors—yet it supports instruments weighing up to 45 pounds (20 kg). That makes the GEM45 one of the most efficient and portable high-capacity GoTo mounts on the market.
The mount’s CNC-machined aluminum body, anodized in iOptron’s signature red-and-black finish, gives it a solid, professional look with long-term durability. Large, gloved-hand-friendly clutch levers and smooth adjustment controls make polar alignment and gear engagement easy under any observing conditions.
Field Features That Matter
One of the GEM45’s most beloved features is its integrated iPolar electronic polar scope, which lets you polar align—even when Polaris is blocked—using a real-time star field overlay on your PC. No squinting, no manual scope alignment—just precise polar alignment within minutes.
The GEM45’s tracking system is driven by precision stepper motors and a synchronous belt transmission, resulting in whisper-quiet operation, low backlash, and reliable GoTo accuracy. Tracking error is kept below ±7 arcseconds, and the mount includes Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) to maintain accuracy over long sessions.
For astrophotographers, this model includes a built-in ST-4 autoguiding port, a 32-channel GPS module, and an internal cable management system with USB and 12V DC passthrough ports—so you can run power and data to your camera or focuser without worrying about cable snags.
The Universal Self-Centering Saddle (USCS) accommodates both Vixen and Losmandy-style dovetails, providing compatibility with a wide range of optical tubes from small ED refractors to medium-aperture RCs or SCTs.
Mount Performance at a Glance:
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45 lb (20 kg) payload capacity with only 15.8 lb mount head weight
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CNC-machined all-metal construction, anodized for durability
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±7 arcsecond native periodic error, with Permanent PEC
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Precision worm gears: 216-tooth, 110mm wheels on both axes
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45mm stainless steel RA and Dec shafts with 68mm bearings
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Dual dovetail saddle supports Vixen and Losmandy plates
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iPolar™ internal electronic polar scope with software alignment
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Go2Nova 8407+ hand controller with 212,000+ object database
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32-channel GPS module for auto time/location sync
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ST-4 guiding port, USB communication, and 12V DC outputs
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Meridian flip and automatic park/zero routines built-in
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Power draw: 0.6A tracking, 0.9A during GoTo slews
Supplied Accessories – Ready to Go
Included with the GEM45 (#7603A) is everything you need to get started observing or imaging: the precision-machined GEM45 mount head, Go2Nova 8407+ hand controller with cables, one 11-pound (5 kg) counterweight, stainless steel counterweight shaft, internal iPolar polar scope, and a robust 1.75" LiteRoc tripod for excellent field stability. A 100–240V AC adapter and USB/RS232 cables round out the kit. This version does not include a hard case.
Observing Tip:
The GEM45’s excellent tracking and internal cable routing make it ideal for multi-night astrophotography projects, especially when using motorized focusers, filter wheels, or cooled cameras. If you plan to transport the mount frequently, consider adding iOptron’s custom hard case or a padded soft bag to protect your investment in the field.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you're stepping up from a smaller equatorial mount or downsizing from a heavy observatory-class rig, the iOptron GEM45 with LiteRoc tripod strikes a near-perfect balance of portability, performance, and payload. It’s a serious mount for serious observers—compact enough to travel, strong enough to carry a full imaging setup, and smart enough to run the night with minimal hands-on time. If you want reliability without compromise, this GEM earns its name.
