iOptron iPolar External Electronic Polarscope

iOptron iPolar External Electronic Polarscope

Polar alignment doesn’t have to be slow, frustrating, or dependent on clear views of Polaris. The iOptron iPolar™ External Electronic Polarscope brings speed, simplicity, and precision to one of the most critical parts of your setup. Designed for external installation on most equatorial mounts (including non-iOptron models with the proper adapter), this smart polar scope uses advanced imaging and plate-solving technology to achieve 30 arcsecond alignment accuracy—even if you can’t see the pole star.

Whether you’re imaging under poor sky conditions, aligning in the Southern Hemisphere, or simply tired of kneeling behind a polar scope, iPolar makes polar alignment painless.

What Makes iPolar Different?

Unlike traditional polar alignment tools that require a clear view of Polaris or Sigma Octantis, the iOptron iPolar can perform accurate alignment even if the pole star is blocked by trees, buildings, or clouds. Using an internal camera and real-time plate solving, the iPolar software overlays a digital reticle on your actual starfield. Just follow the on-screen instructions to adjust your mount—no guessing, no rotating the RA axis, no drift aligning.

Key advantages:

• Can be externally mounted on nearly any equatorial mount (adapters required for non-iOptron models)

• No need to see Polaris or Sigma Octantis

• No need to rotate your mount during alignment

• Works in both hemispheres automatically

• USB plug-and-play—no drivers required

• 30 arcsecond alignment precision

• Works even under poor sky visibility

If you’ve ever struggled with drift alignment or wasted precious dark-sky time trying to get your mount dialed in, the iPolar is your new best friend.

Key Features

• Smart plate-solving software locates the true celestial pole using surrounding stars

• Real-time on-screen instructions make the process fast and intuitive

• Wide field of view (~13°) helps detect star patterns even in obstructed conditions

• 30 arcsecond resolution and precision for high-accuracy alignment

• Compatible with most equatorial mounts when used with the correct external adapter

• Works globally—no hemisphere-specific setup required

• Does not require mount rotation, making it ideal for fixed-pier installations

• USB 2.0 connectivity with mini-USB port

• No driver installation needed—simply install the iPolar software and connect

Technical Specifications

Compatibility and Mounting

This external version of the iPolar is intended for installation on the outside of a mount. It fits:

• Most iOptron equatorial mounts, including the GEM28, GEM45, CEM26, CEM40, HEM27, HEM44, HAE43, and others

• Third-party equatorial mounts, when used with a compatible adapter (sold separately)

Note: This iPolar version does not fit the SmartEQ Pro+ mount and is not designed for alt-az or fork-mounted systems.

Observing Tip:

If you're imaging from a location where Polaris is blocked—or if you're in the Southern Hemisphere—this device is a game changer. Traditional alignment routines fall apart without visible pole stars, but iPolar's smart plate-solving method makes polar alignment fast and reliable in nearly any location or condition.

Final Thoughts

The iOptron iPolar External Electronic Polarscope takes the guesswork out of polar alignment and replaces it with reliable, software-guided accuracy. With its plug-and-play simplicity, high-precision performance, and broad compatibility, iPolar turns a tedious chore into a quick, painless step in your setup routine—so you can spend more time observing and less time adjusting.