iOptron HEM15 Strain Wave Mount Head with iPolar – Featherweight Power, Counterweight-Free Precision
iOptron Part Number: H152A
Big performance can come in small packages—and the iOptron HEM15 is living proof. Weighing in at just 5.5 pounds, this compact equatorial mount head delivers 15 pounds of payload capacity without requiring a single counterweight. Whether you’re a minimalist traveler or a backyard astrophotographer with limited space, the HEM15 gives you the tracking precision and load stability you’d expect from a mount twice its size and weight.
For wide-field imagers, refractor users, and anyone looking to travel light without compromising performance, the HEM15 is a category-redefining solution built on the same strain wave drive technology powering iOptron’s larger HEM and HAE mount families.
Hybrid Drive Design – Strain Wave Meets Worm/Belt DEC
The HEM15 is a hybrid drive mount, using a state-of-the-art strain wave gear in right ascension and a precision belt-driven worm gear in declination. This blend of technologies allows for extremely compact design and low backlash tracking, while still offering high torque and smooth, responsive slewing.
Gear Period: 360 seconds
Payload Capacity: 15.4 lbs (7 kg), no counterweight required
Mount Weight: 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg)
Drive Technology: Strain wave RA, belt-driven worm DEC
With this hybrid architecture, the HEM15 maintains excellent tracking performance while staying small enough to carry in a camera bag.
Portable, CNC-Machined, and Ready for Field Use
Despite its lightweight construction, the HEM15 doesn’t skimp on durability. The mount is built from CNC-machined aluminum, with a black anodized finish that resists corrosion and scuffs in the field. This is a grab-and-go mount with a premium build—engineered to last across years of nightly use and frequent travel.
The integrated Vixen-style dovetail saddle allows fast compatibility with most small refractors, camera lenses, and imaging telescopes up to 15 pounds total.
iPolar Built In – Alignment Anywhere
The HEM15 includes iOptron's iPolar electronic polar alignment system, factory-installed in the RA axis. iPolar simplifies polar alignment—even when Polaris isn’t visible—by using software-driven alignment that works anywhere in the world. Setup is fast, repeatable, and precise, even from light-polluted urban backyards or obstructed views.
Smart Safety and Memory Features
The HEM15 isn’t just smart—it’s self-aware. It includes an electronic friction brake that safely halts slews during an abrupt power loss, and a power-down memory system that allows the mount to resume tracking or GoTo operations right where it left off after reboot—without needing to realign.
These features offer peace of mind when you’re running automated sessions or working in changing field conditions.
Connectivity and Control Options
The HEM15 can be controlled in a variety of modern ways—no hand controller required (though one is included). Supported methods include:
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Windows PC (ASCOM and iOptron Commander)
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MacOS/Linux (INDI-compatible software)
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Smartphone/Tablet (iOptron Commander Lite, SkySafari)
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Raspberry Pi (INDI)
Connectivity includes:
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Built-in Wi-Fi (via Go2Nova hand controller)
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USB port for firmware updates and PC control
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ST-4 autoguider port for conventional guiding
Whether you’re a minimalist tablet user or a full ASIAIR automation expert, the HEM15 speaks your language.
GoToNova Hand Controller Included
While the HEM15 can operate via Wi-Fi or computer, it also includes the Go2Nova® hand controller, preloaded with a 212,000+ object database:
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Messier, NGC, IC, UGC, MCG, Abell, Caldwell catalogs
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Named stars, double stars, variable stars
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Solar system objects, including asteroids and comets
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88 modern constellations and user-defined targets
The controller includes a backlit display and full keypad, and its OLED display ensures visibility even in extreme cold.
What’s Included
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HEM15 hybrid strain wave mount head
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Factory-installed iPolar electronic polar scope
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Go2Nova® hand controller with OLED screen
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USB and power cables
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Soft padded carrying case
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Documentation and two-year warranty
No tripod, pier, or counterweight system is included—giving you the flexibility to match it to your own preferred support setup.
Observing Tip
While the HEM15 can handle up to 15 pounds without counterweights, keeping your payload short and compact will deliver the best results. Wide-field APO refractors, camera lens setups, and small astrographs are perfect matches. And don’t forget—thanks to the iPolar, alignment time is drastically reduced, which means more time capturing photons and less time fiddling in the dark.
Why Choose the HEM15?
If you’ve ever wished for a serious mount that didn’t weigh down your gear—or your shoulders—the HEM15 is it. Built with advanced drive technology, factory-aligned iPolar, and one of the best weight-to-payload ratios in the industry, the HEM15 is ideal for the mobile imager or beginner looking to step into precision without the bulk.
Whether you're shooting from your backyard, a mountaintop, or a total eclipse site across the world, the HEM15 travels easily and performs like a mount three times its size.
