Precision in Motion, Balanced by Design
The iOptron CEM40 mount head (part #C402A) is a distillation of everything the modern field astronomer needs—and nothing they don’t. At once elegant and efficient, it offers a unique blend of high performance, intelligent engineering, and refined balance, all housed in a form that’s as portable as it is capable. This version ships as a head-only package, ideal for those with a permanent pier, a previously purchased tripod, or a custom observatory setup in place.
If you’ve ever wished for a mount that behaves more like an instrument than a machine—something that doesn’t simply follow the sky, but flows with it—this is your answer. The CEM40 does not seek attention with brute strength or oversized mechanics. Instead, it earns loyalty with quiet precision, reliability, and a uniquely graceful mechanical heart.
Center-Balanced Performance in a Compact Head
At the core of the CEM40’s identity is iOptron’s patented Center-Balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM) design. Unlike traditional German equatorials that suspend weight off to the side, the CEM40 places the load directly over the mount’s center of gravity. This results in lower motor torque, reduced vibration, and improved tracking smoothness, especially during long-exposure astrophotography.
Despite weighing just 15.8 pounds, the CEM40 mount head supports an impressive 40-pound payload—more than double its own mass. This extraordinary ratio means it can carry heavy optical tubes, cameras, filter wheels, and guiding systems with ease, making it ideal for the imager or visual observer who refuses to compromise.
iPolar – Electronic Polar Alignment, Perfected
Every CEM40 mount head includes an integrated iPolar electronic polar scope, aligned at the factory and ready for use straight out of the case. No more bending under the scope, peering through dim reticles, or guessing with bubble levels. iPolar uses real-time plate solving to deliver sub-arcminute alignment precision, even when Polaris is nowhere to be found.
Plug in, align, and get imaging—this is how polar alignment should feel.
A Clean, Cable-Friendly Platform
The included dual dovetail saddle supports both Vixen and Losmandy formats, allowing broad compatibility with a wide range of optical tubes. The mount is equipped with USB and ST-4 ports for connection to autoguiders, computers, or planetarium software. Control can be established via iOptron Commander, ASCOM, or INDI, making it compatible with virtually every imaging ecosystem in use today.
Your imaging setup stays clean and efficient, with minimal cable clutter, no need for third-party hubs, and a mount that’s ready to support fully automated observing sessions.
Please Note: No Tripod or Pier Included
This version of the CEM40 is intended for experienced users who already own a compatible tripod—such as the LiteRoc 1.75" tripod, Tri-Pier, or a custom pier with the appropriate top plate. No tripod or pier is included. If you’re building into a permanent observatory or upgrading from a standard CEM mount, this head-only configuration allows you to do so without duplication.
The included custom foam-lined hard case protects the mount during transport and storage—whether it's heading out to a dark-sky site or waiting quietly in your observatory between clear nights.
What’s Included:
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CEM40 mount head (non-EC version)
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Factory-aligned iPolar electronic polar scope (integrated)
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Dual saddle (Vixen and Losmandy compatible)
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Counterweight shaft
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Go2Nova 8407+ hand controller
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USB and ST-4 ports
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Custom hard carrying case with foam insert
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Tripod and counterweight not included
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Part Number: C402A
Technical Specifications:
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Mount Type: Center-balanced equatorial (CEM)
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Payload Capacity: 40 lbs (18 kg), not including counterweights
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Mount Head Weight: 15.8 lbs (7.2 kg)
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RA Encoder: Not included on this model
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Tracking Accuracy: Approx. ±7 arcsec native (with PEC and permanent PEC)
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Polar Scope: iPolar electronic polar alignment camera (built-in)
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Saddle: Dual Vixen/Losmandy-style
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Connectivity: USB, ST-4 autoguider port
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Hand Controller: Go2Nova 8407+ with 212,000+ object library
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Computer Control: ASCOM, INDI, iOptron Commander
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Power Requirement: 12V DC, 5A
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Tripod: Not included
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Part Number: C402A
Observing Tip:
If you’re considering adding a mount to your existing observatory setup—or simply replacing an older head without needing to rebuy support hardware—this configuration gives you just what you need. The CEM40 head is light enough for travel and powerful enough for permanent duty. Pair it with a quality refractor or compact astrograph, and you’ll enjoy seamless tracking and reliable GoTo performance for years to come.
