The iOptron HEM15 brings harmonic drive technology to the world of ultra-light equatorial mounts. Weighing just 5.5 pounds, the HEM15 supports up to 18 pounds of imaging gear—all without counterweights. It's one of the lightest full-featured EQ mounts available, making it a top pick for astrophotographers who travel light but still expect precision tracking and reliable GoTo performance.
Whether you're running a small APO, a camera tracker setup, or a wide-field astro imaging system, the HEM15 delivers serious results from a mount that fits in a carry-on.
Harmonic Drive: Zero Backlash in a Featherweight Frame
The HEM15 is built around a strain wave (harmonic) gear drive system on the right ascension axis. Unlike traditional worm gears, harmonic drives offer virtually zero backlash and extremely high torque output, giving the HEM15 excellent tracking performance in a design that’s dramatically smaller and lighter than comparable equatorial mounts.
A precision stepper motor and 5760:1 reduction ratio on RA ensures accurate motion control, while the DEC axis uses a traditional worm gear to balance performance and cost for entry-level harmonic users.
18 lb Capacity, No Counterweights Needed
Despite weighing only 5.5 pounds, the HEM15 supports up to 18 pounds of payload without the need for counterweights (payload assumes balanced, short-tube setups). That means it can easily handle most compact refractors, camera lenses, DSLR rigs, and mini astrographs—perfect for wide-field imaging, eclipses, and Milky Way panoramas.
For heavier or longer setups, the optional counterweight shaft allows for traditional balancing and expanded capacity.
Designed for Grab-and-Go Imaging
With its compact size, lightweight chassis, and center-balanced design, the HEM15 is ideal for travel or field imaging sessions. It’s also a great solution for those with physical limitations or limited storage space. Just add a carbon fiber tripod, your favorite optics, and a power source, and you’ve got a precision EQ system you can carry in one hand.
Whether you're flying across the country or stepping into the backyard, the HEM15 makes setup and teardown a breeze.
GoTo Control with Go2Nova
The mount comes with iOptron’s Go2Nova 8409 hand controller, offering access to more than 212,000 objects and a simple, intuitive interface. You'll also get zero position memory, which makes returning to a known park position simple after transport or shutdown.
Connectivity includes USB and Wi-Fi via the hand controller, and the HEM15 is fully compatible with ASCOM, INDI, iOptron Commander, SkySafari, and many other control platforms.
Power and Polar Alignment
The HEM15 includes a DC power input and can run from a 12V regulated source (battery, power tank, or wall adapter). This version does not include a built-in iPolar polar alignment camera, but it can be aligned easily with external tools like iPolar, PoleMaster, or polar alignment routines in NINA or SharpCap.
Included Accessories
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HEM15 harmonic equatorial mount head
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Go2Nova 8409 hand controller
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12V DC power cable
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USB cable and data cables
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Hard foam carry case
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Mount base with 3/8"-16 standard threaded hole
Optional Accessories (Sold Separately)
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iOptron carbon fiber tripod or LiteRoc tripod
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Counterweight shaft and weights
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iPolar electronic polar alignment camera
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Mini pier extension
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iMate control module
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DSLR/CMOS camera control cables
Final Thoughts
The iOptron HEM15 is proof that you don’t need to sacrifice performance for portability. If you're looking for a mount that combines true harmonic drive precision, counterweight-free operation, and a form factor that’s perfect for travel, eclipses, or wide-field astrophotography, the HEM15 is ready to ride shotgun on your next imaging adventure.
Observing Tip:
For best results with harmonic mounts like the HEM15, make sure your imaging payload is mounted as close to the saddle as possible. Keeping the weight centered reduces stress on the motors and helps maintain better tracking—especially when going counterweight-free.
