Sky-Watcher EQM-35 German Equatorial Mount
The Sky-Watcher EQM-35 is a versatile hybrid equatorial mount that fills a much-needed niche for astronomers who want a portable, tracking GoTo equatorial mount that can grow with them as their skills evolve. Designed with both visual observers and astrophotographers in mind, the EQM-35 offers the stability of a full equatorial mount with the lightweight portability usually reserved for smaller star trackers.
For the beginning astrophotographer, it offers accurate tracking, GoTo capability, and a payload capacity that supports small refractors and camera setups with ease. For the experienced observer, it can serve as a grab-and-go imaging or travel mount that won’t weigh you down at remote dark sky sites.
Modular Versatility in a Portable Package
What sets the EQM-35 apart from other mounts in this class is its modular design. It functions as a full-featured GoTo German equatorial mount out of the box, complete with a motorized RA and DEC drive system, dual-axis tracking, and an included SynScan hand controller with a 42,900-object database.
But for times when ultra-portability is more important than full equatorial functionality—such as wide-field astrophotography or Milky Way imaging—you can remove the declination assembly and operate the EQM-35 in RA-only tracking mode. This transforms the mount into a lightweight star tracker, ideal for DSLR cameras and small telescopes, while significantly reducing the total weight.
This dual-role functionality makes the EQM-35 one of the most flexible entry-level GoTo mounts available today.
Payload Capacity and Stability
Despite its compact size, the EQM-35 boasts an impressive 22-pound payload capacity in equatorial mode. That’s more than enough for a 4" refractor or 6" SCT with a guide scope and camera. In RA-only mode, the capacity increases relative to the simplified load path, comfortably supporting DSLR cameras with heavy telephoto lenses or compact APO refractors for wide-field imaging.
The EQM-35 uses a sturdy aluminum tripod with 1.75" diameter legs and a die-cast spreader tray for added rigidity. The equatorial head itself is compact and finely machined, with smooth worm gears and ball bearings on both axes. Slow-motion controls are built in, though once you're aligned, the mount handles all tracking electronically.
SynScan GoTo and Tracking Accuracy
Included with the EQM-35 is Sky-Watcher’s familiar SynScan GoTo system, which gives you push-button access to over 42,900 celestial objects. The hand controller supports multi-star alignment and provides tracking in sidereal, lunar, and solar rates. For those who prefer PC-based control, the mount is ASCOM compatible and works with software like EQMOD and popular planetarium programs such as Stellarium or SkySafari (via an optional adapter).
Tracking accuracy is further supported by periodic error correction (PEC), a rare feature in this price range. This helps improve unguided imaging performance, and when used with a guide camera and software like PHD2, the EQM-35 can deliver pinpoint stars even during longer exposures.
Polar Alignment Made Easy
The EQM-35 includes a built-in polar alignment scope, visible through the RA axis, with an illuminated reticle and alignment markings for both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Combined with the adjustable altitude and azimuth controls, this makes precise polar alignment fast and frustration-free—especially helpful for astrophotographers looking to maximize exposure time without trailing.
For those who prefer a digital alignment process, the mount is also compatible with Sky-Watcher’s optional Polar Scope Camera (formerly called SynScan WiFi/Alt-Az WiFi adapter), giving you access to electronic alignment via smartphone or tablet.
Ideal Applications
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Visual Observation: The EQM-35 is smooth, stable, and accurate for observing deep-sky objects, planets, or the Moon. With the GoTo system aligned, you can spend your time observing rather than hunting.
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Astrophotography: Whether you're imaging with a DSLR and lens or a cooled CMOS camera on a small refractor, the EQM-35 offers reliable tracking, modularity, and the ability to guide for longer exposures.
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Travel/Grab-and-Go: The RA-only mode is a game changer for travelers. You get a lightweight, compact tracking platform that slips into a carry-on but still delivers serious imaging performance.
Final Thoughts
The Sky-Watcher EQM-35 is one of the most thoughtfully designed mounts in the lightweight equatorial category. It gives beginners a solid foundation for learning equatorial alignment and guided imaging, while offering experienced observers a portable second mount that doesn’t skimp on tracking performance.
Its modular design, stable mechanics, and full-featured GoTo electronics make it an outstanding value for visual observers and astrophotographers alike. Whether you’re hunting faint fuzzies from your backyard or chasing dark skies with a DSLR and a dream, the EQM-35 is ready to go wherever the night sky takes you.
