iOptron SkyHunter EQ/AZ Mount GoTo Without Tripod: GoTo mount for observation and astrophotography
The iOptron SkyHunter EQ/AZ combines two mounts in a 1.3 kg housing. In alt-azimuth mode, it is a quick observation mount; with the included EQ base, it turns into an equatorial tracking mount for long-exposure astrophotography.
The load capacity of 5 kg (11 lbs) is sufficient for small apochromats, compact telescopes, and cameras with telephoto lenses. The counterweight set keeps the setup in balance in the equatorial position.
This version comes without a tripod and fits any sturdy photo tripod with a 3/8 or 1/4 inch connection.
From observing to photographing
In altazimuth mode, the GoTo control system locates objects for visual use. If you place the head on the equatorial base, the mount tracks the sky around an axis parallel to the Earth's axis. Field rotation disappears and exposures of minutes become possible.
Two DC servo motors with optical encoders provide the drive, featuring four tracking speeds for stars, landscape plus stars, sun, and moon.
Control via WiFi or computer
Via the built-in WiFi, you control the mount with SkySafari or iOptron Commander on iOS and Android. ASCOM and INDI enable full computer control, and the optional Go2Nova 8410 hand controller works as well.
The built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 10 hours of operating time at 20 degrees Celsius; external power can be connected via USB.
Included
- SkyHunter GoTo mount head with Vixen saddle
- EQ base for equatorial use
- Stainless steel counterweight rod (20 x 200 mm) with 1.35 kg counterweight
- USB cable for charging and firmware updates
Featured accessories
Add the SkyHunter Pier-Extension to prevent collisions with the tripod legs at the zenith, or choose the Go2Nova 8410 hand controller for smartphone-free operation.
For whom yes and for whom no
- ✓ Astrophotographers who want to take long exposures with a camera or small telescope
- ✓ Observers who also use the same mount visually in AZ mode
- ✓ Travelers looking for a complete EQ setup under 3 kg
- ✗ Those who observe exclusively visually: the SkyHunter AZ is more cost-effective then
- ✗ Setups heavier than 5 kg
Specifications
| Type | GoTo mount, EQ and AZ |
| Carrying capacity | 5 kg (11 lbs), balanced |
| Weight of mounting head | 1.3 kg |
| Drive | Dual DC servo motors with optical encoders |
| Tracking speeds | Stars, 1/2 stars, sun, moon |
| Operation | WiFi (SkySafari, iOptron Commander), ASCOM, INDI, optional Go2Nova 8410 |
| Battery | Built-in, rechargeable, up to 10 hours (20 °C) |
| Saddle | Vixen |
| Counterweight | 3.0 lbs, rod 0.79 x 7.87 in |
| Tripod connector | 3/32 inch |
You can find more mounts and accessories for this brand at the iOptron brand page.
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