Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro SynScan GoTo with tripod

Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro SynScan GoTo is a heavy-duty equatorial mount designed for large telescopes and serious astrophotography projects. With a carrying capacity of as much as 50 kg, this model is suitable for tubes up to 14 inches and is the ideal base for a private observatory or permanent setup.

Several improvements have been made compared to the classic EQ8:

• Internal cabling prevents cable breakage and ensures a tidy setup.
• Additional connections (4× USB, 3× 12V) provide space for cameras and accessories.
• Improved motor positioning and couplings increase balance and holding power.
• Belt drive in the DEC axis Makes tracking quieter and smoother.
• New dovetail clamps ensure safer assembly.

The mount works with the familiar SynScan GoTo control, which provides access to 42,900 objects and various alignment methods. Thanks to Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC). periodic errors in the drive are permanently stored, so you benefit from the same precision night after night. For photography, a autoguider port and a camera snap port present, which allows shutter speeds to be controlled directly via the hand controller.

Despite its size, the EQ8-R remains relatively user-friendly. The heavy column tripod provides stability, while the improved pole-height adjustment allows accurate alignment even without a direct view of the Pole Star.

Application
The Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro SynScan GoTo is designed for advanced astrophotographers and observatories who want to use heavy instruments stably and accurately. Ideal for deep-sky photography with large Newtons, Cassegrains or APO refractors. For mobile observers, this mount is less practical due to its weight, but as a fixed mount it offers an exceptional price-performance ratio.

Specifications

• Type: Equatorial mount (EQ8 series)
• Max. load capacity: 50 kg
• Power supply: 12 V DC
• Drive: worm wheel with toothed belt
• PEC correction: Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC)
• Tracking modes: sidereal, sun, moon
• GoTo system: SynScan, database 42,900 objects
• Positioning: 1-, 2- or 3-star alignment
• Interfaces: autoguider port, USB, 12V ports, camera snap port
• Encoders: Freedom-Find (old version) / no longer present with EQ8-R Pro
• Stand: steel column stand
• Counterweights: 2 × 10 kg
• Pile height adjustment: 10-65°
• Weight of mount: 25.8 kg
• Tripod weight: 29.4 kg
• Total set weight: approximately 55 kg
• Color: white