This version of the iEQ45 mount series allows either alt-azimuth or equatorial operation.
No polar alignment is required when mounting the telescope alt-azimuthally, meaning it is very quickly ready for action when observing visually or doing planetary photography. The mount can also carry a heavier load when used in alt-azimuthal mode, namely up to 25kg.
Equatorial mode allows you to use all the power of the iEQ45 series for your astrophotography.
The iEQ45 Pro equatorial mount with GoTo is a top-of-the-line mount for mobile astrophotography!
Compared to the previous model, iOptron has made several improvements:
- Stepper motors (instead of servo motors) with 128 steps
- Larger gear ratio for smoother running and precision
- Many small improvements in design (e.g. all slots are easier to reach, the motor cover is now made of one piece, etc.)
The iEQ45 incorporates the latest GoTo technology from iOptron, including a 32-bit GPS. The Go2Nova hand controller has a large display that shows all relevant information at a glance in several lines (in English). Thanks to GPS, you don't need to enter the time and location separately. However, if there are difficulties with the satellites, it is of course possible to enter this data manually.
A calibrated and illuminated pole finder is permanently integrated. Via the Quick Polar Alignment menu item, the hand control box shows you the relative position of the North Star to the north celestial pole, as the North Star is not exactly in the north. You can then use the engraving in the finder to align the North Star precisely. This is quick and very accurate. To make the alignment even more precise, use the Two Star Polar Align procedure: After you have aligned the North Star in the finder, you can check and correct the quality of the alignment using two stars.
However, you can also align the mount without an optical pole finder. The electronics offer a routine called Polar Iterate Align, which allows you to align the mount to a bright star using the telescope. This is particularly helpful if you do not have a clear view of the North Star.
To use the GoTo function of your iEQ45 Pro premium mount, alignment is not enough. You must also align the mount with the sky. This can be done quickly using One Star Alignment or Solar System Alignment on a planet or the moon. For high demands on the accuracy of the GoTo, use Three Star Alignment, i.e. alignment to three stars specified by the hand control box.
The mount can safely carry up to 20 kilograms, but weighs only 11 kilograms itself, which is an excellent ratio of load capacity to weight and makes the mount interesting for mobile use. Telescopes with both Vixen and Losmandy rails can be mounted.
Additional accessories included:
- 12V cigarette lighter cable
- power pack
- Go2Nova hand control box 8407 with connection cable
- RS232-RJ9 cable
- counterweights
- Very detailed instructions in English
