iOptron GEM28EC German Equatorial Mount with 1.5" Tripod and Hard Case

iOptron GEM28 German Equatorial Mount with 1.5" Tripod

The EC version of the iOptron GEM28 mount comes with real time periodic error correction! In addition to this fantastic tracking feature, the mount comes with integrated iPolar, 1.5" tripod, and a hard case.

The iOptron GEM28EC is a perfect mount for users who are looking of a compact and portable mounting system that operates at higher latitudes. The mount only weighs 10 lb., yet it can support up to 28 lb.! That is an incredible 2.8 mount weight to payload ratio. It achieves this amazing feat by utilizing a similar design to that of the iOptron CEM mounts. The mount is equipped with a positive lock gear engagement system that is easy to use with when users have gloves on. The body of the mount is all metal, CNC machined and it has a protective, black powder coating. When it comes to communication, the CEM26 mount comes with built-in WiFi that is unparalleled and an ST-4 auto-guiding port.

The GEM28EC from iOptron utilizes a precision stepper motor for precise GoTo and accurate tracking. The GEM28EC's periodic error correction works to repeat optimal PEC training sessions. The included GoTo hand controller is the Go2Nova 8409 controller with advanced GoToNova GoTo technology. This GoTo technology comes complete with a 212,000 object library.

About the 1.5" Tripod

The included iOptron tripod has stable 1.5" diameter stainless steel legs. This is a solid tripod despite its light weight and easy portability that compliments the portability of the GEM28EC. Additional features include a die-cast aluminum top and ABS three prong spreader for reliable support.

About the iPolar

Integrated in to the compact mount itself is the popular iPolar electronic polar finder. With the iPolar e-Polarscope from iOptron, accurate polar alignment has never been so simple! All you have to do is place the plus symbol over the graphical representation of the celestial pole's location. When these two symbols are aligned they represent a precise polar alignment, allowing you to get the best performance possible from your GEM28EC mount.

The iOptron iPolar utilizes an electronic camera that is aligned with both the axes of your mount. The included Windows software processes the camera's images to calculate the true location of the celestial pole (north or south) and then guides you through any adjustments needed to align your mount precisely to the pole. Gone are the days of crouching behind a "through the mount" polar scope! Instead, the iPolar facilitates making altitude and azimuth adjustments by just glancing at your PC's monitor. This system needs as few as four stars to locate the pole, and can do so even when the pole location itself is blocked by clouds, tree branches, or other obstructions.

iPolar e-PolarScope Features

• The iPolar is fast and easy to use

• 30 arcsec precision

• With iPolar, there is no need to see the Pole Star or rotate the mount during alignment

• Unique imaging enhancement technique

• Smart plate solving

• On screen instruction during alignment

iOptron GEM28EC Mount Specifications

• Max Payload: 28 lbs (12.7 kg)

• Mount Weight: 10 lbs (4.5 kg)

• Material: CNC Machined Metal

• Finish: Powder Coating

• Latitude Adjustment Range: 10° ~ 70°

• Azimuth Adjustment Range: ± 6º

• Tracking Accuracy (PE): <0.3 arcsec RMS

• Period: 600 sec

• Worm Diameter: Φ15.2 mm, Brass

• Right Ascension Worm Wheel: Φ88 mm, 144 teeth, Zero Backlash

• Declination Worm Wheel: Φ88 mm, 144 teeth, Zero Backlash

• Right Ascension Axis Shaft: Φ35mm Steel

• Declination Axis Shaft: Φ35mm

• Steel Right Ascension Bearings: Φ55mm Ball Bearing

• Declination Bearing: Φ55mm Ball Bearing

• Counterweight Shaft Diameter: 20x305 mm

• Shaft Extension Diameter: 20x120mm

• Shaft Extension Thread: M16

• Shaft Extension Material: Stainless Steel

• Counterweight Shaft Thread: M16

• Counterweight Shaft Material: Stainless Steel

• Counterweight: 10lbs (4.5 kg)

• Motor: Precision Stepper Motor, 1.8º/128X micro-step

• Motor Resolution: 0.17 arcsec

• Transmission: Synchronous Belt

• Hand Controller: Go2Nova® 8409, 4 line 21 character LCD

• Star Database: 212,000+, star identification

• Power: DC 12V, 5A AC Adapter w/2.1mm plug

• AC Adapter: 100V ~ 240V

• Power consumption: 0.6A (Tracking), 0.8A (GOTO)

• Polar Scope: Internal iPolar

• Meridian Treatment: Stop (0-10° pass), Flip

• Dovetail saddle: 3.8" Vixen, Center Adjustable

• Max slew speed: 6°/sec (1440x)

• Guiding Port: ST-4

• Communication Port: USB

• WiFi: Built in WiFi

• Tripod: 1.5" Stainless Steel

• Operation temperature: -10ºC ~ 40ºC