Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i Mount
The EQ-AL55i Mount From Sky-Watcher!
Optimal for those looking for a compact, yet powerful equatorial mount, the Sky-Watcher AL-EQ55i is the way to go! This mount is easily manageable and is equipped with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, making it wonderful for travel. Small to medium sized telescopes ride effortlessly thanks to the 22 lb. weight capacity, and the two included counterweights provide you with heightened versatility. With qualities like these and plenty more, it’s easy to see why this Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i deserves a place amongst your astronomy toolkit!
With its high quality internal gearing system, you can expect incredible performance during your nights under the stars. Whether using for visual astronomy or for astrophotography, the EQ-AL55i is perfect for either, providing steady views and sharp stars in each frame. The internal WiFi and Bluetooth make it easy to operate this mount with just your smartphone or tablet, while its ASCOM compatibility offers use with today's most popular image capture software. Complete with ergonomics such as a built-in polar scope and internal cabling, and equipped with a strong, steel tripod, this Sky-Watcher AL-EQ55i has you set up for success!
All-Latitude Design
With “AL” as an abbreviation for "All Latitude”, a key feature of this Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i is its ability to adjust to any latitude on the planet. From the Equator to each geographical pole, the 0°-90° latitude range makes this equatorial mount suitable for astronomers all over the globe! This characteristic is also highly beneficial for those who enjoy travelling, as it provides you with the flexibility needed for engaging astronomy sessions wherever you may visit. Upon receiving your mount, you’ll find two mounting points for your counterweight shaft. The top position is for those located within lower latitudes to help prevent accidental collisions with the tripod, while the bottom position is suitable for those residing closer to the poles. Thanks to the ingenuity from Sky-Watcher, this EQ-AL55i opens the doors to high precision tracking regardless of location!
A Small, High Performance Telescope Mount that Packs a Punch
Powerful, compact, and versatile, this highly capable mount is the perfect addition to your astronomy setup. The ~8 lb. frame is easy to travel with, while the 22lb. payload capacity provides support for a wide range of telescopes. Furthering versatility, operation is proven effortless through the multiple means of control and the host of included ports. Read on as we delve into the incredible features of this Sky-Watcher AL-EQ55i below!
22 lb. Payload, High Precision Tracking
Built with quality in mind, this EQ-AL55i counteracts Earth’s rotation with incredible accuracy. Mini Servo motors integrated within this equatorial mount allow for high precision GoTo slews and impressive tracking performance. Select your desired target, and sit back as this Sky-Watcher mount automatically moves to your selected object, centering it within your field of view. The 22 lb. payload capacity enables you to utilize a wide variety of telescopes and equipment, from a simple visual rig to a more complex astrophotography setup. Recommended for refractors up to 4”, and reflectors and Schmidt-Cassegrains up to 6”, the Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i provides you with exceptional versatility.
Multiple Means of Control
Furthering versatility, there are numerous ways to operate this Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i mount. Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth provide a streamlined way to control your mount through just your smartphone or tablet. This means there is no need to fumble with cables during setup, and there is less of a chance of cable snag throughout your astronomy sessions. The Sky-Watcher SynScan Pro app enables you to star align, select objects to slew to, control tracking rates, and includes other features for full control over your EQ-AL55i. ASCOM compliant, you have the ability to utilize a wide variety of astronomy software, such as N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro, Astro Photography Tool, and plenty of others. This mount is also compatible with the ZWO ASIAIR WiFi Camera Controller via WiFi, USB-C connection, or EQMOD cable connection. For those looking for a simplified method of operation, you also have the opportunity to add a user-supplied Sky-Watcher SynScan V5 Hand Controller.
Numerous Ports and a Solid Power Connection
This EQ-AL55i comes equipped with a host of ports to aid in your nights under the stars. A Snap port offers connection to your DSLR, allowing you to operate your camera’s shutter through a user-supplied hand controller or through the Sky-Watcher SynScan app. The 2.1 mm power port on this mount stays stationary during slews and tracking, significantly reducing the chances of accidental cable snags! Also featured is a USB-C port for a more streamlined connection to your laptop computer or WiFi camera control device. On the other side of this mount you’ll find an RJ-12, 6-pin autoguiding port to assist with tracking, as well as an RJ-45, 8-pin hand controller port for use with a Sky-Watcher SynScan V5 Hand Controller (not included). This hand controller port can also be used with a user-supplied EQMOD cable for connection to your laptop or WiFi camera control device.
Various Polar Alignment Methods
Polar alignment can be accomplished in numerous different ways with this Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i. Within the body, you’ll find a built-in polar scope with an illuminated reticle. This is highly convenient for quick polar alignment when using for visual use or wide field astrophotography. For those who wish to polar align their mount with assistance from software, the EQ-AL55i is compatible with a wide variety of platforms. Laptop connections open the door for use with ASCOM supported software such as SharpCap, while you also have the opportunity to utilize the built-in polar alignment feature within the ZWO ASIAIR.
Strong and Sturdy Steel Tripod
This EQ-AL55i comes equipped with a durable tripod at its base. Made of rolled steel, vibrations are kept to a minimum for optimal performance during your visual or astrophotography sessions. The 1.75” legs provide ample stability, and are adjustable to help you level your equipment over uneven terrain. Furthering rigidity, the included spreader bar holds the legs in a wide stance, and doubles as an accessory tray to help keep you organized.
Optimized for Travel and Backyard Observing
As a step up from a star tracker, this EQ-AL55i is a great choice for both astrophotographers on the go and those imaging from their backyard! Additions such as built-in WiFi and Bluetooth streamline your setup, allowing you the ability to control this mount with just your smartphone or tablet. The included tripod is collapsible, and the mount head weighs just 8.2 lbs., making it easy to pack this system up for trips to dark skies. Despite its compact frame, the Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i is robust enough for more permanent backyard setups, with the 22 lb. payload capacity supporting up to 6” Schmidt-Cassegrains. With qualities like these, the Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i earns our High Point Scientific Astrophotography Mount Classification Badges of Portable Grab & Go and Backyard Observing!
Astronomy Hub: Your one-stop-shop for Astrophotography Knowledge!
Our Gear Experts have compiled a wealth of information to help expand your astrophotography knowledge! Below you’ll find links to articles, videos and "how-to" guides. Just one more reason that our Astronomy Hub is a one-stop-shop for all your astronomy and astrophotography needs!
| Choosing the Best Deep Sky Camera |
| 10 Things You Need to Know About Nebulae |
| How to Balance Your Equatorial Mount |
| Autoguiding |