ZWO 80 mm APO Astrograph and AM3 Bundle
The perfect bundle for Astrophotographers on the move!
If you’re looking to build a rig that can accompany you on your next adventure, look no further! This ZWO bundle pairs the beloved AM3 Harmonic Drive EQ/AZ Mount Head with the lightweight FF80 mm APO Refractor. The AM3 is renowned for its ability to operate at peak performance without the need for counterweights, and with the self-flattening design of the FF80 APO astrograph, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of a premier astrophotography rig without being weighed down by extra components. To make this bundle even better, you’ll receive a TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod!
This exceptional bundle from ZWO includes an 80 mm apochromatic astrograph with a 4-element, 3+1 air-spaced quadruplet lens design, ideal for capturing the crisp details of deep sky objects without unwanted chromatic aberrations. Accompanying the APO astrograph is the AM3 Harmonic Drive EQ Mount, optimized with a strain wave gear reducer and synchronous belt, allowing versatile use as both an equatorial and alt-azimuth mount. Completing the set is a durable, impact-resistant Carbon Fiber Tripod with a high load capacity of 110 lb. and a dual-section design. With these three outstanding components, this bundle is a choice option for those looking to construct a high-performance astrophotography rig in 2025!
Learn more about this bundle!
This bundle is a great option for astrophotographers. The 80 mm apochromatic astrograph refractor from ZWO boasts impressive specifications, and when paired with the portable AM3 harmonic drive EQ mount, you’ll have a robust, yet lightweight rig designed to meet the demands of a variety of imaging sessions. When you purchase this bundle, you’ll not only get a first-class APO refractor and an AM3 harmonic drive EQ mount, but also a durable carbon fiber tripod! Check out the features below to learn more about what makes this bundle such an exceptional offer!
80 mm APO Astrograph
Featuring 4 internal elements in a 3+1 air spaced quadruplet design, you can expect outstanding performance with this 80 mm apochromatic refractor! Two of these lenses are premium, extra-low dispersion (ED) glass for further minimization of chromatic aberration and other optical distortions. With an 80 mm aperture and a 600 mm focal length, this system produces a focal ratio of f/7.5. Also, the Petzval design means there is no need to worry about purchasing a separate field flattener—the inherent flat field means the entire field of view will come into focus simultaneously for sharp, pinpoint stars from edge to edge. Included are four camera adapters (sized M48, M54, M68, and M76) that allow for connecting a variety of cameras and accessories. M48 adapter also has an internal female thread for attaching 2" filters. Also included is a 360-degree rotator, which allows for rotating an attached camera or accessory to the user's desired orientation. The large 3" dual-speed, rack-and-pinion focuser provides 1:10 fine adjustment. Finally, the 44 mm image circle supports full-frame camera sensors, offering a larger field of view.
AM3 Harmonic Drive EQ Mount
The internal structure of the AM3 Harmonic Drive EQ Mount is optimized with the strain wave gear reducer and synchronous belt. This optimization brings more accurate control and a fantastic reduction ratio of 300:1. The incorporated Harmonic drive speed reducer and synchronous belt allow this mount head to have precision control. While a traditional equatorial mount requires counterweights for use, this ZWO mount's harmonic drive speed reducer and synchronous belt eliminate the need for counterweights, though they can be added if desired (an M12 thread interface is available for compatible, user-supplied counterweight shafts). In addition to having a large load capacity without needing counterweights, the AM3 mount is considered multi-functional and can be used as both an equatorial and alt-azimuth mount. The equatorial mode is great for tracking and imaging celestial objects while the alt-azimuth mode works well for observations. To add to its versatility, the AM3 can be controlled using either the included hand controller or WiFi/Bluetooth.
Carbon Fiber Tripod
Weighing in at 5 lb., this tripod is portable and still maintains a high load capacity of 110 lb. ZWO has machined TC40 this tripod from a carbon fiber material, increasing durability, strength, and impact resistance. The upper part of the tripod legs measures 1.5" in diameter and the lower section measures 1.4". The dual-section design provides better stability and rigidity when telescopes and cameras are mounted on the AM3 mount head. The tripod plate head comes with an adapter plate that has three mounting points that match the ZWO AM3 mount head. This ensures that the connection will be very stable and sturdy. Additionally, there is a center 3/8" locking knob that has a range of compatibility. For the ZWO AM5 or AM3 mount head, you can keep it standard. For other mounts, you can keep it upside down and secure it with a 3/8" tapped hole. The secure lock reinforces the connection between the mount and the tripod.
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!
Achieving Perfect Focus with a Bahtinov Mask |
Autoguiding |
Astrophotography Filter Connection Guide |
No Fuss Astrophotography Telescopes for Beginners |