Amateur astronomers are traveling more than ever, chasing celestial events like eclipses and meteor showers and escaping light pollution. Busy lifestyles push them to find dark skies, and equipment is now smaller and lighter, making travel easier. This shift allows us to reach remote locations and focus on observing and capturing the night sky. iOptron has responded to this need with a full line of ultra-compact portable GoTo mounts. In fact they offer 3 distinct models to serve this need, the HEM15, HAE16C and The HAE18C.
All 3 mounts utilize an RA Strain Wave Gear drive to eliminate the need to use heavy counter weights or cumbersome shafts. Each RA SWG is equipped with a unique electronic power cut off brake to secure your valuable instrument in place during those un expected events. All have power inputs located in a stationary position to eliminate chord wrapping, Wi-Fi for control without cables and rugged CNC machined metal chassis. For convenience all have a 3/8” receptacle to easily mount directly to most tripods. Adding to the “on the go” theme all come with a nifty case. These are just a few of shared characteristics of this trio; let’s get onto some of the differences.
HEM15 is a hybrid gear mount with a SWG utilized on the RA axis and a worm gear on the dec. Hybrids were designed with the idea of keeping costs and the weight down. It also has a more traditional equatorial design offering usable latitude range of 15-65 degrees that helps reduce the overall weight. It also comes with a Go2Nova handset capable of locating and directing the mount and Wi-Fi or USB port for computer, tablet or phone control. With a max payload of 18lbs and weighing at only 5.5lbs it has the greatest mount weight to payload ratio of the 3 (3.27).
HAE16C also a hybrid gear design, however the main control board is now located inside the mount head, this enables the user to control the mount without the use of a handset (by phone, tablet or computer). Other differences include, the HAE16C is a dual mode mount capable of both equatorial and alt-az GoTo and tracking. This gives the mount the ability to operate at all latitudes and simplify set-up when in the alt-az mode. It also has 2 mount control USB ports, one on the rear of the mount (that is stationary) and one on the saddle for pi based and other control devices.
HAE18C Has all of the features and characteristics of the HAE16C, however it is a pure strain wave gear design with SWG on both the RA and DEC axes. The DEC axis SWG makes the system more flexible when it comes to where it’s mass sits relative to the center of the DEC axis. It’s epically beneficial when using longer and larger scopes.
The iOptron AZ/EQ dual SWG mount HAE18C offers a lightweight, compact design for an incredibly portable astronomy experience. Weighing just 6.2 lbs with an 18.7 lbs payload capacity (up to 26 lbs with counterweights), the HAE18C is ideal for astronomers on the go. Drawing on iOptron's decades of experience in creating compact, high-performance mounts with impressive payload-to-weight ratios, the HAE18C features strain wave gear technology for precise tracking on both RA and DEC movements. Its durable black anodized CNC-machined body and stationary power and USB inputs make it both functional and visually appealing.
Additional features include an electronic friction brake for locking the mount during power loss, upgradable firmware, built-in Wi-Fi, and a zero position locator. The HAE18C can be controlled via ASCOM/Commander for Windows PCs, third-party INDI drivers for MacOS, iOptron Commander Lite, Sky Safari app, or a Raspberry Pi device.
Designed for astronomers and astrophotographers on the go, the Strain Wave Altazimuth/Equatorial Mountredefines portability, precision, and performance. This compact yet robust mount integrates cutting-edge technology to deliver a superior experience for capturing the night sky.
Equipped with advanced Strain Wave Gears in both RA and DEC axes, this mount offers a reduction ratio of 360:1 for optimal tracking precision and smooth operation. With a peak periodic error of less than ±18 arcseconds, it is ideal for demanding long-exposure astrophotography.
Despite its lightweight design, tipping the scales at just 6.2 lbs (2.82 kg) with the dovetail saddle, the mount supports an impressive payload of up to 18.7 lbs (8.5 kg) without a counterweight and 26.5 lbs (12 kg) with an optional counterweight. The remarkable payload-to-mount weight ratio of 3.01 ensures versatility for a wide range of optical setups.
Constructed entirely of CNC-machined metal and finished with a sleek anodized black exterior, this mount is built for durability and aesthetics. A built-in level bubble ensures easy alignment, while the Vixen and Losmandy-compatible dovetail saddle provides broad compatibility with various telescopes.
The mount features GOTONOVA/Commander control systems with optional Go2Nova® 8411 handset for intuitive operation. Integrated Wi-Fi and USB communication ports enable seamless connection to modern devices and guiding systems. Additionally, the mount supports ASCOM pulse guiding for enhanced tracking accuracy.
Capable of slewing at a maximum speed of 6º/sec, the mount offers efficient power consumption, drawing only 0.6Aduring tracking and 1A during Go-To operations. Power is supplied via a 12V DC input, with a universal AC adapter included for indoor use.
Designed to function in temperatures ranging from -20ºC to 45ºC, the mount is ready for diverse observing conditions. Its built-in electronic friction brake ensures safety and precision when powered off.
Optional enhancements include a stainless steel counterweight shaft, a 10-lb counterweight, and a compatible tripod. Backed by a two-year limited warranty, this mount promises reliability and peace of mind.
Astrophotographers and portable observatories will appreciate the balance of lightweight construction and heavy-duty capabilities, making this mount the perfect companion for exploration under the stars. Whether imaging deep-sky objects or simply stargazing, this mount ensures uncompromising performance on every adventure.
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Springfield, Mo 65804
Phone: 1-844-277-3386
Fax: 417-429-2935
E-Mail: hello@scopetrader.com