The iOptron SkyHunter AZ GoTo Mount with iPolar Scopefrom iOptron SkyHunter AZ GoTo Mount with iPolar Scopeis a light and compact full-function portable GoTo mount. Weighing only 2.9 pounds (including the internal rechargeable battery), the SkyHunter is capable of supporting 11 pounds in both equatorial and alt-azimuth modes. The SkyHunter mount and base are supported by a 1.25" stainless steel tripod topped with a 7.5" extension pier for stable and comfortable observation.

The SkyHunter mount features four tracking rates: 1x or sidereal, 1/2x for sky and landscape combined, solar, and lunar. All four tracking rates work in both the northern and southern hemispheres. The mount comes with a 3328 Precision AZ/EQ base to accommodate equatorial tracking and an iPolar electronic polar alignment scope. The SkyHunter mount can be controlled by the SkySafari 6 Plus or later app on an iOS or Android smart phone/tablet, an optional 8410 hand controller, a computer via ASCOM, INDI, or embedded drive.

11-Pound Payload    Four Tracking Rates    Control by App, Hand Unit, or Computer    For Use in Northern/Southern Hemispheres

Payload of 11 pounds (balanced, excluding CW)

Dual-axis servo motors with optical encoders

Tracking speed consists of solar, lunar, 1x, 1/2x, S/N; operates in both northern and southern hemispheres

Control by SkySafari 6 Plus or later app on an iOS or Android smart phone/tablet, an optional 8410 hand controller, or a computer via ASCOM, INDI or embedded drive

3328 Precision AZ/EQ base for equatorial tracking

iPolar electronic polar alignment scope

1.25" stainless steel tripod with 7.5" extension pier

Dual-axis DC servo motor with optical encoder

USB port for firmware upgrade and computer control

Built-in rechargeable battery for up to 10 hours of operation

Vixen dovetail saddle

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. If Payload Capacity is 44 lb / 19.96 kg (without Counterweight) does that mean I can add to payload capacity by installing the counterweight?

A: So the Counterweight is meant for balancing, so it can move smoothly and track accurately without unwanted vibration or putting additional wear and tear on the motors. It does not add on extra Payload for more weight to the Mount/Tripod.

Q: 2. Can this device be used for Timelapse?

A: Silent tracking for smooth camera motion, perfect for long-term exposures. 4 tracking speed (1X, 1/2X, solar and lunar). 1X celestial tracking for imaging the sky and stars; 1/2X tracking speed for imaging both the starry night and the landscapes at the same time Tracking Photography When a supported camera is connected to the mount via a electric shutter trigger cable, the camera can be controlled by the hand controller. You can set the camera Shutter Length, time between each shot (Interval) and total Number of Shots. You may use these images to make time lapse video later. Press MENU = “Tracking Photography” = ENTER It will bring up the shutter setting menu. Start from “Input shutter length” field, Use ◄ or ► key to move the cursor and number key to change the number. Keep pressing the ► to move the cursor to next session: “Input interval,”, then to “Input the number of shots.” When finishing settings, move the cursor to ► and press the ENTER to start take photo. If you set the delay trig, the hand controller will beep before starting take photos. You may press the ENTER button again to stop the imaging process. You have to turn off the auto focus of the camera and set camera accordingly. You can see this info in the manual located on the B&H website https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1490837-REG/ioptron_3550a_skyguider_pro_camera_mount.html

Q: 3. So I bought this mount several months ago during the winter. I tried using their software to polar align (i bought the iPolar version), but was having a really difficult time doing so. The software seems to be super slow and getting an accurate lock on polaris was challenging. Does anyone have any tips?

A: I would recommend getting in touch with the Manufacturer directly for this kind of inquiry. They will be the best assistance for something like this. iOptronTel: (866) 399-4587 or (781) 569-0200 Website http://www.ioptron.com/ Email support@ioptron.com

Q: 4. Do I need special software for southern atmosphere?

A: The iOptron SkyGuider Pro works in both the northern and southern hemispheres. There is no extra software needed.

Q: 5. I see earlier questions on the use of IOS i see there is an IOS app, does that work in conjunction with the polar scope?

A: The Polar Scope Align Pro App for Scope alignment & astro tools will work with Apple products like an iPhone, and iPad to to aim.

Q: 6. Is a computer required for polar alignment and if one is needed will it work with a Mac?

A: An electronic polar scope is built into the mount and a computer is not required to use it.

Q: 7. The max payload is mentioned as 11 lbs. Does that include the counter balance weight as well?

A: The counter balance weight is not considered part of the payload The payload will be the weight of the camera body and the lense you mount to the iOptron SkyGuider Pro Camera Mount with iPolar (Head & Mount Only) BH #IO3550A • MFR #3550A

Q: 8. can I attach a Celestron Evolution 6" to this mount?

A: Yes, you can

Q: 9. Does the iPolar option preclude the normal optical way to polar align (without the electronic alignment). Meaning can I STILL do it the using my eye?

A: Yes of course you can

Q: 10. It says head and mount only, does that mean the counterwieght, bag and cable is not included?

A: This is what is listed as Ïn the Box" Padded Carrying Bag Counterweight Shaft 3-pound Counterweight Declination Mounting Bracket Micro-USB Battery Charging Cable Limited 1-Year Warranty Limited 90-Day Warranty on Battery