iOptron Mount CEM26 GoTo LiteRoc

Similar to its predecessor, the CEM25P, the freshly launched CEM26 is engineered with simplicity and portability in mind.

iOptron's latest mount boasts an impressive capacity, accommodating payloads of up to 12kg while maintaining a remarkable weight-to-payload ratio of 2:6.

This efficiency is achieved through iOptron's innovative center-balanced equatorial mount (CEM) design, channeling both mount and payload weight directly to the tripod's center, establishing a naturally stable center of gravity.

Expanding upon the success of earlier CEM models, the new CEM26 incorporates additional features to enhance convenience and functionality, including an integrated WiFi system and recordable periodic error correction (PEC).

Functionally, the CEM26 excels in precise pointing and highly accurate tracking of celestial objects, setting a new benchmark for compact, medium-sized GoTo equatorial mounts.

Its center-balanced design not only enhances stability but also benefits astrophotography, providing another significant advantage in this field.

Additional features include an adjustable counterweight bar to prevent obstruction with the tripod, particularly when close to the horizon, and improved polar aligning accessibility with an unobstructed integrated polarscope.

Equipped with the latest Go2Nova® technology, the CEM26 offers exceptional accuracy and power in GoTo functionality, boasting a comprehensive database of over 212,000 objects accessible through an intuitive hand controller with a large LCD display.

The CEM26 package includes a durable stainless steel LiteRoc tripod and a sturdy aluminum carrying case, ensuring all necessary components for astronomical observation and astrophotography are readily available.

Key Highlights:

• Unique center-balanced equatorial mount design for optimal payload and minimal mount weight.
• Suitable for visual observation and astrophotography.
• Low periodic error (< ±10 arc seconds).
• Payload capacity of up to 12kg with a mount-only weight of 4.5kg.
• CNC-milled and cast metal mount with large, easy-to-operate gear knobs.
• Adjustable counterweight shaft for latitude operation.
• Stepper motors with low power consumption.
• Integrated WiFi and Go2Nova® hand controller with GoTo technology.
• Integrated ST-4 autoguiding port and USB port for firmware updates and control.
• LiteRoc stainless steel tripod with vibration pads and die-cast metal tripod spreader with an accessory tray.
• Optional upgrades include a 32-channel GPS and iGuider autoguiding system.

Specifications:

Designation: Center Balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM)

Max. additional load capacity: 12kg

Polar elevation setting: 0-60 degrees

Motor speeds: 1, 2, 8, 16, 64, 128, 256, 512 (Stepper motor)

Position precision: 0.17

Precision of tracking: +/-6

Material of worm gear: Brass

Material of worm wheel: Aluminum

Worm gear teeth (RA): 144 (Aluminum)

Counterweights: 1 piece (4.5kg)

Material of counterweights: Steel

Diameter of counterweight bar: 20mm

Software: Go2Nova

Display screen: 2.17 x 0.8 inches (LCD display with backlight)

Database: 212,000 objects

Connection: Manual controller via USB & ST4 cable

Interfaces: ST-4, USB, HBX

Cable-guide: Internal

Operating temperature: -10°C to 40°C

Power supply: 12V DC

Power consumption in open circuit: 0.8mA

Special features: Polar axis scale, fitting for prism rail (Vixen), permanent PEC correction, GoTo system, controllable via PC (ASCOM), updatable via web, accessory tray.

Equipment: Transport cases, pole finder, power pack, USB cable.

Tripod: Stainless steel, weight: 7.5kg

General: Color: black-red, total weight: 18.5kg, series: CEM, GoTo control: WiFi, alignment method: 3-Star Alignment, 2-Star Alignment, 1-Star Alignment, autoguiding: yes, PEC correction: yes, tracking speeds: sidereal, solar, and lunar, polar alignment: Easy Polar Alignment.