iOptron Mount Montierung CEM26EC GoTo iPolar LiteRoc

The new CEM26, following its predecessor model CEM25P, continues the tradition of user-friendliness and portability.

With a payload capacity of up to 12kg and an impressive weight-to-payload ratio of 2:6, this latest mount from iOptron stands out.

This remarkable ratio is achieved through iOptron's Centre-Balance Equatorial Mounts (CEM) design, which directs both the mount and payload weight precisely to the center of the tripod, establishing a natural center of gravity.

Expanding on the success of earlier CEM models, the CEM26 incorporates additional features for enhanced convenience and functionality. It now boasts integrated WiFi capabilities and a recordable Periodic Error Correction (PEC) system.

Functionally, the CEM26 ensures precise pointing and exceptionally accurate tracking of celestial objects, setting a new standard for compact, medium-sized GoTo equatorial mounts.

Its center-balanced design places the payload weight at the gravitational center, enhancing natural stability, a significant advantage in astrophotography.

Other notable features include an adjustable counterweight bar to prevent obstruction with the tripod when near the horizon, and an unobstructed integrated polarscope for quick and accessible polar alignment.

Equipped with the latest Go2Nova® technology, the CEM26 offers one of the most powerful and accurate GoTo capabilities on the market. Its extensive database includes over 212,000 objects, easily navigable via the intuitive Go2Nova® hand controller with a large LCD display.

Additionally, the mount features an integrated iPolar® electronic polarscope, ensuring precise alignment with Polaris, even when obscured, essential for amateur astronomers.

The CEM26 package includes a stainless steel LiteRoc tripod and a sturdy aluminum carrying case.

Key Features:

• Centre-balanced equatorial mount design for optimal payload-to-weight ratio
• Suitable for both visual observation and astrophotography
• Low periodic error (< ± 10 arc seconds)
• Payload capacity up to 12kg with a mount weight of 4.5kg
• CNC-milled and cast metal construction
• Large, user-friendly gear knobs
• Adjustable counterweight shaft for operation at 0° latitude
• Stepper motors with low power consumption
• Integrated iPolar polarscope
• Easy Polar Alignment procedure
• Go2Nova® hand controller with advanced GoTo technology
• Integrated ST-4 autoguiding port
• Integrated WiFi and USB port for firmware updates and PC control
• LiteRoc stainless steel tripod with vibration pads
• Die-cast metal tripod spreader with accessory tray
• Included aluminum carrying case

The CEM26EC model is equipped with a high-resolution encoder (EC) on the right ascension (RA) axis, ensuring real-time periodic error correction of less than 0.3 arc seconds, eliminating the need for guiding in astrophotography.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Capacity:

Designation: Center Balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM)

Max. Additional Load Capacity (kg): 12

Polar Elevation Setting (°): 0-60

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

Position Precision: 0.17

Tracking Precision: +/-6

Worm Gear Material: Brass

Worm Wheel Material: Aluminium

Worm Gear Teeth (RA): 144 (Aluminium)

Counterweight(s) (piece): 1 (4.5kg)

Counterweight Bar Diameter (mm): 20

Software:

Go2Nova

Display Screen: LCD display with backlight

Database: 212,000

Connection: Manual controller, USB & ST4 cable

Interfaces:

ST-4, USB, HBX

Cable Guide: Internal

Operating Temperature: -10°C to 40°C

Power Supply: 12V (DC)

Power Consumption (mA): 0.8 (in open circuit)

Encoders: Yes

Special Features:

Polar Axis Scale: Yes

Prism Rail Fitting: Yes (Vixen)

PEC Correction: Yes (permanent)

GoTo System: Yes

GPS: Optional

Controllable via PC: Yes (ASCOM)

Updatable via Web: Yes

Accessory Tray: Yes

Equipment:

Transport Cases: Yes

Pole Finder: Yes

Power Pack: Yes

Cable: USB

Tripod:

Material: Stainless steel

Weight (kg): 7.5

General:

Color: Black-Red

Total Weight (kg): 18.5

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