iOptron CEM26EC with LiteRoc Tripod

Introducing the brand-new CEM26EC from iOptron – the next-generation center-balanced equatorial mount designed to meet the needs of astrophotographers and astronomers in a compact and portable package. Similar to its predecessors, the CEM26 is engineered for portability, weighing in at a mere 10 lbs while offering an impressive 26lb payload capacity, resulting in an outstanding 2.6 mount weight to payload ratio. This remarkable ratio is made possible by the CEM's innovative design, which precisely centers the mount and payload weight directly on the tripod's center, ensuring natural stability. Building on the successful lineage of previous CEM models, we've incorporated features for added convenience and functionality. The positive lock gear engagement system, designed for ease of use even with gloves, enhances the user experience. Additionally, a high-resolution optical encoder with real-time Periodic Error Correction (PEC) delivers pinpoint tracking accuracy with a PE of less than 0.3 arcsec RMS. The built-in Wi-Fi capability sets new standards for connectivity in equatorial mounts, allowing for seamless control. The center-balanced design of the CEM26 strategically places the payload's weight at the center of gravity, resulting in enhanced natural stability. Further, an adjustable counterweight bar ensures unobstructed tripod usage. Polar alignment is quick and accessible at any time, thanks to the unobstructed polar scope placement. The CEM26 is equipped with the latest advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO technology, making it one of the most powerful and accurate GOTO mounts on the market. Its extensive database includes over 212,000+ celestial objects, ensuring you can easily locate your desired targets. The Go2Nova® Hand Controller is user-friendly, with a large 4-line LCD screen simplifying telescope setup and object tracking. What sets the CEM26EC apart is its integrated electronic polar finder scope, known as the iPolar. This tool guarantees precise telescope alignment, even when the pole star is obscured. The package includes a LiteRoc heavy-duty stainless steel tripod and an aluminum carrying case for convenience. In summary, the CEM26EC is the epitome of a compact equatorial mount that doesn't compromise on performance. It's designed to meet the demands of astrophotography and astronomy enthusiasts, offering exceptional stability, advanced GOTO technology, and innovative features for a seamless stargazing experience. Shipping Information: Shipping Box #1: C264A-CEM26EC Head w/ iPolar/Case/Tray (C264A) Shipping Box #2: 8283-CEM26/GEM28 LiteRoc Tripod w/o Tray (C26/G28 LiteRoc) Specifications Mount Center-Balanced Equatorial Mount Payload * 26 lbs (12kg), exclude counterweight Mount weight 10 lbs (4.5kg) Payload/Mount weight 2.60 Structure Material All metal, Casting + CNC machined Exterior Finish Powder coating Periodic error (PE) ** <0.3 arcsec rms PEC Real-time PEC Worm period 600 sec Right Ascension worm wheel Φ88mm, 144 teeth aluminum Declination worm wheel Φ88mm, 144 teeth aluminum Right Ascension axis shaft Φ35mm steel Declination axis shaft Φ35mm steel Right Ascension bearing Φ55mm ball bearing Declination bearing Φ55mm ball bearing Worm gears Φ15.2mm, Brass Motor drive 1.8º stepper motor, 128X microdivision Resolution 0.17 arc seconds Transmission Synchronous belt Latitude adjustment range*** 0º ~ 60º Azimuth adjustment range ± 6º Polar Scope iPolar TM electrics polar scope Level indicator Level bubble Hand Controller Go2Nova® 8409 with ~212,000 objects database Tracking Automatic Slew speed 1×,2×,8×,16×,64×,128×,256×,512×,MAX(6º/sec) Power consumption 0.5A(Tracking), 0.8A(GOTO) Power requiremention 12V DC, 5A AC adapter 100V ~ 240V (included, for indoor use only) Power-down memory Yes Wi-Fi Built-in Communication port Yes (Wi-Fi and USB) Autoguide port Yes (ST-4 compatible) Firmware upgrade Yes PC computer control Yes (ASCOM) Counterweight shaft Φ20X200mm with a 120mm extension (M16, SS) Counterweight 10 lbs (4.5kg) Tripod LiteRoc heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (7.5kg) Dovetail saddle 3.8" Vixen-style, center adjustable Hard case Included GPS Optional external 32-channel GPS Autoguiding Optional external iGuider 1 Operation temperature -10ºC ~ 40ºC Warranty Two year limited * OTA size and length dependent, smaller than 6" in diameter recommended ** Measured with encoder on bench, 10 minutes *** Optional low latitude adapter and/or small diameter CWs are needed when latitude <10º