iOptron has revolutionized the equatorial mount! The iOptron HEM27EC is an equatorial hybrid harmonic drive mount that is unparalleled in its weight to payload efficiency. Weighing only 8.15 lbs. (7.49 lbs. without the dovetail saddle), this mount head has a payload capacity of 29.74 lbs.! You don't even need a counterweight or shaft to reach that impressive weight to payload capacity ratio. In order to make this vision a reality, iOptron utilized harmonic drive technology for the RA movement in tandem with a conventional, lightweight DEC worm drive. This is the premier mount for astrophotographers looking for a portable, lightweight EQ mount that can securely hold their imaging equipment while tracking desired celestial objects with high accuracy.

The HEM27 EC version comes with Real-time periodic error correction (RPEC). This means that the HEM27 EC mount head comes with a high precision RA axis encoder that delivers incredible tracking accuracy. With this feature, many users will choose to image the night sky without guiding.

The body of the HEM27 EC Hybrid EQ mount head is made from a CNC machined metal and black anodized for an appealing aesthetic and a rugged platform that will accompany you on observations and imaging sessions to come! The body comes complete with a dual saddle (Vixen and Losmandy D-style) and an internal management system so you will have no hanging exterior cables or moving parts. A unique feature of the HEM27EC mount head is the electronic friction brake and power-down location memory that allows the mount to safely stop and resume GoTo slewing or tracking, even if there is an abrupt power loss. This means you will not need to re-align or start from the beginning and can make the most of your night!

More About the HEM27EC Mount Head

iPolar Electronic Polarscope: With the iPolar, accurate polar alignment is simple! All you have to do is place the plus symbol over the graphical representation of the celestial pole's location. When these two symbols are aligned they represent a precise polar alignment, allowing you to get the best performance possible from your HEM27 EC Hybrid Equatorial mount. The iOptron iPolar™ utilizes an electronic camera that is aligned with both the axes of your mount. The downloadable Windows software processes the camera's images to calculate the true location of the celestial pole (north or south) and then guides you through any adjustments needed to align your mount precisely to the pole. Gone are the days of crouching behind a "through the mount" polar scope! Instead, the iPolar™ facilitates making altitude and azimuth adjustments by just glancing at your PC's monitor. This system needs as few as four stars to locate the pole, and can do so even when the pole location itself is blocked by clouds, tree branches or other obstructions.

Go2Nova® Hand Controller: This hand controller with built-in WiFi makes controlling the GoTo HEM27EC mount a breeze! With a database of ~212,000 objects, you have endless options for your explorations of the night sky!

Soft Carry Case: Included with the HEM27EC mount head is a convenient carry case. This case will protect your mount during times of storage and transportation. You can rest assured that your equipment will be safe whether you are moving it to your favorite backyard viewing spot or taking it to a star party.

Also Included: 360 second gear period, built-in zero position search and locator, integrated ST-4 autoguiding port, and USB port for firmware upgrade and computer control.

• specifications

  Computerized	Computerized
  Drive Type	Harmonic Drive
  Encoders	Yes (RA only)
  Head Design	Hybrid
  Instrument Capacity	30 lb
  Latitude Range	15 to 65 Degrees
  Mount Head Weight	8 lb
  Periodic Error Correction (PEC)	Yes
  Ports	A
  Ports	B
  Ports	DC 12v
  Ports	4
  Power Supply	DC 12v 5a (included)
  Telescope Connection	Dual Vixen & Losmandy
  Total Kit Weight	8 lbs
  Tracking Rates	Lunar
  Tracking Rates	Sidereal
  Tracking Rates	Solar
  Tripod Attachment	3/8"
  Warranty	2 years

• included items

  • HEM27EC mount head
  • iPolar
  • 8409 hand controller
  • Padded carry case
  • Power supply