iOptron CEM26 Mount with AccuAlign Polar Scope & 1.5" Tripod

Introducing iOptron’s new compact next-generation center-balance equatorial mounts the CEM26!

Like their predecessors, the CEM26 is designed with portability in mind, weighing in at only 10 lbs it can support up to a 26lb payload an incredible 2.6 mount weight to payload ratio. The key to enable such ratios is the CEM design focuses the mount and payload weight directly on the center of the tripod rendering “natural stability”.

Building on the legacy of earlier CEM models we have added features for convenience and functionality. A positive lock gear engagement system (easy to use even when wearing gloves), Built-in Wi-Fi enabling unparallel connectivity and recordable permanent periodic error correction (PPEC) to repeat optimal PEC training sessions. Regarding functionality the CEM26 delivers precise pointing and accurate tracking. The CEM26 sets the new standard for compact equatorial mounts.

The center-balanced design mount puts the weight of the payload at the center of gravity allowing for greater natural stability. Other features include an adjustable counterweight bar to prevent obstruction with the tripod. And polar aligning is quick and accessible all the time since the polar scope is not blocked by the declination shaft.

The CEM26 is equipped with the latest advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO technology, making it one of the most powerful and accurate GOTO mounts available. Its database includes over 212,000+ objects. The Go2Nova® Hand Controller is intuitive to use and its large 4-line LCD screen simplifies the process of setting telescopes and locating objects.

The CEM26B mount has an AccuAlignTM optical polar scope installed for quick and easy polar alignment. It comes with a 1.5" heavy duty stainless steel tripod.

Features

• Unique design, center-balanced equatorial mount (CEM) for maximum payload and minimum mount weight
• Ideal for both visual observation and astrophotography
• Low periodic error (< ± 10 arc seconds)
• Payload of 12 kg (26 lbs) with the mount-only weight of 4.5 kg (10 lbs)
• CNC machined and cast metal body
• Spring loaded gear system
• Large easy to use quick-lock gear clutches
• 0º latitude operation with optional adapter
• Stepper motor with low power consumption
• iOptron AccuAlignTM calibrated polar scope
• Polar alignment routine for those who can’t see the Pole Star
• Go2Nova® 8409 controller with Advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO Technology
• Integrated ST-4 autoguiding port
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• USB port for firmware upgrade and computer control
• Standard 1.5 inch heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (5kg)
• Die-cast metal tripod spreader with accessory tray
• Optional 32-channel Global Positioning System (GPS)
• Optional hard carrying case
• Optional iGuiderTM autoguiding system #3360

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) **: <±10 arcsec
• PEC: Yes, Permanent 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 (special CW shaft mounting if <10° )
• Azimuth adjustment range: ± 6º
• Polar Scope: AccuAlign TM optical 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)
• 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: 1.5" Stainless Steel (5kg)
• Dovetail saddle: 3.8" Vixen-style, center adjustable
• 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