Introducing iOptron’s new compact next-generation German equatorial mounts the GEM28EC!
Like their predecessors, the GEM28 is designed with portability in mind, weighing in at only 10 lbs it can support up to a 28lb payload an incredible 2.8 mount weight to payload ratio. We achieved this using design methods developed to reduce mount mass in our CEM family of mounts. The German EQ versions were created to satisfy consumer that prefer a more traditional mount and to function at higher latitudes.
Building on the legacy of earlier GEM models we have added features for convenience and functionality. A positive lock gear engagement system (easy to use even when wearing gloves). A high resolution optical encoder with real-time PEC delivers accurate tracking with PE <0.3 arcsec RMS. Built-in Wi-Fi enabling unparalleled connectivity. The GEM28EC sets the new standard for compact German equatorial goto mounts.
The GEM28EC is equipped with the latest advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO technology, making it one of the most powerful and accurate GOTO mounts available. The 212,000 object library ensures you’ll never run out of targets to see or image. 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 GEM28EC mount has an integrated electronic polar finder scope known as the iPolar. This tool ensures the accurate alignment of a telescope, even when the pole star is obscured. It comes with a 1.5″ heavy duty stainless steel tripod and an aluminium carrying case
Features
- German equatorial design, latitude range of 10° ~ 70°
- Ideal for both visual observation and astrophotography
- High resolution encoder on the RA axis
- PE < 0.3 arcsec rms
- Payload of 12.7 kg (28 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
- Stepper motor with low power consumption
- Integrated iOptron iPolarTM electronic 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
- 1.5″ heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (5kg) or 1.75″ LiteRoc stainless steel tripod
- Die-cast metal tripod spreader with accessory tray
- Hard carrying case
- Optional 32-channel Global Positioning System (GPS)
- Optional iGuiderTM autoguiding system (#3360)
Technical Specs
| Mount | German Equatorial Mount |
| Payload * | 28 lbs (12.7kg), exclude counterweight |
| Mount weight | 10 lbs (4.5kg) |
| Payload/Mount weight | 2.80 |
| 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 aluminium |
| Declination worm wheel | Φ88mm, 144 teeth aluminium |
| 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 | 10º ~ 70º |
| Azimuth adjustment range | ± 6º |
| Polar Scope | iPolar TM electronic 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 | 0.6A(Tracking), 0.9A(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 (M16), Stainless Steel |
| Shaft extension | Φ20X120mm (M16), Stainless Steel |
| Counterweight | 10 lbs (4.5kg) |
| Tripod | 1.5″ heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (5kg) |
| Dovetail saddle | 3.8″ Vixen-style, centre adjustable |
| Carrying case | Hard Aluminium 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
** Measured with encoder, 10 minutes
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