Introducing iOptron’s new compact next-generation German equatorial mounts the GEM28!

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), Built-in Wi-Fi enabling unparallel connectivity and recordable permanent periodic error correction (PPEC) to repeat optimal PEC training sessions. Regarding functionality the GEM28 delivers precise pointing and accurate tracking. The GEM28 sets the new standard for compact German equatorial goto mounts.

The GEM28 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.

Ipolar finder

The GEM28A 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 LiteRoc heavy duty stainless steel tripod and an aluminum carrying case

Features

• German equatorial design, latitude range of 10° ~ 70°
• Ideal for both visual observation and astrophotography
• Low periodic error (< ± 10 arc seconds)
• 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 iPolar^TM 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 (via hand controller)
• USB port for firmware upgrade and computer control
• Standard LiteRoc heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (7.5kg)
• Die-cast metal tripod spreader with accessory tray
• Hard carrying case
• Optional 32-channel Global Positioning System (GPS)

Technical data:

• 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) **     <±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     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, for indoor use only)
• Power-down memory     Yes
• Wi-Fi     Built-in (via hand controller)
• 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     LiteRoc heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (7.5kg)
• Dovetail saddle     3.8" Vixen-style, center adjustable
• Carrying case     Included
• GPS     Optional external 32-channel GPS
• Autoguiding     Optional external iGuider 1
• Operation temperature     -10ºC ~ 40ºC
• Warranty     Two year limited