Introducing iOptron’s new compact next-generation center-balance equatorial mounts the CEM26EC!

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). A high resolution optical encoder with real-time PEC delivers accurate tracking with PE <0.3 arcsec RMS. Built-in Wi-Fi enabling unparallel connectivity. 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 CEM26EC 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 aluminum carrying case.

Shipping Box #1: C264A-CEM26EC Head w/ iPolar/Case/Tray (C264A)
Shipping Box #2: 8281-CEM26/GEM28 1.5" Tripod w/o Tray (C26/G28 1.5T)

Features

Unique design, center-balanced equatorial mount (CEM) for maximum payload and minimum mount weight
Ideal for both visual observation and astrophotography
PE < 0.3 arcsec rms
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 AccuAlign^TM 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
1.5" heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (5kg)
Die-cast metal tripod spreader with accessory tray
Hard carrying case
Optional 32-channel Global Positioning System (GPS)
Optional iGuider^TM 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) **	<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	1.5" heavy duty stainless steel tripod (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

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