Hey folks, say hello to the newest kid on the block, iOptron's GEM28 German equatorial mount! If you're into portability without sacrificing power, this one's a game-changer. Weighing just 10 lbs, it can handle gear up to 28 lbs—that's a whopping 2.8:1 weight-to-payload ratio! And how did we pull this off? We borrowed some slick design techniques from our CEM line. This version's perfect for folks who dig the classic German EQ style, and it works like a charm at a wide range of latitudes.

Building on the awesomeness of earlier models, we've thrown in some sweet upgrades. Got gloves on? No worries, the positive lock gear engagement is super user-friendly. Plus, we've got built-in Wi-Fi for crazy-good connectivity and recordable PPEC, so your mount remembers its best moves. Pointing and tracking? Aces, trust us.

As for tech, this bad boy comes loaded with the latest GOTONOVA® GOTO system, boasting an impressive 212,000-object library. Navigating through the Go2Nova® Hand Controller is a breeze, thanks to its 4-line LCD screen.

For the GEM28A variant, we've integrated an electronic polar finder we call the iPolar. It's your go-to for dead-on alignment, even if the North Star's playing hide-and-seek. And let's talk about the tripod—it's 1.5" of heavy-duty stainless steel goodness.

Ready to ship? Your GEM28 Head with iPolar will come in box #1 (labeled G281A-GEM28), and your 1.5" tripod comes separately in box #2 (tagged 8281-CEM26/GEM28 1.5" Tripod).

Quick Features Rundown:

• German EQ style, works from 10° to 70° latitude
• Aces for stargazing or astrophotography
• Keeps it steady with < ± 12 arc-second periodic error
• Supports 28 lbs but only weighs 10 lbs itself
• Crafted from CNC machined and cast metal
• Spring-loaded gears
• Quick-lock gear clutches that are super easy to use
• Efficient stepper motor
• iPolar electronic polar scope integrated
• No-Pole-Star-needed polar alignment
• Go2Nova® 8409 controller with advanced GOTO
• ST-4 autoguiding port
• Wi-Fi onboard
• USB port for updates and computer linkage
• 1.5" stainless steel tripod, weighs 5kg
• Die-cast metal tripod spreader and accessory tray
• Optional GPS, hard case, and iGuider™ autoguiding system (#3360)

So, that's the rundown. Ready to elevate your sky-gazing game?

Specifications