Meet the GEM28EC, iOptron's latest compact German equatorial mount that's engineered for both convenience and performance. Building on the strengths of its earlier models, this mount is featherlight at just 10 lbs, but don't let that fool you. It's robust enough to handle a 28lb payload—a whopping 2.8-to-1 weight-to-payload ratio! We pulled this off by applying design innovations from our CEM mount family.

For those of you who are fans of traditional German equatorial mounts and require functionality at higher latitudes, the GEM28EC is for you. We've also layered in features to make your stargazing or photography sessions a breeze. Glove-friendly positive lock gear systems, real-time PEC with a high-res optical encoder boasting a PE of less than 0.3 arcsec RMS, and seamless Wi-Fi connectivity make the GEM28EC a game-changer in compact mounts.

This mount comes equipped with cutting-edge GOTONOVA® GOTO tech, elevating it as one of the most precise and powerful GOTO mounts out there. With a library of 212,000 celestial objects, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to observing or imaging targets. The intuitive Go2Nova® Hand Controller features a large 4-line LCD, making setup and navigation a walk in the park.

But wait, there's more. Say goodbye to alignment woes with the integrated iPolar electronic polar finder scope—your secret weapon for accurate alignment, even if the pole star plays hard to get. Included in the package are a heavy-duty LiteRoc stainless steel tripod and an aluminum carry case for your on-the-go adventures.

What's in the Box?

• Shipping Box #1: GEM28EC Head complete with iPolar, Case, and Tray (Model: G284A)
• Shipping Box #2: LiteRoc Tripod for CEM26/GEM28 without Tray (Model: 8283-CEM26/GEM28 LiteRoc)

Specs at a Glance:

• German equatorial mount with a latitude range between 10° and 70°
• Tailored for both visual astronomy and astrophotography
• PE < 0.3 arcsec RMS
• 12.7 kg (28 lbs) payload, 4.5 kg (10 lbs) mount weight
• Crafted from CNC-machined and cast metal
• Spring-loaded gear system
• Oversized quick-lock gear clutches
• Energy-efficient stepper motor
• In-built iPolarTM electronic polar scope
• Go2Nova® 8409 controller featuring Advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO Technology
• Integrated ST-4 autoguiding port
• Wi-Fi enabled
• USB port for updates and computer control
• Comes with a standard LiteRoc heavy-duty stainless steel tripod weighing 7.5kg
• Metal tripod spreader with an accessory tray
• Hard carrying case included
• Optional 32-channel GPS and iGuiderTM autoguiding system (#3360) available

So, whether you're a newbie or a pro, the GEM28EC offers a well-rounded package that's both user-friendly and performance-oriented.

Specifications