We recommend the SkyWatcher EQ8-R Pro GoTo, the latest and most advanced model in the popular EQ series, especially for amateur astronomers using large telescopes. It offers even greater payload and more accurate tracking than its predecessors, and is rated to a usable load of 50 kg, according to the manufacturer's specification, allowing it to hold and guide Newtonian and SC/MC systems up to 30 cm. The rugged mechanics head is supported by a combination of column and tripod. With 2 counterweights of 10-10 kg, the mechanics can be balanced even with the heaviest scopes. Astrophotographers will appreciate the very fine corrections (up to 0.125x star speed) and the 5 arcminute object pointing accuracy.
Tests have shown that it is characterized by extremely fine tracking and very low periodic error. The mechanism also has a so-called Permanent Periodic Error Correction function. After a PEC training routine, the user can trigger the periodic error correction, thus significantly improving tracking accuracy in short focus astrophotography. For later observations, however, it is no longer necessary to perform the training process (provided that the telescope is always accurately polarized). Hence the name: Permanent Periodic Error Correction
The SynScan handheld database stores data on more than 42 900 objects, any one of which can be accessed with the touch of a button. Its two-line LCD display allows you to select the target you want from a wide range of catalogues, but you can also link it to a computer to control your scope from the comfort of your room. A GPS receiver can also be connected, making it easy to enter the current date, time and geographical coordinates.
Specifications:
- EQ head weight: 28.5 Kg
- Tripod weight: 31 Kg
- Max. telescope mass: 50 Kgs
- Tripod: height adjustable
- Height: max. tripod height: 3,5 kg
- Max. tripod length: 3,5 cm Max. tripod height: max. tripod length: 3,5 cmMax. tripod weight: 10 Kg
- Hand control: SynScan
- R.A. pulley: D=219.5mm, 435 tooth, aluminium
- Dec. pulley: D=219.5mm, 435 tooth, aluminium
- R.A. axle: D=55mm, aluminium
- Dec shaft: D=55mm, aluminium
- Balance shaft: D=31.5mm
- Pole height adjustment: 15 to 65 degrees latitude
- Pole horizontal fine adjustment: approx +/-5 degrees
- Pole alignment: via built-in software or via external pole telescope
- Pole telescope: external - optional
- Dual encoder control: yes
- PEC: yes
- Motor: DC12V stepper motors
- Tracking speeds: star, sun, moon, PEC+star
- Tracking mode: single or dual axis tracking
- Object database: 42,000 objects
- Power supply: DC 12V
