SmartEQ will do 4 minutes autoguiding (images)

[Astronewb]

This is a follow up to my original thread on the SmartEQ Pro mount. I did a very quick polar scope/mount axis alignment and set up real quick for some test autoguiding images.

When I say quick...I mean a rough initial polar align and a slew to Capella...done. Used the 50mm Borg guided by a Orion Mini50/SSAG. After plugging in to the mount, I found it likes a high (2600) calibration setting. I was using a star near Capella to calibrate.

Here are some quick images that I just adjusted the gray point on in Nikon's View NX software to subdue the red caste from my modded camera. All are on Capella.

60 second image
60 Secs.JPG

120 second image
120 Secs.JPG

180 second image
180 Secs.JPG

240 second image
240 Secs.JPG

This mount has just exceeded my expectations. It's new out of the box, I haven't had time to fine tune any settings, the balance was rough, and there was NO 2 Star Align to minimize polar offset. If I had to guess...I'd say I was within 10 arc minutes of the NCP.

If anyone has been holding back wondering what the unit is capable of, it's time to order one. With some fine tuning and tripod modifications (needs to be stiffer), it is a winner as a grab 'n go mount for light otas or wide field camera lens imaging. Imho.

Cheers all,

Paul

[dcbrown73]

Congrats on your new mount! Can't wait to see more images from you!

[Makuser]

Hello Paul. Well, that is a pretty slick mount. And as you say, probably great for a grab and go setup. I'm sure as the word gets around, the sales of these mounts are going to take off. Thanks for the report. Best of regards,

[Astronewb]

Hello Paul. Well, that is a pretty slick mount. And as you say, probably great for a grab and go setup. I'm sure as the word gets around, the sales of these mounts are going to take off. Thanks for the report. Best of regards,

This mount has to be a winner for iOptron, I don't think there are any other makers at this price point that can do what this mount can. Easy to store, transport and use. Go-to's spot on, and stable enough for imaging with autoguiding. I like the fact I can pick it up with one hand, with the ota mounted, and carry it in and out of the house in one trip.

Cheers,

Paul

[AlbertP]

Congrats, Paul, and a great report,,, with pictures! Darn, now I have NO excuse not to do AP while on vacation

[deimos3428]

Now just waiting to see what WO scope they pair the #3200 version with, if any...

[chckm8r]

Thanks for sharing and great find ! I can't wait to see some more pics. The weight capacity according to the specs is 11 pds. I think the ota of my 120 St is 11. Do you think it would work with my scope or is it too heavy in your opinion ? If it does work out it may be my chance to do some ap in the near future.

[ChuckWalters]

Good report Paul. Even at 240 seconds the image is acceptable. You are right though, I think the mount gets a bad rep because it is not expensive. Well the CG5 certainly does an great job and it is not expensive either. You don't need to spend $1,500 to get a mount to perform well. Unfortunately, you have to spend more to carry more of a load! It would be awesome if someone could make a robust, excellent tracking mount capable of 50 pound loads for under $800. DREAMS!!!!!!

[sxinias]

Great news Paul. Now I have another thing on my wish list.

Joe

[lordhong]

If anyone has been holding back wondering what the unit is capable of, it's time to order one. With some fine tuning and tripod modifications (needs to be stiffer), it is a winner as a grab 'n go mount for light otas or wide field camera lens imaging.

Great news. That was probably the clincher for to order one with Christmas bonus

Did you make, or plan, tripod modifications yet? What would you think needs to be done?