The lightweight, compact HAZ71 Strain Wave Alt-Az Mount from iOptron has a payload capability of 68 lb, without needing a cumbersome counterweight or shaft. HAZ mounts will support a large variety of instruments that require flexibility for outreach programs and satellite tracking. The multi-position saddle, which can be placed on top or to the side, uniquely sets up the HAZ71 to accommodate binoculars. Just turn the mount on, and it will calibrate itself and GoTo the first target utilizing iOptron's time-tested "Level and Go" technology.

Utilizing strain wave gear technology for both RA and DEC movement, the HAZ71 delivers high weight-to-payload efficiency. Its black anodized all-metal CNC-machined body is not only appealing to the eye, but it's also a rugged platform that will perform at the highest level for many years to come. Unique features such as an electronic friction break and power-down memory allow the mount to safely stop and resume a GoTo slew or continue tracking even after an abrupt power loss (No need to realign and start from the beginning).

A HAZ71 mount can be controlled by a computer, either via ASCOM/Commander for a Windows PC or a third-party INDI driver for macOS software; a smartphone/tablet via iOptron Commander Lite or an App like SkySafari; or a Raspberry Pi device via INDI driver.

Motorized Computer-Controlled Mount    Payload: 68 lb    Go2Nova Hand Controller    212,000+ Object Database

• Advanced strain wave gear system technology
• Payload capacity of 68 lb
• CNC machined
• Unique friction brake to safely stop movement during a planned or unplanned power interruption
• Go2Nova 8409 hand controller with 212,000 object database
• Dual saddle (Vixen and Losmandy-D styles)
• Level & Go technology
• Large binocular mounting
• Satellite tracking ready (with third-party software)
• Built-in zero position search and locator
• Power-down position and location memory
• Built-in Wi-Fi via the hand controller
• USB port for firmware upgrade and computer control

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Is this the same as the AZ-EQ6 GT Pro for sale on First Light Optics? Basically what I'm asking is this the newest version that has the upgraded motor controller and the USB port added? I don't see USB mentioned anywhere in your description even though it should be included as a new feature for the newest Alt AZ-EQ6 model.

A: For an improved and simplified connection, the AZ-EQ6 features a built-in USB-B port on its side panel. This allows for easy connection to a PC computer and control through the Sky-Watcher SynScan Pro application available for PC.

Q: 2. Specs say: "Payload Capacity 44 lb / 19.96 kg (without Counterweight)" Does that mean I can add more payload if I install a counterweight?

A: So the Counterweight is meant for balancing, so it can move smoothly and track accurately without unwanted vibration or putting additional wear and tear on the motors. It does not add on extra Payload for more weight to the Mount/Tripod.

Q: 3. The Specs states that this mount has a 44 lb / 19.96 kg (without Counterweight). Does the addition of the counter weights lower the payload capacity? I was hoping to pair this mount with the Sky-Watcher 10" f/3.94 Quattro Imaging Newtonian Telescope (OTA Only). Would this combination work?

A: You should have no problems even with counter weights

Q: 4. Can I put a 20kg telescope on it without any problems 12" Truss Tube Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph ?

A: The Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ6 Alt-Az / Equatorial GoTo Mount with Tripod BH #SKAZEQ6 • MFR #S30330 will properly support a 20kg telescope.

Q: 5. Can you recommend a compatible focal reducer for this scope?

A: Alpine Astronomical Alan Gee Mark II Telecompressor BH #ALAGII • MFR #AGII https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1403600-REG/alpine_astronomical_agii_alan_gee_mark_ii.html

Q: 6. Can we place this mount instead of the Exos Nano EQ3 mount which i got for ES FL-AR1021000 telescope? I intend to use it for use with telescope only . Please confirm

A: The iOptron Alt-Azimuth Adjustable Base BH #IO3327 • MFR #3327 will mount to a standard 3/8"-16 Mounting Threads

Q: 7. Can this mount be used for Meade ETX Astro Telescope Model M to set polar alignment?

A: Yes as long as your telescope tube has a dove tail rail.

Q: 8. Does it have automatic alignment similar to "Level and Go" in iOptron AZ Mount Pro ? I just want to push the button, and it aligns itself, without the need to hunt for the three bright stars.

A: iOptron has released new firmware correcting the tracking and guiding issues. They are currently making new control board for those who suffered from slew speed slow down due to a chip zapping. New boards should be available in 3 weeks.

Q: 9. Can this telescope be used on the ground as a hyper-telephoto photographic lens?

A: The Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ6 Alt-Az / Equatorial GoTo Mount with Tripod BH #SKAZEQ6 • MFR #S30330 is not a telescope. It is a mount and tripod to mount a telescope on. There is no lens.

Q: 10. What is the inside distance between yoke arms? I would be mounting an AT-72edii. Thanks!

A: Altazimuth head with handle. Cradle will hold TeleVue scopes up to the TV-85. Not for TV-101, Renaissance, or TV-102. Friction locks in altitude and azimuth allow user to adjust the mount drag for smoothest operation and for balancing the scope. Pre-drilled to accept optional TeleVue Sky Tour computer encoders. 1/4"-20 thread and 3/8" thread holes allow it to mount on any photo tripod legs (not recommended for mounting onto a photo tripod's pan head). The Tele-Pod can also be used with other brands of small refractors. However, the internal width between the vertical sides of the Tele-Pod yoke measures only 5.25", so the maximum width of the mounting rings of another brand of telescope must be smaller than this measurement. In addition, the buyer should keep in mind that the fore-and-aft mounting platform dimension of the yoke is limited and would require a user-supplied adapter plate to install dual mounting rings on the single 1/4"-20 hole available in the Tele-Pod yoke.