iOptron's AZ Mount Pro Head combines multiple technologies to produce a mount that requires minimal input from the user while providing full GoTo capabilities. This technology is referred to as "Level and Go" by iOptron because that's about all you need to do. Using its built-in level indicator, you simply level the mount and turn on the power. Utilizing the onboard 32-channel GPS receiver and built-in position and angular detection sensors, the mount calculates its global position as well as the telescope orientation, then automatically slews to an easily identifiable bright object in the night sky. Confirm a bright object is in the center of the view to activate tracking and GoTo functionality.

Included with the mount is the Go2Nova 8407 computer controller. This handheld unit features a 212,000-object database with 60 user-defined customizable objects for your favorite celestial bodies. The easy-to-use, menu-driven system displays on an 8-line, 21-character backlit screen. This fully GoTo-capable unit has automatic tracking for fast-moving near-space objects, such as the Moon and planets, and slower moving deep-sky objects like nebulae and galaxies. For setup or manual use, it has nine slew speeds starting at 1x and topping out at 10°/sec. The Go2Nova controller is powered by the mount to make it easy to use while reducing the unit's weight. For increased functionality, the mount is also equipped with a Wi-Fi module for wireless connectivity to your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

iOptron is offering the AZ Mount Pro GoTo Alt-Az Mount here without a tripod or optical tube assembly (OTA) for users who already have them and are looking to upgrade their mount, but to protect the head during transport and storage an aluminum hard case is included.

Motorized Computer-Controlled AZ Mount    Compact Design, 33+10 lb Payload    Go2Nova 8407 Hand Controller    212,000+ Object Database    Wireless Wi-Fi Connectivity and Control    Automatic Alignment, GoTo, and Tracking    Automatic Position and Angular Detection    Improved Stability vs Standard Tripods    Vibration Suspension Pad on Each Foot    Adjustable Height

• Motorized alt-az mount
• Dual mount capability
  • 33-pound primary
  • 10-pound secondary
• Compact design: Stands just 10" (25.4 cm) tall
• Die-cast aluminum chassis
• Dual Losmandy/Vixen-style 6" dovetail saddle to mount compatible OTAs
• Position and angular detection, with level indicator
• 32-channel GPS module for accurate day/time/location information without user input
• Retractable counterweight shaft
• Built-in Wi-Fi for direct connection to smartphones, tablets, and computers running iOptron Commander software or Sky Safari app
• Runs on built-in lithium-ion battery with a 10-hour runtime at 68°F

• 128x microstep stepper motor
• Aluminum worm wheel
• Brass worm gear
• Synchronous belt transmission
• Zero backlash driver system eliminates gear play
• Resolution: 0.1 arcsecond

• Easy-to-navigate menu-driven interface
• Automatic GoTo and tracking
• Alignment:
  • Auto-alignment process requires no user input or assistance other than leveling tripod/mount
  • One Star
  • Two Star
  • Three Star
  • Solar System
• Slew speeds: 1x, 2x, 8x, 16x, 64x, 128x, 256x, 512x, MAX (10°/sec, 2400x)
• Tracking rates: Sidereal, Lunar, Solar, King's, and User-Defined Speed
• Large 8-line, 21-character LCD screen with backlit LED buttons
• Firmware updates via the Internet
• Supports compatible electric focusers
• Works in Northern and Southern Hemispheres
• Built-in heater

• 212,000+ objects
• Solar System catalog:
  • Sun, Moon, planets
• Deep Sky Objects:
  • Named Objects: 60 popular deep-sky objects with their common names
  • Messier Catalog: All 110 Messier objects
  • NGC Catalog: 7,840 objects
  • IC Catalog: 5,386 objects
  • PGC Catalog: 73,197 objects
  • Caldwell Catalog: 109 objects
  • Abell Catalog: 4,076 objects
  • Herschel Catalog: 400 objects
• Stars:
  • Named Stars: 195 stars with their common names
  • Binary Stars: 210 binary stars
  • Hipparcos Catalog: 120,404 records
• 15 comets
• 116 asteroids
• 88 modern constellations with their common names
• Up to 60 user-defined objects

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. 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: 2. I am on Lat=1 degree, can can I do polar alignment with AZ-EQ6?

A: You would need to move 4 degrees North. It needs to be at 5 degrees up to 65. This also works -5 to -65, just not those 10 degrees in the middle or too far north.

Q: 3. What is a recommended Tripod other than the 1.75 inch carbon fiber that ioptron offers?

A: For the iOptron HAE29 GoTo Alt-Az/Equatorial Mount one needs to make sure one uses a tripod with the correct mount for the head. The iOptron Carbon Fiber Tripod (21-36.8") is the best option, BH #IO8061 (https://bhpho.to/3LtX21A).

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. Hi, what is the difference between the AZEQ6 and the EQM 35? The prices differ greatly!

A: The Sky-Watcher EQM-35 EQ GoTo Mount BH #SKS30500 • MFR #S30500 has a load capacity of 22lbs $725.00. The Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ6 Alt-Az / Equatorial GoTo Mount with Tripod BH #SKAZEQ6 • MFR #S30330 has a load capacity of 44 lbs. $2099.00

Q: 6. Does this replace the discontinued iOptron 8221 ACC for the iOptron AZ Pro Mount? Trying to find a tripod for my AZ Pro ... bought a Meade 2" field tripod but the central attachment bolt was too large in diameter ...so real question is does the central bolt (shaft) on this tripod fit the AZ Pro mount?

A: Yes 8923ACC is for AZ mount Pro. It replaces 8121ACC. There is no 8221ACC.

Q: 7. How does it differentiate between alt-az tracking and equatorial tracking modes? Is there a switch? Are red knobs for manual

A: This base is needed to use the Skyhunter in EQ mode: https://bhpho.to/47Nf3nA . The modes will be displayed on your smart phone or the optional hand controller.

Q: 8. Are there butterfly or thumb screws to enable quick setup and removal?

A: Sorry there are none.

Q: 9. 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: 10. If Payload Capacity is 44 lb / 19.96 kg (without Counterweight) does that mean I can add to payload capacity by installing the 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.