Description
Introducing iOptron’s new compact next-generation German equatorial mounts the GEM28!
Like their predecessors, the GEM28 is designed with portability in mind, weighing in at only 10 lbs it can support payloads up to 28 lbs -- an incredible 2.8 payload-to-self weight ratio. We achieved this using design methods developed to reduce mount mass in our GEM family of mounts. These German EQ versions were created to satisfy consumer that prefer a more traditional mount and to function at higher latitudes.
Building on the legacy of earlier GEM models we have added features for convenience and functionality: a positive lock gear engagement system that's easy to use even when wearing gloves the built-in Wi-Fi enables unparallel connectivity, and recordable permanent periodic error correction (PPEC) to repeat optimal PEC training sessions. Regarding functionality the GEM28 delivers precise pointing and accurate tracking. The GEM28 sets the new standard for compact German equatorial goto mounts.
The GEM28 is equipped with the latest advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO technology, making it one of the most powerful and accurate GOTO mounts available. The 212,000+ object library ensures you’ll never run out of targets to see or image. The Go2Nova® Hand Controller is intuitive to use and its large 4-line LCD screen simplifies the process of setting telescopes and locating objects.
The GEM28 ECON does NOT come with a supporting tripod or pier; it has an AccuAlignTM optical polar scope installed for quick and easy polar alignment.
Manual:
Quick Start Guide
Instruction Manual
iPolar Operation Manual
Firmware and Software:
Download Latest Firmware
iPolar Software
iOptron Telescope ASCOM Driver:
Install ASCOM Driver and Commander
Specifications
| Mount | German Equatorial Mount |
| Payload * | 28 lbs (12.7kg), exclude counterweight |
| Mount weight | 10 lbs (4.5kg) |
| Payload/Mount weight | 2.80 |
| Structure Material | All metal, Casting + CNC machined |
| Exterior Finish | Powder coating |
| Periodic error (PE) ** | <±12 arcsec |
| PEC | Yes, Permanent PEC |
| Worm period | 600 sec |
| Right Ascension worm wheel | Φ88mm, 144 teeth aluminum |
| Declination worm wheel | Φ88mm, 144 teeth aluminum |
| Right Ascension axis shaft | Φ35mm steel |
| Declination axis shaft | Φ35mm steel |
| Right Ascension bearing | Φ55mm ball bearing |
| Declination bearing | Φ55mm ball bearing |
| Worm gears | Φ15.2mm, Brass |
| Motor drive | 1.8º stepper motor, 128X microdivision |
| Resolution | 0.17 arc seconds |
| Transmission | Synchronous belt |
| Latitude adjustment range | 10º ~ 70º |
| Azimuth adjustment range | ± 6º |
| Polar Scope | AccuAlignTM optical polar scope |
| Level indicator | Level bubble |
| Hand Controller | Go2Nova® 8409 with ~212,000 objects database |
| Tracking | Automatic |
| Slew speed | 1×,2×,8×,16×,64×,128×,256×,512×,MAX(6º/sec) |
| Power consumption | 0.6A(Tracking), 0.9A(GOTO) |
| Power requirement | 12V DC, 5A |
| AC adapter | 100V ~ 240V (included, for indoor use only) |
| Power-down memory | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Built-in |
| Communication port | Yes (Wi-Fi and USB) |
| Autoguide port | Yes (ST-4 compatible) |
| Firmware upgrade | Yes |
| PC computer control | Yes (ASCOM) |
| Counterweight shaft | Φ20X200mm (M16), Stainless Steel |
| Shaft extension | Φ20X120mm (M16), Stainless Steel |
| Counterweight | 10 lbs (4.5kg) |
| Dovetail saddle | 3.8" Vixen-style, center adjustable |
| Carrying case | Optional |
| GPS | Optional external 32-channel GPS |
| Autoguiding | Optional external iGuider 1 |
| Operation temperature | -10ºC ~ 40ºC |
| Warranty | Two year limited |
Additional Resources