Table of Contents, Installing the EQ-1M, Motor

Welcome to a new world of adventure. The Orion EQ-1M and EQ-2M Single-Axis DC Motor Drive Systems allow convenient hands-free tracking of the night sky for Orion EQ-1 and EQ-2 equatorial mounts. The motor drive systems are also necessary components for doing any long-exposure astropho- tography with the mounts; they provide accurate sidereal tracking with an electronic hand controller for making positional corrections to the right ascension axis of the mount when guiding an astrophoto.

Table of Contents
1.	Parts List	2
2.	Installing the EQ-1M Motor Drive System	2
3.	Installing the EQ-2M Motor Drive System	3
4.	Operation	3
5.	Specifications	4

1. PARTS LIST

EQ-1M and EQ-2M

1Motor drive assembly

1Hand controller

1Battery pack

EQ-1M only

12mm Allen wrench

14mm Allen wrench

2. Installing the EQ-1M

Socket-head setscrew

Mounting bracket

Drive coupling

Input jack

Motor

Figure 2. The EQ-1M motor. The socket-head setscrew on the end of the drive coupling connects the motor to the right end of the R.A. worm gear.

The EQ-1M Motor Drive System is intended for use with tele- scopes that utilize the Orion EQ-1 equatorial mount.

1.When facing the front of the mount, the right ascension (R.A.) slow-motion control cable should be mounted on the left end of the R.A. worm gear shaft (see Figure 1). If it is mounted on the right end, remove it from the mount, and reinstall it on the left end of the shaft.

R.A. slow-motion control cable

Right end of R.A.				Socket-
worm gear shaft				Socket-
worm gear shaft				head bolt
				head bolt

Figure 1. Orion EQ-1M mount with R.A. slow-motion control mounted on left end of R.A. worm gear shaft.

2.Loosen the socket-head setscrew on the drive coupling of the motor drive assembly (see Figure 2) using the pro- vided 2mm Allen wrench.

3.Use the provided 4mm Allen wrench and remove the socket-head bolt on the right side of the equatorial mount (see Figure 1).

4.Orient the motor drive so that the drive coupling slips over the right end of the R.A. worm gear shaft. Now, attach the motor to the mount by inserting the socket-head bolt through the slot in the motor drive’s bracket, and rethreading it into the mount.

5.Tighten the socket head setscrew on the end of the cou- pling. The setscrew should seat into the groove on the end of the worm gear shaft. You may need to rotate the worm gear, using the R.A. slow-motion control cable, for the setscrew and the groove to line up. Once the setscrew is tightened, the motor is engaged. When the motor is engaged, never, under any circumstances, should you use the R.A. slow-motion control cable! If you want to use the R.A. slow-motion control cable, you must first loosen the socket-head set screw on the end of the drive coupling.

The motor is now properly installed on the EQ-1 mount, and should appear as in Figure 3.

EQ-2M, EQ-1M specifications

The Orion EQ-2M and EQ-1M are two remarkable telescope mounts that cater to both amateur and seasoned astronomers seeking a balance of precision, ease of use, and advanced technology. Designed specifically for astrophotography and visual observation, these mounts provide users with a sturdy and reliable platform to explore the night sky.

The Orion EQ-2M is ideally suited for those who are delving into astrophotography. With its robust equatorial design, it allows astronomers to track celestial objects with remarkable accuracy. One standout feature is its GoTo functionality, which relies on a computerized system that can automatically locate thousands of astronomical objects at the touch of a button. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners who may not yet be familiar with star mapping.

The EQ-1M, on the other hand, presents a more simplified version of equatorial mounting, targeting casual observers and those new to stargazing. While it lacks the GoTo functionality of the EQ-2M, it still provides a smooth and stable platform for astronomical observation. Its lightweight design makes it exceptionally portable, making it easy to set up and transport for a night under the stars.

Both mounts are engineered with high-quality materials that ensure durability and stability. The EQ-2M comes equipped with a motorized drive system that allows for automatic tracking of celestial objects, significantly enhancing the experience for astrophotographers looking to capture long-exposure images without trails. The EQ-1M, while manually operated, still allows for precise movement, making it suitable for traditional visual astronomy.

User-friendly features are paramount in both models. The mounts incorporate easy-to-read settings for altitude and azimuth adjustments. Additionally, the intuitive control panel on the EQ-2M allows users to navigate through various modes and settings effortlessly.

Together, the Orion EQ-2M and EQ-1M serve as excellent tools for the astronomy community. Their respective features cater to different requirements, whether you seek automated tracking capabilities or a straightforward mount. With these models, both beginner astronomers and seasoned observers can engage in celestial exploration with ease, depth, and excitement. Their versatility and user-centric design reflect Orion’s commitment to quality and innovation in the realm of telescopic observation.