Balance in R.A, Balance in DEC | iOptron PR EQ specs

Balance in R.A.

To reduce the excessive stress on the mount and motor, the telescope should be properly balanced around both R.A. and DEC axes. Proper balancing is crucial to both accurate tracking and protection of the mount. Both the R.A. and DEC axis have lock levers to clutch down each axis of the telescope. To loosen the clutches on the telescope, rotate the lock levers counterclockwise.

1.Verify that the telescope is securely attached to the Telescope-Mounting Platform.

2.Loosen the R.A. Lock Lever and position the telescope off to one side of the mount. The Counterweight Bar will extend horizontally on the opposite side of the mount.

3.Release the telescope slowly to see which way the telescope “rolls.”

4.Loosen the Locking Screw on the side of the counterweight so it can be moved the length of the Counterweight Bar.

5.Move the Counterweight to a position where it balances the telescope (i.e., the telescope does not move when the R.A. clutch knobs are loose).

6.Tighten the Screw on the Counterweight to hold it in place.

The above instructions describe a perfect balancing. In fact, there should be slight imbalance to ensure the best tracking. When the scope is on the west side of the mount the counterweight should be slightly imbalanced to the counterweight bar side. And when the tube is on the east side of the mount there should be a slight imbalance toward the telescope side. This is done so that the worm gear is pushing against a slight load. The amount of the imbalance is very small. When doing astrophotography, this balance process should be done for the target area where the telescope is pointing to increase tracking accuracy.

Balance in DEC

Even though the mount does not track in DEC, the telescope should still be balanced in DEC to prevent any sudden motions when the DEC lock lever is loose. To balance the telescope in DEC:

1.Loosen the R.A. Lock Lever and rotate the telescope so that it is on one side of the mount (please refer to “Balancing the Mount in R.A.”).

2.Tighten the R.A. Lock Lever to hold the telescope in place.

3.Loosen the DEC Lock Lever and rotate the telescope until the tube is parallel to the ground.

4.Release the tube slowly to see which way it rotates around the declination axis.

5.Slightly loosen the knobs that hold the telescope to the Mounting Platform and slide the telescope either forward or backward until it remains stationary when the DEC clutch is loose. Do NOT let go the telescope tube while the knob on the Mounting Platform is loose. It may be necessary to rotate the telescope so that the Counterweight Bar is pointing down before loosening the mounting platform screw.

PR EQ specifications

The iOptron PR EQ series represents a significant step forward in equatorial mounting technology, engineered for both amateur astronomers and seasoned astrophotographers. With precision and innovation at its core, the PR EQ series boasts a host of features that make it a standout choice for celestial observation and imaging.

One of the main features of the iOptron PR EQ is its advanced GoTo tracking system. This system utilizes a sophisticated database that includes over 200,000 celestial objects, allowing users to effortlessly locate and track stars, planets, and deep-sky phenomena with just a few keystrokes. The built-in GPS module further enhances user experience, automatically aligning the mount with ease and ensuring accurate tracking no matter where you are.

The mount is designed with portability in mind, weighing in at a manageable level yet providing robust stability. This balance between weight and strength makes the PR EQ particularly appealing for those who wish to transport their equipment for field observations. The user-friendly setup process means that even novice astronomers can get up and running quickly.

In terms of construction, the PR EQ features high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. The precision machined metal components and advanced gear systems provide smooth movement and steady tracking, essential for capturing high-quality images through telescopes. The load capacity of the mount supports a range of optical tubes, allowing versatility in equipment choice.

Another highlight is the innovative SmartStar technology integrated within the mount. This technology ensures an optimal user experience by providing real-time feedback during setup and alignment, making adjustments automatically when necessary to maintain precision tracking. Additionally, the PR EQ supports various control methods, including hand controller operation and smartphone connectivity, offering users the flexibility to operate the mount according to their preference.

The iOptron PR EQ series is also designed for astrophotography enthusiasts, featuring features like autoguiding compatibility. This allows for extended exposure times without the risk of star trails, making it an ideal choice for capturing intricate celestial images.

In summary, the iOptron PR EQ is a powerful and versatile equatorial mount that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features. Its accurate tracking, sturdy construction, and smart capabilities make it an excellent investment for anyone looking to delve deeper into the wonders of the night sky. Whether for casual stargazing or serious astrophotography, the PR EQ stands out as a reliable companion for celestial exploration.