WARNING!

NEVER USE A TELESCOPE OR CAMERA TO LOOK AT THE SUN

WITHOUT A PROPER FILTER!

Looking at or near the Sun will cause instant and irreversible damage to your eye.

Children should always have adult supervision while observing.

1.SkyGuiderTM Tracking Equatorial Mount Overview

Thank you for choosing the new iOptron SkyGuiderTM Tracking equatorial mount for astrophotography. This portable mount makes it easy to take long exposures of the night sky without streaking or star trailing.

The SkyGuiderTM mount is simple to set up. Just attach the mount to a tripod. Mount your digital camera or lightweight scope onto the mount and balance it. Align the mount to the Pole Star using the included AccuAligningTM dark field illuminated polar scope and an optional smart phone App. Then turn on the motor and it will keep your camera tracking at the same speed the earth rotates. The unique DC servo motor keeps your camera in motion to avoid star trails and allows you to take long exposures for beautiful images of the night sky. A built-in ST-4 compatible guide port will enable you to use autoguiding and make the tracking even better!

Features:

Accepts cameras weighing up to 11 lbs (5 kg)

Capable for dual mount application up to 11 lbs (5kg) + 7.7lbs (3.5kg), balanced

Spring loaded gear system with customer adjustable loading force

Auto-tracking for smooth camera motion perfect for long-term exposures

Four pre-set tracking speeds with northern/southern hemisphere selection

Includes iOptron AccuAligningTM dark-field illuminated polar scope for Quick Polar Alignment

Built-in ST-4 compatible guide port

Padded carry bag included

1.5” stainless steel short field tripod with padded carry bag (#3500 only)

Optional ball heads available separately (#3305)

Optional AC/DC adapter (#8417)

Optional 1.5” stainless steel regular height tripod (#3521)

DO NOT hold and swing the counterweight shaft rigorously. This will degrade the performance of the spring loaded gear meshing system and possibly damage it.

The Tension Adjuster is used as the last step to lock, and the first step to release the gears. When disengaging the gear system, release the Tension Adjuster first. Then turn the Gear Switch to OPEN position. When engaging the gear system, turn the Gear Switch to LOCK position first. Then tighten the Tension Adjuster.

Never fully tighten the Tension Adjusters during operations. Fully screw in the Tension Adjuster and then back out by from half a turn to about 2 turns. The optimum spot varies with actual conditions, but is mostly within 2 turns from the fully tightened position. Ideally, it should be at a position just deep enough to eliminate any free movement (“play”), while any force on the worm assembly is kept at a minimum.

2.SkyGuiderTM Tracking Equatorial Mount Assembly

2.1. Introduction

You have just purchased a tracking equatorial mount that is capable of taking you to a new level of astrophotography. When the polar axis of the SkyGuiderTM mount is aligned with the celestial North Pole (CNP), or celestial South Pole (CSP), the mount will evenly match the Earth’s rotation against the sky. Since all celestial objects appear to rotate around the CNP, or CSP—the polar alignment allows the mount to “track” with the celestial sphere and provide accurate tracking for visual observations and astrophotography.

The AccuAligningTM polar scope, along with the Quick Polar Alignment procedure, provides a fast and accurate polar alignment for the mount. A built-in ST-4 compatible guide port will enable you to use autoguiding for high- performance tracking.

The SkyGuiderTM mount is designed for wide field astrophotography. The following sections of this manual provide detailed steps to successfully set up and operate the SkyGuiderTM mount.

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iOptron #3520 SkyGuiderTM Tracking Equatorial Mount Overview, SkyGuiderTM Tracking Equatorial Mount Assembly, Introduction

#3500, #3520 specifications

iOptron, a prominent manufacturer in the field of astronomy, has consistently pushed the boundaries of telescope technology. Two standout products from their extensive lineup are the iOptron #3520 and #3500 telescope models. These telescopes are designed for both amateur astronomers and more serious enthusiasts, providing a mix of advanced features, reliability, and exceptional performance.

The iOptron #3520 boasts a lightweight design, making it highly portable for users who wish to observe celestial bodies from various locations. This model features a 5-inch refractor optical system that delivers clear and crisp images, allowing users to explore planets, star clusters, and galaxies with ease. The inclusion of high-quality glass optics is essential for minimizing chromatic aberration, ensuring that images are sharp and vivid even at high magnifications.

One of the standout technologies utilized in the #3520 is the Intelligent GoTo Technology. This feature enables the telescope to automatically locate and track celestial objects using an intuitive handheld controller. The user-friendly interface simplifies the stargazing experience, allowing users to spend more time observing and less time searching for objects. Furthermore, the #3520 is compatible with various accessories, making it customizable according to different preferences and requirements.

The iOptron #3500 model, on the other hand, is designed with advanced tracking capabilities. Equipped with a high-torque motor drive system, the #3500 ensures smooth and precise tracking of objects across the night sky. This telescope is particularly suitable for astrophotography, as it provides a stable platform for capturing long-exposure images of deep-sky objects.

An important feature of the #3500 is its robust mounting system, which enhances stability during observations. The mount is easy to set up and can accommodate heavier optical tubes, making it versatile for various configurations. Additionally, its built-in leveling system ensures that the telescope is perfectly aligned, further enhancing image quality.

Both models prioritize ease of use and accessibility, demonstrating iOptron's commitment to fostering a love for astronomy among enthusiasts of all levels. With quick setup times, user-friendly controls, and exceptional optical performance, the iOptron #3520 and #3500 are indispensable tools for anyone who wishes to explore the wonders of the universe. Whether observing the rings of Saturn or capturing the beauty of a distant galaxy, these telescopes deliver unparalleled experiences that inspire curiosity and discovery.