5.3.9. Upgrade RA & DEC

Use this operation to upgrade 8408 hand controller, R.A. and DEC motor controller firmware. Please refer to iOptron online documents for ZEQ25 firmware upgrade details. The password is 9999.

5.4. Align

This function is used for aligning the telescope. The hand controller provides “Polar Align”, which uses a set of 2 bright stars for polar alignment. This provides a viable polar alignment approach for those who can’t see the polar star or has a mount does not equip an iOptron AccuAlignTM polar scope. The system also provides three alignment methods: “SolarSys Align”, “One Star Align”, and “Multi-Star Align”. The mount has to be at Zero Position before performing any star alignment.

5.4.1. Polar Alignment

Press the MENU button, then select “Align” and “Polar Align”. The HC will display the azimuth and altitude position of several bright stars near meridian. Select one that is visible with high altitude as Alignment Star A. Follow the HC instruction to move the Star A to the center of the eyepiece with the combination of Latitude Adjustment Knob and “◄” or “►” button. Press ENTER to confirm. Next, select a bright star that is close to the horizon as the Alignment Star B. Center it using the Azimuth Adjustment Knob and “◄” or “►” button (The “▲” and “▼” buttons are not used here). Press ENTER to confirm.

The telescope will now slew back to Star A to repeat above steps. The iteration can be stopped when it is determined that the alignment error is at the minimum. Press BACK button to exit alignment procedure.

NOTE: It is highly recommended to use an eyepiece with crossed-hair line for accurate centering.

NOTE: The movement of the alignment star in your eyepiece may not be perpendicular but crossed, depends on its location in the sky.

5.4.2. SolarSys Alignment

Press MENU button and select “Align”. Select “SolarSys Align” and press ENTER for available alignment object.

5.4.3. One-Star Alignment

Press MENU button and select “Align”. Select “One Star Align” and press ENTER. A list of alignment stars that are above the horizon is computed based on your local time and location. With the mount at the “Zero Position,” use ▲ and ▼ buttons to select a star and press ENTER. Center the target in your eyepiece using arrow key. Press ENTER when finished. If your mount is well set up and polar aligned, one star alignment should be sufficient for good GOTO accuracy. To increase the accuracy you may choose to do multi star alignment.

5.4.4. Multi-Star Alignment

With iOptron’s multi-star alignment, you can choose two, three, or as many stars as you want to reduce the mount alignment offset.

Press MENU button and select “Align”. Select “Multi-Star Align” in the align menu. A list of alignment stars that are above the horizon is computed based on your local time and location. With the mount is at the “Zero Position,” use ▲ and ▼ buttons to select first alignment star and press ENTER. Center the target in your eyepiece using arrow key. Press ENTER when finished. The hand controller will prompt you to choose the second star. If the star you choose is too close to the first one, the system will let you choose another one. When you are aligned with the second star, the two star alignment is finished. You can reject the suggested star if it is blocked by a tree or other obstruction.

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iOptron ZEQ25GT instruction manual Align
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ZEQ25GT specifications

The iOptron ZEQ25GT is a highly regarded telescope mount that integrates advanced technologies and user-friendly features, making it a top choice for both amateur astronomers and seasoned stargazers. Its design focuses on portability, versatility, and precision, which are essential for anyone looking to explore the night sky.

One of the standout characteristics of the ZEQ25GT is its exceptionally lightweight and compact design. Weighing just 27 pounds, it is one of the lightest mounts in its class, allowing for easy transport and setup at various observing locations. Despite its lightweight form, the mount supports a significant payload capacity of up to 28 pounds, allowing users to attach a variety of telescopes and imaging equipment.

The mount's innovative design incorporates a unique "Hybrid" mount architecture, which combines features of both German and fork mounts. This enables a more streamlined setup and better balance during observation sessions. Additionally, the ZEQ25GT employs a patented design where the counterweight shaft is positioned above the mount. This design eliminates the need for a long counterweight bar, further enhancing portability and reducing setup time.

In terms of technology, the ZEQ25GT features iOptron’s renowned GoTo system, which provides users with access to a database of over 200,000 celestial objects. The system is equipped with dual-axis tracking and ultra-quiet servo motors, ensuring smooth and precise movement when tracking celestial objects. The built-in GPS allows for quick and accurate location setup, making it easy for users to begin their astronomical adventures with minimal delay.

Moreover, the ZEQ25GT includes an innovative SmartStar technology, enabling automatic alignment and calibration. This feature is particularly beneficial for newcomers, as it simplifies the setup process and reduces the learning curve associated with equatorial mounts. Users can control the mount via a hand controller or through a computer interface using iOptron's iControl app for smart devices, offering additional flexibility and convenience.

Durability is another important aspect of the ZEQ25GT, constructed from high-quality materials that ensure longevity and reliability. Its solid aluminum body not only contributes to its lightweight nature but also assures stability during use, which is crucial for astrophotography and high-magnification observations.

In conclusion, the iOptron ZEQ25GT is a cutting-edge telescope mount that combines portability, advanced technology, and user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for astronomers at all levels. Its innovative design, robust performance, and ease of use truly set it apart in the competitive landscape of astronomical equipment.
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