A modified upgrade of a popular earlier version from Explore Scientific, the EXOS-2GT PMC-Eight Motorized EQ GoTo Mount and Tripod provides users with a precision platform built to support and move refractor optical tube assemblies (OTAs) of up to 152mm (6" ) aperture and reflectors of up to 203mm (8" ). The payload capacity for astrophotography is 28 lb plus the included 9.9 lb counterweight. For visual use, the payload capacity is 40 lb plus the counterweight.
Modifications include the use of the PMC-Eight motor drive system, upgraded micro-stepper motors with encoders, installation of a direct-drive connection between the drive shaft and motor, and replacement of the wired control system with a wireless antenna, which allows for remote use from tablets and smartphones running Windows mobile operating systems. These modifications improve tracking precision while reducing system vibration. They provide users with a wireless open-source control system that can be customized to their specific needs and shared with the Explore Scientific community. The brain of the GoTo system is Explore Scientific's ExploreStars app for iOS, Android, and Windows 8.1/10 mobile devices and PCs. The app has a 70,000+ object database and an intuitive user interface.
The mount features a Vixen-style dovetail saddle for compatible OTAs, and has an integrated " bull's eye" bubble level to assist in leveling the mount during setup. To make initial alignment faster and easier, Explore Scientific includes an illuminated polar axis scope for use in the Northern Hemisphere.
The tripod is built with large 2" diameter stainless steel legs and tight tolerances to reduce vibration for clearer viewing. A center stabilizer bar pulls the accessory tray up to lock the legs in place, adding further rigidity and vibration reduction. It is adjustable from 26.8 to 42.5" to accommodate a wide range of users, and it features large thumbscrews for tool-free adjustment in the field. An adjustable tray is also included with the tripod to keep eyepieces, flashlights, and other accessories safe and at the ready.
Mount
- Payload capacity for astrophotography is 28 lb plus the included counterweight
- For visual use, the maximum payload is 40 lb plus the counterweight
- Cast aluminum with black powder coat
- Vixen-style dovetail saddle to mount compatible OTAs
- 9.9 lb counterweight with 0.79" -diameter shaft
- Northern hemisphere illuminated polar axis scope to increase alignment precision
- Integrated " bull's eye" bubble level on mount base
- Runs on eight user-supplied D-cell batteries
Electronics
- Bluetooth connection to computer/smartphone/tablet affords wireless remote control while allowing device to use Wi-Fi for Internet connection
- PMC-Eight motor control system with a scalable 8-CPU multi-processor array that allows control of multiple systems from single user interface
- 64KB EEPROM non-volatile memory bank retains settings and time when mount is turned off
- Fully compatible with any computer platform using an ASCOM-compliant software package
- Serial and standard ST4 auto-guiding ports
Motors
- High-resolution Nema11 bipolar 0.09° , 400-count stepper motor
- Micro stepping controller enables the motor to work at 12,800 steps per revolution
- Belt-drive system with precision 45-groove and 10-groove timing pulleys
- Strong and long-lasting fiberglass re-enforced neoprene belt
- Drive rates accurate to a few arcseconds per day
- Reversible for use in Northern and Southern Hemispheres
- Ball bearings on both axes reduce vibrations and minimize backlash at all tracking and slew speeds
ExploreStars GoTo System
- 70,000+ object database including 2000+ stars, with a downloadable catalog of 72,000+ additional stars
- Native catalogs include: Bayer, Flamstead, SAO, HD/Harvard, DM, BD/CD/CPD, GSC, and RNGC/IC
- Open source code with available developer kit allows for complete customization and sharing
- Four-button interface for guiding, centering, moving, and slewing using device touchscreen
- Selectable and user-defined GoTo, Slewing, Centering, and Guiding rates
- 1-star, 2-star, and 3-star alignment processes
- Sidereal, King, Lunar, Solar, and user-defined tracking rates
- Additional functions: Synchronize, Search, Coordinate input
- Custom mount support using user-defined stepper count scaling
Tripod
- Three-section adjustable height
- 2" stainless steel legs
- 26.8 to 42.5" height adjustment range
- Center stabilizer bar locks legs in place to reduce vibrations
- Accessory tray with holes for 1.25" eyepieces
- Spiked feet for use on ground and grass for increased stability, especially on rough or uneven areas
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