GEM28

Introducing iOptron’s new compact next-generation German equatorial mounts the GEM 28!

The iOptron GEM 28 German equatorial mount is designed with portability in mind, weighing in at only 10 lbs it can support up to a 28lb payload an incredible 2.8 mount weight to payload ratio. We achieved this using design methods developed to reduce mount mass in our CEM family of mounts. The German equatorial mount (GEM) versions were created to satisfy consumer that prefer a more traditional mount and to function at higher latitudes. Its features include precise whisper quiet stepper motors (periodic error < ± 10 arc seconds) large easy to use quick-lock gear clutches, built-in WiFi for easy connectivity and recordable Permanent Period Error Correction (PPEC). Periodic Error is a small mechanical error in the accuracy of the tracking in a motorized mount that results small movements of the target that can spoil long-exposure images, even if the mount is perfectly polar-aligned and appears to be tracking perfectly in short tests. It is called periodic because it repeats at a regular interval – the interval being the amount of time it takes the mount’s drive gear to complete one revolution. Most motorized mounts suitable for astrophotography use moderate-speed motors and a gearing system to produce the very smooth, slow-speed rotation of the Right Ascension axis needed to track target objects.

Building on the legacy of earlier GEM models we have added features for convenience and functionality. A positive lock gear engagement system (easy to use even when wearing gloves), Built-in Wi-Fi enabling unparallel connectivity and recordable permanent periodic error correction (PPEC) to repeat optimal PEC training sessions. Regarding functionality the GEM 28 delivers precise pointing and accurate tracking. The GEM 28 sets the new standard for compact German equatorial goto mounts.

The GEM 28 German equatorial mount is equipped with the latest advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO technology, making it one of the most powerful and accurate GOTO mounts available. The 212,000 object library ensures you’ll never run out of targets to see or image. The Go2Nova® Hand Controller is intuitive to use and its large 4-line LCD screen simplifies the process of setting telescopes and locating objects.

The GEM 28 mount is available with a variant that has  an integrated electronic polar finder scope known as the iPolar. This tool ensures the accurate alignment of a telescope, even when the pole star is obscured. The iOptron iPolar e-Polarscope is a highly precise and easy-to-use electronic polar scope. The iPolar is unique in that it can be easily installed inside the RA shaft on all iOptron EQ mounts except for the SmartEQ Pro. This keeps it nice and compact in your system. It can also be connected with adapters either internally or externally. Featuring an excellent, respectable precision of 30 arcseconds, this polar scope brings your scope sights where you need them to be. The smart plate solving system is on point and we’re sure you’ll be happy with the results. Even under poor sky visibility, this will function perfectly with on-screen instruction during the alignment process.

The GEM 28 comes with a 1.5″ heavy duty stainless steel tripod, or you can opt for the combo that comes with a 1.75″ LiteRoc tripod.