Vixen AP-SM Equatorial Mount with Star Book One Controller

Vixen AP-SM Equatorial Mount with Star Book One Controller

Features

• Motorized Equatorial Mount
• Pulse Stepper Motor
• Star Book One Go-To Hand Controller
• Multiple Tracking and Slew Speeds
• PEC / Backlash Compensation
• Vixen-Style Dovetail Saddle
• 13.2 lb Load Capacity

Versatile Equatorial Mount for All Levels of Astronomy Enthusiasts

Discover the versatility of the Advanced Polaris Equatorial Mount, designed to cater to both novices eager to explore the equatorial mount system and seasoned astronomers seeking a convenient, portable solution. This mount offers reliable support for your telescope, ensuring stable and comfortable viewing sessions. Thanks to its innovative friction control system, targeting celestial bodies becomes swift and effortless.

R.A. Motor modules and STAR BOOK ONE set

The AP-SM equatorial mount comes complete with the R.A. motor module and the STAR BOOK ONE set, the core components for celestial tracking. This set includes the STAR BOOK ONE controller, essential for precise navigation of the night sky. The R.A. motor module and STAR BOOK ONE set form the foundation of the AP system, allowing you to customize your astronomical setup by incorporating additional modules.

Stylish design

The newly designed AP-SM equatorial mount features a sleek and modern appearance that challenges the traditional, complex image of astronomical telescopes. Weighing only 3.9kg (excluding the counterweight), it offers easy handling of full-scale telescopes. Its innovative design integrates the power supply within the mount's body, using four AA batteries and internal electrical contacts. This approach effectively eliminates the need for external wiring, which was previously exposed and cumbersome.

Friction control system

Effortlessly direct the telescope towards celestial objects by manually adjusting the optical tube with your hands. The built-in friction control system enables smooth and precise aiming at your target without the need for knobs and clamps.

Simple polar alignment

Attach the optional polar meter to the equatorial mount for straightforward polar alignment. This feature allows even beginners to easily and quickly align the polar axis. While the polar axis scope is typically utilized for precise alignment, the polar meter excels, particularly in locations where Polaris is not visible, offering superior performance.

Polar alignment scope PF-L

The PF-L polar alignment scope incorporates a three-star alignment system and a built-in dark field illuminator, facilitating alignment through the scope. This illuminator automatically shuts off to conserve power. Complementing the PF-L scope, we offer the "PFL Assist" app as a free download for smartphones and tablets. This app aids in polar alignment by visually displaying the constellation's position, making it easier to achieve precise alignment.

Power supply system focusing on mobility and comfort

The motor module is powered by four AA batteries, which are readily available in stores and compatible with both alkaline and cost-effective rechargeable batteries (Ni-MH, Ni-Cd). For extended usage, you can connect the module to any standard USB external power source, such as a USB mobile battery or USB AC adapter, via the included USB Micro-B terminal.

STAR BOOK ONE controller

The STAR BOOK ONE controller provided is a compact, lightweight, and easy-to-use handheld device, primarily designed for controlling the XY drive (Right Ascension and Declination). It features multiple tracking modes, including sidereal and solar rates, backlash compensation, an external autoguider port, and a built-in illuminator