Includes:
- 1xiOptron CEM70 Mount Head (No Tripod/Pier)
iOptron CEM70 Center Balanced GoTo EQ Mount Head with iPolar and Case
Sku:
PAMT-IO-C70A
Mfg #:
C70A
Item Can Ship:
To US / Canada Only
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SKU:
PAMT-IO-C70A
Mfg #:
C70A
Item Can Ship:
To US / Canada Only
Important Note
Please note: This listing is for the mount head only. No tripod or pier is included.
Key Features
- 70 lb (31.8 kg) instrument payload capacity handles large telescopes and heavy imaging rigs with confidence
- Center-balanced equatorial design reduces counterweight needs and total system weight for easier transport
- Integrated iPolar electronic polar scope delivers fast, accurate polar alignment with on-screen guidance
- Built-in GPS module automatically acquires your location and time for effortless GoTo alignment
- Go2Nova 8410 hand controller with a 212,000+ object database for reliable slewing and target selection
- USB and ST-4 connectivity support both modern software-driven workflows and legacy hardware guiding
- Dual dovetail compatibility accepts both Vixen and Losmandy style dovetail bars
Description
Description
iOptron CEM70 Overview: Precision Engineering for Serious Astrophotography
The iOptron CEM70 is built for astrophotographers who refuse to compromise between payload capacity and tracking precision. There's no shortage of capable mounts at this price point, but the CEM70 distinguishes itself with a center-balanced architecture that reduces counterweight demands and puts less strain on the drive system. This design means that the CEM70 is equally well-suited to backyards and dark skies, and it would look just as good on a pier as it does on a tripod. The integrated iPolar electronics handle polar alignment, and the internal cabling keeps your whole system well-organized and snag-free. Whether you're running automated sequences from a computer or standing outside doing some visual observing, the CEM70 delivers a stable, precise platform that stays out of your way and keeps your stars sharp all night.
Putting the CEM70 to the Test with Agena Affiliate @Wilfredos_Astrophotography:
Discover the Power of the CEM70
Center-Balanced Design
Traditional German equatorial mounts position the entire telescope on one side of the RA axis, demanding heavy counterweights to compensate. The CEM70 shifts the saddle closer to the rotational axis itself, cutting the counterweight you need by a meaningful margin. The result is a lighter overall system that is easier to transport and faster to set up at remote dark-sky sites.
Built-In iPolar Polar Scope
Polar alignment is one of the most critical steps in astrophotography. The CEM70's built-in iPolar camera captures a live star field near the celestial pole and plate-solves it in real time. Software then shows you exactly how far off you are and which direction to adjust. Most users achieve sub-arcminute accuracy in under five minutes.
70 lb Payload Capacity
The CEM70 supports telescopes and imaging rigs weighing up to 70 pounds. That opens the door to 8-inch to 11-inch SCTs, large Ritchey-Chrétiens, and heavy refractor-plus-guidescope combinations. Even fully loaded, the mount maintains the tracking precision and mechanical stability that long-exposure deep-sky work demands.
High-Precision Tracking and GoTo Performance
Its 70 lb payload capacity handles a wide range of imaging rigs, while the center-balanced design keeps everything compact and stable. Under the hood, a 180-tooth worm gear drives smooth, precise tracking with a periodic error under ±5 arc seconds. Built-in Periodic Error Correction (PEC) can further improve accuracy to within roughly ±0.5 arc seconds once trained. Guide rates are adjustable from 0.5x to 0.99x sidereal, giving you fine control when pairing with an autoguider. And when it's time to slew to your next target, the mount moves at up to 3.5°/sec which is even fast enough to track many low-earth orbit satellites!
Broad Connectivity and Computer Control
The CEM70 is built to fit into a modern, software-driven astrophotography workflow. A USB 2.0 port connects the mount directly to a PC or laptop, enabling full remote operation through ASCOM-compatible software like N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro, and Stellarium. iOptron also offers an optional Wi-Fi adapter for wireless control from a tablet or phone (sold separately). For users running older guide cameras or legacy setups that rely on hardware pulse-guiding, the mount includes a standard ST-4 autoguider port as well. Whether your workflow is fully automated or hands-on, the CEM70 has a connection path that fits.
Go2Nova 8410 Hand Controller
The included Go2Nova 8410 hand controller features a backlit LCD screen that is easy to read under dark skies. Its menu structure makes it straightforward to select targets, configure tracking rates, and adjust mount settings. The controller supports sidereal, lunar, solar, and King tracking rates for observing or imaging any type of celestial object. Users who prefer full computer control can bypass the hand controller entirely and operate the mount through their planetarium or sequencing software of choice.
Robust Build with Broad Compatibility
The CEM70's die-cast aluminum construction provides excellent rigidity while keeping the mount head at a manageable 27 pounds. The dovetail saddle accepts both Vixen-style and Losmandy D-style bars, and dual saddle locks hold your telescope firmly in place. A stainless steel counterweight shaft with a threaded safety cap keeps everything secure during transport and operation. This model also ships with a dedicated hard carrying case, giving you solid protection for the mount head and accessories whether you are storing the system at home or hauling it to a remote observing site.
Specifications
- Mount Type: Center-Balanced Equatorial (CEM)
- Payload Capacity: 70 lb (31.8 kg)
- Mount Head Weight: 27 lb (12.3 kg)
- Counterweight: 1x 21 lb (9.5 kg) stainless steel
- Motor Type: Stepper motors with high-resolution encoders
- GoTo Slew Speed: Up to 3.4°/sec
- Tracking Rates: Sidereal, Lunar, Solar, King
- Object Database: 212,000+ objects
- Periodic Error: ±3.5 arcsec (typical)
- Polar Scope: Built-in iPolar electronic polar scope
- GPS: Built-in GPS receiver
- Autoguider Port: ST-4 compatible
- Computer Interface: USB 2.0
- Hand Controller: Go2Nova 8410 with backlit LCD
- Dovetail Compatibility: Vixen and Losmandy D-style
- Power Requirement: 12V DC, 2A minimum, tip-positive
- Operating Temperature: -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C)
- Latitude Range: 0° to 70°
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iOptron CEM70 suitable for beginners?
The CEM70 is a high-end mount best suited for intermediate to advanced users who have some experience with equatorial mounts. Beginners who are committed to learning astrophotography can certainly grow into it, but should be prepared for a learning curve. The iPolar system simplifies one of the most challenging steps in the process, helping shorten that learning curve considerably.
Do I still need a counterweight with the center-balanced design?
Yes. The center-balanced geometry reduces how much counterweight is required compared to a traditional German equatorial mount, but the system still needs to be balanced on both axes for optimal performance. One 21 lb (9.5 kg) counterweight is included.
Can I control the CEM70 from my computer?
Absolutely. The mount connects via USB and is compatible with ASCOM drivers on Windows. This enables computer control through popular astronomy software such as N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro, and Stellarium. iOptron also offers an optional Wi-Fi adapter for wireless control.
What tripod works with the CEM70?
The CEM70 uses iOptron's standard 2-inch tripod head connection. iOptron offers compatible steel tripods for the mount series, while a permanent pier can also be used for observatory installations. Always verify that any third-party tripod or pier can support the total system weight, including the mount head, counterweight, telescope, and accessories.
How does the iPolar electronic polar scope work?
The iPolar uses a small camera built into the mount's RA axis. When connected to a computer running the iPolar software, it captures the star field near the celestial pole and determines the mount's alignment. The software displays the alignment error and guides you through the necessary adjustments for accurate polar alignment.
What is the periodic error of the CEM70?
Typical periodic error is approximately ±3.5 arcseconds. When paired with proper autoguiding, the CEM70 is designed to provide the precise tracking required for long-exposure astrophotography.
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: China
iOptron CEM70 Overview: Precision Engineering for Serious Astrophotography
The iOptron CEM70 is built for astrophotographers who refuse to compromise between payload capacity and tracking precision. There's no shortage of capable mounts at this price point, but the CEM70 distinguishes itself with a center-balanced architecture that reduces counterweight demands and puts less strain on the drive system. This design means that the CEM70 is equally well-suited to backyards and dark skies, and it would look just as good on a pier as it does on a tripod. The integrated iPolar electronics handle polar alignment, and the internal cabling keeps your whole system well-organized and snag-free. Whether you're running automated sequences from a computer or standing outside doing some visual observing, the CEM70 delivers a stable, precise platform that stays out of your way and keeps your stars sharp all night.
Putting the CEM70 to the Test with Agena Affiliate @Wilfredos_Astrophotography:
Discover the Power of the CEM70
Center-Balanced Design
Traditional German equatorial mounts position the entire telescope on one side of the RA axis, demanding heavy counterweights to compensate. The CEM70 shifts the saddle closer to the rotational axis itself, cutting the counterweight you need by a meaningful margin. The result is a lighter overall system that is easier to transport and faster to set up at remote dark-sky sites.
Built-In iPolar Polar Scope
Polar alignment is one of the most critical steps in astrophotography. The CEM70's built-in iPolar camera captures a live star field near the celestial pole and plate-solves it in real time. Software then shows you exactly how far off you are and which direction to adjust. Most users achieve sub-arcminute accuracy in under five minutes.
70 lb Payload Capacity
The CEM70 supports telescopes and imaging rigs weighing up to 70 pounds. That opens the door to 8-inch to 11-inch SCTs, large Ritchey-Chrétiens, and heavy refractor-plus-guidescope combinations. Even fully loaded, the mount maintains the tracking precision and mechanical stability that long-exposure deep-sky work demands.
High-Precision Tracking and GoTo Performance
Its 70 lb payload capacity handles a wide range of imaging rigs, while the center-balanced design keeps everything compact and stable. Under the hood, a 180-tooth worm gear drives smooth, precise tracking with a periodic error under ±5 arc seconds. Built-in Periodic Error Correction (PEC) can further improve accuracy to within roughly ±0.5 arc seconds once trained. Guide rates are adjustable from 0.5x to 0.99x sidereal, giving you fine control when pairing with an autoguider. And when it's time to slew to your next target, the mount moves at up to 3.5°/sec which is even fast enough to track many low-earth orbit satellites!
Broad Connectivity and Computer Control
The CEM70 is built to fit into a modern, software-driven astrophotography workflow. A USB 2.0 port connects the mount directly to a PC or laptop, enabling full remote operation through ASCOM-compatible software like N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro, and Stellarium. iOptron also offers an optional Wi-Fi adapter for wireless control from a tablet or phone (sold separately). For users running older guide cameras or legacy setups that rely on hardware pulse-guiding, the mount includes a standard ST-4 autoguider port as well. Whether your workflow is fully automated or hands-on, the CEM70 has a connection path that fits.
Go2Nova 8410 Hand Controller
The included Go2Nova 8410 hand controller features a backlit LCD screen that is easy to read under dark skies. Its menu structure makes it straightforward to select targets, configure tracking rates, and adjust mount settings. The controller supports sidereal, lunar, solar, and King tracking rates for observing or imaging any type of celestial object. Users who prefer full computer control can bypass the hand controller entirely and operate the mount through their planetarium or sequencing software of choice.
Robust Build with Broad Compatibility
The CEM70's die-cast aluminum construction provides excellent rigidity while keeping the mount head at a manageable 27 pounds. The dovetail saddle accepts both Vixen-style and Losmandy D-style bars, and dual saddle locks hold your telescope firmly in place. A stainless steel counterweight shaft with a threaded safety cap keeps everything secure during transport and operation. This model also ships with a dedicated hard carrying case, giving you solid protection for the mount head and accessories whether you are storing the system at home or hauling it to a remote observing site.
Specifications
- Mount Type: Center-Balanced Equatorial (CEM)
- Payload Capacity: 70 lb (31.8 kg)
- Mount Head Weight: 27 lb (12.3 kg)
- Counterweight: 1x 21 lb (9.5 kg) stainless steel
- Motor Type: Stepper motors with high-resolution encoders
- GoTo Slew Speed: Up to 3.4°/sec
- Tracking Rates: Sidereal, Lunar, Solar, King
- Object Database: 212,000+ objects
- Periodic Error: ±3.5 arcsec (typical)
- Polar Scope: Built-in iPolar electronic polar scope
- GPS: Built-in GPS receiver
- Autoguider Port: ST-4 compatible
- Computer Interface: USB 2.0
- Hand Controller: Go2Nova 8410 with backlit LCD
- Dovetail Compatibility: Vixen and Losmandy D-style
- Power Requirement: 12V DC, 2A minimum, tip-positive
- Operating Temperature: -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C)
- Latitude Range: 0° to 70°
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iOptron CEM70 suitable for beginners?
The CEM70 is a high-end mount best suited for intermediate to advanced users who have some experience with equatorial mounts. Beginners who are committed to learning astrophotography can certainly grow into it, but should be prepared for a learning curve. The iPolar system simplifies one of the most challenging steps in the process, helping shorten that learning curve considerably.
Do I still need a counterweight with the center-balanced design?
Yes. The center-balanced geometry reduces how much counterweight is required compared to a traditional German equatorial mount, but the system still needs to be balanced on both axes for optimal performance. One 21 lb (9.5 kg) counterweight is included.
Can I control the CEM70 from my computer?
Absolutely. The mount connects via USB and is compatible with ASCOM drivers on Windows. This enables computer control through popular astronomy software such as N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro, and Stellarium. iOptron also offers an optional Wi-Fi adapter for wireless control.
What tripod works with the CEM70?
The CEM70 uses iOptron's standard 2-inch tripod head connection. iOptron offers compatible steel tripods for the mount series, while a permanent pier can also be used for observatory installations. Always verify that any third-party tripod or pier can support the total system weight, including the mount head, counterweight, telescope, and accessories.
How does the iPolar electronic polar scope work?
The iPolar uses a small camera built into the mount's RA axis. When connected to a computer running the iPolar software, it captures the star field near the celestial pole and determines the mount's alignment. The software displays the alignment error and guides you through the necessary adjustments for accurate polar alignment.
What is the periodic error of the CEM70?
Typical periodic error is approximately ±3.5 arcseconds. When paired with proper autoguiding, the CEM70 is designed to provide the precise tracking required for long-exposure astrophotography.
Read Full Description
Specifications
Specifications
| Manufacturer | iOptron |
|---|
Reviews / Q&A
Reviews / Q&A
In the Box
In the Box
- 1x iOptron CEM70 mount head with integrated iPolar electronic polar scope
- 1x Hard carrying case
- 1x 21 lb stainless steel counterweight
- 1xCounterweight shaft with threaded safety cap
- 1x Go2Nova 8410 hand controller
- 1x Hand controller cable
- 1x USB cable for PC connectivity
- 1x AC adapter for home and observatory use
- 1x Instruction manual and documentation
Resources
Resources
Product Guides / Manuals
Important Note
Please note: This listing is for the mount head only. No tripod or pier is included.
Key Features
- 70 lb (31.8 kg) instrument payload capacity handles large telescopes and heavy imaging rigs with confidence
- Center-balanced equatorial design reduces counterweight needs and total system weight for easier transport
- Integrated iPolar electronic polar scope delivers fast, accurate polar alignment with on-screen guidance
- Built-in GPS module automatically acquires your location and time for effortless GoTo alignment
- Go2Nova 8410 hand controller with a 212,000+ object database for reliable slewing and target selection
- USB and ST-4 connectivity support both modern software-driven workflows and legacy hardware guiding
- Dual dovetail compatibility accepts both Vixen and Losmandy style dovetail bars
Description
Specifications
Reviews / Q&A
In the Box
Resources
Description
iOptron CEM70 Overview: Precision Engineering for Serious Astrophotography
The iOptron CEM70 is built for astrophotographers who refuse to compromise between payload capacity and tracking precision. There's no shortage of capable mounts at this price point, but the CEM70 distinguishes itself with a center-balanced architecture that reduces counterweight demands and puts less strain on the drive system. This design means that the CEM70 is equally well-suited to backyards and dark skies, and it would look just as good on a pier as it does on a tripod. The integrated iPolar electronics handle polar alignment, and the internal cabling keeps your whole system well-organized and snag-free. Whether you're running automated sequences from a computer or standing outside doing some visual observing, the CEM70 delivers a stable, precise platform that stays out of your way and keeps your stars sharp all night.
Putting the CEM70 to the Test with Agena Affiliate @Wilfredos_Astrophotography:
Discover the Power of the CEM70
Center-Balanced Design
Traditional German equatorial mounts position the entire telescope on one side of the RA axis, demanding heavy counterweights to compensate. The CEM70 shifts the saddle closer to the rotational axis itself, cutting the counterweight you need by a meaningful margin. The result is a lighter overall system that is easier to transport and faster to set up at remote dark-sky sites.
Built-In iPolar Polar Scope
Polar alignment is one of the most critical steps in astrophotography. The CEM70's built-in iPolar camera captures a live star field near the celestial pole and plate-solves it in real time. Software then shows you exactly how far off you are and which direction to adjust. Most users achieve sub-arcminute accuracy in under five minutes.
70 lb Payload Capacity
The CEM70 supports telescopes and imaging rigs weighing up to 70 pounds. That opens the door to 8-inch to 11-inch SCTs, large Ritchey-Chrétiens, and heavy refractor-plus-guidescope combinations. Even fully loaded, the mount maintains the tracking precision and mechanical stability that long-exposure deep-sky work demands.
High-Precision Tracking and GoTo Performance
Its 70 lb payload capacity handles a wide range of imaging rigs, while the center-balanced design keeps everything compact and stable. Under the hood, a 180-tooth worm gear drives smooth, precise tracking with a periodic error under ±5 arc seconds. Built-in Periodic Error Correction (PEC) can further improve accuracy to within roughly ±0.5 arc seconds once trained. Guide rates are adjustable from 0.5x to 0.99x sidereal, giving you fine control when pairing with an autoguider. And when it's time to slew to your next target, the mount moves at up to 3.5°/sec which is even fast enough to track many low-earth orbit satellites!
Broad Connectivity and Computer Control
The CEM70 is built to fit into a modern, software-driven astrophotography workflow. A USB 2.0 port connects the mount directly to a PC or laptop, enabling full remote operation through ASCOM-compatible software like N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro, and Stellarium. iOptron also offers an optional Wi-Fi adapter for wireless control from a tablet or phone (sold separately). For users running older guide cameras or legacy setups that rely on hardware pulse-guiding, the mount includes a standard ST-4 autoguider port as well. Whether your workflow is fully automated or hands-on, the CEM70 has a connection path that fits.
Go2Nova 8410 Hand Controller
The included Go2Nova 8410 hand controller features a backlit LCD screen that is easy to read under dark skies. Its menu structure makes it straightforward to select targets, configure tracking rates, and adjust mount settings. The controller supports sidereal, lunar, solar, and King tracking rates for observing or imaging any type of celestial object. Users who prefer full computer control can bypass the hand controller entirely and operate the mount through their planetarium or sequencing software of choice.
Robust Build with Broad Compatibility
The CEM70's die-cast aluminum construction provides excellent rigidity while keeping the mount head at a manageable 27 pounds. The dovetail saddle accepts both Vixen-style and Losmandy D-style bars, and dual saddle locks hold your telescope firmly in place. A stainless steel counterweight shaft with a threaded safety cap keeps everything secure during transport and operation. This model also ships with a dedicated hard carrying case, giving you solid protection for the mount head and accessories whether you are storing the system at home or hauling it to a remote observing site.
Specifications
- Mount Type: Center-Balanced Equatorial (CEM)
- Payload Capacity: 70 lb (31.8 kg)
- Mount Head Weight: 27 lb (12.3 kg)
- Counterweight: 1x 21 lb (9.5 kg) stainless steel
- Motor Type: Stepper motors with high-resolution encoders
- GoTo Slew Speed: Up to 3.4°/sec
- Tracking Rates: Sidereal, Lunar, Solar, King
- Object Database: 212,000+ objects
- Periodic Error: ±3.5 arcsec (typical)
- Polar Scope: Built-in iPolar electronic polar scope
- GPS: Built-in GPS receiver
- Autoguider Port: ST-4 compatible
- Computer Interface: USB 2.0
- Hand Controller: Go2Nova 8410 with backlit LCD
- Dovetail Compatibility: Vixen and Losmandy D-style
- Power Requirement: 12V DC, 2A minimum, tip-positive
- Operating Temperature: -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C)
- Latitude Range: 0° to 70°
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iOptron CEM70 suitable for beginners?
The CEM70 is a high-end mount best suited for intermediate to advanced users who have some experience with equatorial mounts. Beginners who are committed to learning astrophotography can certainly grow into it, but should be prepared for a learning curve. The iPolar system simplifies one of the most challenging steps in the process, helping shorten that learning curve considerably.
Do I still need a counterweight with the center-balanced design?
Yes. The center-balanced geometry reduces how much counterweight is required compared to a traditional German equatorial mount, but the system still needs to be balanced on both axes for optimal performance. One 21 lb (9.5 kg) counterweight is included.
Can I control the CEM70 from my computer?
Absolutely. The mount connects via USB and is compatible with ASCOM drivers on Windows. This enables computer control through popular astronomy software such as N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro, and Stellarium. iOptron also offers an optional Wi-Fi adapter for wireless control.
What tripod works with the CEM70?
The CEM70 uses iOptron's standard 2-inch tripod head connection. iOptron offers compatible steel tripods for the mount series, while a permanent pier can also be used for observatory installations. Always verify that any third-party tripod or pier can support the total system weight, including the mount head, counterweight, telescope, and accessories.
How does the iPolar electronic polar scope work?
The iPolar uses a small camera built into the mount's RA axis. When connected to a computer running the iPolar software, it captures the star field near the celestial pole and determines the mount's alignment. The software displays the alignment error and guides you through the necessary adjustments for accurate polar alignment.
What is the periodic error of the CEM70?
Typical periodic error is approximately ±3.5 arcseconds. When paired with proper autoguiding, the CEM70 is designed to provide the precise tracking required for long-exposure astrophotography.
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: China
Specifications
| Manufacturer | iOptron |
|---|
Reviews / Q&A
In the Box
- 1x iOptron CEM70 mount head with integrated iPolar electronic polar scope
- 1x Hard carrying case
- 1x 21 lb stainless steel counterweight
- 1xCounterweight shaft with threaded safety cap
- 1x Go2Nova 8410 hand controller
- 1x Hand controller cable
- 1x USB cable for PC connectivity
- 1x AC adapter for home and observatory use
- 1x Instruction manual and documentation
Resources
Product Guides / Manuals
iOptron CEM70 Center Balanced GoTo EQ Mount Head with iPolar and Case