Meet iOptron's latest game-changer in the world of compact German equatorial mounts—the GEM28! This next-gen mount is a lightweight wonder, tipping the scales at just 10 lbs, but don't let its small footprint fool you. It boasts a remarkable 28 lb payload capacity, giving you a 2.8:1 mount-to-payload ratio. How'd we pull this off? By incorporating design techniques honed in our CEM mount series, aimed at minimizing mass.
For fans of classic German EQ designs who also want the flexibility to operate at a wide range of latitudes, this one's for you. Plus, we've packed it with features that make your life easier, whether you're a casual stargazer or a seasoned astrophotographer. Get the ease of a positive lock gear engagement system—glove-friendly, by the way—and seamless connectivity through built-in Wi-Fi. Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) ensures optimal tracking, time and time again.
What's under the hood? Advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO tech powers the GEM28, turning it into a navigational powerhouse with a massive 212,000-object library. The Go2Nova® Hand Controller's 4-line LCD screen streamlines setup and object location, making the user experience a breeze.
Still not impressed? The mount comes standard with an AccuAlign™ optical polar scope, a heavy-duty 1.5" stainless steel tripod, and a sturdy aluminum carrying case. All neatly packed into two shipping boxes for your convenience.
Shipping Details:
- Box #1: G282B-GEM28 Head with AccuAlign, Case, and Tray (G282B)
- Box #2: 8281-CEM26/GEM28 1.5" Tripod without Tray (C26/G28 1.5T)
Key Features:
- German equatorial design compatible with latitudes from 10° to 70°.
- Stellar for both visual observations and astrophotography.
- Low periodic error, clocking in at less than ±12 arc seconds.
- A 12.7 kg (28 lbs) payload, with a mount-only weight of 4.5 kg (10 lbs).
- Crafted from CNC machined and cast metal.
- Spring-loaded gear mechanism.
- Quick-lock gear clutches that are a cinch to operate.
- Energy-efficient stepper motor.
- AccuAlign™ calibrated polar scope included.
- Can't see the Pole Star? No problem—special polar alignment routine.
- Go2Nova® 8409 controller featuring Advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO tech.
- Integrated ST-4 autoguiding port.
- Built-in Wi-Fi and a USB port for updates and computer control.
- Heavy-duty 1.5-inch stainless steel tripod weighing 5kg.
- Metal tripod spreader with accessory tray.
- Hard carrying case for protection.
- Optional add-ons: 32-channel GPS and iGuider™ autoguiding system (#3360).
So there you have it—the GEM28 is setting the new standard for compact, feature-rich German equatorial goto mounts.
Specifications
| Mount | German Equatorial Mount |
| Payload * | 28 lbs (12.7kg), exclude counterweight |
| Mount weight | 10 lbs (4.5kg) |
| Payload/Mount weight | 2.80 |
| Structure Material | All metal, Casting CNC machined |
| Exterior Finish | Powder coating |
| Periodic error (PE) ** | <±12 arcsec |
| PEC | Yes, Permanent PEC |
| Worm period | 600 sec |
| Right Ascension worm wheel | Φ88mm, 144 teeth aluminum |
| Declination worm wheel | Φ88mm, 144 teeth aluminum |
| Right Ascension axis shaft | Φ35mm steel |
| Declination axis shaft | Φ35mm steel |
| Right Ascension bearing | Φ55mm ball bearing |
| Declination bearing | Φ55mm ball bearing |
| Worm gears | Φ15.2mm, Brass |
| Motor drive | 1.8º stepper motor, 128X microdivision |
| Resolution | 0.17 arc seconds |
| Transmission | Synchronous belt |
| Latitude adjustment range | 10º ~ 70º |
| Azimuth adjustment range | ± 6º |
| Polar Scope | AccuAlignTM optical polar scope |
| Level indicator | Level bubble |
| Hand Controller | Go2Nova® 8409 with ~212,000 objects database |
| Tracking | Automatic |
| Slew speed | 1×,2×,8×,16×,64×,128×,256×,512×,MAX(6º/sec) |
| Power consumption | 0.6A(Tracking), 0.9A(GOTO) |
| Power requirement | 12V DC, 5A |
| AC adapter | 100V ~ 240V (included) |
| Power-down memory | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Built-in |
| Communication port | Yes (Wi-Fi and USB) |
| Autoguide port | Yes (ST-4 compatible) |
| Firmware upgrade | Yes |
| PC computer control | Yes (ASCOM) |
| Counterweight shaft | Φ20X200mm (M16), Stainless Steel |
| Shaft extension | Φ20X120mm (M16), Stainless Steel |
| Counterweight | 10 lbs (4.5kg) |
| Tripod | 1.5" Stainless Steel (5kg) |
| Dovetail saddle | 3.8" Vixen-style, center adjustable |
| Carrying case | Included |
| GPS | Optional external 32-channel GPS |
| Autoguiding | Optional external iGuider 1 |
| Operation temperature | -10ºC ~ 40ºC |
| Warranty | Two year limited |
* OTA size and length dependent, smaller than 6" in diameter recommended
** Measured with encoder on bench, 10 minutes
