Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Equatorial Mount

• New version of the EQ8 equatorial mount
• Lower periodic error with belt drive.
• Improved connectivity and reduced cable tangles
• Load capacity 50kg (tube up to 406mm)

The largest frame of the Sky-Watcher brand evolves with the EQ8-R version . For unguided imaging, another -RH version with a high-resolution encoder in the right ascension axis is also available. With a capacity of 50 kg, this new EQ8-R is perfect for fixed station installations, making it which makes it capable of supporting 350 mm (C14) and 400 mm (16") instruments.

Designed for astrophotography

This is the mount expected by many hobbyists who wish to use instruments larger than 254-305 mm. , the current limit of the famous EQ6 (NEQ6/EQ6-R/AZ-EQ6). Based on the same construction, the EQ8-R has automatic aiming (SynScan), a dual-axis motorization and a wide dovetail in Losmandy format. Thanks to its enormous tripod (almost 30 kg), easily foldable, vibrations are quickly damped, guaranteeing perfect stability of the set. Adjustable in height from 75 cm to 1 m, it allows you to place the mount at the perfect height whether you use a Newton or Cassegrain telescope.

Its very attractive price, incomparable with frames of the same load capacity , offers a versatile solution to users looking for a mount for both visuals with a large diameter instrument and astrophotography. Like the previous series, the EQ8-R has tracking that allows long exposure astrophotography sessions on less bright objects. An autoguidance port is available as standard to significantly reduce periodic error in right ascension (not essential on the EQ8-RH version).

Massive, the head alone weighs no less than 26 kg, inviting the user to place it in a fixed position. However, it is still transportable by 1 person. There are two handles on the sides for a good grip during transport and assembly . The visual observer will appreciate the GOTO SynScan automatic signaling system delivered via an easy-to-use hand controller.

New features

The new features of the EQ8-R version are the following compared to the previous version:

• Improved connectivity with 4 USB3.0 ports and 3 auxiliary ports.
• Belt drive on both axes for better tracking and less noise.
• A cable management system to reduce tangles.
• Improved engine installation position for easier balancing.
• Modified Losmandy dovetail clamp screw to provide greater clamping force.
• For version EQ8-RH , presence of a Renishaw encoder on the AD axis for almost zero periodic error .

Next : Comparison of 2 periodic error measurements with the EQ8-RH in active and inactive Renishaw encoder mode. Shot of the Rasalhague star (10 min exposure) with PECPrep software.

Measured periodic error less than +/- 3" of arc

Measured periodic error less than +/- 0.5" of arc

EQ8-RH version

The EQ8-R version offers very good quality tracking, meeting the demands of many astrophotographers. The -RH version, with the Renishaw encoder (known for its excellent quality) offers almost perfect tracking . With a very good configuration you will be able to make exposures without a guide, an important advantage for surprising final image quality. The Renishaw encoder is an absolute encoder (very high resolution) that tells the EQ8-RH's on-board computer the difference between the movement given by the motors/encoders on the stand and the actual "mechanical" movement. It measures defects directly on the axis (mainly periodic error) with formidable precision .

Automated time attendance system

After calibration (setup) with the polar finder on the North Star, select the mount alignment on one, two or three stars. More than 49,200 objects are registered in the database, including the main catalogs (Messier, NGC, IC, as well as the planets, the Moon and the Sun). For maximum convenience, the stand moves quickly, up to 3.4°/sec via the control panel. Easy to use, it helps to quickly point the instrument towards any galaxy, nebula, cluster or object in the solar system. Discover in detail the famous Andromeda galaxy, the fabulous curtains surrounding the heart of Orion, the Hercules cluster M13 and its heart rich in thousands of stars. Saturn, Jupiter and the Moon are also wonders that must be examined without moderation.

The indication on the racket of the date, time and place of observation combined with "Tour" function allows the EQ8-R mount to aim at the most interesting objects throughout the night . Enjoy a guided sky tour at your viewing location by clicking the "Enter" button based on the object presented in a drop-down list. Aiming precision can reach up to 1 minute of arc, compensating for mechanical errors of the mount. . This procedure called "Backlash" requires measuring the time between two opposite movements of the mount. The operation is simple to perform and, especially in astrophotography, saves precious time. The object you want to photograph is usually in the center of the sensor... a real treat!

Specifications