Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Go-To Equatorial Mount

• EQ6-R dual-axis motorized German equatorial mount
• With automated tracking and signaling (GOTO)
• New lighter version with better tracking
• Load capacity 20kg (tube up to 254/280mm)
• Suitable for visual observation and ideal for long exposure imaging

Following the arrival of the AZ-EQ6, SkyWatcher continues the evolution of its range of mounts with the EQ6-R. Only the equatorial model (unlike the AZ-EQ6 which has 2 AZ/EQ modes) has the same technological advances as the AZ-EQ6 for a slightly lower price. Therefore, the EQ6-R can withstand very heavy loads, such as Schmidt-Cassegrain or Newton optical tubes up to 280 mm in diameter, being lighter than the famous NEQ6 .

Huge, the head alone weighs almost 17 kg, the EQ6-R guarantees very good stability even at high magnifications. Tracking quality is improved compared to the EQ6/NEQ6 versions thanks to several innovations . The EQ6-R allows you to perform long exposure astrophotography sessions on the dimmest objects. An autoguidance port is included as standard to significantly reduce periodic error in right ascension (RA).

A mount for images and visuals

The EQ6-R is a very attractive solution for supporting telescopes that were previously compatible with much more expensive mounts. Allows beginners to embark on image creation , using a PC and a second parallel instrument when autoguiding is activated. The visual observer will appreciate the GOTO SynScan automatic signaling system delivered via easy-to-use manual control. In fact , it is not necessary to know the position of stars or distant stars in the deep sky, the AZ-EQ6 takes care of moving the instrument towards the target you want to observe. After calibration (setup) with the polar telescope on the North Star, select the mount alignment on one, two or three stars. More than 42,000 objects, including major catalogues, are registered in the database (Messier, NGC, IC, as well as planets, the Moon and the Sun).

The traction system has been modified for the occasion with the incorporation of a belt at the transmission level . The result is noticeable, with a smoother periodic error curve, less slack and less noise when moving (signaling GOTO). Optical encoders, whose design is patented, are now present to avoid any loss of positioning despite manual movement. This gives the user a lot of freedom, avoiding having to start the initialization procedure from scratch.

Finally, the weight of the mount has been reduced (compared to the NEQ6) from 20kg to 17.3kg ... making the EQ6-R more pleasant to wear. The design has been modified as well and also for aesthetic considerations (+ addition of a very practical carrying handle). The altitude and latitude holding screws have been modified for greater ease of handling.

Automated Go-To clocking system

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

The indication on the racket of the date, time and place of observation combined with The "Tour" function allows you to direct the EQ6-R mount towards the most interesting objects throughout an entire evening . Enjoy a guided sky tour of your viewing location by clicking the "Enter" button based on the object presented in a drop-down list. Aiming accuracy can be up to 1 minute of arc, compensating for mechanical errors in the mount. . This procedure called "Backlash" requires measuring the time between two opposite movements of the mount. The operation is simple to perform and saves precious time, especially in astrophotography.

Specifications

Items delivered

• 1 x German EQ6-R Pro Go-To Equatorial Mount
• 1 SynScan Go-To Handheld Controller
• 2 counterweights of 5 kg
• 1x integrated polar finder
• 1x Tubular steel tripod, adjustable in height (85cm to 147cm), with spacer for accessory holder
• 1 female dovetail type Vixen and Losmandy
• 1 x Power Cable with Cigarette Lighter Plug