The iOptron HAZ130 Alt-Az mount with dual strain wave gear (SWG) drives is iOptron’s highest capacity SWG mount to date and is designed to accommodate instruments up to a payload up to 132lbs, such as the iOptron 16” F/8 RC truss OTA. The mount offers full Go To pointing and Alt-Az tracking utilizing its Go2Nova 8411 handset with OLED display or by independent software control.
The all-metal CNC machined fork mount design offers optimal stability for tracking and imaging. Two adjustable Losmandy style saddles accommodate the attachment of various sized instruments. The SWG drive system is perfect for unbalanced payloads and includes a unique friction brake to safely stop movement during a planned or unplanned power interruption. The wide stance adjustable base features a high precision leveling indicator to ensure the highest level of precision in Go To pointing accuracy. To enhance the precision of the iOptron HAZ130, the SWG gear system is driven by quiet reliable stepper motors.
Other features include mounting holes for NUC computers as well as other devices, USB communication ports, 180° altitude and 360°azimuth movement ranges, low power consumption and more.
As the iOptron team notes, “Not only is the HAZ130 a capable tool for both visual astronomy and imaging, it is designed to work with the latest satellite and space debris tracking software, making it an excellent antenna platform for radio communication enthusiasts.”
The iOptron HAZ130 strain wave gear technology provides several critical advantages over traditional drive systems including:
– Backlash-Free Motion: SWG eliminates the jerky movements and delays that can occur with other gear systems, ensuring smooth and precise tracking.
– High Torque Capacity: Despite its compact size, the mount can handle significant payloads, enabling the use of larger or heavier optical systems.
– Minimal Mechanical Noise: The mount operates quietly which offers an esthetically pleasing experiance.
– Exceptional Tracking Accuracy: The precision of SWG technology allows the mount to follow celestial objects with unparalleled accuracy, enhancing both visual observation and imaging quality.
The iOptron HAZ130 is equipped with a suite of advanced electronics that streamline its operation. Its motorized tracking and Go-To functionality enable users to locate and track celestial objects with ease. The system is compatible with popular astronomy software platforms and can be controlled via multiple interfaces, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB connections. Whether using the Go2Nova hand controller or an app-based interface, the mount offers seamless navigation and control.
The mount also includes built-in alignment aids, such as bubble levels and software-assisted procedures, making setup quick and straightforward. These features are particularly beneficial for newcomers who may not yet be familiar with the nuances of telescope alignment.
The iOptron HAZ130 specifications include:
Mount Design
– Mount Type: Alt-Azimuth with Dual Fork Arm
– Drive Technology: Strain Wave Gear (SWG)
– Material: CNC-machined all-metal construction
– Axes of Motion: Altitude (180°) and Azimuth (360°)
Payload Capacity
– Maximum Payload: 132 lbs. (60 kg)
– Saddle Type: Dual Losmandy-style adjustable saddles
Tracking and Pointing
– Tracking Accuracy: High precision with SWG technology
– Motion: Backlash-free with friction brake for safety
– Go-To Pointing: Full Go-To functionality
– Hand Controller: iOptron 8411 with OLED display
– Tracking Modes: Alt-Azimuth tracking
Motor and Drive System
– Motor Type: Stepper motors
– Noise Level: Ultra-quiet operation
– Payload Balance: Unbalanced payload capable
Connectivity
– Communication Ports: USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
– Control Options: Hand controller or external computer control
– Compatibility: Supports popular astronomy software platforms
– Mounting Points: Holes for NUC computers and other devices
Power
– Power Consumption: Low power consumption
– Power Options: External power supply or rechargeable batteries
Physical Specifications
– Base Design: Wide-stance adjustable base for enhanced stability
– Leveling: High-precision leveling indicator included
Performance
– Motion Ranges: Altitude: 180°; Azimuth: 360°
– Tracking Objects: Stars, planets, satellites, and space debris
– Imaging: Suitable for short-exposure astrophotography
Applications
– Use Cases: Visual astronomy, astrophotography, satellite and space debris tracking
– Additional Functionality: Radio communication antenna platform support
Optional Features
– Accessories: Compatible with guide scopes, field rotators, cameras, and filters
– Imaging Compatibility: Works with latest satellite astronomy software
You can learn more about the iOptron HAZ130 here.
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