Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 Mount with Pier Tripod

Description

Versatile, Lightweight, and Astonishingly Accurate

The AZ-EQ5 hybrid mount epitomizes Sky-Watcher’s commitment to innovation. Part Alt-Az mount, part German equatorial, the AZ-EQ5 is Sky-Watcher’s most versatile mount. Capable of aligning in either Alt-Az for casual observing, equatorial for serious astrophotography, or dual-OTA mode for astronomy outreach with twice the impact. With all this versatility, the AZ-EQ5 is ideal for the beginner astronomer who may want to try their hand at astrophotography, the seasoned pro imager, and educators passionate about sharing the night sky at events or in their community.

Freedom Find™ Dual-Encoder System

Unique to Sky-Watcher’s AZ-EQ5 is a patented dual-encoder motor system, Freedom Find™, which allows users to move the mount manually without losing alignment. Simply impossible for most mounts, the AZ-EQ5 uses a proprietary slip clutch system that keeps your alignment whether you slew by hand or use the hand controller. After moving to the new object (electronically or manually), the mount will start tracking automatically from its new position.

42,000+ Object Database

Using our proprietary SynScan hand controller, the AZ-EQ5 provides a user-friendly interface with automatic slewing to over 42,000+ objects in the night sky. The hand controller can also connect to a computer (USB 2.0 adapter available), enabling PC control with most astronomy programs, including TheSkyX, Stellarium, and Starry Night.

Whisper-Quiet Motors

Sky-Watcher’s belt drive system has a few advantages over mounts using traditional stepper gearing. Belt drive systems deliver nearly silent slewing and tracking, making for an evening free of obnoxious motor noises while delivering spot-on accuracy. Sky-Watcher’s belt driven stepper motor system reduces backlash by removing spur gears between the motor and the worm resulting in smoother tracking and less periodic error than mounts using servo motors.

Periodic Error Correction Made Easy!

For the astrophotographer looking to reduce periodic error, the SynScan hand controller has built-in PEC training that can be configured while in the field! Periodic error is best described as tiny back-and-forth oscillations of target stars. This motion usually goes unnoticed during visual observation, but during a long photographic exposure, can turn pinpoint stars into small streaks. Using Sky-Watcher’s built-in PEC training, astrophotographers can cut down on the problems caused by periodic error to get smoother tracking and better performance from an autoguider resulting in a sharper, more professional looking final image.

Making Photography a SNAP

The AZ-EQ5 mount has built in DSLR interface with the ability to control two cameras at once. Using a built-in intervelometer timer, the SynScan hand controller can set up exposure length, number of frames taken and a ‘cool down’ period between each frame. Additionally, the SynScan hand controller can select up to eight different exposure combinations. No need to purchase an expensive cable release when Sky-Watcher SNAP ports include everything you’ll need to start shooting deep sky objects right out of the box.

Use at Any Latitude

Thanks to the pier extension that sits between the mount head and tripod, the AZ-EQ5 can be polar aligned at almost any latitude. Most equatorial mounts have difficulty with polar alignment at lower latitudes due to the counterweight bar interfering with the tripod. The AZ-EQ5 bypasses this completely, by using a sturdy pier extension to elevate the mount head away from the tripod legs. The pier extension creates enough clearance between the counterweight bar and tripod legs that the mount can be polar aligned at virtually any latitude, from Alaska to Ecuador to Tierra del Fuego.

Ready to Go, Out of the Box!

While most mounts leave you to purchase accessories on your own, Sky-Watcher includes plenty of accessories to get you started. In addition to the SynScan hand controller and the pier tripod, the AZ-EQ5 mount comes with two 7.5-pound counterweights and a counterweight extension bar, as well as an extra saddle for mounting a second scope for viewing in dual-OTA mode. The mount also includes two Canon EOS trigger cables for connecting your camera to the SNAP ports on the mount (optional Nikon and Sony cables are available). The optional polar finderscope will assist with setup. The AZ-EQ5 also features a built-in USB port for firmware updates, but also allows computer control using various astronomy software suites.

Features and Benefits for the Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 Mount with Pier Tripod:

Features:

1. Dual-Mode Mount: Operates in both alt-azimuth (AZ) and equatorial (EQ) modes, making it versatile for both visual observing and astrophotography.
2. GoTo System with SynScan: Computerized GoTo system with a 42,900+ object database for automated locating and tracking of celestial objects.
3. High-Precision Belt Drive System: Reduces backlash, providing smooth tracking and slewing for improved performance in astrophotography.
4. Built-in Dual-Encoder Technology: Allows manual movement of the telescope without losing GoTo alignment, providing flexibility in adjusting the view without disrupting the setup.
5. Pier Tripod Design: Offers enhanced stability compared to standard tripods, reducing vibration and improving image clarity, especially in windy conditions.
6. Payload Capacity: Capable of holding up to 30 lbs (13.6 kg), which supports a wide range of telescopes and imaging setups.
7. Built-in USB Port: Allows easy firmware updates and convenient connection to other accessories or a computer.
8. PEC (Periodic Error Correction): Reduces tracking errors, crucial for long-exposure astrophotography.
9. Adjustable Latitude Range (0–90°): Adaptable to a wide range of observing locations and latitudes.
10. Freedom Find Technology: Lets users manually move the telescope without losing its alignment, ideal for fast, intuitive movements.

Benefits:

1. Versatile for Multiple Observing Styles: Whether you’re focusing on visual observations or complex astrophotography, the AZ-EQ5 provides functionality for both.
2. Precise and User-Friendly Tracking: The SynScan GoTo system and high-precision belt drive deliver smooth, accurate tracking, ideal for both beginners and seasoned astronomers.
3. Less Vibration and Greater Stability: The pier tripod design enhances the mount’s stability, making it suitable for long-exposure astrophotography.
4. Quick Adjustments without Realignment: Dual encoders let you reposition the telescope manually without interrupting the tracking or alignment—a useful feature for adjusting to new targets quickly.
5. Portable yet Durable: Compact enough for transport, yet robust enough to handle various optical systems, making it a great choice for field observations.
6. Reduced Setup Time: Freedom Find technology and compatibility with a variety of software and equipment make setup faster and more convenient.
7. Future-Proof for Accessory Expansion: USB ports and PEC functions make it suitable for advanced setups, allowing room to grow as your astrophotography needs expand.
8. User-Centric Design: Designed with user convenience in mind, including its adjustable latitude range and periodic error correction, which make it adaptable for different locations and accurate long exposures.

The Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ5 with Pier Tripod provides a solid blend of versatility, advanced tracking technology, and stability, making it an ideal mount for both novice and advanced astronomers who need a portable yet powerful option.