Orion Atlas EQ-G Computerized GoTo Telescope Mount Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've owned several mounts: The Orion Atlas EQ-G Mount with GoTo controller is by far the best I have owned.
The Atlas is all-metal (instead of the more and more popular plastic of others) and weighs 45 pounds without the Tripod (very study, 2.25" stainless steel). The step motors are extremely quiet, making a slight noise only as they initiate and then stop. The skewing is rapid and seems effortless. It's rated for 40 pounds, but I suspect it can easily manage at least half again that amount.
I won't repeat the specs sheet here. If you compare the specs against other mounts, you find this mount is close to the Losmandy GM-8. but at a far lower price. GoTo function is the best I have seen. I suggest the 3-star alignment process for best accuracy. Do a Polar alignment with the included Polar finder scope, and then the first star is usually in the eyepeice, with the second star closer to the center, and the third star usually in the center. After that, almost every object I've looked for comes in dead center (or close to it). The PAE function is easy (hold the ESC key for 2 seconds) and increases accuracy furthur.
Computer linking and controlling (I use Starry nights Pro 6.0) is seamless.
I am uncertain why this mount is not more popular. It certainly deserves a hard look from anyone buying a mount.

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The new standard in affordable, heavy-duty GoTo mounts, the Atlas EQ-G is now available with GoTo or dual-axis (non-GoTo) hand controller. The mount supports tube assemblies of up to 40 lbs. and boasts 2"-diameter stainless steel legs. Internal DC stepper motors offer nine slew rates ranging from 2x to 800x sidereal and three tracking rates: sidereal, lunar, and solar. With the GoTo controller, select from 42,900 objects and command the mount to automatically pinpoint them. Backlash compensation and programmable PEC provide the responsiveness for guiding and the tracking accuracy needed for astrophotography. There's also a jack for a CCD autoguider. Mount includes RS-232 interface cable, two 11-lb. counterweights, illuminated polar-axis scope, and 13" dovetail mounting bar. Requires external 12-volt DC power source or AC-to-DC wall adapter. Weighs 54 lbs., not including counterweights.

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