i-OPTRON CEM26 GoTo Mount with AccuAlign Tech and LiteRock Tripod

C262B3 – CEM26 Center-Balanced Equatorial Mount with AccuAlign, Hard Case & LiteRoc Tripod

Now Available at Modern Telescopes – Authorized Distributor

Introducing the C262B3 CEM26 with AccuAlign™, Hard Carrying Case, and LiteRoc Tripod, a compact yet powerful center-balanced equatorial mount from iOptron. Designed for astronomers who want high payload capacity, excellent tracking accuracy, and true portability, the CEM26 sets a new benchmark in the compact GoTo mount category.

Center-Balanced Design for Natural Stability

The hallmark of the CEM26 is iOptron’s innovative Center-Balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM) architecture. Unlike traditional EQ mounts, the CEM design places the payload’s center of gravity directly over the tripod, resulting in superior natural stability, reduced torque, and excellent vibration damping.

Despite a mount head weighing only 10 lbs (4.5 kg), the CEM26 supports an impressive 26 lbs (12 kg) payload, achieving an outstanding 2.6:1 payload-to-mount weight ratio—ideal for travel astrophotography and stable visual observing.

Precision Mechanics & Modern Convenience

Built upon the proven legacy of earlier CEM mounts, the CEM26 incorporates multiple refinements for smooth operation and reliability:

• Large quick-lock gear clutches with positive engagement (easy even with gloves)

• Spring-loaded worm gear system for consistent tracking

• Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) to store and repeat optimal PEC training

• Low periodic error (< ±12 arc-seconds) for accurate imaging

• Adjustable counterweight shaft to avoid tripod interference

The result is precise pointing, reliable GoTo accuracy, and smooth tracking performance suitable for long-exposure imaging.

AccuAlign™ Polar Scope – Simple & Reliable Alignment

The CEM26B configuration is equipped with iOptron AccuAlign™ calibrated optical polar scope, enabling quick, accurate polar alignment using a traditional optical method. For observers who cannot see the pole star clearly, the mount also provides polar alignment routines via the Go2Nova® controller.

Polar alignment remains easy and accessible, as the polar scope is never blocked by the declination shaft—a major usability advantage.

LiteRoc Tripod + Hard Case – Built for the Field

This complete package includes:

• LiteRoc heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (7.5 kg) for excellent rigidity and vibration suppression

• Die-cast metal tripod spreader with accessory tray

• Aluminum hard carrying case, providing superior protection for transport and storage—perfect for traveling astronomers and observatory use

Advanced GoTo & Smart Connectivity

The CEM26 features Advanced GOTONOVA® GoTo Technology, making it one of the most capable mounts in its class:

• Go2Nova® 8409 hand controller with 212,000+ object database

• Large 4-line LCD display for intuitive setup

• Built-in Wi-Fi for wireless control

• USB port for PC control and firmware upgrades

• ST-4 autoguiding port for astrophotography

• ASCOM-compatible for computer control

Optional upgrades include 32-channel GPS and the iGuider™ autoguiding system.

Key Features

• Center-Balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM) design

• Ideal for astrophotography and visual observation

• 26 lbs (12 kg) payload capacity

• Compact 10 lbs (4.5 kg) mount head

• AccuAlign™ optical polar scope

• Permanent PEC (PPEC) support

• Built-in Wi-Fi, USB, and ST-4 guiding

• LiteRoc stainless steel tripod included

• Hard aluminum carrying case included

• Two-year limited warranty

Technical Specifications (Overview)

• Mount Type: Center-Balanced Equatorial Mount

• Payload Capacity: 26 lbs (12 kg)

• Mount Weight: 10 lbs (4.5 kg)

• Periodic Error: < ±12 arc-seconds

• Worm Period: 600 seconds

• Latitude Range: 0° – 60°

• Max Slew Speed: 6°/sec

• Power Requirement: 12V DC, 5A

• Tripod: LiteRoc Stainless Steel (7.5 kg)

• Warranty: Two Years

* OTA size dependent; OTA diameter under 6" recommended.

Why Buy from Modern Telescopes?

Modern Telescopes is India’s largest and most trusted telescope store and an authorized distributor of iOptron. Buying from us ensures:

• 100% genuine iOptron products

• Official manufacturer warranty

• Expert technical consultation

• Reliable after-sales support across India