ZWO AM5 Harmonic Equatorial Mount + carbon tripod

ZWO AM5 Equatorial Mount with Harmonic Drive gears

ZWO introduces the AM5 harmonic equatorial mount, a portable mount for astrophotography. The mount weighs less than 5 kg and supports telescopes up to 13 kg without a counterweight. With the counterweight and counterweight shaft (not included), the mount can support telescopes up to 20 kg. This exciting mount has been developed over several years of work and has been awarded various patents.

Many functions and ease of use

The AM5 can be used in both equatorial and azimuthal positions. Equatorial mode is used for astrophotography. The mount must be aligned as accurately as possible with the celestial pole. For visual observation or lunar and planetary photography, azimuthal mode is sufficient. The mount is ready to use in just a few minutes. The display always indicates which mode the mount is in: red indicates equatorial mode and green indicates azimuthal mode.

Counterweights are no longer necessary

Normally, German mounts require counterweights to balance the weight of the telescope. This is the only way to ensure correct operation. The AM5 uses robotic technology and does not require counterweights for telescopes up to 13 kg in weight. This makes the AM5 lighter, more compact, and easier to use. Counterweights are only recommended for heavier telescopes to keep the mount and tripod in balance.

Uniform tracking is guaranteed

ZWO checks and measures every AM5 mount before delivery and guarantees a periodic error ("PE") of less than +/-20 arcseconds. The periodic error occurs very slowly, so that autoguiding has enough time to correct it. Naturally, the mount is equipped with an ST-4 autoguider interface. Through ASIAir or other software, the PE can also be reduced electronically.

Usable anywhere on Earth

As expected from a true travel mount, the AM5 can be used anywhere on Earth, from the equator to the poles. The mount fits in any airline luggage.

No more cables thanks to WiFi

All functions of the mount can be controlled via smartphone. Naturally, the AM5 works particularly well with ZWO's ASIAir. With ASIAIR, everything from the camera to the autoguider, to the mount, can be controlled via an application using a smartphone or tablet. The mount can also be operated with the hand controller even without a smartphone. Naturally, the hand controller also works in wireless mode.

Key features

ZWO quality for a reliable and satisfying observation experience.

• Type: Mount
• Maximum load (kg): 13
• Input voltage: 12
• Mount plate: Losmandy & Vixen
• Polar elevation adjustment (°): 0 - 90
• Cable management: internal

Main technical specifications