Telescope-Equatorial Mounts-Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i Mount

22 lb. Payload, High Precision Tracking
Built with quality in mind, this EQ-AL55i counteracts Earth’s rotation with incredible accuracy. Mini Servo motors integrated within this equatorial mount allow for high precision GoTo slews and impressive tracking performance. Select your desired target, and sit back as this Sky-Watcher mount automatically moves to your selected object, centering it within your field of view. The 22 lb. payload capacity enables you to utilize a wide variety of telescopes and equipment, from a simple visual rig to a more complex astrophotography setup. Recommended for refractors up to 4”, and reflectors and Schmidt-Cassegrains up to 6”, the Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i provides you with exceptional versatility.

Multiple Means of Control
Furthering versatility, there are numerous ways to operate this Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i mount. Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth provide a streamlined way to control your mount through just your smartphone or tablet. This means there is no need to fumble with cables during setup, and there is less of a chance of cable snag throughout your astronomy sessions. The Sky-Watcher SynScan Pro app enables you to star align, select objects to slew to, control tracking rates, and includes other features for full control over your EQ-AL55i. ASCOM compliant, you have the ability to utilize a wide variety of astronomy software, such as N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro, Astro Photography Tool, and plenty of others. This mount is also compatible with the ZWO ASIAIR WiFi Camera Controller via WiFi, USB-C connection, or EQMOD cable connection. For those looking for a simplified method of operation, you also have the opportunity to add a user-supplied Sky-Watcher SynScan V5 Hand Controller.

Numerous Ports and a Solid Power Connection
This EQ-AL55i comes equipped with a host of ports to aid in your nights under the stars. A Snap port offers connection to your DSLR, allowing you to operate your camera’s shutter through a user-supplied hand controller or through the Sky-Watcher SynScan app. The 2.1 mm power port on this mount stays stationary during slews and tracking, significantly reducing the chances of accidental cable snags! Also featured is a USB-C port for a more streamlined connection to your laptop computer or WiFi camera control device. On the other side of this mount you’ll find an RJ-12, 6-pin autoguiding port to assist with tracking, as well as an RJ-45, 8-pin hand controller port for use with a Sky-Watcher SynScan V5 Hand Controller (not included). This hand controller port can also be used with a user-supplied EQMOD cable for connection to your laptop or WiFi camera control device.

Various Polar Alignment Methods
Polar alignment can be accomplished in numerous different ways with this Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i. Within the body, you’ll find a built-in polar scope with an illuminated reticle. This is highly convenient for quick polar alignment when using for visual use or wide field astrophotography. For those who wish to polar align their mount with assistance from software, the EQ-AL55i is compatible with a wide variety of platforms. Laptop connections open the door for use with ASCOM supported software such as SharpCap, while you also have the opportunity to utilize the built-in polar alignment feature within the ZWO ASIAIR.

Strong and Sturdy Steel Tripod
This EQ-AL55i comes equipped with a durable tripod at its base. Made of rolled steel, vibrations are kept to a minimum for optimal performance during your visual or astrophotography sessions. The 1.75” legs provide ample stability, and are adjustable to help you level your equipment over uneven terrain. Furthering rigidity, the included spreader bar holds the legs in a wide stance, and doubles as an accessory tray to help keep you organized.

Optimized for Travel and Backyard Observing
As a step up from a star tracker, this EQ-AL55i is a great choice for both astrophotographers on the go and those imaging from their backyard! Additions such as built-in WiFi and Bluetooth streamline your setup, allowing you the ability to control this mount with just your smartphone or tablet. The included tripod is collapsible, and the mount head weighs just 8.2 lbs., making it easy to pack this system up for trips to dark skies. Despite its compact frame, the Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i is robust enough for more permanent backyard setups, with the 22 lb. payload capacity supporting up to 6” Schmidt-Cassegrains. With qualities like these, the Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i earns our High Point Scientific Astrophotography Mount Classification Badges of Portable Grab & Go and Backyard Observing!