Sky-Watcher HEQ5 – Fully Computerized - Review

Sky-Watcher HEQ5 – Fully Computerized GoTo German Equatorial Telescope Mount – Motorized Astrophotography Mount with 42,000 Object Database

Sky-Watcher has been a well-known and reputable brand in the telescope industry. Their products are known for their quality, durability, and performance. Recently, Sky-Watcher has launched a new product in the market, the Sky-Watcher HEQ5 – Fully Computerized GoTo German Equatorial Telescope Mount – Motorized Astrophotography Mount with 42,000 Object Database.

In this review, we will be taking an in-depth look at the features and specifications of this product to assess if it is worth investing in.

Design

The Sky-Watcher HEQ5 – Fully Computerized GoTo German Equatorial Telescope Mount – Motorized Astrophotography Mount with 42,000 Object Database is designed for astrophotography. It is a lightweight computerized equatorial mount that is perfect for both beginner and skilled astronomers. With heavy-duty all-metal roller bearings on both right ascension or declination axis, the mount is sturdy and can support up to 30-pounds. The mount is built with a beefy, all-metal construction that can accommodate all but the heaviest optical tubes.

Features

The Sky-Watcher HEQ5 – Fully Computerized GoTo German Equatorial Telescope Mount – Motorized Astrophotography Mount with 42,000 Object Database has a built-in illuminated Polar finder scope which greatly helps in quick and easy polar alignment. Polar alignment is essential to astrophotography, and the built-in finder scope of this mount makes it easier for astrophotographers to get started on their observations quickly.

This mount features a SynScan hand controller with a database of over 42,000 celestial objects that keep even the most experienced astronomer busy for countless observing nights. It utilizes a database to assist in locating and tracking celestial objects, making it easier for astrophotographers to capture clear and sharp images of the sky.

Roller steel legs are utilized in the mount tripod, providing stability and a sturdy platform for setting up the mount. The tripod has 1.75-inch diameter legs made of rolled-stainless steel.

Performance

The Sky-Watcher HEQ5 mount's performance is guided by the SynScan hand controller, which is easy to use and navigate through. It is computerized, and its GOTO functionality makes it possible for astrophotographers to track and locate different celestial objects in the sky with ease. The mount's motorized equatorial design makes it easier to make small adjustments to the telescope alignment to track objects in the sky continuously.

In terms of accuracy, the Sky-Watcher HEQ5 – Fully Computerized GoTo German Equatorial Telescope Mount – Motorized Astrophotography Mount with 42,000 Object Database has a precision tracking system that ensures that celestial objects remain in the field of view for extended periods. The mount is also designed to reduce vibrations and remain stable throughout the observation.

User Experience

Based on customer reviews, the Sky-Watcher HEQ5 – Fully Computerized GoTo German Equatorial Telescope Mount – Motorized Astrophotography Mount with 42,000 Object Database has an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars out of 79 reviews. Customers have praised the ease of use and convenience that the computerized mount provides. The built-in illuminated Polar finder scope and the SynScan hand controller are some of the exciting features that customers love the most.

However, some customers have also reported issues with the mount's build quality, with some parts feeling flimsy and cheaply made. Some customers have also reported issues with the mount's accuracy, mostly related to the azimuth adjustments.

Conclusion

The Sky-Watcher HEQ5 is a high-quality, computerized equatorial mount that is perfect for astrophotographers. Its 42,000 object database, motorized equatorial design, and illuminated Polar finder scope provide convenience and ease of use. The mount's precision tracking system ensures that celestial objects remain in the field of view for extended periods. However, some customers have reported issues with the mount's build quality and accuracy.

Overall, the Sky-Watcher HEQ5 is a good investment for beginner and skilled astronomers looking for a reliable and convenient mount to use in their observation and astrophotography endeavors. For the price, it offers a good balance between performance and value.

Sky-Watcher HEQ5 – Fully Computerized

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