Best Advanced Telescope Mounts for Astrophotography in 2024

What advanced telescope mount is best suited to carry heavy, long focal length telescopes with reliable, sub-arcsecond tracking in 2024? If you decide to go with a time-tested classic equatorial mount, the SkyWatcher EQ6-R Pro is still one of the best and most affordable options available at about $2000 dollars or euro. The iOptron GEM45 and CEM40 are lighter but more expensive telescope mounts. When looking into hybrid and harmonic drive mounts, the ZWO AM5 is the most popular mount used by astrophotographers. It is the most affordable harmonic drive mount in this payload capacity range, available for about $2000 dollars in the USA. Unfortunately, European astroshops ask about 2700 euros. The ZWO AM5 is nifty lightweight, small-sized EQ/Alt-Az mount that is capable of tracking the night sky at sub-arc accuracy for payloads up to 12 kg (26.4 lb) without and 18 kg (40 lbs) with a counterweight.

At one point, astrophotographers – including myself – will experience “aperture fever” and yearn for telescope mounts that can support larger, heavier telescopes than the typical beginner mount limit of about 12kg (26 lbs). This blog is intended for those who are looking for such an “advanced” or “future-proof” mount for astrophotography. In recent years, there has been an emergence of harmonic drive mounts and hybrid mounts alongside classic equatorial mounts, providing astrophotographers with more options to choose from. However, this abundance of options can make it difficult to select the “right” telescope mount. In this blog, I will provide an overview of the ten most popular astrophotography mounts in 2024 to aid in your decision-making process. Before I do so, I’ll first explain what I consider to be an “advanced” mount, and write about the current revolution of harmonic drive mounts. Then, I will compare the 10 most commonly used telescope mounts for astrophotography, which all aim to deliver sub-arcsecond tracking accuracy to capture the beauty of the night sky using a big aperture, long focal length telescope.

Advanced Telescope Mounts for Astrophotography

An “advanced” or “future proof” mount in astrophotography refers to a mount capable of carrying a heavy payload while guiding at sub-arcsecond accuracy to avoid elongated stars or star trails when capturing long exposure images of tiny deep-sky objects such as small nebulas, globular clusters or galaxies. Using a long focal-length telescope with a bigger aperture is essential to capture the intricate details of these objects, which cannot be captured with what I call “beginner” mounts for astrophotography, like the Celestron AVX or SkyWatcher HEQ5 Pro. These mounts have a maximum payload capacity of around 12 kg (25 lbs) and usually guide with a 1 to 2-arcsecond accuracy with auto-guiding, which is insufficient to photograph tiny deep-sky objects with subarcsecond accuracy. To avoid overtaxing the mount, elongated stars, and risking gear failure, a mount capable of carrying a payload up to 20 kgs (44 lbs) and capable of guiding with sub-arcsecond accuracy is necessary. These mounts are more expensive, with price tags ranging from $2000 to $3500. All the more reason to do your research before buying one.

Classic Equatorial mounts, Harmonic Drive Mounts, and Hybrid mounts

A few years ago, finding such an advanced, future-proof telescope mount for astrophotography was relatively straightforward, with the classic German equatorial mounts and center-balanced mounts from iOptron being the main options available. However, the rise of Harmonic Drive Mounts has diversified the market significantly. These mounts are getting more precise in tracking celestial objects due to their motors’ high reduction ratio, based on strain wave gear technology. Also, harmonic drive mounts have high torque, enabling them to carry much heavier payloads with a lighter telescope mount as compared to traditional equatorial mounts. Furthermore, harmonic drive mounts do not require counterweights to balance telescope gear, although they can be added if needed. While the concept of strain wave gears was invented in 1957, harmonic drive mounts only recently became available for amateur astrophotographers. In addition, there are also hybrid mounts, mainly from iOptron, that combine a harmonic drive gear for movement in right ascension with a classic worm/belt drive in declination, offering the best of both worlds.

Are you ready to go Harmonic or stay classic GEM?

In the astrophotography world today, one of the first decisions to make is whether to go with a Harmonic Drive Mount or stick with a classic GEM. Some astrophotographers are hesitant to switch to a Harmonic Drive Mount, and many of them are taking a “wait and see” approach. Their main concern is that the periodic error on the Harmonic Drive Mount may be worse than on the advanced German equatorial mounts. In addition, Harmonic Drive Mounts appear to be more expensive than classic German equatorial mounts with a similar payload capacity. While these concerns about Harmonic Drive Mounts are valid, there are also positive aspects to consider. One significant advantage is that the mount head of a Harmonic Drive Mount is much lighter, often weighing about 3 to 4 times less than a classic German equatorial mount in a similar payload capacity range. Harmonic drive mounts are also more compact, making them easy to transport to dark sky sites. Although the technology is still relatively new for astrophotography, harmonic drives have been around for a long time and are well-known for their reliability in other industries. Furthermore, the newer Harmonic Drive Mounts typically come with advanced control features beyond the classic hand controller, like WiFi apps, advanced control options like the ASIAIR Plus, and dedicated USB connections. Ultimately, the choice is yours!

Popular Advanced German Equatorial Mounts

In the price range of $2000 to $3500, there are five classic German Equatorial mounts that have been leading the market of advanced astrophotography mounts for several years. These mounts include the SkyWatcher EQ6-R Pro and its AZ-EQ6 variant, the iOptron CEM40, and GEM45, as well as the Celestron CGEMII. Out of these mounts, the SkyWatcher EQ6-R Pro has been the most popular among astrophotographers who share their images on Astrobin. However, each of the other mounts is well-known among the astrocommunity as well, and are reliable telescope mounts for many astrophotographers in the field. Let’s discuss each of these mounts in greater depth.

SkyWatcher EQ6-R Pro

The Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial GoTo Mount is highly respected by astrophotographers due to its remarkable tracking abilities and its impressive weight capacity of 20 kgs (44lbs). As an owner myself, I have written a comprehensive review which can be found here. The mount comes with a SynScan hand controller, offering precise GoTo functionality with access to over 42,000 celestial objects. The USB port allows for easy connectivity to a PC or other controller, while the illuminated polar scope simplifies polar alignment. I usually control the mount using the dedicated USB port, connecting it directly to a standalone computer with a USB cable with the ASCOM driver which enables me to control the mount remotely with astrophotography software, instead of using the hand controller. The belt drive and stepper motors operate quietly, and the mount has an extra ST-4 autoguider port for a guide camera (although I connect my guide camera directly to my computer via USB). With autoguiding enabled – I personally use PHD2 with multi-star guiding at 1 second intervals – the EQ6-R pro tracks the night sky well within one arcsecond (0.3 to 0.8 arcseconds is my experience). The mount also includes Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PEC) to train out the worm gear’s periodic errors. The mount can support large telescopes and imaging accessories up to its weight capacity, using two independent 5 kg (11 lb) counterweights and a retractable counterweight shaft for balance. The mount head weighs 17 kg (38 lbs) and features a built-in carrying handle, which helps to carry and transport the mount. The included saddle accommodates both Losmandy and Vixen-style dovetails, so any type of telescope can be mounted on the EQ6-R Pro.

The SkyWatcher EQ6-R Pro is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop (EU/WW).

SkyWatcher AZ-EQ6 Pro

The Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ6 Pro mount is very similar to the EQ6-R Pro. It is a versatile and heavy-duty mount, that combines the benefits of both an EQ and AZ mount. With a payload capacity of 44 pounds, it can handle a variety of big aperture, long focal-length telescopes for imaging and visual applications. In EQ mode, the mount is suitable for long exposure, deep-sky imaging, while in Alt-Az mode, it’s perfect for visual observations. The mount is equipped with ultra-quiet stepper motors and belt drives on both RA and Dec axis, reducing backlash and allowing for precise tracking and guiding. The AZ-EQ6 Pro also features Sky-Watcher’s Freedom Find encoder system, which allows for disengaging clutches and manually moving the mount while maintaining initial alignment for the ultimate visual tracking mount. The mount has the capability to mount two separate optical systems on each side of the RA axis using the included secondary mounting saddle. This dual mode is great for solar imaging, outreach, educational purposes, and using two different telescopes such as a wide and narrow field configuration. The AZ-EQ6 Pro also has a built-in USB-B port for easy PC connection and control. The Sky-Watcher SynScan Pro hand controller provides access to a database of over 42,000 objects in the night sky. The mount includes an illuminated polar finderscope with a circular grid reticle for the northern hemisphere and constellation Octans for the southern hemisphere, allowing for polar alignment even without a clear view of Polaris. The mount also features built-in periodic error correction training for astrophotographers to reduce periodic errors. Overall, the Sky-Watcher AZ-EQ6 Pro is a reliable and flexible mount suitable for a wide range of astronomical applications.

The SkyWatcher AZ-EQ6 Pro is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop (EU/WW).

iOptron CEM40

The iOptron CEM40 mount is a center-balanced equatorial mount that is designed to be both visually appealing and functional. With a weight of only 7.9 kg (17.4 lb), this mount can support a payload of up to 18 kg (40 lb), making it an incredibly versatile and powerful mount. One of the key features of the iOptron CEM40 mount is the optional iPolar electronic polar finder scope. This tool helps to ensure the accurate alignment of a telescope, even when the pole star is not visible. The mount also includes large levers on the quick-lock drive engagement system, which makes it easy to snap the gears into place. The CEM40 has a dual saddle that can accommodate Losmandy and Vixen-style dovetail plates. It uses iOptron’s ultra-quiet, low-power consumption stepper motor drive system to provide precise tracking. Additionally, the mount is equipped with the Go2Nova® 8410 hand controller, which offers an extensive 212,000+ object database and advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO technology. The iOptron CEM40 mount is an ideal tool for both visual observation and astrophotography. It features a low periodic error of less than ±7.5 arc seconds, permanent periodic error correction (PPEC), and an integrated ST-4 autoguiding port. The mount also includes a 32-channel Global Positioning System (GPS), USB communication port, and cable management system. The CEM40 mount is all metal, CNC machined with red/black anodized finish, and comes with a standard 1.5-inch heavy-duty stainless steel tripod (5kg) and a 5 kg (11 lb) counterweight. Additionally, optional WiFi is available for mount control via Smartphone/Tablet/Computer. Overall, the iOptron CEM40 mount is an impressive mount that offers exceptional performance and ease of use.

The iOptron CEM40 is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop (EU/WW).

iOptron GEM45

The iOptron GEM45 is a next-generation German equatorial mount that combines innovative ideas with a time-tested design. This mount features a sharp-looking CNC body that exudes quality in both form and function. With experiences gained from developing the CEM series, unnecessary bulk has been removed, resulting in an incredible 2.5 payload-to-mount weight ratio. Despite its compact 7 kg (17.5 lb) weight, it can precisely track with up to 20 kg (45 lb) of gear onboard and is capable of precise GOTO (Go To Object) functionality. Its optional integrated electronic polar scope, known as the iPolar, ensures easy and accurate polar alignment, even when the pole star is obscured. The mount has large levers on the quick-lock drive engagement system, making it easy to snap the drive gears into place even while wearing gloves. The advanced cable management system helps avoid cable snags, and the 6″ dual dovetail saddle can accommodate both Losmandy and Vixen-style dovetail plates. The mount uses reliable stepper motor drive systems with low power consumption technology. A 212,000+ object library with star identification, GPS, and Wi-Fi (with an optional iStarFi adapter) are great features on the GEM45 mount. Other features of the GEM45 include a low periodic error of less than ±7.5 arc seconds, permanent periodic error correction (PPEC), an auto-guiding port, a USB communication port, and a 32-channel Global Positioning System (GPS). The mount also includes the Go2Nova® controller with Advanced GOTONOVA® GOTO Technology and a built-in heater. The all-metal CNC-machined body is red and black anodized for durability and aesthetics. Additionally, the mount can be ordered with a new LiteRoc 1.75″ tripod that delivers rock-solid stability in a lighter, more compact package. An optional WiFi feature is available for mount control via smartphone, tablet, or computer. This mount is ideal for both visual observation and astrophotography, making it a versatile mount for any astronomer.

The iOptron GEM45 is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop (EU/WW)

Celestron CGEMII

The CGEM II mount is an update to the CGEM series, capable of securely holding larger telescopes (e.g. SCTs) up to 11″ for imaging and visual observation. With a payload capacity of 18 kg (40 lb) and a 5° per second slewing speed, you can easily point to any celestial object in the database. The mount is designed with large altitude and azimuth adjustment knobs for easy polar alignment, and its internal RA and DEC motor wiring creates a clean, trouble-free setup. The CGEM II also features Celestron’s innovative All-Star Polar alignment procedure, which allows for accurate polar alignment using any star, even when the celestial pole cannot be seen.

For astrophotographers, the mount also includes Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PEC) to train out the worm gear’s periodic errors while retaining the PEC recordings. Additionally, the CGEM II can track well past the Meridian for uninterrupted imaging of objects near the Meridian. The mount comes with a database of over 40,000 objects, 100 user-defined programmable objects, and enhanced information on over 200 objects. The mount’s dual saddle plates accommodate both CG-5 and CGE-style dovetails. The CGEM II is compatible with Celestron’s Starry Night Special Edition Software and SkyPortal app. The mount head weighs 18 kg (40 lb), and the tripod weighs 9 kg (20 lb), with a height adjustment range of 1346mm – 1651mm (53″ – 65″) and a latitude adjustment range of 15° – 70°. It includes an accessory tray, 1 x 17 lbs counterweight, NexStar+ Hand Controller, DC Power Cable, and Hand Control Holster.

The Celestron CGEMII is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop. (EU/WW)

Celestron CGX

For the past eight years, Celestron’s CGEM mount series has served as the backbone for German Equatorial mounts, accommodating telescopes ranging from 6 to 11 inches in aperture. As backyard telescope technology has advanced, more astro-imagers and planetarium-controlled setups have emerged. Leveraging their expertise, Celestron’s engineering team developed the CGX EQ, integrating years of experience and advancements in technology, value, and usability.

The CGX boasts a sturdy design with increased load capacity, supporting up to 25 kg (55 lbs). With a mount head weight of 20 kg (44 lbs), and a tripod of 8.7 kg (19.2 lbs), it is not the lightest telescope mount. However, high quality motors and a belt-drive system provide precise slewing and tracking, even under heavy loads. Innovative features such as internal cabling, adjustable EQ head position, and an ergonomic latitude adjuster further enhance its functionality. With its comprehensive set of features and specifications, including a wide tripod stance for improved stability and compatibility with various accessories, the CGX offers professional-level performance for astrophotography.

Of course, the Celestron CGX comes equipped with fundamental features like Periodic Error Correction, autoguiding, USB connectivity through the hand controller, and ASCOM control. Additionally, Celestron provides distinctive control software such as CPWI Telescope Control, Celestron Starry Night Special Edition, and the SkyPortal App.

The Celestron CGX is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop (EU/WW).

Advanced Hybrid Mounts

iOptron HEM44

The HEM44 is one of iOptron’s latest hybrid strain wave drive mounts. It is designed to deliver a revolutionary astronomy experience free from cumbersome counterweights and shafts. With a compact and lightweight design, this advanced payload mount can handle up to 20 kg (44 lb) of weight without requiring a counterweight or shaft. Built with precision and expertise gained over decades, the HEM44s utilize advanced strain wave drive technology for the RA movement and a backlash-free DEC worm/belt drive design to deliver unparalleled weight to payload efficiency.

The mount’s black anodized all-metal CNC machined body is rugged and aesthetically appealing. It comes equipped with an electronic friction brake and power-down memory, allowing the mount to safely stop and resume a GoTo slew or continue tracking after an abrupt power loss without needing to realign from scratch. The HEM44 mount can be controlled by a computer via ASCOM/Commander for Windows PC, a third-party INDI driver for MacOS software, a smartphone/tablet via iOptron Commander Lite or an app like SkySafari, or a Raspberry Pi device via INDI driver. Other features of the HEM44 mount include a 270-second gear period, a Go2Nova hand controller with a database of approximately 212,000 objects, a cable management system that eliminates hanging exterior cables to moving parts, a dual saddle that accommodates Vixen and Losmandy-D styles, a built-in zero position search and locator, an integrated ST-4 auto-guiding port, built-in Wi-Fi via the hand controller, a USB port for firmware upgrades and computer control, and an aluminum carrying case.

The iOptron HEM44 is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop (EU/WW)

Full Harmonic Drive Mounts

ZWO AM5

The ZWO AM5 Harmonic Drive Equatorial Mount is an ideal lightweight, high-quality mount designed specifically for amateur astrophotographers. This mount head offers stability and portability, weighing only 5.5 kg (11 lb), yet capable of holding up to 13 kg (28.6 lb) without a counterweight and 20 kg (44 lb.) with a counterweight. The incorporated Harmonic drive speed reducer and synchronous belt provide precision control and eliminate the need for counterweights, although they can be added if desired. The reduction ratio is 300:1, resulting in accurate tracking, low periodic errors, smooth gearing, and high torque. The guiding accuracy of this ZWO mount is 0.5 – 0.8 arc seconds. I tested this mount personally with telescopes up to 1500mm focal length, you can find my review here. Controlling the mount is easy with the included rocker-style hand controller or through the app on a smartphone or tablet via the integrated WiFi network. Users can switch between equatorial or alt-azimuth mount modes.

The mount body has a status light indicator that signals whether it is in equatorial or alt-azimuth mode. The equatorial mode is ideal for tracking and imaging celestial objects, while the alt-azimuth mode is better suited for observations. Additional technical features of the ZWO AM5 mount head include a maximum slew speed of 6°/S, a latitude adjustment range of 0°- 90°, an azimuth angle adjustment range of ±10°, and a power port of DC5.5 – 2.1 (12V – 3A). The mount head comes with a dovetail compatible with Losmandy & Vixen (dual saddle), and a thread for a counterweight shaft interface (M12). The box includes the AM5 Mount Body, Handcontroller Cable, Rocker Hand Controller, and the optional Carbon Fiber Tripod (TC40). This computerized GoTo mount also includes USB and ST4 accessory ports, and periodic error correction. Drivers available are ASCOM, and the mount operates between -20°C to 50°C. At the time of writing, the ZWO AM5 is the most often used harmonic drive mount by astrophotographers when looking at the number of users on dedicated astrophotography sites like Astrobin.

The ZWO AM5 is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop (EU/WW).

iOptron HAE43 AZ/EQ

The HAE43 AZ/EQ dual mount is one of the latest additions to iOptron’s strain wave gear mount family. This medium payload, lightweight and compact giant is bound to provide a satisfying astronomy experience. With the mount head weighing less than 5.9 kg (13 lb) and a payload capacity of 20 kg (44 lb), this mount can handle a substantial load without the need for a bulky counterweight or shaft. The HAE43 employs cutting-edge strain wave gear technology for both RA and DEC movements, ensuring unmatched weight-to-payload efficiency. Its black anodized CNC-machined all-metal body not only looks good, but it is also a durable platform that can perform at the highest level for years to come. Innovative features, such as an electronic friction brake and power-down memory, allow the mount to safely stop and resume a GoTo slew or continue tracking even after an abrupt power loss, eliminating the need to realign and start from scratch.

The HAE43 mount can be controlled by a computer via ASCOM/Commander for Windows PC, a third-party INDI driver for MacOS software, a smartphone/tablet via iOptron Commander Lite or an app like SkySafari, or a Raspberry Pi device via INDI driver. Features of the HAE43 mount include a dovetail saddle, a unique friction brake on both RA and DEC to safely stop movement during a planned or unplanned power interruption, a 270-second gear period, a Go2Nova hand controller with ~212,000 object database, an optional iPolar electronic polar scope for easy and accurate polar alignment, customer cable management system ready, dual saddle (Vixen and Losmandy-D styles), built-in zero position search and locator, power down position and location memory, integrated ST-4 auto-guiding port, built-in Wi-Fi (via hand controller), USB port for firmware upgrade and computer control, and an aluminum carrying case.

The iOptron HAE43 AZ/EQ is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop (EU/WW)

Pegasus Astro NYX-101

The Nyx-101 mount is a high-performing, high-payload mount designed and produced based on the inspiration from the ancient Greek goddess of the night, Nyx. With a maximum payload capacity of 20 kg (44 lbs), this mount can easily support imaging equipment without the need for counterweights or shafts. The mount uses a strain wave drive on both the RA and DEC movement, resulting in a backlash-free operation with high torque at high payloads. The mount features a fully CNC-machined aluminum alloy 6061 body, which is black and blue anodized, ensuring long-lasting performance. Additionally, the mount comes with branded parts, including stepper motors and strain wave gears, to ensure the mount performs flawlessly for years. Safety features include an electronic brake on the RA axis to prevent backsliding when the power is off, as well as safety limit stops during slew or tracking. The Nyx-101 mount is a lightweight design, weighing only 6.4 kg (14 lb), and can easily handle a wide range of telescopes, from small refractors to fully loaded SCT 11-inch telescopes. The mount can be used in either Equatorial or Alt-Az mode, making it more suitable for astrophotography and visual observations.

The mount can be switched from Equatorial to Altazimuth mode using a PC or mobile application. The Nyx-101 mount supports wireless and USB 2 connectivity and is compatible with LX200 protocol and Sky Safari for mobile interaction. The mount can operate on a DC 12 Volts Battery and requires less than 0.6Amp during tracking and up to 2.5 Amps during slewing. The mount includes a low profile and rigid universal saddle that accepts Vixen and Losmandy dovetails. Additional features of the Nyx-101 mount include an integrated ST-4 Autoguiding Port, Polemaster Adapter for precise polar alignment, electronic assistant for initial polar alignment, reverse voltage polarity protection, ASCOM, INDI, Sky Safari support, and mobile control. The mount also features safety limit encoders on the RA Axis to prevent internal cable snag or collision with the tripod. Firmware upgrades are also easily achievable, allowing users to stay up-to-date with bug fixes and new features. Overall, the Nyx-101 mount is an excellent choice for astrophotographers and astronomers who require a high-performing and reliable mount that can easily handle high payloads.

The Pegasus Astro NYX-101 is available at Agena Astro (USA/WW), High Point Scientific (USA/WW), and Astroshop (EU/WW)

In conclusion

Which advanced telescope mount available in 2024 is optimal for accommodating heavy, long focal length telescopes while maintaining reliable, subarcsecond tracking? Among the telescope mounts discussed, each is commendable for astrophotography.

For those who favor a proven classic equatorial mount, the SkyWatcher EQ6-R Pro remains one of the finest and most economical choices, priced at approximately $2000 at the time of publication. Alternatively, the iOptron GEM45 and CEM40, though slightly lighter, come with a higher price tag of $2338 and $2448 respectively. Celestron’s CGEMII and CGX, while robust, are notably weighty mounts.

For those prioritizing portability and innovative drive mechanisms, the ZWO AM5 emerges as a favored option among astrophotographers. In the USA, it stands out as the most cost-effective harmonic drive mount, typically retailing for around $2000. However, the situation differs in Europe, where established astroshops list the ZWO AM5 for approximately 2700 euros, possibly reflecting EU import tariffs from China. Despite the price variation, this mount offers a compact EQ/Alt-Az design capable of precise sub-arcsecond tracking, supporting payloads up to 12 kg (26.4 lb) without and 18 kg (40 lb) with a counterweight. As always, I advice you to do thorough research before making your decision.

Clear skies!