I have to let some equipment go and this iOptron Smartstar mount is not getting used these days due to a new mount arriving.
There are a few reviews online of this mount, and this is one:
http://www.cloudynights.com/item.php?item_id=2740
I had had good use from this mount for the past six-eight months since purchase. The Goto Nova is very easy to use and the scope gets the GPS location from the satellite network; all you need to do is set it up level, and point the arrow to true south. It has performed well with the following scopes: 130mm Celestron Astromaster (Newt), and my AR102 Bresser 600mm fl refractor. The refractor is towards the heavier end of the payload capacity but with the mods done it was fine (just don't overload it with heavy 2" diagonals, and camera equipment). It's a great solar scope mount (when the solar filters are used). It does not require tracking mode changes, it automatically detects what kind of object your
going to and changes the tracking to suit (solar, lunar, sideral).
It would be a great Grab and Go mount for anyone with a smaller refractor 60-80mm for example.
Original cost was $495 for the stock mount.
My Smartstar has all of the recommended mods to increase stability and altitude bearing performance: specifically,
- larger and thicker Altitude Teflon Bearing, allowing better load performance and reduced chance of slippage.
- Altitude gear case bracing to remove any slop in the movement.
- Plywood battery/gear tray which braces the tripod legs and a turnbuckle tie down to pull it up against the legs and act as a spreader brace.
- Additional lock screw added to the dovetail to provide extra security (extra long hold knob is also included).
The mount comes with its supplied AC/DC power supply, and all the documentation supplied. Additional manuals and information are available on the iOptron website.
I am asking $350 for this mount, which is, I believe, very good value considering the modifications done to improve performance.
Local pickup (at Lake Macquarie NSW) is preferred but I am prepared to ship it at buyers cost (subject to Aust Post quote to your destination). PS - If shipped the plywood brace may have to be left out due to the irregular size, head unit and tripod could go in one box. A new plywood brace could be sourced locally by the buyer, but this will not affect the purchase price.
Photos are attached.
