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July 1st: Store will be closed for Canada Day. Orders placed that day will ship on July 2nd.
July 1st: Store will be closed for Canada Day. Orders placed that day will ship on July 2nd.
Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i Pro Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i Pro Mount

by Sky-Watcher
SKU SW-S30515
CA$1,170.00 - CA$1,170.00
CA$1,170.00
CA$1,170.00 - CA$1,170.00
CA$1,170.00
Price Match Policy!
  • 22-pound (9.97kg) instrument capacity
  • Lightweight 8.2-pound (3.7kg) mount head
  • Built-in WiFi for app-based GoTo control
  • Includes illuminated polar scope for precise alignment
  • USB-C, Guide, and SNAP ports for modern connectivity
  • 42,000+ object GoTo database
3 in stock
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i Pro GoTo Mount

    The Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i Pro mount combines a 22-pound (9.97kg) payload capacity with a portable 8.2-pound (3.7kg) head weight, making it an ideal platform for mobile imaging. With built-in WiFi, you can control the mount's 42,000+ object database directly from your smartphone or tablet. The 73mm Right Ascension gear and included illuminated polar scope provide the tracking accuracy needed for long-exposure astrophotography.

    22 lb Capacity in an 8.2 lb Head

    The EQ-AL55i Pro hits a critical balance between stability and portability. The 8.2-pound mount head securely carries imaging rigs up to 22 pounds, suitable for wide-field refractors or mid-size Newtonians. The entire system, including the 11.5-pound tripod and included counterweights, remains manageable for transport to dark sky sites.

    Wireless Control via Built-in WiFi

    Forget the hand controller. The EQ-AL55i Pro features integrated WiFi, allowing you to align, slew, and track targets using the SynScan Pro app on your iOS or Android device. This modernizes your workflow, reducing cable clutter and providing a user-friendly interface to navigate its 42,000+ object database.

    • Full ASCOM Control: Connect directly to popular imaging software like N.I.N.A. or Sequence Generator Pro for seamless telescope and camera integration.
    • Modern Ports: A USB-C port provides a reliable wired connection to a PC, while dedicated ST-4 (RJ-12) guide and SNAP ports offer comprehensive control over your imaging session.

    Designed for Astrophotography from 0° to 80° Latitude

    Engineered with a 73mm RA worm gear driven by servo motors, this mount delivers the smooth tracking essential for astrophotography. An illuminated polar scope is included as standard equipment, ensuring you can achieve precise polar alignment quickly. The design also features two positions for the counterweight bar, enhancing clearance and balance, especially for users at lower latitudes.

    EQ-AL55i vs. the EQM-35: Key Upgrades

    As the successor to the popular EQM-35, the EQ-AL55i incorporates several key design improvements for better field reliability and usability.

    • Fully Encased Motors: The servo motors are now housed within the mount chassis, protecting them from dew, dust, and accidental impacts during setup and transport.
    • USB-C Connectivity: The addition of a USB-C port offers a more robust and modern standard for PC connection compared to older serial or USB-B ports.
    • Low-Latitude Optimization: The redesigned counterweight bar positioning provides better ergonomics and balance options, a direct benefit for imagers located closer to the equator.

  • What telescopes work well with the Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i's 22-pound capacity?

    The EQ-AL55i is ideal for small to mid-size refractors (70-102mm), 6-inch Newtonian reflectors, or 6-inch Schmidt-Cassegrains. For astrophotography, it's recommended to keep the total payload (telescope, camera, guidescope) around 15-18 pounds to ensure optimal tracking and guiding.

    How do I control the EQ-AL55i Pro without a hand controller?

    The mount is designed for wireless control. You connect your smartphone or tablet to the mount's built-in WiFi network and use the Sky-Watcher SynScan Pro app (available for iOS and Android) for alignment, GoTo slewing, and tracking. You can also connect to a computer via the USB-C port for control with ASCOM-compatible software.

    Is the EQ-AL55i a good choice for imaging the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) with a DSLR?

    Yes, absolutely. A DSLR with a 200-300mm lens is a very lightweight setup, well under the mount's capacity. After a good polar alignment using the included illuminated polar scope, the EQ-AL55i's gear-driven tracking will allow you to take multi-minute exposures to capture the faint dust lanes and outer arms of Andromeda (M31).

    What are the main upgrades on the EQ-AL55i compared to the older EQM-35?

    The EQ-AL55i features several significant improvements over the EQM-35:

    • Encased motor housings for better protection against elements and damage.
    • Built-in WiFi for modern, app-based control out of the box.
    • A USB-C port for a more reliable, modern PC connection.
    • Optimized counterweight bar positioning for better performance at low latitudes.

    Can I use the EQ-AL55i Pro for visual observation of Jupiter with an 8" SCT?

    An 8" SCT optical tube typically weighs around 12-14 lbs, which is within the mount's 22 lb capacity for visual use. The mount's GoTo system can easily find and track Jupiter, keeping it centered in the eyepiece. However, for serious planetary imaging with an 8" SCT, a heavier-duty mount would provide more stability against wind and vibrations.

    What power supply do I need for the Sky-Watcher EQ-AL55i?

    The mount requires a DC power source between 9V and 12.6V. The power port is a standard 2.1mm female center-positive plug. A portable astronomy battery pack or a universal AC adapter with at least 2 amps of output is recommended for reliable operation.

  • UPC 810098970402
    Mount Type Equatorial
    Instrument Capacity 22 lbs (9.97 kg)
    Mount Head Weight 8.2 lbs (3.7 kg)
    Mount Head Dimensions 286mm x 241mm x 133mm
    Tripod Weight 11.5 lbs
    Tripod Height (Retracted/Extended) 45" / 58"
    Tripod Leg Diameter 1.75"
    Mounting Saddle V-style
    RA Gear Size 73mm
    Motor Type Servo
    Drive Type Gear
    Latitude Range 0° - 80°
    GoTo System SynScan
    Object Database 42,000+
    Polar Scope Yes, illuminated
    Tracking Modes Sidereal, Solar, Lunar
    Connectivity Built-in WiFi
    PC Port USB-C
    Guide Port Yes (RJ-12, 6-pin)
    SNAP Port Yes (2.1mm)
    Hand Controller Optional
    Power Requirements DC 9V - 12.6V
    Power Port 2.1mm female
    Counterweights Included 3.9 lbs (1.8 kg) & 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg)
    Shipping Weight 25.35 lbs (14.8 kg)
    Shipping Dimensions 40" x 19" x 9"

    • EQ-AL55i Pro Mount Head

      × 1

    • Tripod

      × 1

    • 3.9 lb (1.8kg) Counterweight

      × 1

    • 7.7 lb (3.5kg) Counterweight

      × 1

    • Counterweight Bar

      × 1

    • Polar Scope with Illuminator

      × 1

    • Accessory Tray

      × 1

    • DC Power Cable

      × 1

  • Sky-Watcher 2-Year Warranty