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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 EQ6-R Pro
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro

by Sky-Watcher
SKU SW-S30300
$2,250.00 - $2,250.00
$2,250.00
$2,250.00 - $2,250.00
$2,250.00
Price Match Policy!
  • 44 lb instrument payload capacity
  • Belt-driven stepper motors for smooth, quiet slewing
  • SynScan GoTo controller with 42,900+ object database
  • Built-in illuminated polar scope for precise alignment
  • Dual D/V-style mounting saddle
  • Features ST-4 autoguider port and PC direct connect port
1 in stock
Worldwide Shipping
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Mount

    The Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro delivers the stability and precision required for serious astrophotography, supporting a 44 lb payload on a robust tripod with 2-inch diameter steel legs. Its belt-driven stepper motor system ensures quiet, accurate tracking, while the SynScan hand controller puts a database of over 42,900 celestial objects at your fingertips. The entire system has a fully assembled weight of 76.5 lbs, including two 11 lb counterweights, creating an exceptionally stable platform for imaging.

    44 lb Payload on a Belt-Driven System

    With a 44 lb payload capacity, the EQ6-R Pro can carry a wide range of optical tubes and heavy imaging trains without compromising tracking accuracy. The mount's core is its belt-drive system, which connects the stepper motors to the worm gears. This design minimizes backlash and provides the smooth, precise motion essential for capturing sharp, round stars during long exposures.

    SynScan GoTo with 42,900+ Objects

    At the heart of the EQ6-R Pro is the SynScan hand controller, which contains a database of over 42,900 objects for automated pointing and tracking. For advanced users, the mount includes a direct USB-B port for computer control, allowing it to interface with modern astrophotography software. The system also features a dedicated ST-4 autoguider port and Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) to refine tracking accuracy for the most demanding imaging applications.

    Field-Ready Design from 5° to 65° Latitude

    The EQ6-R Pro is built for practical use in the field. It features a heavy-duty tripod with 2-inch steel legs and a dual D/V-style saddle, accommodating virtually any telescope mounting plate. A built-in illuminated polar scope simplifies polar alignment, and the mount's latitude range of 5° to 65° ensures it can be used across most of the populated world. The retractable counterweight shaft is a key design feature, making the 38 lb mount head more compact for transport and storage.

    Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro vs. HEQ5-R Pro

    Choosing between Sky-Watcher's two belt-driven mounts often comes down to payload and portability.

    • Payload Capacity: The HEQ5-R Pro has a lower payload capacity, typically around 30 lbs for imaging. The EQ6-R Pro's 44 lb capacity makes it the clear choice for heavier instruments like 9.25" or 11" SCTs, large refractors, or Newtonian astrographs.
    • Portability: The EQ6-R Pro mount head weighs 38 lbs, and the fully assembled system is 76.5 lbs. This makes it a substantial piece of equipment best suited for a backyard observatory or transporting by vehicle. The HEQ5-R is significantly lighter and more manageable for those who need to travel to dark sky sites frequently.
    • Stability: The heavier build and 2-inch tripod legs of the EQ6-R Pro provide a more rigid, stable platform, which is critical for longer focal length imaging where vibrations are magnified.

  • What is the realistic imaging payload of the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro?

    While the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro is rated for 44 lbs, for critical long-exposure astrophotography, it is recommended to stay at or below 75% of this capacity. This means a payload of around 30-35 lbs will typically yield the best guiding performance, providing a stable platform for most imaging setups.

    How does the EQ6-R Pro's belt drive improve astrophotography?

    The belt drive system on the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro provides smoother and more precise power transmission from the stepper motors to the worm gears compared to traditional spur gears. This significantly reduces backlash and periodic error, resulting in better autoguiding and sharper, rounder stars in your images.

    Can I control the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro with a computer or smartphone?

    Yes. The EQ6-R Pro can be controlled in multiple ways:

    • PC Control: Use the built-in USB-B port (PC Direct Connect Port) to connect the mount to a computer for control via ASCOM drivers and planetarium software.
    • WiFi Control: With the optional SynScan WiFi adapter, you can control the mount wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet using the SynScan Pro app.

    What do I need to polar align the EQ6-R Pro if I can't see Polaris?

    The SynScan hand controller includes a Polar Align Assist routine. If you do not have a view of Polaris, you can use this software-based alignment method. It allows you to choose a bright star from a pre-selected list and then guides you through a process of making altitude and azimuth adjustments to achieve a precise polar alignment.

    Is the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro suitable for imaging the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) with an 8-inch Newtonian?

    Absolutely. An 8-inch Newtonian astrograph with a camera and guide scope typically weighs between 20-25 lbs, well within the EQ6-R Pro's 44 lb payload capacity. The mount's precise tracking, autoguiding capability, and stability are ideal for capturing the faint outer arms and dust lanes of large targets like the Andromeda Galaxy (M31).

    Does the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro have dual encoders?

    No, the specification table confirms the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro does not have dual encoders. This means that if you manually move the mount by unlocking the clutches, the GoTo alignment will be lost and you will need to perform a new star alignment.

  • Mount Type Equatorial
    GoTo Yes
    Payload Capacity 44 lbs
    Mount Head Weight 38 lbs
    Tripod Weight 16.5 lbs
    Fully Assembled Weight 76.5 lbs (with counterweights)
    Tripod Leg Diameter 2"
    Mounting Saddle Dual D/V Style
    Power Requirements 12V DC (4 amp minimum)
    Motor Type Stepper Motor
    Drive System Belt Drive
    Clutches Locking Levers
    Latitude Range 5° - 65°
    Controller SynScan Hand Controller
    Object Database 42,900+
    Polar Scope Built-in, Illuminated
    PC Connectivity USB-B Port
    Autoguider Port Yes (ST-4)
    Permanent Periodic Correction (PPEC) Yes
    Dual Encoders No
    DSLR Interface Yes
    Included Counterweights Two 11 lb weights
    WiFi Optional accessory

    • EQ6-R Pro Mount Head

      × 1

    • Tripod with 2" Steel Legs

      × 1

    • SynScan Hand Controller

      × 1

    • 11 lb Counterweight

      × 2

    • DC Power Cable

      × 1

    • USB-B Cable

      × 1

  • Sky-Watcher 2-Year Limited Warranty