What is the real-world payload of the EXOS2-GT mount for imaging?
The official astrophotography payload for the EXOS2-GT is 28 lbs. This refers to the weight of the telescope and all imaging accessories (camera, guide scope, filter wheel, etc.). While the mount can physically handle more for visual use (up to 40 lbs), staying at or below the 28 lb imaging limit ensures the tracking accuracy required for sharp, long-exposure images.
What devices can I use to control the EXOS2-GT with the PMC-Eight system?
You can control the EXOS2-GT mount wirelessly using a wide range of devices. The PMC-Eight system and its ExploreStars app are compatible with:
- Windows 8.1 or 10 PCs, laptops, and tablets
- Android tablets and phones
- Apple iPads and iPhones (iOS)
- Amazon Fire tablets
You connect to the mount via its built-in WiFi or Bluetooth®, eliminating the need for a traditional hand controller.
Does the EXOS2-GT PMC-Eight support ASCOM for use with software like Sequence Generator Pro?
Yes. The EXOS2-GT with PMC-Eight is fully ASCOM compliant. Explore Scientific provides a dedicated ASCOM driver that allows the mount to be controlled by any ASCOM-compatible software, including popular automation and planetarium programs like Sequence Generator Pro (SGP), N.I.N.A., APT, Stellarium, and Cartes du Ciel.
How does the EXOS2-GT's stepper motor drive compare to a servo motor drive?
The EXOS2-GT uses belt-driven stepper motors, which are known for their high torque and durability. Unlike DC servo motors, which can be damaged if they encounter a hard stop or an overloaded condition, stepper motors can handle significant strain without harming the electronics or gears. This makes the mount more robust and forgiving in real-world use.
What kind of telescope is a good match for the EXOS2-GT for imaging the Orion Nebula (M42)?
For imaging a large target like the Orion Nebula (M42), a wide-field refractor is an excellent choice. An 80mm to 102mm triplet apochromatic refractor, along with a camera and guide scope, would typically weigh between 15 and 25 lbs, well within the EXOS2-GT's 28 lb imaging capacity. This combination would provide a wide, flat field of view perfect for capturing the full expanse of the nebula.
Can I use the EXOS2-GT for visual observation with a 10" f/5 Newtonian telescope?
Yes, most likely. A typical 10-inch f/5 Newtonian optical tube weighs around 25-30 lbs. This is well within the EXOS2-GT's 40 lb visual payload capacity. The mount would provide a solid, stable platform for observing planets and deep-sky objects with such an instrument, though it would be at the upper limit for serious astrophotography.
