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IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.
IMPORTANT: Our store is located in Canada. All orders that include products manufactured outside of Canada or USA will be subject to tariffs and duties, regardless of the order value. US customers are responsible for all applicable duties and tariffs, and those will be billed by the carrier, except for the Lacerta upgrade kit, for which we collect them at checkout.
iOptron Permanent Pier

iOptron Permanent Pier

by iOptron
SKU IOP-8038-900
$599.00 - $599.00
$599.00
$599.00 - $599.00
$599.00
Price Match Policy!
  • 360 lb (165 kg) Payload Capacity
  • 35-inch (900 mm) Fixed Height
  • 6-inch (150 mm) Diameter Aluminum Alloy Pier
  • CNC Machined with Anodized Finish
  • 8.25" x 8.25" Top Plate for Mount Adaptation
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Warranty

  • iOptron Permanent Pier

    The iOptron Permanent Pier provides an observatory-grade foundation for your imaging setup, delivering a massive 360 lb payload capacity from its 35-inch tall, 6-inch diameter column. Constructed from CNC-machined aluminum alloy with a 0.2-inch wall thickness and a generous 8.25" x 8.25" top plate, this pier is engineered to eliminate the flexure and vibration that can compromise long-exposure astrophotography.

    A 360 lb Platform: 6-inch Diameter CNC Aluminum Construction

    For serious imaging, stability is non-negotiable. This pier's strength begins with its 6-inch (150 mm) diameter tube, manufactured from aluminum alloy with a substantial 0.2-inch (5 mm) wall thickness. This combination creates an incredibly rigid structure capable of supporting up to 360 lbs of equipment without buckling or flexing as the telescope slews across the sky.

    The entire structure is CNC machined for precise tolerances and features a durable anodized finish, ensuring it withstands the elements in a permanent installation. By replacing a tripod, you gain a fixed, repeatable polar alignment and eliminate the risk of accidental bumps, saving you critical setup time each night.

    Installation Details: 8.25-inch Top Plate and Base Plate Planning

    The pier features a square 8.25" x 8.25" top plate, providing ample surface area to adapt a wide range of equatorial mounts, including iOptron's CEM and GEM series. This large plate allows for robust connections that distribute the load evenly across the pier column.

    • Generous Top Plate: The 210mm x 210mm surface simplifies the process of drilling and mounting various adapters or the mount itself.
    • Base Plate Hardware (A Critical Note): When planning your concrete footing, be aware that the pier's base is pre-drilled for 12mm anchor bolts. This is different from the 1/2-inch (12.7mm) hardware commonly used in the United States. You will need to source 12mm J-bolts or threaded rods, use smaller 3/8-inch hardware, or enlarge the holes in the pier base to accommodate 1/2-inch bolts.

  • What is the main advantage of the iOptron Permanent Pier over a heavy-duty tripod?

    A permanent pier provides superior stability and repeatability. Once bolted to a concrete footing, the pier is immovable, eliminating vibrations from wind or ground movement. It also maintains perfect polar alignment between sessions, allowing you to start imaging immediately without having to set up and align your mount each night.

    How much weight can the iOptron Permanent Pier support?

    The iOptron Permanent Pier is rated for a maximum payload capacity of 360 lbs (165 kg). This is more than sufficient for virtually any amateur telescope, mount, and imaging camera combination.

    I am installing the 35" iOptron Permanent Pier for my Celestron 11" EdgeHD on a CEM70 mount. What mounting hardware do I need?

    For the concrete base, you must plan for 12mm anchor bolts (J-bolts or threaded rods). Standard 1/2" bolts will not fit through the pier's base plate holes without modification. Ensure your concrete template is set up for the pier's bolt pattern and uses the correct 12mm hardware for a secure fit.

    Is the 35" height of the iOptron Permanent Pier suitable for visual observation with a long refractor?

    The 35" height is a good general-purpose choice, but eyepiece position depends on your telescope and mount. With a long refractor pointed near the zenith, the eyepiece will be low to the ground, likely requiring an adjustable observing chair. For SCTs or Newtonians, the eyepiece height is often more comfortable.

    What are the dimensions of the top plate on the iOptron Permanent Pier?

    The pier is equipped with a square top plate measuring 8.25 inches by 8.25 inches (210mm x 210mm). This provides a large, stable surface for attaching mount adapters or directly mounting your equatorial head.

    What is the iOptron Permanent Pier made from?

    The pier is constructed from high-strength Aluminum Alloy that is CNC machined for precision. It features a durable, corrosion-resistant anodized finish to protect it from the elements in an outdoor installation.

  • Max Payload 360 lbs (165 kg)
    Pier Height 35" (900 mm)
    Pier Diameter 6" (150 mm)
    Pier Wall Thickness 0.2" (5 mm)
    Top Plate Dimensions 8.25" X 8.25" (210mm X 210mm)
    Material and Finish Aluminum Alloy (CNC), anodized
    Gross Weight 33 lbs
    Shipping Dimensions 37.5 x 11 x 11 inches

    • iOptron Permanent Pier

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  • iOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty