Skip to content
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.
Sky-Watcher HEQ5-R Mount

Sky-Watcher HEQ5-R Mount

by Sky-Watcher
SKU SW-S30450
$1,698.24 - $1,698.24
$1,698.24
$1,698.24 - $1,698.24
$1,698.24
Price Match Policy!
  • 15kg (33 lbs) Payload Capacity
  • Belt-Drive Transmission for Silent, Smooth Tracking
  • Integrated USB-B Port and SNAP Port
  • Dual-Fit Saddle (Vixen & Losmandy)
  • Built-in WiFi
  • Built-in Carrying Handle
Backordered
Request Stock Alert
Availability Info
FREE Shipping in CONUS
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • Sky-Watcher HEQ5-R PRO Computerized Equatorial Mount

    The Sky-Watcher HEQ5-R PRO is the modern evolution of the legendary HEQ5 platform. While the original Pro version set the standard for mid-range astrophotography for over a decade, the "R" model (released in early 2026) incorporates the advanced mechanical and electronic architecture seen in the larger EQ6-R and EQ8-R series. It is designed specifically for serious imagers who require a portable, high-precision mount that bridges the gap between lightweight travel setups and heavy-duty permanent installations.

    By upgrading the internal drive system to a synchronous belt-drive and expanding the payload capacity to 15kg, the HEQ5-R PRO offers significantly improved tracking and guiding accuracy. It is the definitive choice for those using medium-sized apochromatic refractors or 8-inch reflectors for long-exposure deep-sky imaging.

    Silent Belt-Drive and Enhanced Precision

    The most significant internal upgrade in the HEQ5-R is the move away from traditional spur gears to a timing belt-drive system. This transmission significantly reduces "backlash"—the mechanical play that can interfere with autoguiding—and provides a silent, smooth slewing experience. With 160 teeth on the R.A. worm wheel and 144 on the Dec wheel, the mount delivers a resolution of approximately 0.21 arc-seconds.

    This increased tooth count and belt system mean that even with a full imaging train, the mount maintains exceptional guiding performance, often achieving sub-arcsecond RMS totals even in less-than-ideal atmospheric conditions.

    Modern Connectivity and Electronics

    The HEQ5-R PRO eliminates the need for external adapters and complex cabling by integrating modern ports directly into the mount head. The addition of a USB-B port allows for direct PC control without a handset, while the SNAP port enables automated shutter release for DSLR and mirrorless cameras via the SynScan system.

    • Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC): Once trained, the mount retains its PEC data, significantly reducing periodic errors without requiring a re-training session every night.
    • Integrated Handle: Borrowing from the EQ6-R design, the HEQ5-R features a built-in carrying handle, making it far safer and easier to mount the head onto the tripod in the dark.
    • Improved Latitude Control: The latitude adjustment screws and base have been reinforced for smoother, more precise polar alignment even under load.

    The New Mid-Range Benchmark

    Weighing only 12kg (head only), the HEQ5-R remains a highly portable instrument. However, its increased payload capacity and updated Dual-Fit saddle (compatible with both V-style and D-style plates) allow it to support a much wider range of optical tubes. From wide-field astrographs like the EDX series to high-resolution Cassegrains, the HEQ5-R PRO provides the mechanical integrity needed for professional-tier results.

  • What is the difference between the HEQ5 Pro and the HEQ5-R?

    The HEQ5-R features a belt-drive system (rather than spur gears), a higher payload capacity (15kg vs 13.7kg), an integrated carrying handle, and built-in USB/SNAP ports. It also uses a larger worm wheel axis for better stability during long exposures.

    Does the HEQ5-R come with a polar scope?

    Most HEQ5-R models are designed with modern electronic polar alignment in mind (using software like N.I.N.A. or the SynScan App). While some regional versions include a physical polar scope, it is often available as an optional accessory to keep the mount head streamlined.

    Can I control this mount with my smartphone?

    Yes. The HEQ5-R can be controlled via the SynScan Pro app by using the built-in WiFi, or directly via a USB-B cable connected to a laptop or smart device running compatible astronomy software.

    Is the power supply included?

    The mount includes a 12V DC power cord with a cigarette lighter plug. For home use, a dedicated 12V 5A AC-to-DC power adapter is recommended to ensure consistent performance during cold nights.

  • Mount Type German Equatorial (Go-To)
    Payload Capacity 15 kg (33 lbs)
    Drive System 1.8° Hybrid Stepper Motors with Belt Drive
    Worm Wheel Teeth RA: 160 / DEC: 144
    Saddle Type Dual-Fit (Vixen & Losmandy)
    Tracking Rates Sidereal, Solar, Lunar
    Ports USB-B, SNAP, Auto-guider, Handset, 12V DC
    Mount Head Weight 12 kg (26.4 lbs)
    Tripod Weight 5.2 kg (1.75" Stainless Steel)
    • HEQ5-R Mount Head

      HEQ5-R PRO Mount Head

      × 1

    • Stainless Steel Tripod

      1.75" Stainless Steel Tripod

      × 1

    • Counterweights

      5.3kg Counterweights

      × 2

    • SynScan Hand Controller

      SynScan V5 Hand Controller

      × 1

  • Sky-Watcher 2-Year Limited Warranty