Explore Scientific iEXOS-100-02 HD PMC-Eight Equatorial Tracker System

PMC-Eight: Open-Source GoTo Control with 8-Core Architecture

At the heart of the iEXOS-100 is the PMC-Eight controller. Unlike standard single-processor systems, the PMC-Eight uses an eight-core microcontroller that delegates specific tasks to individual CPUs. This results in superior responsiveness and tracking accuracy, eliminating the common frustrations of laggy slewing or dropped connections during an imaging session.

Control is managed through the free ExploreStars app (available for Windows, Android, and Apple tablets) or, for advanced users, via the free ASCOM driver. This open-source approach allows you to connect the iEXOS-100 to virtually any popular planetarium or imaging software, giving you complete freedom to choose your preferred workflow.

German Equatorial Design for Precision Tracking

For astrophotography, nothing compares to a German Equatorial Mount (GEM). By aligning with the celestial pole, the iEXOS-100 tracks objects in a single arc, precisely matching the Earth's rotation. This crucial function prevents field rotation, a pitfall of alt-azimuth mounts that causes stars to trail in long exposures.

The mount features smooth locking clutches for easy manual repositioning and a large altitude knob for fine-tuning your polar alignment. These mechanical details ensure that setting up and balancing your telescope is straightforward, letting you spend more time observing and less time wrestling with hardware.

Complete Alignment Kit: Illuminated Polar Scope and Azimuth Adjuster

Accurate tracking begins with accurate polar alignment. The iEXOS-100 includes the two essential tools for this task. The illuminated polar finder scope features a reticle with markings for both Northern and Southern Hemisphere constellations, allowing you to quickly and precisely align the mount's axis with the celestial pole.

To achieve the final, critical positioning, the included azimuth adjuster adapter allows for fine, controlled left-right adjustments. This accessory is often an expensive add-on for other mounts in this class but comes standard with the iEXOS-100, ensuring you have everything needed for sharp, round stars in your images.

Field-Ready Stability: Twilight Tripod and Imaging Hardware

A tracker is only as good as its foundation. The iEXOS-100 is supported by the Twilight Medium Duty Tripod, which uses robust stainless steel legs and a die-cast aluminum spreader tray. This design minimizes vibrations, a critical factor for sharp imaging, and creates a stable platform for your telescope and camera.

• Camera Dovetail Plate: The included Vixen-style plate makes it easy to attach a DSLR or a small telescope directly to the mount.
• Included Counterweights: A set of counterweights is included to properly balance your imaging payload for smooth motor operation.
• Glow-in-the-Dark Markers: To help you stay oriented in the dark, key points on the mount and tripod feature glow-in-the-dark indicators, preventing accidental bumps during an observing session.

iEXOS-100 vs. Star Adventurer GTi: Control Philosophy and Stability

The iEXOS-100 directly competes with portable GoTo mounts like the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer GTi. While both offer wireless GoTo tracking, they cater to different user priorities.

• Star Adventurer GTi Advantage: The GTi is smaller, lighter, and more integrated into a single-app (SynScan Pro) ecosystem. For users seeking maximum portability and a simple, self-contained control experience for a lightweight camera setup, the GTi is a strong contender.
• iEXOS-100 Advantage: The iEXOS-100 prioritizes stability and software freedom. Its more substantial tripod provides a better foundation against wind and vibration, and its ASCOM-compliant PMC-Eight system is built for seamless integration with third-party software like N.I.N.A., Sequence Generator Pro, or TheSkyX. If your goal is to build a flexible, PC-controlled imaging rig, the iEXOS-100's open architecture is its defining strength.