{"product_id":"sky-watcher-heq5-r-mount","title":"Sky-Watcher HEQ5-R Mount","description":"\u003cul class=\"DAV-feature-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15kg (33 lbs) Payload Capacity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBelt-Drive Transmission for Silent, Smooth Tracking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntegrated USB-B Port and SNAP Port\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDual-Fit Saddle (Vixen \u0026amp; Losmandy)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eBuilt-in WiFi\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilt-in Carrying Handle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- more --\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003eDescription\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFAQ\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDownloads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tabs-content\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"active\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSky-Watcher HEQ5-R PRO Computerized Equatorial Mount\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSilent Belt-Drive and Enhanced Precision\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eModern Connectivity and Electronics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePermanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC):\u003c\/strong\u003e Once trained, the mount retains its PEC data, significantly reducing periodic errors without requiring a re-training session every night.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIntegrated Handle:\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eImproved Latitude Control:\u003c\/strong\u003e The latitude adjustment screws and base have been reinforced for smoother, more precise polar alignment even under load.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-bg-light\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-section\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe New Mid-Range Benchmark\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeighing 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eWhat is the difference between the HEQ5 Pro and the HEQ5-R?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eDoes the HEQ5-R come with a polar scope?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eCan I control this mount with my smartphone?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"DAV-accordion-Q\"\u003eIs the power supply included?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"DAV-accordion-A\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"DAV-specifications\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMount Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGerman Equatorial (Go-To)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePayload Capacity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e15 kg (33 lbs)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDrive System\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.8° Hybrid Stepper Motors with Belt Drive\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWorm Wheel Teeth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRA: 160 \/ DEC: 144\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSaddle Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDual-Fit (Vixen \u0026amp; Losmandy)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTracking Rates\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSidereal, Solar, Lunar\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePorts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUSB-B, SNAP, Auto-guider, Handset, 12V DC\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMount Head Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12 kg (26.4 lbs)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTripod Weight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5.2 kg (1.75\" Stainless Steel)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg class=\"DAV-img-box\" alt=\"HEQ5-R Mount Head\" src=\"URL_TO_IMAGE\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eHEQ5-R PRO Mount Head\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg class=\"DAV-img-box\" alt=\"Stainless Steel Tripod\" src=\"URL_TO_IMAGE\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e1.75\" Stainless Steel Tripod\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg class=\"DAV-img-box\" alt=\"Counterweights\" src=\"URL_TO_IMAGE\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003e5.3kg Counterweights\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\n\u003cimg class=\"DAV-img-box\" alt=\"SynScan Hand Controller\" src=\"URL_TO_IMAGE\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eSynScan V5 Hand Controller\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-subtitle\"\u003e× 1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"DAV-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"DAV-grid-item\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"#\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003csvg class=\"DAV-img-box\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M0 64C0 28.7 28.7 0 64 0L224 0l0 128c0 17.7 14.3 32 32 32l128 0 0 144-208 0c-35.3 0-64 28.7-64 64l0 144-48 0c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64L0 64zm384 64l-128 0L256 0 384 128zM176 352l32 0c30.9 0 56 25.1 56 56s-25.1 56-56 56l-16 0 0 32c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-48 0-80c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 80c13.3 0 24-10.7 24-24s-10.7-24-24-24l-16 0 0 48 16 0zm96-80l32 0c26.5 0 48 21.5 48 48l0 64c0 26.5-21.5 48-48 48l-32 0c-8.8 0-16-7.2-16-16l0-128c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16zm32 128c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16l0-64c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16l-16 0 0 96 16 0zm80-112c0-8.8 7.2-16 16-16l48 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 32 32 0c8.8 0 16 7.2 16 16s-7.2 16-16 16l-32 0 0 48c0 8.8-7.2 16-16 16s-16-7.2-16-16l0-64 0-64z\" fill=\"#0047a7\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"DAV-item-title\"\u003eDownload Manual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"#\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSky-Watcher 2-Year Limited Warranty\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Sky-Watcher","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51133004874013,"sku":"SW-S30450","price":2360.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/5280\/1565\/files\/Sky-Watcher-HEQ5-R-Mount-1.jpg?v=1775839385","url":"https:\/\/davidastro.com\/fr\/products\/sky-watcher-heq5-r-mount","provider":"David Astro","version":"1.0","type":"link"}