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iOptron Adjustable AZ/EQ Base

iOptron Adjustable AZ/EQ Base

by iOptron
SKU IOP-3327
CA$111.00 - CA$111.00
CA$111.00
CA$111.00 - CA$111.00
CA$111.00
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  • Latitude Adjustment Range: -30º to 65º
  • Azimuth Adjustment Range: ±5º
  • Vixen-Type Dovetail Saddle
  • Standard 3/8” Tripod Socket
  • Weight: 1.5 lbs
1 in stock
Qualifies for FREE Shipping in Canada on orders over $500.
  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Warranty

  • Adjustable AZ/EQ Base

    The Adjustable AZ/EQ Base transforms a standard heavy-duty photo tripod into a functional equatorial platform for portable star trackers and small telescopes. It provides a wide latitude adjustment range of -30º to 65º and a fine azimuth adjustment of ±5º, enabling precise polar alignment from nearly any location on Earth. The base features an industry-standard Vixen-type saddle and mounts via a 3/8” socket on a stable Φ80 mm platform, all in a compact 1.5 lbs package.

    Precision Polar Alignment: -30° to 65° Latitude and ±5° Azimuth Control

    This base's core function is to facilitate accurate polar alignment for untracked astrophotography. The expansive -30º to 65º latitude range accommodates observers from the southern hemisphere well into northern latitudes. Once your tripod is level, using the integrated level bubble, the ±5º azimuth adjustment allows for fine-tuning your alignment on the celestial pole without having to move the tripod legs, saving critical time in the field.

    Universal Mounting: Vixen Saddle and 3/8" Base for Trackers and Tripods

    Engineered for broad compatibility, the Adjustable AZ/EQ Base connects seamlessly with common astrophotography gear. The Vixen-type dovetail saddle accepts the majority of portable star trackers and small optical tubes. Its base features a 3/8” threaded socket, the standard for robust photographic tripods, while the wide Φ80 mm diameter ensures a secure, stable connection. At only 1.5 lbs, it adds critical functionality without significantly increasing the weight of your portable setup.

  • What is the main purpose of the Adjustable AZ/EQ Base?

    The primary purpose of the Adjustable AZ/EQ Base is to provide precise latitude (altitude) and azimuth adjustments for polar aligning a portable star tracker or small telescope on a standard photo tripod. While excellent for portable setups, it does not replace the tracking precision of a full German equatorial mount needed for heavy, long-focal-length instruments.

    What kind of tripod do I need for this Adjustable AZ/EQ Base?

    You will need a sturdy photo tripod with a standard 3/8” mounting screw. This is common on most heavy-duty tripods designed for photography and videography. The base has a diameter of 80mm, so a tripod head with a similar or larger platform is recommended for maximum stability.

    What star trackers are compatible with the Vixen saddle on this base?

    The Vixen-type saddle is a widely adopted standard in the astronomy industry. It is compatible with most portable star trackers from brands like Sky-Watcher, iOptron, and others that use a Vixen-style dovetail bar for mounting.

    Can I use the Adjustable AZ/EQ Base for polar alignment in a location like southern Florida (latitude ~26° N)?

    Yes. The latitude adjustment range of -30º to 65º easily covers the ~26º latitude of southern Florida. This wide range makes the base suitable for use across most of the inhabited world, from southern hemisphere locations to high northern latitudes.

    I've leveled my tripod, but my alignment on Polaris is slightly off. How does the Adjustable AZ/EQ Base help?

    The base's ±5º azimuth adjustment range is designed for exactly this scenario. Instead of making clumsy adjustments to your tripod legs, you can use the fine-control knobs on the base to move your tracker left or right, centering Polaris in your polar scope precisely and efficiently.

    How does the -30° latitude setting on the Adjustable AZ/EQ Base work?

    The negative latitude values are for observers in the Southern Hemisphere. A setting of -30º would correspond to a latitude of 30º South, allowing you to polar align on the South Celestial Pole. The range extending from -30º to +65º ensures near-global usability.

  • Dovetail Saddle Vixen-type
    Mounting Base Diameter Φ80 mm
    Mounting Base Socket 3/8” threaded socket
    Latitude Adjustment Range -30º ~ 65º
    Azimuth Adjustment Range ±5º
    Level Indicator Level bubble
    Weight 1.5 lbs
    Dimensions 4 x 4 x 4 in

    • Adjustable AZ/EQ Base

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  • Manufacturer's Warranty