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iOptron iPolar Internal Electronic Polar Scope for CEM26/GEM28/SkyGuider Pro Mounts

iOptron iPolar Internal Electronic Polar Scope for CEM26/GEM28/SkyGuider Pro Mounts

by iOptron
SKU IOP-3339R
CA$305.00 - CA$305.00
CA$305.00
CA$305.00 - CA$305.00
CA$305.00
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  • Internal design for CEM26, GEM28, and SkyGuider Pro mounts
  • Achieves polar alignment with 30 arcsecond resolution
  • 13° wide field of view camera
  • Software-driven alignment works without a visible pole star
  • Powered by 5 VDC via Mini-USB 2.0 connection
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • iOptron iPolar Internal Electronic Polar Scope for CEM26/GEM28/SkyGuider Pro Mounts

    The iOptron iPolar Internal Electronic Polar Scope replaces traditional optical alignment with a digital camera system capable of 30 arcsecond resolution across its 13° field of view. Designed for internal installation on iOptron CEM26, GEM28, and SkyGuider Pro mounts, it connects to your Windows 7, 8, 8.1, or 10 PC via a Mini-USB 2.0 interface, drawing 5 VDC power directly from the connection.

    30 Arcsecond Plate-Solving Polar Alignment

    The iPolar uses a sensitive camera and intelligent software to plate-solve the sky, achieving an alignment precision of 30 arcseconds. Unlike optical scopes that rely on your ability to see Polaris, the iPolar identifies star patterns within its 13° field of view. This means you can get a precise alignment even if the pole is obscured by trees, buildings, or clouds, a task impossible for a traditional polar scope.

    Internal Design for CEM26, GEM28 & SkyGuider Pro

    This version of the iPolar is engineered to fit directly inside the Right Ascension (RA) axis of iOptron's CEM26, GEM28, and SkyGuider Pro mounts. This internal installation keeps the camera protected and eliminates the external brackets and cables that can snag in the dark. The system connects to a PC with a single Mini-USB 2.0 cable for both power and data, maintaining a clean and streamlined imaging setup.

    iPolar vs. Optical Scopes: Alignment Without Polaris

    A traditional optical polar scope has the advantage of requiring no power or computer. However, its usability ends the moment you can't see the celestial pole. The iPolar excels where optical scopes fail, offering critical advantages for modern astrophotography.

    • Alignment Location: An optical scope requires a clear line of sight to Polaris or Sigma Octantis. The iPolar's plate-solving software can align on any visible star field near the pole, making it functional even with heavy light pollution or obstructions.
    • Ergonomics: The iPolar displays all information on your laptop screen, eliminating the need to crouch, kneel, or contort yourself to look through a small, often poorly illuminated optical scope.
    • Precision & Simplicity: There are no reticles to interpret or time and longitude circles to set. The software guides you through the process with simple on-screen indicators, achieving a repeatable 30 arcsecond accuracy that removes guesswork.

  • Do I need to see Polaris to use the iOptron iPolar?

    No. The iOptron iPolar uses plate-solving technology to identify the star patterns near the celestial pole. This allows it to calculate the pole's true position and guide you to a precise alignment even if Polaris is hidden by clouds, buildings, or other obstructions.

    What mounts is this specific iOptron iPolar compatible with?

    This model is specifically designed for internal installation on the iOptron CEM26, GEM28, and SkyGuider Pro mounts. It fits inside the mount's RA axis for a secure, integrated solution. It is not designed for other mounts.

    My backyard view is blocked by a tree. Can the iOptron iPolar still align my SkyGuider Pro?

    Yes, most likely. As long as the iOptron iPolar can see a patch of sky near the celestial pole, its software can plate-solve the visible stars to determine the pole's location. This is a significant advantage over traditional optical scopes that require a direct view of Polaris.

    What computer and operating system do I need for the iOptron iPolar?

    You will need a computer running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows 7, 8, 8.1, or 10. The iPolar connects via a Mini-USB 2.0 port and requires the iPolar software, which is available for download from iOptron's website.

    How does the iOptron iPolar's 30 arcsecond resolution help when imaging nebulae like the Orion Nebula (M42) with my GEM28?

    A highly accurate polar alignment, like the 30 arcsecond precision offered by the iPolar, is crucial for long-exposure astrophotography. It minimizes field rotation, allowing your autoguider to make smaller, less frequent corrections. This results in rounder stars and sharper details when capturing faint targets like the Orion Nebula (M42) on your GEM28 mount.

    Is the iOptron iPolar difficult to install?

    The iPolar fits into the polar scope port in the Right Ascension axis of the supported mounts (CEM26, GEM28 and SkyGuider Pro). It is plug-and-play, so no drivers need to be installed before your computer recognizes it.

  • Field of View 13°
    Resolution 30 Arcsec
    Interface Mini-USB 2.0
    Power Requirement 5 VDC, USB
    Compatible OS Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10 (32 or 64 bit)
    Package Weight 0.395 lb
    Box Dimensions 5.6 x 3.4 x 3.3"
    Kind Electronic polar scope
    Cable length 24" (0.61 m) USB cable
    Fits (mount / scope) iOptron CEM26, GEM28, SkyGuider Pro

    • iPolar Internal Electronic Polar Scope with 24" USB Cable

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  • iOptron 1-Year Limited Warranty