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iOptron Go2Nova® 8408 Hand Controller

iOptron Go2Nova® 8408 Hand Controller

by iOptron
SKU IOP-8408
CA$305.00 - CA$305.00
CA$305.00
CA$305.00 - CA$305.00
CA$305.00
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  • Backlit 4-line, 21-character LCD display
  • 50,000+ or 150,000+ object database depending on mount
  • 9 distinct slew speeds for precise control
  • 32-bit ARM processor
  • ASCOM compatible for computer control
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty

  • iOptron Go2Nova® 8408 Hand Controller

    The iOptron Go2Nova® 8408 Hand Controller is powered by a 32-bit ARM processor and presents all information on a large, backlit 4-line, 21-character LCD. With a deep object database of over 50,000 or 150,000 objects, depending on your mount, and 9 different slew speeds, you have precise and comprehensive control over your observing or imaging session right at your fingertips.

    The GoToNova 50,000+ Object Database

    At the core of the Go2Nova 8408 is a comprehensive celestial catalog. For ZEQ25 mount users, the controller holds a database of over 50,000 objects, while CEM25 users gain access to an expanded library of over 150,000 objects. This extensive database includes everything from planets and Messier objects to thousands of NGC, IC, and UGC catalog entries, ensuring your next target is always just a few button presses away.

    A 4-Line Backlit Display and 9 Slew Speeds

    Navigating the night sky requires clear information and precise control. The 8408 handset features a large, backlit 4-line, 21-character display that shows more information at once, reducing the need to scroll through menus. You can move your telescope with exceptional accuracy using the 9 available slew speeds, from the imperceptible 1x sidereal rate for centering in a high-power eyepiece to the rapid MAX speed for moving across the entire sky.

    • Fine Centering Speeds: The 1x, 2x, and 8x speeds allow for deliberate, high-magnification adjustments without overshooting your target.
    • Mid-Range Speeds: Use 16x, 64x, and 128x for centering objects in a finder scope or making larger corrections.
    • High-Speed Slewing: The 256x, 512x, and MAX speeds quickly move the mount between distant celestial objects.

    32-bit ARM CPU for ASCOM Control and Firmware Upgrades

    The Go2Nova 8408 is built around a modern 32-bit ARM processor, providing the speed and memory needed for advanced functionality. Through its integrated serial port, the handset is fully ASCOM compatible, allowing you to connect it to a PC and control your iOptron mount with popular planetarium or imaging software. This connection also allows for firmware upgrades, ensuring your controller remains current with iOptron's latest features and object catalog updates. A standard serial-to-USB adapter may be required for modern laptops lacking a native serial port.

    Go2Nova 8408 vs. Celestron NexStar+: A Quick Comparison

    When choosing a GoTo system, the hand controller is your primary interface. The Go2Nova 8408 offers several key advantages over the standard Celestron NexStar+ controller.

    • Celestron's Advantage: The NexStar+ controller is widely used and features a familiar button layout that many observers are accustomed to.
    • Go2Nova's Display: The 8408 features a 4-line, 21-character display, which shows significantly more information at a glance compared to the 2-line, 16-character screen on the NexStar+.
    • Go2Nova's Database: With 50,000+ to 150,000+ objects, the Go2Nova database is larger than the ~40,000 objects found in the standard NexStar+ controller, offering more built-in targets for exploration.

  • What iOptron mounts use the Go2Nova 8408 handset?

    The Go2Nova 8408 hand controller is specified for use with iOptron's ZEQ25 and CEM25 series of equatorial mounts. The object database size differs between the two, with over 50,000 for the ZEQ25 and over 150,000 for the CEM25.

    How do I update the firmware on the Go2Nova 8408?

    You can update the firmware on the 8408 handset via its built-in serial port. This requires connecting the controller to a PC (using a serial cable and potentially a USB-to-serial adapter) and using the firmware upgrade utility available from the iOptron support website.

    Can I control my CEM25 mount with a computer using the 8408 handset?

    Yes. The Go2Nova 8408 is ASCOM compatible. By connecting the handset's serial port to your computer, you can use any ASCOM-compliant software, such as planetarium programs or imaging suites like N.I.N.A. or Sequence Generator Pro, to control your mount's GoTo and tracking functions.

    What's the benefit of the 9 slew speeds on the Go2Nova 8408?

    The 9 slew speeds provide precise control for any situation. The slowest speeds (1x, 2x, 8x) are essential for carefully centering an object on an imaging sensor or in a high-power eyepiece. The fastest speed (MAX) moves the mount quickly between targets, while the mid-range speeds are useful for aligning the mount or centering objects in a finder.

    How does the Go2Nova 8408 help me find faint objects like the Veil Nebula (NGC 6960) with my CEM25 mount?

    Finding faint, extended objects like the Veil Nebula (NGC 6960) is simple with the 8408 controller. After performing a star alignment, you can access the controller's 150,000+ object database, select NGC 6960 from the catalog, and the mount will automatically slew to place the nebula in your eyepiece's field of view.

    If I'm imaging Jupiter with my ZEQ25, which slew speeds on the 8408 are best for centering the planet?

    For planetary imaging of Jupiter, precise centering is critical. Once the GoTo system has placed Jupiter in your field of view, you should use the slowest slew speeds—typically 2x or 8x—to make the final adjustments and position the planet perfectly on your camera's small sensor without overshooting.

  • LCD Display Backlit 4-line, 21-character
    Processor 32-bit ARM
    Slew Speeds 9 speeds (1x, 2x, 8x, 16x, 64x, 128x, 256x, 512x, MAX)
    Object Database 50,000+ (for ZEQ25) or 150,000+ (for CEM25)
    Serial Port Yes
    Firmware Upgradeable Yes, via serial port
    PC Control Yes, via serial port
    PC Protocol ASCOM compatible

    • Go2Nova® 8408 Hand Controller

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  • iOptron 2-Year Limited Warranty