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Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro Mount

SKU SW-S30820
Original price CA$5,410.00 - Original price CA$6,530.00
Original price
CA$5,410.00
CA$5,410.00 - CA$6,530.00
Current price CA$5,410.00
Price Match Policy!
  • 77-pound payload capacity
  • Belt-driven stepper motor drive system
  • Integrated cable management with 4x USB and 3x power output ports
  • D/V-style dual saddle plate
  • SynScan GoTo system with 42,000+ object database
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  • Description
  • FAQ
  • Specifications
  • In the Box
  • Downloads
  • Warranty
  • Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro Mount Head Only with Counterweights

    The Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro Mount offers a substantial 77-pound payload capacity for observatory-grade imaging stability. Its high-precision stepper motors and belt-drive system, built around a 155mm RA gear, deliver the tracking accuracy required for demanding astrophotography. Integrated cable management, featuring 4 USB ports and 3 power outputs, minimizes snags, while the included SynScan hand controller puts a 42,000+ object database at your fingertips.

    Observatory-Grade 77 lb Payload Capacity

    The CQ350 Pro is engineered to carry a 77 lb instrument payload, securely supporting large refractor and Newtonian OTAs with a full suite of imaging accessories. This capacity bridges the gap between mid-size and full observatory platforms, providing a solid foundation for serious deep-sky imaging without demanding a permanent pier. The mount head itself weighs 33 lbs, striking a balance between robust construction and field portability.

    Integrated Cable Management with 4 USB & 3 Power Ports

    A central hub of connectivity eliminates the common problem of cable drag and snags during long exposures. The CQ350 Pro features 4 built-in USB ports and 3 configurable 2.1mm power output ports (DC 6v to 24v), allowing you to power your camera, guide scope, and other accessories directly from the mount. This integrated system keeps your wiring tidy and secure as the mount tracks across the sky.

    Precision Tracking with a 155mm RA Gear and Belt Drive

    At the core of the CQ350 Pro is a smooth, precise drive system designed for long-exposure astrophotography. A large 155mm RA worm gear is driven by a high-precision stepper motor via a synchronous belt, minimizing backlash and periodic error for smoother guiding. Spring-loaded worm gears ensure consistent engagement, translating to sharper stars and more detailed images.

    • Dual Saddle Plate: The D/V-style saddle accepts both Losmandy (D-style) and Vixen (V-style) dovetail bars, offering broad compatibility with most optical tubes.
    • Included Counterweights: The mount comes with two 22-pound counterweights, providing ample balance for heavy telescope configurations right out of the box.
    • Latitude Adjustment: A robust latitude range of 10° to 70° ensures usability across most global locations, with an oversized adjustment knob for easy use even with gloves on.

    CQ350 Pro vs. EQ6-R Pro and EQ8-R Pro

    The CQ350 Pro fills a critical gap in Sky-Watcher's lineup, offering a significant step up in payload from the venerable EQ6-R Pro without the massive footprint of the EQ8-R Pro.

    • vs. EQ6-R Pro: The EQ6-R Pro is a benchmark for imagers, but its 44 lb payload can be a limitation for larger OTAs. The CQ350 Pro offers a 75% increase in capacity to 77 lbs, supporting heavier systems with greater stability and tracking confidence.
    • vs. EQ8-R Pro: The flagship EQ8-R Pro boasts a 110 lb payload capacity for the largest amateur instruments. The CQ350 Pro provides a more portable, less demanding alternative for imagers who need more than an EQ6-R can offer but don't require the full observatory-class capacity of the EQ8-R.
  • What kind of telescope can the Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro handle for astrophotography?

    With a 77-pound payload capacity, the CQ350 Pro can comfortably support large imaging systems like 150mm triplet refractors or 10-inch imaging Newtonians, along with a guidescope, filter wheel, and cooled camera. For the best guiding performance, it's recommended to keep the total imaging payload around 50-60 lbs.

    How does the CQ350 Pro's integrated cable management work?

    The CQ350 Pro features a built-in hub with multiple ports to power your equipment and manage data. This includes:

    • 4x USB Ports: Connect your guide camera, main camera, and other USB accessories directly to the mount, reducing the number of cables running back to your computer.
    • 3x 2.1mm Power Ports: These outputs can power your camera cooler, dew heaters, or other DC-powered devices, minimizing cable drag from external power supplies.
    • Guide, SNAP, and PC Ports: Dedicated ports for autoguiding, DSLR shutter control, and direct connection to a PC ensure a clean and organized setup.

    Can I use the Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro for visual observing as well as imaging?

    Absolutely. The CQ350 Pro's robust GoTo system, featuring the SynScan V5 hand controller with a 42,000+ object database, makes it an excellent platform for visual astronomy. Its high payload capacity means you can use very large visual instruments without worrying about stability.

    What power supply is required for the CQ350 Pro mount?

    The Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro requires a DC power source between 11 and 16 volts. A dedicated astronomy power tank or a deep-cycle battery with at least 5 amps of output is recommended for reliable operation in the field.

    Is a polar scope included with the CQ350 Pro?

    No, the polar scope is an optional accessory for the CQ350 Pro. While not required for polar alignment, as the SynScan system includes software-based alignment routines, an external polar scope can speed up the process for portable setups.

    Will the CQ350 Pro mount head fit on my existing EQ6-R Pro tripod?

    No, the CQ350 Pro mount head is not compatible with the EQ6-R Pro tripod. It is designed to be compatible with the heavier-duty EQ8-R tripod or mounted on a permanent pier.

  • Mount Type Equatorial
    Payload Capacity 77 lbs
    Mount Head Weight 33 lbs
    Saddle Type D/V-style
    Motor Type Stepper
    Drive Type Belt
    RA Gear Size 155mm
    Spring Loaded Worms Yes
    Latitude Range 10° to 70°
    GoTo System SynScan V5 Hand Controller
    Object Database 42,000+
    Tracking Modes Sidereal, Solar, Lunar
    Integrated USB Ports 4
    Integrated Power Ports 3x 2.1mm (DC 6v to 24v, 5A)
    Guide Port Yes (RJ-12)
    PC Connection Yes (USB-B)
    SNAP Port Yes
    AUX Ports RJ-10, RJ-12, RJ-45
    Power Requirements DC 11V ~ 16V
    Counterweights Included 2x 22 lbs (9.9 kg)
    Counterweight Bar 15" x 31.5mm
    Polar Scope Optional
    Tripod Not Included
    UPC 050234308205
    • CQ350 Pro Mount Head

      × 1

    • SynScan V5 Hand Controller

      × 1

    • 22 lb Counterweight

      × 2

    • Counterweight Shaft

      × 1

    • Power Cable

      × 1

    • SNAP Cable

      × 1

    • User Manual

      × 1

  • Sky-Watcher 2-Year Limited Warranty