Vixen AP-SM Equatorial Mount Set
The AP-SM (Advanced Polaris) Equatorial Mount is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced observers. Beginners will appreciate its intuitive design and ease of use, while seasoned astronomers will value its portability and modular expandability.
Despite its lightweight body (just 3.6 kg without counterweights), the AP mount securely supports your telescope, making it ideal for grab-and-go observing. Its friction control system allows you to manually point your telescope by hand—no need for knobs or clamps. Once your target is acquired, the tracking motor takes over automatically to keep it centered.
Included: R.A. Motor Module & STAR BOOK ONE Controller
The AP-SM mount comes equipped with:
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R.A. Motor Module – The primary motor for right ascension tracking
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STAR BOOK ONE Controller – A simple and intuitive hand controller
These two components form the heart of the AP mount system. From here, you can expand with additional optional modules to customize your setup for visual observation or astrophotography.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Stylish, Smart Design | A modern and minimalist look breaks away from the bulky, intimidating appearance of traditional telescope mounts. |
| Lightweight Body | At only 3.6 kg (without counterweight), the mount is highly portable and easy to handle. |
| Internal Power Supply | Powered by 4× AA batteries housed inside the mount—no exposed cables. Supports Alkaline, Ni-MH, and Ni-Cd batteries. |
| Friction Control System | Point the telescope manually by hand. No knobs or clamps required. Ideal for fast object acquisition. |
| Simple Polar Alignment | Optional Polar Meter offers quick and easy polar alignment, even when Polaris is not visible. |
| Precise Polar Alignment with PF-L | The optional Polar Alignment Scope PF-L uses a 3-star alignment system and built-in dark-field illuminator. Includes auto-off illumination and is supported by the free PFL Assist app for smartphones and tablets. |
| USB Power Support | For longer sessions, the mount can be powered via USB Micro-B, using a USB power bank or AC adapter. |
| Customizable Modular System | Start with the RA motor and expand as needed with optional modules for enhanced features and automation. |
Additional Components
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A81M Refractor Telescope
A versatile 81mm achromatic refractor, suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Delivers bright, sharp images for a variety of astronomical targets. -
APP-TL130 Tripod
A compact, lightweight tripod adjustable from 60 cm to 130 cm. Combines the portability of a photographic tripod with the stability of an astronomical tripod.-
Switchable rubber or metal spikes make it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
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Perfect companion for the AP-SM mount for easy transport and setup.
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This AP-SM mount system offers a thoughtful balance of simplicity, performance, and expandability—making it ideal for both casual and dedicated observers.
Specifications
Optical Tube
| Achromatic refractor | 81mm achromatic, multi-coated |
| Focal length | 910mm (f/11.2) |
| Resolving power / Limiting magnitude | 1.45 arc sec. / 11.3 |
| Light gathering power | 134x unaided eye |
| Dimensions / Weight | L: 890mm x Dia. 90mm , 3.5kg (Body 2.5kg) |
| Finder scope | XY red dot finder |
Draw Tube
| Visual back | 42mm for T-ring, 50.8mm, 31.7mm push fit |
| Eyepiece (Dia. 31.7mm) | NPL20mm (46x), NPL6mm (152x) |
Tripod
| Material, type | Aluminum 3-section leg |
| Dimensions / Weight | L:570⇔1,296mm, H:526⇔1,159mm, closed 598.4mm, Radius: 350⇔710mm, 3.0kg |
Others
| Accessories | Counterweight 1kg x 1 pc., 1.9kg x 1 pc. |
| Photography | Eyepiece projection, prime-focus, afocal imaging. |
| Solar observation | Possible with sun projection screen set B (optional) |
| Total weight | 13.4kg without eyepiece |
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