iOptron CEM70AW Center-Balanced Equatorial Mount
Following the success of the acclaimed iOptron CEM60, we’re excited to introduce the next generation of center-balanced equatorial mounts — the CEM70 and CEM70AW.
The CEM70AW sets a new standard in the 70 lb payload class, offering advanced features such as USB 3.0 connectivity and built-in Wi-Fi.
Precision. Balance. Performance.
Retaining the inherent advantages of the center-balance design, these medium-payload mounts deliver the efficiency, accuracy, and portability that astronomers demand.
With precise GoTo pointing and tracking accuracy better than ±5 arcseconds, the CEM70 is a solid performer for both visual observers and astrophotographers.
Innovative features such as the integrated iPolar™ electronic polar scope, large easy-lock gear levers (usable with gloves), and an advanced cable-management system demonstrate iOptron’s commitment to real-world usability.
The CEM70AW includes both the iPolar™ electronic polar scope and a hard case for convenient transport and protection.
Key Features
- New center-balanced design (CEM) for maximum payload and natural stability
- Ideal for both visual observing and astrophotography
- 70 lb (31.8 kg) payload capacity with a mount weight of only 30 lb (13.6 kg)
- Reliable, easy-to-use gear clutches
- Precision altitude and azimuth adjustments
- High-precision stepper motors (0.07 arcsec resolution) for accurate GoTo and tracking
- Integrated iPolar™ electronic polar scope
- Go2Nova® 8410 controller with Advanced GoToNova® technology and built-in heater
- High-precision tracking with periodic error < ±5 arcsec
- Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC)
- Built-in 32-channel GPS
- Integrated Wi-Fi for remote operation
- USB 3.0 connection for modern data-transfer speeds
- ST-4 autoguiding port
- Advanced cable-management system with multiple output options
- Spring-loaded 8″ dual Vixen/Losmandy saddle
- Includes iOptron-subsidized TheSky Imaging Edition software
Technical Specifications
| Mount type |
Center-balanced Equatorial Mount (CEM) |
| Payload capacity* |
31.8 kg (70 lb) – excluding counterweight |
| Mount weight |
13.6 kg (30 lb) |
| Payload : Mount weight ratio |
2.33 |
| Construction |
All metal |
| Latitude adjustment |
0° – 65° |
| Azimuth adjustment |
± 4° |
| Periodic error (encoder) |
< ± 5 arcsec |
| Worm period |
348 sec |
| Periodic Error Correction |
PPEC |
| RA worm wheel |
Ø 151 mm, 248 teeth |
| DEC worm wheel |
Ø 151 mm, 248 teeth |
| Worm diameter |
Ø 21.2 mm |
| RA axle |
Ø 55 mm (steel) |
| DEC axle |
Ø 55 mm (steel) |
| RA bearings |
Ø 80 mm |
| DEC bearings |
Ø 80 mm |
| Counterweight shaft |
Ø 28 × 415 mm (SS, 1.9 kg) |
| Counterweight |
9.5 kg (20 lb) × 1 |
| Mount base diameter |
Ø 152 mm |
| Motor drive |
Precision stepper motor with 128 micro-steps |
| Resolution |
0.07 arcseconds |
| Max slew speed |
3.75°/sec (900×) |
| Hand controller |
Go2Nova® 8410 (8-line × 21-character LCD) |
| Power requirement* |
DC 12 V 5 A (5.5 mm / 2.5 mm plug) |
| Power consumption |
0.6 A (tracking) / 0.8 A (GoTo) |
| Polar scope |
Internal iPolar™ electronic polar scope |
| Meridian treatment |
Stop (0–10° pass) or auto flip |
| Zero position |
Automatic zero search |
| Park positions |
Horizontal, vertical, current, alt/az input |
| Level indicator |
Yes |
| Dovetail saddle |
8″ Losmandy D & Vixen |
| GPS |
Yes (32-channel built-in) |
| Guiding port |
ST-4 |
| Communication ports |
USB 3.0, Wi-Fi |
| Cable management |
1 × DC 12 V (3 A), 3 × USB 3.0, 1 × DC in / 2 × DC out, iPort |
| USB input support |
Mount, iGuider, iPolar, and more |
| Operating temperature |
−10 °C to +40 °C |
Manuals & Resources
Available to order
Delivery time: Typically 4 weeks from order
