Designed to carry heavy loads including large optical tube assemblies (OTAs), guide scopes, and imaging rigs, the Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Equatorial GoTo Mount is designed for advanced astrophotography and imaging. Its SNAP port connects to a DSLR shutter release, and the programmable SynScan hand box automatically controls the exposure time and number of frames with up to eight profiles so your astrophotography stays on schedule without manual intervention that can cause unwanted vibrations or errors.

This mount has a belt drive that reduces Periodic Error Correction (PEC) common to worm gears in many mounts to improve tracking accuracy, virtually eliminating vibration—essential features for long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography. With a maximum payload capacity of up to 110 pounds, this mount can support most large refractor, reflector, and catadioptric OTAs and still handle imaging rigs. An advanced cable management system places essential input, output, and power ports in strategic places on the mount to avoid cable wrap during long sessions that see the mount moving from one horizon to the next.

The SynScan system has an internal database of 42,900 celestial objects, including the complete Messier, NGC, and IC catalogs and 25 user-defined objects. To keep it current, its firmware can be updated through the built-in serial port via updates downloaded through the Internet. Using the same computer connection, the SynScan can be controlled with many popular astronomy software systems for additional versatility. With multiple alignment options, 10 slew speeds, and automatic tracking capabilities, finding and keeping objects centered in the field of view is easy no matter whether you're viewing the fast-moving moon or much slower deep-space subjects.