Building on their EQ8-R mount, the Sky-Watcher EQ8-Rh Equatorial GoTo Mount benefits from the addition of a Renishaw incremental encoder on the right ascension (RA) axis that virtually eliminates Periodic Error during tracking and delivers the extremely precise guiding that is required for photographing elusive deep-sky objects like wispy nebulae and faint galaxies that require multiple long exposures to tease their details out. The mount itself is designed to carry heavy loads, including large optical tube assemblies (OTAs), guide scopes, and imaging rigs. A 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 virtually eliminates vibration—an essential feature for long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography that requires smooth tracking during exposures that can last minutes. 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 and guidescopes. 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.

Supporting your OTA, accessories, and the massive mount head is Sky-Watcher's heavy-duty pier tripod. Unlike conventional telescope tripods, this advanced support combines the strength and stability of a pier with the portability and adjustable height of a tripod. Instead of multiple leg sections that get smaller and less stable as you extend them to the maximum height, the pier tripod has large 2.4" diameter solid legs that attach to a collar that wraps around the center pier column. To adjust the height, the column is moved up and down through the collar and locked in place, allowing the legs to remain at a constant wide spread for maximum stability. For proper leveling on uneven ground, Sky-Watcher includes a set of three leveling stands that provide up to 4" of height, allowing the tripod to be properly leveled for accurate alignment and precise GoTo and tracking.