Let’s Talk About Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO
The Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO promises to bring the wonders of the night sky closer to both seasoned astronomers and ambitious beginners. Offered by Explore Scientific, this mount combines a manageable weight capacity with advanced GOTO technology, making it an intriguing option for those looking to delve deeper into astrophotography or visual astronomy.
I was looking for a mount that could handle my mid-sized refractor without breaking the bank, but still offered precise tracking for longer exposure astrophotography. I’d been using a basic alt-azimuth mount, and while it was fine for casual viewing, I needed something more serious to capture deep-sky objects.
The Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO arrived well-packaged and appeared surprisingly robust for its weight. The black finish looks sleek, and the overall construction seems solid. It felt like a step up in quality compared to the Celestron AVX or the Sky-Watcher EQM-35 Pro, which were other mounts I considered in this price range. I was immediately excited to set it up and see what it could do.
My initial thought was, “This could be the perfect balance of portability and performance,” and I hoped that my first impressions would hold true under the night sky.
Real-World Testing: Putting Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the iEXOS-100 was at a dark sky site about an hour outside the city. The conditions were clear, and I was eager to test its GOTO capabilities and tracking accuracy. Setting up was straightforward. It took about 20 minutes to get everything aligned and ready to go.
The PMC-Eight GOTO system quickly slewed to my chosen targets, including the Andromeda Galaxy and the Orion Nebula. I was pleasantly surprised by how accurately it placed them within the field of view.
There was a slight learning curve with the hand controller interface, but after a little experimentation, I found it intuitive enough. The tracking was smooth and consistent, even at higher magnifications.
My initial concern was the battery pack, but it lasted the entire night.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the iEXOS-100 has proven to be a reliable performer. The mount has held up well, with no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the mount head.
I have used it in a variety of weather conditions, including damp evenings and chilly nights. The stainless steel components seem resistant to rust. The tripod provides stable support even on uneven ground.
I’ve found the iEXOS-100 easy to maintain. A simple wipe-down after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. Comparing it to my old alt-azimuth mount, the iEXOS-100 is a significant upgrade in terms of stability and tracking performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO
Specifications
The Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO boasts a range of features tailored for serious amateur astronomers. It has a 19 lbs visual and 15 lbs photographic weight capacity.
The mount head weighs in at 9.45 lbs, while the tripod adds another 5.35 lbs. The tripod can be adjusted to a maximum height of 45 inches with the mount head attached.
The adjustable folding metal tripod features an accessory tray. This mount uses an 8 C-Cell Battery Pack for power. It also incorporates stainless steel in its construction.
These specifications matter because they determine the size and type of telescope the mount can comfortably handle. The PMC-Eight GOTO system provides precise pointing accuracy. The stainless steel construction assures longevity and resistance to the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The iEXOS-100 excels at its primary task: accurately tracking celestial objects. The PMC-Eight GOTO system is remarkably precise, placing targets within the field of view quickly and efficiently.
Its tracking is smooth and consistent, enabling long-exposure astrophotography. The mount’s 19 lbs visual capacity allows it to handle mid-sized refractors and reflectors with ease.
The mount’s primary weakness is its reliance on the battery pack; an external power option would be a welcome addition. However, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a mount in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The iEXOS-100 features a sleek, functional design. The black finish gives it a professional look. The mount is relatively lightweight and easy to transport.
The adjustable tripod is stable and user-friendly. The PMC-Eight GOTO hand controller is intuitive to operate, despite a slight learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The iEXOS-100 appears to be built to last. The use of stainless steel in key components enhances its durability. Proper maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The mount’s robust construction ensures years of reliable performance, making it a sound investment for amateur astronomers.
Accessories and Customization Options
The iEXOS-100 comes with a battery pack and an adjustable folding metal tripod with an accessory tray. While not including extensive accessories, its compatibility with standard dovetail mounting systems allows for a wide range of customization.
Third-party counterweights can improve balance with heavier telescopes. Optional polar alignment scopes can enhance pointing accuracy.
Pros and Cons of Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO
Pros
- The PMC-Eight GOTO system delivers excellent pointing accuracy and tracking.
- Its 19 lbs visual weight capacity supports a wide range of telescopes.
- The stainless steel construction enhances durability.
- The adjustable tripod is stable and easy to set up.
- The mount head’s relatively light weight makes it portable.
Cons
- It relies solely on a battery pack for power, limiting flexibility.
- There can be a slight learning curve associated with the hand controller interface.
Who Should Buy Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO?
The Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO is perfect for amateur astronomers who are looking to move beyond basic alt-azimuth mounts. It is great for those who want to begin exploring astrophotography without investing in a more expensive, heavy-duty system. It’s ideal for those who value portability and ease of use.
This product is not for professional astronomers who need ultra-high precision and load capacity. It is also not for casual observers who are content with simple, manual mounts.
A must-have accessory is an external power adapter to avoid reliance on the battery pack. A polar alignment scope can also improve the accuracy of your setups.
Conclusion on Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO
The Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 Equatorial Mount with PMC-Eight GOTO is a compelling option for amateur astronomers. It offers a strong balance of performance, portability, and affordability.
At $449.99, the price is justified by its advanced GOTO system and durable construction.
I would definitely recommend this mount to anyone looking to take their astronomical pursuits to the next level. The iEXOS-100 opens up a world of possibilities for both visual observation and astrophotography. Grab yours today and start exploring the cosmos!