Select a product from the list below in order to see the detailed product review.

> GP-EQ

> GP-DX

> ATLUX

> MT-1

> DD-1

> SD-1

> SPHINX (SX) EQ MOUNT

> SKYPOD COMPUTERIZED

> SPHINX D (SXD) MOUNT

> GP2 EQ MOUNT

> GPD2 EQ MOUNT

> SPHINX (SXW) MOUNT

Model: Great Polaris-Economy EQ Mount

Description :

This economical mount comes standard with R.A. and Decl. slow-motion control knobs but w/o the setting circles and polar axis scope. The body is the same as that of the GP model and incorporates the same 114-tooth worm gears. This is ideal for those who are still fresh in observing and wishes to become familiar with equatorial mounts.

Specification :

RA Axis	144-Tooth Worm Gears
DECL Axis	144-Tooth Worm Gears
Standard Accessories	Bubble Level
Mount Adjustments	Alt/Az Fine Adjustment Knobs, Lat. to 62-deg
Drives	Optional for R.A. & Decl.
Weight w/o counterweight (kg/lb)	4/8.8
Mount Max Load (kg/lb)	7/15.4

Model: Great Polaris-Deluxe (GP-DX with HAL-110 Tripod)

Description :

This GP-DX mount has the appearance of the compact and portable GP mount, but it's performance and sturdiness are one level higher. Duarable steel is used for the R.A. and Declination Axes and the worm wheels are made of brass, providing smooth and stable operation.

Specification :

RA Axis	144-Tooth Worm Gears
DECL Axis	144-Tooth Worm Gears
Standard Accessories	6x20mm 8-deg dual hemisphere Polar Axis Scope w/built-in variable intensity illuminator, Setting circles (R.A. x 10'/Decl. x 2-deg), & Bubble Level
Mount Adjustments	Alt/Az Fine Adjustment Knobs, Lat. to 62-deg
Drives	Optional for R.A. & Decl.
Weight w/o counterweight (kg/lb)	8.5/18.7
Mount Max Load (kg/lb)	10/22.1

Model: Atlux Heavy Duty Duluxe EQ Mount (With Duramin Tripod & SkySensor  2000-PC)

Description :

This is a heavy-duty equatorial mount designed to load large aperture telescopes, such as Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain 280mm optical tube. It has the built-in R.A. and Decl. motors, and is controlled by the computerized controller SKYSENSOR 2000-PC. 13,942 celestial objects are stored in the memory. By the newest precision casting technique, it is made lighter in weight than the old Atlux mount by 15% without reducing its strength. Right ascension and declination are displayed digitally. A new rotary-contact internal wiring system is adopted to simplify external cord connection. Celestial objects can be located automatically at the speed of 500 degree sidereal rate. PEC (periodic error correction) function is available to improve the tracking accuracy. Being designed for portability, it is easy to handle and store. Polar Axis scope---6 degree~20mm, 8 degree with a reticule for the northern and southern hemispheres, and an adjustable illuminator.

Specification :

R. A.  Micro-Movement Axis	Whole Circle Movement  180-Tooth Worm Gears
DECL.  Micro-Movement Axis	Whole Circle Movement  180-Tooth Worm Gears
R. A. & DECL.  Graduations	R.A. display : 1' increment  Decl. display : 0.1¾ increment
Polar Alignment Graduations	Supplied
Polar Axis Scope (Usable In Northern And Southern Hemispheres)	Supplied -6x20mm 8¾, with illuminator
Azimuth Fine Adjustment	Adjustment Knobs
Polar Axis Altitude Adjustment	0 to 70¾ Adjustment Knobs
Motor Drive	Supplied - R. A. & Decl.. built-in DC motors,  Skysensor 2000-PC controller
Bubble Level	Supplied
Maximum Loading Weight	Approx. 22kg
Skysensor	Supplied - Skysensor 2000-PC
Encoders & Stellar Guide	Not usable

Model: MT-1 Ascension/Declination Motor Drive (for GP-E, GP & GP-DX)

Description :

The motor drives are stepping motors driven by a very accurate quartz oscillator. Their circuits are designed to keep tracking error within 0.005% of sidereal time. Cast aluminum housing with dovetail track attaches easily to GP mount. One motor is needed each for the R.A. and Declination axis.

Model: DD-1 (Dual-Axis Controller)

Description :

Controls right ascension and declination motors for GP, GP-DX, GP-E, SP and SP-DX equatorial mounts. Features 1.5x and 2x guiding, 32x fast forward and reverse slewing, and pause. Runs on eight D batteries (battery not included). Includes cables and battery case.

Specification :

Axes Driven	R.A. & Decl.
Rates (xSidereal)	1.5x/2x/32x east/west
Accuracy (Percent Sidereal)	0.005
Torque (kg-cm)	3
Power Input (Volt)	DC 7.5 - 12
Current (Max milliamps)	800
Battery Case	D-size x 8 (20-hrs w/alkalines)
Mount Compatibility	GP/SP series

Model: SD-1 (Single Axis Controller)

Description :

Controls right ascension motor drive on GP, GP-DX, GP-E, SP and SP-DX equatorial mounts. Features 2x guiding, 16x fast forward and reverse slewing, and pause. Runs on six C batteries (battery not included). Includes cable and battery case.

Specification :

Axes Driven	R.A.
Rates (xSidereal)	2x/16x east/west
Accuracy (Percent Sidereal)	0.005
Torque (kg-cm)	4
Power Input (Volt)	DC 6.5 - 12
Current (Max milliamps)	290
Battery Case	C-size x 6 (20-hrs w/alkalines)
Mount Compatibility	GP/SP series

Model: SPHINX (SX) EQ Mounts

Description :

• Comes standard with Built-in Motors and Innovational Go-To Controller STAR BOOK.

• Nicely Designed Form (Design Registration Applied)

SPHINX equatorial mount has been developed with the most up-to-date equatorial mount engineering for high-speed automatic search of celestial objects.

1. By shortening the declination axis extended to an optical tube and making the built-in motors serve as a counterweight, too, rotation movement of the polar axis has improved remarkably.

2. Saving energy type high-speed motors and precise motor controls have been realized.

3. This is a new century’s equatorial mount completed by Vixen having a great achievement for many years in technology of German type equatorial mounts and high-speed go-to systems.

1. Tabletop Tripod

2. Unique Motor Layout

3. Optical Tube Quick-Attachment System

4. Optical Tube Set Position Indicators

5. Polar Axis Caps

6. Optional Polar Axis Scope

7. Weight Shaft

8. Solid Aluminum Tripod SX-HAL110

Weight :

SXC Type Equatorial Mount (counterweight-less type)	5.9 kg
SXW Type Equatorial Mount (including a 1.9kg counterweight) Tabletop Tripod	8.7kg
SX-HAL110 Tripod	1.4kg
SX Half Pillar	5.0kg

Specification :

Worm Gears	Full circle fine movement for both right ascension and declination axes, 180-tooth worm wheel
Polar Axis Altitude	Adjustable from 0°to 70°, with altitude graduation
Polar Axis Scope	Optional, 6x20mm, field of view 8°, alignment accuracy 3 arc seconds

Weight :

Innovational GOTO Controller Star Book

World First LCD-Screen Star-Chart GOTO System

(Patent Pending)

You can point a telescope automatically at a celestial object just by clicking on the LCD screen.

SPHINX equatorial mount has been developed with the most up-to-date equatorial mount engineering for high-speed automatic search of celestial objects.

1. By shortening the declination axis extended to an optical tube and making the built-in motors serve as a counterweight, too, rotation movement of the polar axis has improved remarkably.

2. Saving energy type high-speed motors and precise motor controls have been realized.

3. This is a new century’s equatorial mount completed by Vixen having a great achievement for many years in technology of German type equatorial mounts and high-speed go-to systems.

1. Color Large Size Liquid Crystal Display

2. Ultra High Speed CPU (inside)

3. Zooming In and Out Buttons

4. Speaker (back)

5. External Connector (back)

Easy Operation System

Operation buttons are placed like a game machine controller.  Button functions are always displayed on the screen.  A small number of the operation buttons and a plenty of information provided on the screen allow every person to operate STAR BOOK by intuition.

22,725 Objects Database

Power Source and Consumption

(A battery case for eight D-size batteries is supplied.)

Dimensions and Weight

Model: Skypod Computerized Alazimuth Mount

Description :

The Skypod is a unique portable alt-azimuth computer controlled "Go To" mount that evolved from the very successful Vixen Sphinx mount. The Skypod incorporates a compact computer controlled Alt-Az system that automatically slews the telescope from one object to another. The 22,000 plus object data base provides an endless variety of object to view and is upgradeable.

This new and portable GoTo travel mount uses the modified Starbook S hand controller that offers the same practical user concept of the Sphinx controller. A display will show you a map of the sky so that you always know where you are.

The controller is integrated into the mount. You can take it off for remote control, but you can always put it back for save storage and transport. This means that for transport you can avoid all the separate small parts that are otherwise easily lost.

Because the Skypod it is based on Vixens flexible mounting system, a wide variety of telescopes will easily and quickly attach to this mount. Skypod provides good portability combined with ease of use and versatility. You can store the mount and the telescope separately. For airline traveling you can take the VMC110L along as carry-on luggage while the mount goes with the rest of your luggage.

Skypod Mounts Details :

• Newly developed and sturdy alt-azimuth GoTo mount

• Electrical slow motion control in both axes

• Integrated Starbook S controller, can be taken out for cable-remote control

• Internal battery compartment (batteries not included) or 12V external power supply possible

• Telescope connection by Vixen dovetail saddle plate

• A telescope is installed onto the Skypod by means of an optional Dovetail Plate which slips into the Saddle on the elevation fork tine.

Starbook S Controller

Monochromatic LCD-display with background illumination

Uniquely easy to use, navigation by displayed star chart

Model: Sphinx D (SXD) Mount

Description :

While the outsides might look similar to the standard Sphinx Mount, the changes that have happened under the hood are huge! Incorporating one piece hardened steel RA and DEC shafts with needle bearings throughout, the new Sphinx D can handle a load capacity up to 50 lbs. This now comes standard with PEC and the incredibly accurate SX Polare Finder Scope.

Astronomers with larger optical tubes and all level of astrophotographers are sure to feel right at home with the intuitive controls that so many have become accustomed to with the standard Sphinx Mount. Its 4.7" Color LCD Display gives an exact position against its scrolling star chart, any object is a point and look away!

The innovative STAR BOOK hand controller offers astronomical navigation with a large full-color LCD screen! The color screen is a detailed star chart that acts as a navigational and GOTO guide for the mount.

Zoom-In/Out buttons for the color star chart display also control the motor speed. As you zoom in closer to an object on the display screen, the motor speed automatically becomes finer and as you zoom out the motor speed increases to cover larger distances.

Features and menu options are displayed on the large color screen and are easily navigated with simple buttons on the controller. The STAR BOOK is amazingly easy to use and makes the SPHINX available to a wide range of ages and experience levels.

Sphinx SXD Mount Features :

• Solid Steel RA and DEX Axis shafts

• Needle Bearings

• 180 Tooth Brass Worm Gear in both axes

• Interactive Starbook with a 4.7" Color LCD Display - scrolls and zoom into detailed star charts with a built in speaker

• Equatorial Mount Head without Counterweight 15 lbs.

• Mount Capacity 50 lbs.

• Includes one 4.2 lb and one 8.2 lb counterweight

• Full Go-To capabilities to over 22,000 objects

• Universal GP Plate receiver allows many telescopes to mount

• Completely upgradeable firmware and comet database

Specification :

Type	German Type
Maximum Loading Weight	15kg at 25cm from pivot point
Axis Material	Thick Steel Piping
Gearwheel	180-Tooth Brass Wheel for the both R.A. & Decl.   Axes
Bearings	R.A. Axis : 2 pieces  Decl. Axis  : 3 pieces  Worm Axis : 4 pieces
Weight	8.8kg
Remarks	White

Model: GP2 Equatorial Mount

Description :

Quality Equatorial Mount
Economical, Lightweight & Portable up to 7kg/15.4lb Loads

The famous GP-series mounts provide a lifetime of enjoyment as reliable quality platforms for visual and photographic use. This GP-2 version is a geared for those seeking a lightweight, portable mounting solution. The simplicity of the mount also makes it perfect for the beginner wishing to become familiar with equatorial mounts.

Proving that the goals of stability and portability are not mutually exclusive in a German equatorial mount, the GP-2's aluminum die-cast body is strong and light. This economical version of the GP mount accomplishes accurate tracking with dual 144-tooth aluminum worm wheels and a brass R.A. worm gear machined to better than 0.002-mm tolerance. All R.A. and declination worm gears are individually inspected before assembly in Japan.

Scope-ready out of the box, it comes standard with instruction manual, bubble-level, 3.7-kg (8-lb) counter weight, R.A. and Decl. slow-motion control knobs. Telescopes mount securely with locking bolt and safety screw system on standard dovetails (see illustration this page). Simple polar alignment for visual tracking is made with the altitude/azimuth adjustments and polar axis bore hole.

GP-E can grow with your observing needs: addition of the polar axis scope and setting circles allows for better target location and tracking. Optional single or dual motor hand controller s make this system complete for visual observation and tracked astrophotography. You can also opt for the fully computerized, motorized, goto SkySensor 2000 system.

To take full advantage of the load carrying capacity of the mount, additional counterweights are available and recommended for telescopes over 4kg (8.8lb).

Reviews

The GP capability is superb tracking. I measured the tracking error from gear inaccuracies to be approximately 20 arcseconds, and most of that was a gentle drift during 3 minutes of the 10-minute rotation of the worm gear. Mounts costing double the price of the GP do well if they match that figure, let alone beat it.

Sky & Telescope, November 1999

Great Polaris is the best mount for under $1000.

The Backyard Astronomer's Guide, Revised Edition 2002, p.57

Model: GPD2 Equatorial Mount

Description :

Deluxe Equatorial Mount
R.A. Worm Machined to 1-Micron Tolerance
up to 10kg/22.1lb Loads

The GP-D2 mount has the appearance of the compact and portable GP-2 mount, but with a higher level of performance and sturdiness. Throughout the World, this is a widely respected and enjoyed German equatorial mount for large telescopes and long-exposure imaging.

Smooth and stable operation derives from R.A. and Declination axes of durable steel with worm wheels of brass. This allows for telescope loads 44% greater than the GP-2. To minimize the periodic motion that affects tracking accuracy in astrophotography, these gears are machined to twice the precision as that of the GP-2. All R.A. and Declination worm gears are individually inspected before assembly in Japan. The combination of high rigidity materials and high precision machining, dramatically increases the tracking accuracy of GP-D2 mounts.

Ready to handle your telescope, the mount body includes instruction manual, setting circles, internal illuminated polar axis scope with reticle for both hemispheres, bubble-level, fine adjustment knobs for altitude/azimuth, a 3.7-kg (8.2-lb), and 1.9-kg (4.2-lb) counter-weight  standard. Your choice of single or dual motor hand controllers make this system complete for visual observation or long-exposure astrophotography.

To take full advantage of the load carrying capacity of the mount, additional counterweights are available and recommended for telescopes over 6kg (13.2lb). Sturdy vibration dampening aluminum HAL 110 or Ash Wood tripods are recommended for this mount. To overcome the low eyepiece point encountered when observing at the zenith with long-tube refractors or Cassegrains, an optional GP Half Pillar extends the mount an additional distance above the HAL 110 tripod base.

Model: Sphinx (SXW) Equatorial Mount

Description :

Visual Star Chart Simplicity
State-of-the-Art Computerized Mount for All-Levels of Observer

The SPHINX equatorial mount and STAR BOOK controller have been intelligently engineered for high-speed automatic location of celestial objects. It is now possible to explore the beauty of the night sky with greater ease and stability. The SPHINX comes standard with built in motors and the world first star chart go-to controller, STAR BOOK, with a large full color LCD display. The SPHINX design is exceptional and the exterior styling is equally attractive. Sky & Telescope magazine has recognized the SPHINX as a Hot Product for 2004!

Main features of the SPHINX equatorial mount:

• 180-tooth worm gears for fine full circle motion.

• Built in DC servo motors allow for improved motion of the polar axis rotation and reduce the need for heavy counterweights.

• Up to 5-deg/sec slewing.

• A retractable counterweight shaft provides easy storage and transportation.

• The mount comes optionally on either a table top stand or the improved SX-HAL110 heavy duty aluminum tripod.

• A Half Pillar accessory option adds height adjustment and viewing location versatility.

• An optional illuminated polar axis scope can be easily added to the mount body.

• The mount utilizes the standard Vixen dovetail bracket for attachment of telescopes.

• 22lbs. recommended loading capacity for a wide range of optical tubes.

• Power: 12V, center pin positive, works with portable sources. See Usage Note under AC Adapter Sphinx Plug for AM-AC-3599 accessory for important power information.

Main features of the STAR BOOK controller:

• Large color liquid crystal display. (4.7 inch, 320x420 pixels, STN, 4096 colors)

• High Speed Internal CPU (32 bit RISC processor, 75MHz, 8MB SDRAM, 4MB Flash ROM upgradeable)

• Zoom-In/Out buttons for the color star chart display also control the motor speed. As you zoom in closer to an object on the display, the motor speed becomes finer and as you zoom out, the motor speed increases to cover larger distances.

• Features and menu options are displayed on the large color screen and are navigated with simple buttons on the controller. The STAR BOOK is easy to use and makes the SPHINX available to a wide range of ages and experience levels.

• A large astronomical database that maps 22,725 celestial objects.

• A LAN Port within the controller for flash upgrades.

• An auto-guider port comes standard on all controllers. A flash ROM download allows for compatibility with SBIG ST auto guiders - see Technical Documents and Notes on VixenAmerica.com Sphinx page .

• The STAR BOOK controller can be used as a stand alone star atlas from anywhere, anytime.

Telescopes mount securely with locking bolt and safety screw system on standard dovetails .

Reviews

• The Star Book is so easy to operate it flirts with user-interface perfection

• A telescope mount for the 21st century.

• As it stands now, the Sphinx is by far the easiest-to-use go-to mount.

• Those interested in imaging should give this mount consideration.

• The Sphinx is an extraordinary value because this amount of periodic error is normally encountered only in mounts 4 or 5 times its cost.

• More good news: The mount is terrific.

• To its credit, the screen worked well even at low temperatures. I subjected it to a test at -15° Fahrenheit (-26 °C.) one night

Astronomy magazine, November 2005