iOptron SkyHunter Portable AZ GoTo Mount Head

Description

iOptron SkyHunter Portable AZ GoTo Mount Head (#3700AZ)

A pocket-sized GoTo powerhouse for your grab-and-go astronomy setup.

Whether youre an astronomer on the move, a stargazer who loves simplicity, or someone just getting started with tracking the night sky, the iOptron SkyHunter AZ delivers big capability in a compact package. Weighing just under 3 pounds, this ultra-lightweight alt-azimuth GoTo mount head slips easily into a backpack or carry-on, yet offers motorized tracking, precise slewing, and wireless control for telescopes and cameras up to 11 pounds.

Perfect for travel, grab-and-go observing, or quick lunar and planetary sessions on your patio, the SkyHunter AZ proves that portability and precision can go hand in hand.

Key Features:

• Alt-Azimuth GoTo Mount Head No Polar Alignment Needed

• Motorized Slewing and Sidereal Tracking

• Supports Optical Tubes or Cameras up to 11 lbs (5 kg)

• Weighs Only 2.9 Pounds

• Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Control

• Powered by Internal Rechargeable Lithium Battery or USB-C

• Compatible with Tripods Using 3/8-16 Threads

• Optional Hand Controller and Tripod Available Separately

Small Frame, Serious Performance

The SkyHunter AZ isnt just lightits smart. This mini GoTo mount uses precision worm gears and a dual-axis DC motor system to provide automated slewing and sidereal tracking. Whether youre tracking the Moon, pointing to a bright planet, or hopping between bright deep sky targets with a compact refractor, the SkyHunter makes the experience hands-free and hassle-free.

Unlike equatorial mounts, theres no polar alignment required. Just level the tripod, aim roughly south (optional), and let your controller or app take over. Its a great solution for beginners, educators, and casual observers who want the benefits of GoTo without the complexity.

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Built In

You wont find a nest of wires hanging off this mount head. The SkyHunter AZ comes with integrated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing you to control it using:

• iOptron Commander Lite App (iOS/Android)

• SkySafari or similar planetarium apps

• ASCOM drivers for Windows control via USB-C

• Optional Go2Nova 8410 hand controller (not included)

This flexibility makes it equally at home in the hands of a new observer using a smartphone, or a more experienced astronomer building a lightweight imaging or outreach setup.

Lightweight Load, Versatile Mounting

Dont let the size fool youthis tiny mount can handle telescopes and gear up to 11 pounds. Ideal matches include:

• 60mm to 80mm refractors

• Small Maksutovs or SCTs (90125mm)

• DSLR and mirrorless camera setups with lenses or small astrographs

• White-light solar telescopes

• Spotting scopes and binocular mounts

The mount head includes a Vixen-style dovetail saddle, and it attaches to any sturdy photo tripod with a standard 3/8″-16 threaded stud. If you already own a quality camera tripod, youre halfway there.

Power Anywhere

The SkyHunter AZ features an internal rechargeable lithium-polymer battery (3.7V), good for a night of tracking. It can also be powered via USB-C, making it easy to connect to a portable battery pack, AC adapter, or power bank in the field.

The minimal power draw and dual-power capability make it an excellent choice for remote or off-grid observing sites.

Clean, Cable-Free Operation

This mount head keeps things tidy with its minimalist design. All major functionspower, communication, and motor controlare handled internally, so you wont have wires dangling off your tripod. The optional hand controller connects easily if desired, but for many users, the SkyHunter shines when operated wirelessly via app.

Whats Included:

• iOptron SkyHunter AZ Mount Head

• USB-C charging/data cable

• 3/8″-16 base thread for standard tripod mounting

• Internal rechargeable battery

Note: Tripod and hand controller sold separately. Optional Go2Nova 8410 hand controller is supported but not included.

Technical Specifications

Feature	Specification
Mount Type	Alt-Azimuth, Motorized GoTo
Payload Capacity	11 lbs (5 kg)
Mount Head Weight	2.9 lbs (1.3 kg)
Saddle Type	Vixen-style dovetail clamp
Power Options	Internal LiPo Battery or USB-C
Control Methods	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, 8410 HC
Tracking Modes	Sidereal (solar/lunar via app)
Battery Type	Rechargeable 3.7V Lithium-Polymer
Tripod Mounting	Standard 3/8-16 threaded socket

Observing Tip:

The SkyHunter AZ is a dream for white-light solar observing. Pair it with a lightweight refractor and a certified solar filter, and youll have a portable solar tracking rig that sets up in under two minutesideal for sidewalk astronomy, science fairs, or simply following the Sun from your backyard. The ability to track hands-free makes it far easier to share the view safely with others.

Tech Details:

Mount Ultracompact GOTO AZ mount Payload (Max.) 11 lbs (5kg), balanced Mount weight 2.9 lbs (1.3kg) with battery Structure material Metal frame structure Motor drive Dual-axis DC servo motor with optical encoder Transmission Synchronous belt Tracking speed Solar, Lunar, Cel, 1/2 Cel, and N/S Maximum slew speed 4.5/sec (1080X) Worm period 600 sec RA/DEC worm wheel 77 mm, 144 teeth Hand controller Yes (with optional 8410 HC) Altitude adjustment range 0 ~ 80 Azimuth adjustment range 5 Power Requirement Internal rechargeable battery Battery type Li-Poly, 3.7V, 2000mAh Duration of operation Up to 10 hours at 20C Counterweigh Shaft 20mmX200mm, 3/8″ thread, stainless steel Counterweigh 3 lbs (1.3 kg) Dovetail saddle Vixen-type Body base connection Vixen dovetail, 3/8 socket Power charge port MiniUSB (5V) Wi-Fi Built-in Communication port Yes (Wi-Fi and USB) Firmware upgrade Yes (via USB port) Operation Temperature -10C ~40C Warranty One year limited (90 day on battery)