ASTRO-PHYSICS HISTORY
600EGTO German Equatorial Mount (600EGTO)
Includes Go-to Keypad Controller and DigitalSky Voice™ software

The 600EGTO is not available to purchase and we do not have any plans to produce this particular model in the future. A new mount in this size range is in development with planned introduction in 2005. This information is presented for present owners and those who are curious about its history.

Additional photos to view:
600EGTO with 130mm f6 StarFire EDFS, 8" Dovetail Plate Adjustable Wood Tripod and other accessories
600EGTO with 155mm f7 StarFire EDFS, Adjustable Wood Tripod and other accessories

The Astro-Physics 600E German Equatorial mount offers many fine features to provide superb performance in a compact, portable package. It was engineered to provide a firm, steady platform for your high-resolution instrument. Both axes respond to fingertip pressure with no hint of backlash. Built-in clutches can be disengaged for ultra-smooth sweeping or locked for astro-photography.

The 600E is constructed of the highest quality components to provide you with years of observing pleasure. All parts are machined of aluminum and stainless steel. We avoid the use of any carbon steel shafts or plated-steel fasteners because they will deteriorate with time. This mount will not rust or bind up and will retain its appearance and function throughout the years.

Rigid aluminum castings enclose the worm gears and the right-ascension and declination motors. Drive components are protected from dirt and dust, extraneous wires and gearing are eliminated, and the overall appearance is enhanced.

When coupled with the options described separately, the 600E will be your portable observatory for home or dark-sky site. Within minutes, you will be assembled and polar-aligned, ready to enjoy the wonders of the night sky.

Features
Specifications of Equatorial Head

Worm wheel

4" (10.2cm), 192 teeth, fine-pitched bronze wheel

Worm gear

Brass

RA/Dec shaft

2.5" hollow shafts

Counterweight shaft

13.75" useable length, 1.125" diameter stainless steel, removeable

Latitude range

15 to 57 degrees

Azimuth adjustment

Approximately 17 degrees

Setting circles

Porter Slip Ring design, engraved

Right ascension

10 minute increments, 2-minute vernier

Declination

1 degree increments, pointer

Motors

Zero-cogging servo motors

Power consumption

0.3 amps at sidereal rate, 1.2 amps with both motors slewing

Power requirements

12VDC, acceptable range 11.5 to 15

Capacity

Approximately 25 lbs (11.4kg) scope and accessories, depending on length. Will accommodate many refractors up to 6"f7", reflectors to 8", Cassegrains to 10"
Some telescopes are very heavy for their size and will require a larger mount.

Weight of equatorial head

29.5 lbs. (13.4 kg) for the head and 4 lbs (1.8 kg) for the counterweight shaft


Servo Motor Drive
The drive system uses a high-quality, zero-cogging DC servo motor controlled by a microprocessor to an accuracy of 0.2 arc seconds per step. Tracking is very smooth, noticeably smoother than any stepper motor drive. The system can be accurately controlled over a speed range of 4800:1 (0.25x sidereal for guiding to 1200x sidereal for 5 degree per second slewing). The circuit draws only 0.3 amps when tracking the stars, 1.2 amps with both motors slewing and requires 12 volts to operate. The servo drive will satisfy the requirements of the sophisticated, advanced astrophotographer, yet is easy for the casual, visual observer to use.

Dimensions
The diagram shows several dimensions that are commonly requested. In addition, if the scope is horizontal and pointing west or south, the measurement from the top of the pier to the middle of the cradle plate is 11.75." Please note that these dimensions will vary somewhat depending on your latitude. We quote them for 42 degrees because that is the latitude of Astro-Physics and all of our equipment is set up that way. It is also a good average value.

Support

We have prepared some pertinent support documents relating to this mount and many of our other products on our Technical Support page. Please check there first to find the information that you need.

Upgrades and Spare Parts

Check out our Astro-Physics.com websiteto find accessories, replacement parts or learn about possible upgrades for your mount.

Copyright © 2004-2019 Astro-Physics Inc. All rights reserved.
Last modified: March 11, 2019

Astro-Physics, Inc.
11250 Forest Hills Road, Rockford, IL  61115, U.S.A.
Phone: 815-282-1513   Fax: 815-282-9847