High-capacity German equatorial mount with absolute encoders, embedded Linux computer, dual-axis tracking, and ColdTemp upgrade for reliable operation down to −40 °C. Mandatory transport kit with pier adapter #1453199. Counterweights and power supply not included.
Description
The 10Micron GM 3000 HPS is designed for high-end observatories requiring excellent stability and precision at high payload capacity. The mount reaches up to 12°/s satellite tracking speed, with typical pointing accuracy under 20 arcseconds and tracking accuracy of ~1" over 15 minutes (peak-to-peak).
High-resolution absolute encoders directly mounted on RA and Dec axes ensure the mount never loses orientation—even after power outages or manual movement. No realignment is necessary. The dual-axis tracking system compensates automatically for polar alignment errors or tube flexures during tracking.
This version includes the ColdTemp Upgrade, factory-installed and not retrofittable. It includes:
Ultra-low-viscosity grease for −60 °C operation,
Axis thermal compensation springs,
Embedded Linux PC with extended temperature range,
Fully replaced internal cabling with low-temp copper alloy + silicone jacket,
Absolute encoders modified for −40 °C,
Cold chamber endurance testing
Wi-Fi functionality is disabled in ColdTemp versions.
The V3 control box features:
ARM-based processor
Binder industrial connectors for all ports
GPS input via PS2 with PPS signal
Enhanced AUX port (DIN 6-pin)
Binder power plug with 24V cable
External Wi-Fi antenna port (disabled in ColdTemp)
The system runs Linux and supports full autonomous or remote control via Ethernet. It is operated locally via the included stand-alone Keypad or remotely via Virtual Keypad, ASCOM drivers, Clock Sync and Multi Mount software.
Advanced firmware includes high-precision multistar modeling, dual-axis tracking, assisted polar alignment, spectroscopy-ready pointing models, satellite TLE tracking, and full time synchronization (manual, GPS, or software). UT1/UTC handling and leap second support are integrated.
Technical specifications
Mount type: German equatorial
Instrument load capacity: 100 kg
Weight: approx. 65 kg
Latitude range: 20° to 70°
Azimuth adjustment: ±10°
Counterweight shaft: Ø50 mm, stainless steel, 8 kg
Axes: Ø80 mm RA / Ø50 mm DEC, alloy steel
Bearings: Pre-loaded tapered roller
Worm wheels: RA 315 teeth, Ø330 mm / DEC 250 teeth, Ø192 mm, B14 bronze
Worms: Ø32 mm, tempered, ground and lapped steel
Motors: 2 AC brushless servos
Power: 24 V DC
Power draw: ~1 A (tracking), ~3 A (max speed), ~5 A (peak)
Go-To speed: 2°/s to 12°/s
Transmission: backlash-free with belt and auto-compensation
Pointing accuracy: <20" with 25-star mapping (up to 100)
Tracking accuracy: ~1" over 15 min; ~0.6" RMS with full model
Safety stops: ±30° (software) / ±45° (mechanical) past meridian
Ports: RS-232, GPS, ST-4, Ethernet 10/100/1000
Database: named stars, deep-sky objects, solar system, comets, satellites, user objects
Firmware: parking, 2/3-star alignment, up to 100 points, polar/orthogonality correction, sidereal/solar/lunar tracking, guiding speed based on declination, adjustable horizon, meridian flips, balance routine, GPS/ClockSync/manual timing, Baader dome control, multilingual, remote diagnostics
Keypad: robust metal housing, 5-line heated graphic display, LED-backlit keys
PC control: via RS-232 or Ethernet, ASCOM 10Micron, LX200-compatible, firmware/orbital updates
Additional information
Supplied with on-axis absolute encoders
Mandatory shipping kit with pier adapter and wooden box (#1453199)
Stand-alone Keypad included (#1452061)
Counterweights and power supply must be ordered separately
Only approved 10Micron power supplies maintain warranty coverage