iOptron’s MiniTower

Put your favorite small scope on the MiniTower, and let it be your celestial guide.
By | Published: May 19, 2009 | Last updated on May 18, 2023
iOptron MiniTower
If your primary telescope weighs more than about 15 pounds (6.8 kg), use the supplied counterweight for balance.
Astronomy: James Forbes

This review, “iOptron’s lightweight mount supports on-the-go observing,” appeared in the February 2009 issue of Astronomy magazine

Today’s visual observers like a good alt-azimuth mount because of its simplicity and portability. Such units are lightweight, yet they can handle heavy telescopes. If they have a drawback, it’s the lack of automatic tracking.

Enter iOptron Corporation’s Mini-Tower. This lightweight, computerized, alt-azimuth drive lets you configure it as either a single- or dual-arm mount. The MiniTower has a manufacturer-stated load capacity of 25 pounds (11.4 kilograms) on one side and 8 pounds (3.6 kg) on the other. The tripod legs are 1.5 inches (38 millimeters) thick and place it at a comfortable height for observing.

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