The SkyWatcher EQ-AL55i Pro GoTo Mechanism is a great travel astrophotography mechanic that is easily controlled remotely via WiFi. In addition to astrophotography, it can also be used for visual purposes: not only in equatorial mode but also in azimuthal mode.
Maximum load capacity is about 10 kg, but with all mechanics, the length of the tube must be taken into account! It comes with two counterweights (1.8 kg and 3.5 kg), its counterweight shaft is compatible with 20 mm bore counterweights. Steel leg 45 mm in diameter for excellent stability. Power supply will require a 12V/2A power source (not supplied), so it is recommended to use with an AC power supply or battery (e.g. gel battery), or via a cigarette lighter connection. For the latter, a cigarette lighter DC cable is also supplied by the manufacturer. There is no manual fine-tuning option on the mechanics, but you can control it via WiFi using the SynScan app. In addition to the DC socket, the mechanic's head has a manual control socket, ST4 socket, USB-C and a DSLR camera release socket. The DEC pulley is 51.6 mm in diameter and the RA is 73.4 mm.
Suitable for both visual use and astrophotography, the medium-duty SkyWatcher EQ-AL55i Pro GoTo mechanic has a Vixen standard mount.Its tilt angle can be adjusted from 0-90 degrees and two separate mount points have been created for the counterweight shaft to ensure that it fits unobstructed in all positions without hitting the legs. This also makes it an excellent travelling mechanism, as it can be poled at any latitude without any problem.
The built-in illuminated fibre-optic pole finder is standard.
