Ideal for small- to medium-aperture refractors and catadioptrics, the Sky-Watcher AZ-GT Series GoTo AZ Mount features an integrated WiFi module that generates its own local network signal to allow wireless control via a smartphone running their free SynScan Pro app for Android and iOS devices. The app is intuitively laid out for easy setup, navigation, and exploration of the sky—even if you’ve never looked through a telescope before. Packed with over 42,900 objects with daytime and nighttime alignment-assistance procedures, plus advanced features such as periodic error correction (PEC), backlash compensation, tours, and DSLR camera control, the SynScan app is a powerful yet easy-to-use way to control the mount.

Dual-axis motors slew to and track objects, while dual encoders (for AZ-GTi version only) on each axis precisely follow the mount’s movement and maintain its alignment—even if the mount is moved by hand. A Vixen-style dovetail saddle makes mounting a variety of optical tube assemblies (OTAs) fast and easy, and with a payload capacity of up to 5kg, it is ideal for refractors and Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes. Supporting the mount is an adjustable-height aluminum tripod. The AZ-GT comes with a pier extension (extension tube) that is located between the tripod and mount head to provide additional height for easier viewing without sacrificing stability when the OTA is aimed at or near the zenith.

What is included

1 Mount

1 Extension Tube 8″ (20cm)

1 Tripod

How to increase fun level of this mount

Install the highly popular and affordable SkySafari Plus app into your smart phone and allow it to take over control of the mount from the default app Synscan. Contact us for the setup guide after purchasing this mount.

Main difference between AZ-GTi & AZ-GTe versions

Encoders are present in the AZ-GTi version. This means that the mount can be moved manually by hand even after the mount has been aligned, ie. GoTo function is not affected. The AZ-GTe does not allow disengaging of the internal gears, so it cannot be turned manually in the horizontal direction during observation session after alignment is done.

Possible scenario: While viewing some objects in the night sky in the west, you realize there is a bright object rising on the eastern horizon. You are curious to find out and quickly turn the AZ-GTi mount to the east to observe it. If you wait for the mount to slew or move its gears from the west to the east, it will take a longer time. After viewing that bright object, which turns out to be Jupiter, you click on the original object you viewed in the west on Synscan or SkySafari Plus. The AZ-GTi mount will remember its previous position and slews back to that object.

Is it necessary to get the AZ-GTi version?  

If you prefer to observe the night sky without need for manual handling but on full automation mode, there is no need to get the AZ-GTi version. We have users who own the AZ-GTi but very rarely do they use the dual encoders for manual movement of mount. Both versions may be converted to EQ mode* by getting optional adapters/parts from McGill and installing the appropriate firmware on Sky-Watcher official website.

What is AZ-GTi (Dual Mode)?  

This is an upgraded version of the AZ-GTi in which the mount is converted to operate in BOTH AZ mode and EQ mode*. This will be useful to those who wish to try astro photography. The connection method for AZ mode for this version will be such that the telescope has to be on the right side of mount when facing North.

Why buy this AZ-GTe/GTi from McGill?  

We offer after-sales technical support to make sure you know how to operate this mount! For an affordable price, you can also sign up for our on-site handholding session if you prefer personal guidance. Your purchase is also covered for a warranty period of 3 YEARS from date of invoice. In the case of faulty equipment within the said period, we will repair or replace the mount at no EXTRA cost to you!

*EQ mode or equatorial mode is a mode of mount setup and operation in which the mount can be adjusted such that its axis of rotation is parallel to the Earth’s axis of rotation. This type of mount is usually used for precise tracking of night sky objects to allow for photography using DSLR cameras or light-sensitive CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) cameras. Some EQ mounts or otherwise known as German Equatorial Mounts cannot be used in Singapore or near the Equator.