There's never been a more perfect pair.  A William Optics RedCat 61 with the ZWO AM3 mount.  This package comes complete with tripod and you save when you buy this bundle!

The William Optics Redcat 61 builds on the perennially popular Redcat design, stunning all red anodized finish, compact optical design for travel ease with exceptionally high quality optics and now includes the innovative WIFD internal focus design.  

At the heart of this groundbreaking design lies the patented William Optics center focuser, seamlessly integrated with the internal focuser mechanism to achieve an ingenious synergy. Through the precise manipulation of the telescope's fixed optics, the Internal Focus Design (WIFD) enables effortless and accurate adjustments to the focus, delivering unmatched clarity and sharpness in every captured moment. Moreover, the internal focuser acts as a fortress, providing exceptional protection to the delicate optics, shielding against misalignment and ensuring unwavering performance under any circumstances.

A standout advantage of the WIFD lies in its remarkable ability to distribute the weight of the imaging system evenly, resulting in heightened stability during captivating astrophotography sessions. This harmonious weight distribution alleviates strain on the telescope mount, minimizing the occurrence of disruptive vibrations and granting the freedom to extend exposure times without compromising the pristine quality of the captured images. With the user-friendly rack and pinion focuser, astronomers can effortlessly fine-tune focus adjustments, offering unparalleled command over capturing their desired celestial subjects. Complementing this precision is an easily readable graduated display, serving as an intuitive aid that streamlines the process of achieving meticulous focus.

The integration of the patented William Optics center focuser and the internal focuser mechanism represents a leap forward in optical innovation. By harmonizing their capabilities, the WIFD system delivers not only exceptional clarity and protection but also enhanced stability and control, enabling astronomers to delve into the depths of the cosmos with unmatched confidence and finesse.

Included in this ZWO package is the AM3 Harmonic Drive EQ/AZ Mount Head paired with the TC40 Carbon Fiber tripod, presenting an ideal solution for astrophotographers in search of a convenient and portable equatorial mount that delivers peak performance without the necessity of counterweights. Unlike traditional EQ mounts, which can be challenging to balance in both RA and DEC directions and cumbersome to transport and store, the AM3 Harmonic Drive EQ mount addresses these concerns effectively.

Boasting a substantial load capacity of 17.6 lb. (8kg) without the need for a counterweight and an impressive 28.6 lb. (13kg) with an optional counterweight (not included), the AM3 mount stands out while maintaining a remarkably light weight of only 8.6 lb. (3.9kg). ZWO has skillfully balanced the equation of stability and portability with the AM3 mount, recognizing that operational ease is paramount for astrophotographers. This innovative mount offers astrophotography enthusiasts the flexibility to capture stunning celestial images without compromising on the convenience of transport and storage.

The ZWO AM3 Harmonic Equatorial Mount takes advantage of the flagship design of strain wave gearing mount equipment without the need for counterweights. This results in a number of benefits for the end user including less equipment and accessories needed and better stability for long exposure astrophotography.
With a weight of 3.9 kg (8.6 pounds) and a payload limit of 8kg (17.6 pounds without counterweight) and 13kg (28.6 pounds with counterweight), it can accomodate equipment that far exceeds its own weight, thanks to the ZWO modified strain wave design. 

• Taking the original strain wave gearing and giving it a twist, the AM3 has improved functionality and stability with the synchronous belt that results in an impressive 300:1 reduction ratio.
• Lightweight, stability and accurate tracking are not in any way compromised. It has low periodic error and high torque.
• Functional in both equatorial mode for astrophotography purposes and altazimuth mode for amateur visual observers. It fits the best of both worlds!
• The mount can be controlled via Wifi, Bluetooth or a hand controller connection.
• Every mount is individually tested to make sure quality control meets expectations.
• Hand controller firmware can be updated via the webpage.
• Compatible with ZWO's flagship product the ASIAIR for wireless control! Use the app on a smartphone for wireless control of the mount and camera (if compatible).

The ZWO AM3, based on a harmonic mount design (strain wave gearing), offers significant advantages over traditional mounts, particularly beneficial for amateur observers and astrophotographers. These include reduced vibration and noise, enhanced tracking accuracy for long-exposure astrophotography, and a self-stabilizing design that eliminates the need for a counterweight in most cases, except for exceptionally heavy equipment.

ZWO's commitment to precision in astrophotography is evident in the meticulously crafted strain wave gearing system of the AM3 mount. Engineered in collaboration with renowned manufacturers, this mount prioritizes minimizing periodic errors, ensuring seamless gearing, and delivering high torque.

An outstanding feature of the ZWO AM3 is its remarkably low periodic errors (PE), crucial for accurate celestial object tracking. The gearing system operates smoothly, offering astrophotographers a reliable platform for capturing detailed images of the night sky.

ZWO guarantees the performance of each AM3 mount through a thorough measurement process and equips it with an exclusive PE curve before leaving the factory. This proactive approach ensures that astrophotographers receive a mount exceeding performance expectations.

Embedded in the design and manufacturing process, ZWO's dedication to precision makes the AM3 mount an indispensable addition to any astrophotography setup. The emphasis on minimizing errors, achieving smooth gearing, and providing high torque reflects ZWO's commitment to empowering astrophotographers with precise tools for breathtaking images.

The ZWO AM3 mount offers a latitude adjustment range of 0 to 90 degrees, providing users with specific adjustments based on their needs. The first gear fine-tunes the pitch angle grip within 0 to 60 degrees, while the second gear allows broader adjustments from 45 to 90 degrees by loosening the hex-head screw.

This versatility accommodates alt-azimuth mode for different observational preferences and proves advantageous for astrophotographers in low and high-latitude locations using the mount in equatorial mode. Customizable latitude adjustments make the AM3 adaptable to various celestial observation scenarios, enhancing functionality for users across different locations and astronomical applications.

When operating the ZWO AM3 mount, astrophotographers have two control options. The first is a rocker-style hand controller, offering manual manipulation with an ergonomic design for comfortable handling and effortless movement. Alternatively, users can opt for a modern, wireless approach using the integrated WiFi functionality to control the mount remotely via a smartphone or tablet. The hand controller emits a WiFi signal, enabling seamless connection with compatible devices, providing access to features like Tonight's Target, GoTo, Live Preview, enhancing flexibility and convenience.

Note that to activate WiFi, users need to connect the hand controller to a power source. The ZWO AM3 mount is engineered for compatibility with iPads running iOS 12 and later, including various models like iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. For optimal performance with the Sky Atlas app feature, it's recommended to use a device with a minimum of 6 GB of RAM. Whether using the tactile hand controller or the wireless WiFi connection, the ZWO AM3 mount offers a versatile and user-friendly platform for capturing celestial images.

The AM3 mount by ZWO is ingeniously designed to seamlessly transition between equatorial and alt-azimuth mount modes, offering users versatile functionality. This mode-switching capability can be easily accessed either through the provided hand controller or via the dedicated app on a smartphone or tablet.

To enhance user awareness, the mount's body incorporates a status light indicator, clearly signaling the operational mode at a glance. A red light signifies that the AM3 is in equatorial mode, optimizing it for precise tracking and imaging of celestial objects. Conversely, a green light indicates that the mount has entered alt-azimuth mode, making it particularly suitable for observational purposes.

This dual-mode feature empowers astronomers and astrophotographers with the flexibility to choose the most appropriate mode based on their specific needs. Whether pursuing detailed imaging of celestial wonders in equatorial mode or engaging in observation-oriented tasks in alt-azimuth mode, the ZWO AM3 mount seamlessly adapts to diverse astronomical applications.

The ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber tripod is a lightweight, durable, and stable tripod, ideal for supporting a decent large payload for advanced imaging equipment including their high-end cooled cameras with rather larger sized optical tubes for a combined payload management of 110 pounds. With excellent vibration resistance, it is a remarkable asset to have when conducting long exposures where minimal shakes can affect performance. The TC40 works with the AM5 and AM3 strain wave Harmonic Mounts and includes a 3/8" locking knob center bolt for a wide range of mount head compatibility in Celestron, SkyWatcher, and iOptron brands. Adjustable length range is 18.5" to 31.49".

• Lightweight, durable, and stable.
• Supports large payloads for advanced imaging equipment with a payload limit of 110 lbs.
• Excellent vibration resistance for improved performance.
• ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber tripod is compatible with a large variety of Celestron, SkyWatcher, and iOptron mounts.
• Adjustable length range of 18.5" to 31.49"