Just like the EQ8 but a major step up, the Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Mount has significant improvements geared towards giving high end astrophotographers the gear they need for hard demand long exposure astrophotography. Some of the improvements include but aren't limited to enhanced motor positioning, a more efficient cable management mechanism, better power hub for an easier setup, internal USB hub, larger saddle knobs, homing sensors and a physical hard stop to prevent cable snap, larger locking levers, thread on aircraft power connector, PC direct control and last but not least, PPEC training to ensure exposures aren't compromised due to errors.

The dual RA and DEC belt drives significantly lessen periodic error which can damage long exposure imaging if not addressed properly. With gears over 8" in diameter and an all metal design, large payloads of up to 110 pounds can now be accomodated while retaining stable and accurate tracking when executing long exposures.

The Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Mount can be both controlled via a PC directly or remotely as well as with a SynScan V5 hand controller with a stunning 42,000+ celestial database.

This version comes with the sturdy adjustable pier tripod.

• The Sky-Watcher EQ8-R has significant improvements over the regular EQ8 to simplify the setup time and improve the process of long exposures for the advanced astrophotographer.
• Includes a dual belt drive on both RA and DEC axis, resulting in significant reduction of periodic error, a crucial factor for a flawless long exposure session. 
• The all metal construction and design accomodates up to 110 pounds of payload, more than enough for high end astrographs!
• Polar alignment is a breeze with the optional polarscope (sold separately NOT included).
• Cable snag issues are resolved with the included four USB ports, three 2.1mm as well as three serial ports.
• Comes with the adjustable pier tripod.

The EQ8-R Pro is equipped with a 0.9-degree hybrid stepper motor, delivering a versatile range of slew speeds. It can sweep the sky at up to 1000x sidereal rate, spanning horizon to horizon, and precisely center objects at a slow, 1x pace. With a redesigned, streamlined structure, this mount features optimized motor positioning that supports a dual belt drive system. This design significantly reduces periodic error and minimizes backlash compared to traditional drive systems, enhancing tracking accuracy. The system operates with whisper-quiet slewing and tracking, ensuring a serene imaging experience throughout the night.

Built for durability, the mount’s internal gears are made entirely of metal, with over eight inches in diameter, providing superior performance. With a remarkable payload capacity of 110 lbs, the EQ8-R Pro supports even the largest optical tube assemblies (OTAs) from Sky-Watcher. The mount head weighs 56.8 pounds and comes with two 22 pound counterweights, offering exceptional stability and reliability for all your astrophotography needs.  Paired with long and heavy refractors, this mount performs with the precision you need.