Avalon Instruments introduces M-zero. The new Equatorial & Alt-Az Single-Arm telescope mount with Fast-Reverse technology!

Portable Astronomy

The new M-Zero has been designed to revolutionize the world of portable astronomy. The unique and innovative design, the light weight and the small dimensions, the greater versatility and higher quality make it the perfect tool for the traveling astronomy.

Several mounts in one

The M-zero is more then one mounts: a Standard Equatorial when used with longer optics, a Single Arm with the great benefit of non requiring meridian flip using compact optics, an Alt-azimuthal mount for visual astronomy and, finally, an excellent time-lapse platform for panoramic photography and video shooting.

Double Telescope Setup

Thanks to the new Dual-DEC system, it is possible to install a second telescope in the opposite side of the declination axis. Considering this capability it is possible to use a great range of optics starting from a small (4-5 kg/8.8-11 lb) refractor up to a double setup with a total weight of 12-13 kg/26.4-28.6 lb, obtaining performances so good to get it over the need of a bigger mount.

Thanks to StarGO GoToControl System the M-Zero can be controlled by smartphone and tablet via Bluetooth or WiFi connection and can be quickly set in the Alt-azimuthal mode for the visual observation with larger telescopes and binocular or to make panoramic pictures or video sequences with time-lapse features.

Zero Maintenance

The virtually zero maintenance, the long lasting materials used and the possibility to easily update the StarGO firmware and software allow the M-zero to be always ready to use, up to date, competitive and extremely reliable!

Transportability

The M-zero can be balanced, in most cases, with less than 1 kg/2.2 lb counterweight due to the possibility of placing the declination arm in different positions relative to the right ascension arm. The M-zero and the T-pod 90, requiring limited room, may be easily arranged inside a medium size carry on case allowing a convenient setup for air traveling astro-amateurs.

Light and Strong

Made entirely from anodized aluminum, worked using 5 axes CNC machines. 
The mount weights only 6 kg/13.2 lb and, combined with the new T-Pod 90 tripod, reaches a total weight of 12 kg/26.4 lb.

Technology and Innovation

The top quality manufacturing level, the innovative Fast-Reverse Belt Drive System with zero backlash and the new StarGO GoTo control system allow excellent performance in the photographic use, with guided long exposure images (see our suggested PHD2 guide parameters table), even while using very long focal length telescopes.

THE POLAR ALIGNMENT can be performed by using the polar scope mounted on the RA body that can be rotated (as shown in the picture above) to the upper position for a comfortable adjustment of the Polar Alignment.

The standard kit for the polar alignment is provided with the following components:

1. Polarscope
2. Support stand provided of scope fixing knobs and dovetail attack with fixing grip knob.
3. Illuminator cap provided of red LED and connection cable to the StarGO.

IC4603
Qhyccd QHY695A
Optolong Astro filter LRGB, Takahashi FS60CB f/4.2
Avalon-instruments M-Zero
18x10' L - 9x10' RGB
April, June 2017, Capodirigo (AP), Italy
Credits: Matteo Collina