10Micron AZ1000HPS Enhanced Performance Alt-Azimuth Mount
Price as Configured: $11,987.00
The 10Micron AZ1000HPS EP (Enhanced Performance) is the altazimuth counterpart of the GM1000HPS EP — sharing the same mechanical platform, 30 kg (66 lb) payload capacity, and sub-arcsecond HPS tracking precision in a portable 19.5 kg (43 lb) body. Designed for satellite tracking, photometric and astrometric measurements, seeing monitoring, and scientific observing programs where an altazimuth configuration is preferred or required, the AZ1000HPS EP is among the most capable portable alt-azimuth mounts available.
Deep Space Products is the exclusive certified 10Micron service and support provider in the United States, keeping all firmware updates, diagnostics, and repairs fully domestic. A DSP Remote hosting discount is available — ask us about it before you order. Sales are limited to North and South America.
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What is the difference between the AZ1000HPS EP and the GM1000HPS EP?
The two mounts are mechanically identical — same axes, bearings, worm wheels, payload capacity, mount weight, control box, and encoder system. The difference is configuration: the GM1000HPS EP is a German equatorial mount that aligns one axis to the celestial pole for long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography. The AZ1000HPS EP is an altazimuth mount oriented to the zenith — better suited for satellite tracking, scientific measurement, seeing monitoring, solar system work, and programs that benefit from alt-azimuth geometry. For long-exposure imaging, the AZ1000HPS EP requires a field de-rotator; the GM1000HPS EP does not.
What is the AZ1000HPS EP best used for?
The AZ1000HPS EP excels at satellite tracking, photometric and astrometric measurements, atmospheric seeing monitoring, short-exposure video and solar system imaging, visual astronomy, and portable survey programs. It is particularly well-suited to applications where setting up a polar-aligned equatorial mount is impractical or unnecessary. With a compatible field de-rotator, it can also be used for long-exposure deep-sky astrophotography. Deep Space Products can advise on de-rotator options compatible with this mount.
Can the AZ1000HPS EP be used for deep-sky astrophotography?
Yes, with a field de-rotator. Because of the altazimuth design, the field of view rotates over time — exposures beyond a minute or two will show trailing without a de-rotator. With a quality ASCOM-compatible field de-rotator, the AZ1000HPS EP delivers full 10Micron sub-arcsecond precision for long-exposure imaging. For users focused primarily on deep-sky imaging, the GM1000HPS EP is the more direct choice. Contact Deep Space Products if you're unsure which configuration suits your program.
What is the Silver version, and who is it for?
The AZ1000HPS EP Silver (10M-1030AZS) is identical to the standard mount in all technical specifications — same payload, same mechanics, same electronics, same performance. The only difference is a silver anodization finish in place of the standard black. The more reflective surface reduces heat absorption during daytime solar observing, making it a practical choice for observers who regularly use the mount under direct sunlight. It is also available as an aesthetic preference regardless of application.
Does the mount require a PC to operate?
No. The V3 control box is a standalone Linux-based system. The heated, dimmable keypad provides access to all functions — alignment, go-to, tracking, model building, and satellite tracking — without an external computer. Ethernet, RS-232, and Wi-Fi connectivity add ASCOM driver support and web interface access for software control, but neither is required for operation.
Do I need to precisely counterbalance the telescope?
No. Unlike equatorial mounts, precise counterbalancing is not required on the AZ1000HPS EP. Using counterweights at approximately 50% of your instrument payload provides a sufficiently stable configuration. The 30 mm stainless steel counterweight shaft accepts the same counterweights as the GM1000HPS (3 kg and 6 kg), and most GM1000 HPS EP accessories are directly compatible with the AZ1000HPS EP.
What tripods and piers are compatible with the AZ1000HPS EP?
The AZ1000HPS EP is compatible with the same tripod and pier ecosystem as the GM1000HPS series: the 10Micron Aries tripod, the Geoptik Hercules 30H100 tripod, the standard round steel pillar (10M1010), the half pillar for GM1000 HPS (10M1012), and the half pillar adapter specifically for the AZ1000 HPS (10M1120). The pier adapter flange (10M1090) is also compatible. Contact Deep Space Products for a recommendation based on your installation type.
Where is 10Micron service handled in the United States?
Deep Space Products is the only certified 10Micron service and support provider in the United States. All warranty service, firmware updates, diagnostics, and repairs are handled domestically — no shipping to Italy required.
