10Micron GM1000HPS Enhanced Performance Equatorial Mount
Price as Configured: $11,987.00
The GM1000HPS EP delivers observatory-grade tracking in a portable form factor—66 lbs (30 kg) of payload capacity with sub-arcsecond precision that eliminates the need for autoguiding in most applications. Deep Space Products is the exclusive certified U.S. servicer for 10Micron, providing factory-trained support without shipping overseas. Customers purchasing a GM1000HPS EP can receive a discount for hosting at DSP Remote, our Bortle 1 facility in New Mexico. Contact us to discuss your imaging goals—we'll help you configure the right package.
10Micron products are serviced in the United States by Deep Space Products. We are proud to be the only certified servicer and support provider for 10Micron products in North America.
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10Micron GM1000HPS EP — Observatory Precision for Serious Astrophotographers
The 10Micron GM1000HPS EP (Enhanced Performance) equatorial mount represents the next evolution of one of the most respected mid-range observatory mounts available. With 66 lbs (30 kg) of payload capacity, sub-arcsecond tracking accuracy, and dual-axis absolute encoders that eliminate the need for autoguiding in most applications, the GM1000HPS EP brings professional-grade performance to astrophotographers who demand precision without compromise. Deep Space Products is the exclusive certified servicer and support provider for 10Micron in the United States—when you purchase from DSP, you get factory-trained expertise and local support, not a transatlantic shipping label.
The EP designation stands for "Enhanced Performance," and it reflects targeted engineering improvements developed through years of real-world feedback from users who pushed the original GM1000HPS to its limits. The result is 20% more payload capacity—enough to support a fully-instrumented 150mm refractor, 200mm Newtonian, or 280mm Cassegrain—without increasing the mount's 43 lb (19.5 kg) weight or its price point. Whether you're building a permanent backyard observatory or need a capable semi-portable platform for dark-sky expeditions, the GM1000HPS EP delivers the mechanical precision and software sophistication that define 10Micron's reputation.
Unguided imaging that actually works
The GM1000HPS EP features 10Micron's HPS (High Precision and Speed) technology: high-resolution absolute encoders mounted directly on each axis, continuously monitoring position and feeding corrections to the onboard control system. The practical result is tracking accuracy below ±1 arcsecond RMS over 15-minute intervals—precise enough for 5-minute, even 10-minute unguided exposures at focal lengths of 2,000mm or more.
Users in the astrophotography community consistently report that 10Micron mounts have "revolutionized" their imaging workflow. With a 25–50 star pointing model (the mount supports up to 100 stars), the system compensates for polar alignment error, mechanical flexure, and atmospheric refraction across the entire sky. Many owners have sold their guide cameras entirely. This isn't marketing—it's what happens when absolute encoders, precision mechanics, and sophisticated firmware work together as an integrated system.
If you're imaging at 500mm with a widefield refractor, a harmonic drive mount like the Pegasus Astro NYX-101 may be all the precision you need at a third of the price. Where the GM1000HPS EP distinguishes itself is at longer focal lengths: above 1,500mm, the engineering margins in the worm gear system, the rigidity of the reinforced axes, and the dual-axis encoder feedback become the difference between tight stars and frustrating oblong results.
Engineering improvements in the EP version
The Enhanced Performance designation reflects four key structural upgrades over the original GM1000HPS:
Increased payload capacity to 30 kg (66 lbs): Accommodates heavier and more complex optical setups—larger telescopes, imaging trains with filter wheels and rotators, heavy cameras—while maintaining stability.
Reinforced RA and DEC axes: The RA axis diameter has increased from 30mm to 32mm, and both axes feature improved structural design. The result is an exponential increase in torsional rigidity, dramatically reducing flexure and vibration under load.
Larger bearings: Pre-loaded tapered roller bearings provide smoother motion and better support for heavier payloads, extending the mechanical lifespan of the mount.
Redesigned housings and worm gear supports: Optimized to minimize flexure in the drive system, ensuring consistent tracking performance across all sky positions.
All components are CNC machined and verified with 3D coordinate measurement machines. The finish is hand-polished and hard anodized—not just aesthetically pleasing, but functionally resistant to wear. This level of manufacturing precision is typical of 10Micron's Italian production facility, where aerospace-grade machining standards meet astronomical engineering.
Observatory and remote operation
The GM1000HPS EP was designed for unattended operation. The V3 control box houses an onboard Linux processor that handles pointing model calculations, tracking corrections, and system monitoring—no external PC required for basic operation, though full integration with NINA, TheSkyX, Sequence Generator Pro, and other imaging platforms is supported via Ethernet, WiFi, or RS-232.
The mount includes direct dome control via RS-232, eliminating the need for a separate dome controller PC. Park positions are user-configurable, meridian tracking extends ±30° past the meridian, and the system logs all operations for remote diagnostics. These features are why 10Micron mounts appear in remote observatories from the Atacama Desert to northern Canada—and at DSP Remote, our Bortle 1 hosting facility in southwest New Mexico.
Full ASCOM and INDI compatibility means the mount integrates seamlessly with your existing workflow. The dedicated 10Micron NINA plugin makes pointing model creation straightforward—users report building a functional 30-star model during twilight, losing no dark-sky imaging time.
What's included and package options
The standard GM1000HPS EP package includes the mount head with absolute encoders, V3 control box, weatherproof hand controller with heated display, counterweight shaft (30mm stainless steel), dual saddle plate (Losmandy/Vixen compatible), integrated WiFi, and QCI control software. Power supply and counterweights are available as additions.
The complete package adds a 3 kg and 6 kg counterweight, 10Micron Aries tripod with soft case, protective mount head bag, professional hard cases for transport, laser pointer holder for rough polar alignment, and Perseus planetarium software.
For astrophotographers who prefer an alternative tripod, DSP offers an à la carte configuration with the Berlebach PLANET tripod—a German-made hardwood tripod renowned for vibration damping and adjustability.
Talk to Deep Space Products before you order
Purchasing a 10Micron mount is a significant investment in your imaging capability. Deep Space Products doesn't just sell the mount—we provide ongoing technical support, remote diagnostics through 10Micron's logging system, and hands-on service when needed. We're the only certified 10Micron servicer in North America, trained at the factory in Italy.
If you're considering the GM1000HPS EP, contact us to discuss your telescope, imaging goals, and whether this mount—or another option in our lineup—is the right fit. We'll also let you know about our DSP Remote hosting discount for customers who want their mount under truly dark skies.
