AZ4000 HPS

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

The AZ4000 HPS is a professional-grade Alt-Azimuth mount engineered to provide a stable and versatile platform for advanced scientific and research activities. This "Go-to" system integrates 10Micron’s exclusive HPS technology, featuring absolute on-axis encoders and high-performance brushless motors to deliver elite tracking and pointing accuracy. Our sky modeling eliminates the need for autoguiding, reducing setup complexity, weight, and costs while enabling tracking where guide stars are critical or unavailable. The AZ4000 HPS also allows for an optional dual-telescope configuration.

Heritage and Vision

First developed in 2018, the AZ4000 HPS represents the completion of the 10Micron Alt-Azimuth production line. It was conceived to extend the high-precision capabilities of our GM4000 HPS II series into a specialized configuration for highly professional and niche markets. While it draws on decades of Italian engineering expertise, the current AZ4000 HPS is a modern evolution, integrating contemporary electronics to meet the rigorous standards of global scientific institutions.

Applications and Targets

Specifically designed for high-end research, institutional, and educational sectors, the AZ4000 HPS is the ideal solution for demanding scientific applications. Its tracking capabilities and structural rigidity make it perfect for satellite tracking, photometric and astrometric measurements, and LiDaR laser applications. While traditionally used for non-sidereal tracking, it serves as a robust platform for any project requiring the intuitive setup of an Alt-Azimuth configuration. This product embodies the brand’s evolution from traditional amateur astronomy into a global leader for institutional and research-grade instrumentation.

Payload and Setup

The mount supports a standard instrument payload capacity of 150 kg (330 lb). For operators requiring simultaneous use of multiple instruments, an optional double telescope configuration is available, expanding the capacity to 150 kg + 100 kg (330 + 220 lb). This dual-side setup optimizes load distribution and allows for the mounting of up to four optical tubes when paired with dual plates.

Designed for efficiency, the system does not require exact counterbalancing; using counterweights equivalent to approximately 50% of the payload ensures a safe and optimal configuration. This approach simplifies setup and maximizes performance.

Motion and Mechanical Engineering

At its core, the AZ4000 is our proprietary HPS (High Precision and Speed) technology, which utilizes a traditional, high-precision worm-gear system paired with high-performance motor drives and absolute encoders mounted directly on the axes. The result is a closed-loop system capable of achieving a resolution of 1/10 arcsecond, delivering tracking and pointing accuracy comparable to professional direct-drive systems.

Advanced Control and Connectivity

The system is powered by the Control Box, featuring a new high-end processor and industrial-grade Binder connectors for extreme environmental resilience. It includes a specialized GPS interface with a PPS signal for ultra-precise timekeeping, essential for satellite work. Users can operate the mount via the ergonomic, heated keypad or through an integrated web interface that allows for comprehensive remote control and firmware updates via LAN or Wi-Fi.

The software ecosystem completes the package with advanced firmware capable of 100-star sky modeling, which corrects for mechanical flexure and atmospheric refraction. This allows for full remote control and automated workflows, ensuring the mount functions as a truly intelligent node in any research environment.

Explore our comprehensive range of included features and products in detail. Here, you will find a selection of dedicated articles covering different aspects of our mounts.

AVAILABLE OPTIONS

Cold Temperature Version: This option allows operation down to -30°C (-22°F). It includes special low-temperature lubricants, silicone-sheathed wiring, and certified electronics for flawless performance in harsh environments.

INCLUDED ITEMS

Note: This product does not include counterweights. You can find them sold separately in our pricelist.