Introduction to Explorer Scientific Computerized Mounts

Explore Scientific is a company known for producing quality astronomical equipment, including telescopes, mounts, and accessories. Their computerized mounts are designed to help astronomers — beginners and professionals alike — easily locate and track celestial objects.

A computerized mount (sometimes called a "GoTo mount") has a built-in computer system. Using motors and a database of thousands of stars, planets, and deep-sky objects, it can automatically move the telescope to find and track these targets across the night sky.

Key Features (General to All Models)

• Computerized GoTo System: Automatically locates and tracks objects.

• Wireless & Wired Control: Some models (PMC-Eight ones) can be controlled by WiFi, Bluetooth, or traditional hand controllers.

• Precision Motors: Micro-stepping motors for super-smooth tracking.

• Massive Object Database: 70,000+ celestial objects.

• Stable, High-Quality Builds: Durable for both backyard and field use.

• Compatible with Apps and PC Software: Like ExploreStars app, SkySafari, or ASCOM platforms.

Models Breakdown

1. iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight

• Type: German Equatorial Mount (small, portable)

• Payload: ~15 lb (6.8 kg) (perfect for small telescopes or astro rigs)

• Control: Wireless or wired — via ExploreStars app (Windows, iOS, Android)

• Features:

  • Lightweight & travel-friendly

  • Real equatorial tracking (better for astrophotography)

  • Great affordable entry into precision equatorial mounts

• Good for: Beginners & budget-conscious astrophotographers

• Note: No traditional hand controller — uses app or PC/tablet to control.

2. G-11 PMC-Eight

• Type: German Equatorial Mount (heavy-duty)

• Payload: ~60 lb (27.2 kg) without counterweights

• Control: Wired and wireless (via PMC-Eight system)

• Features:

  • Designed for serious astrophotography and visual astronomy

  • Ultra-stable with precision worm gears

  • Exceptional periodic error correction (PEC)

  • Compatible with third-party software (ASCOM, POTH, SkySafari)

• Good for: Advanced astrophotographers needing high precision and heavy payload capacity

• Fun fact: Built in collaboration with Losmandy, who are known for rock-solid mounts.

3. EXOS-2GT PMC-Eight

• Type: German Equatorial Mount

• Payload: ~28 lb (12.7 kg)

• Control: PMC-Eight wireless or wired

• Features:

  • Solid, mid-weight equatorial platform

  • Great for medium refractors, reflectors, or SCTs

  • Slightly more robust than the iEXOS-100, but still portable

• Good for: Intermediate users upgrading from manual mounts.

? Special Technology Highlight: PMC-Eight

• Stands for Precision Motion Control - 8 CPUs.

• 8 independent processors handle different tasks simultaneously: tracking, slewing, wireless communication, etc.

• Provides ultra-smooth performance, better guiding for astrophotography.

• Open-source architecture — perfect for tech-savvy users who want to tinker.