Tele Vue Encoder-Equipped Gibraltar HD5 Alt-Az Mount

Designed as a heavy-duty, yet portable platform for refractor optical tube assemblies (OTAs) with apertures up to 5", like the NP127is APO Nagler-Petzval refractor, the Tele Vue Encoder-Equipped Gibraltar HD5 Alt-Az Mount features a large mount head with their STN-4001 encoder kit pre-installed and a custom-designed ash wood tripod.

An inch wider and overall sturdier than their venerable Tele-Pod head, this Gibraltar head is similarly configured as a dual-fork yoke mount that cradles your OTA at its center of balance for smooth pan/tilt motion with reduced vibrations. The unique design allows the OTA to move through a wide -12 to 80° altitude range—from below the horizon (such as viewing from a hilltop) all the way close to the zenith. A scope-stop helps to prevent damage if the objective end "nosedives" down. The addition of the encoders on the mount head allow you to use your digital setting circles (DSCs) or computer to show you where objects are and provide real-time mount position as you move the telescope to points of interest.

Supporting the mount head is a beautifully crafted tripod. Made of ash wood with a clear varnish finish that brings out the grain, the tripod offers a solid and steady platform with natural vibration suppression. At the top of the tripod is a mini-pier that provides additional height without sacrificing stability or strength and gives you an adjustable height range from 3.5 to 5 feet. A matching wood accessory tray holds extra gear and helps improve stability and vibration suppression.