{"product_id":"touptek-atlas-sh20-harmonic-drive-equatorial-mount","title":"ToupTek ATLAS SH20 Harmonic Drive Equatorial Mount","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"dcs-product-guide\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA powerful, portable strain-wave mount built for serious imaging without the burden of a conventional heavyweight equatorial head.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ToupTek ATLAS SH20 brings direct strain-wave drive, brushless servo control and a compact 5.1kg mount head together for astrophotographers who want a capable setup at home or under darker skies. Its manufacturer-rated payload is 20kg without counterweights, increasing to 30kg with appropriate counterweights, both specified for a 20cm lever arm. Your telescope's length, balance and accessory placement still matter: a long instrument can impose more demanding forces than a compact telescope of the same weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-sh20-hero.jpg?v=1793869591\" alt=\"ToupTek ATLAS SH20 strain-wave equatorial mount head\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eThe ATLAS SH20 mount head. The tripod, power supply and pier extensions are separate unless specified in the selected package.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eChoose the ATLAS SH20 package for your setup\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStart with the mount head if you already have a suitable support, or choose a complete support package for a new imaging rig. The \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-t-forty-carbon-fibre-tripod\"\u003eT-Forty carbon fibre tripod\u003c\/a\u003e provides a portable foundation; an optional \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-ep160-160mm-pier-extension\"\u003eEP160 160mm pier extension\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-ep200-200mm-pier-extension\"\u003eEP200 200mm pier extension\u003c\/a\u003e raises the mount to accommodate a particular telescope and imaging train.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003ePackage\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eEquipment\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMount only\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eATLAS SH20 mount head\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMount + T-Forty + power\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eATLAS SH20 mount, T-Forty tripod and UK-version 12V\/5A power adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMount + T-Forty + power + EP160\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAs above, plus the EP160 160mm pier extension\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMount + T-Forty + power + EP200\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAs above, plus the EP200 200mm pier extension\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-sh20-6.jpg?v=1793869634\" alt=\"ToupTek ATLAS SH20 with T-Forty tripod and power adapter\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eSH20 with T-Forty tripod and power adapter: one of the proposed package configurations.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy the SH20 is different\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStrain-wave drive without the bulk\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDirect 100:1 strain-wave reduction is driven by brushless servo motors rather than a conventional worm-gear arrangement. For the travelling astrophotographer, the combination of a relatively light mount head and significant rated carrying capacity makes transporting and assembling a complete system more practical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCapacity is not the same as a guarantee of tracking performance. Appropriate polar alignment, a rigid tripod or pier, sensible cable management and guiding where required remain essential to obtaining good long-exposure results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/dcs-touptek-sh20-description-2.jpg?v=1793869952\" alt=\"ToupTek ATLAS SH20 20kg and 30kg rated payload illustration\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eManufacturer payload ratings are subject to the stated 20cm lever arm and counterweight conditions.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eEquatorial for imaging; Alt-Az for suitable observing setups\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose equatorial operation for tracking the apparent rotation of the night sky during deep-sky imaging. For compatible visual configurations, the SH20 also supports alt-azimuth operation. An Alt-Az configuration is not automatically suitable for long unguided deep-sky exposures because field rotation must be considered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/dcs-touptek-sh20-description-4.jpg?v=1793869964\" alt=\"ToupTek SH20 equatorial and alt-azimuth mode illustration\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eChoose the configuration appropriate to the intended observing or imaging workflow.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFlexible electronic control\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SH20 provides USB-C data connectivity, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy 5. It supports integration with ToupTek StellaVita and compatible ASCOM and INDI workflows. Choose your control method around the devices, software and cabling already used in your imaging setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/dcs-touptek-sh20-description-5.jpg?v=1793869971\" alt=\"ToupTek ATLAS SH20 control and power connections\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eThe data and power connections serve different functions; USB-C is not a substitute for the regulated DC supply.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePractical mechanical details\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA dual-format saddle is designed for Vixen-style and Losmandy-style dovetail bars. Confirm your dovetail's profile, engagement and clamping before loading the mount. The RA axis incorporates an automatic brake for power-loss protection, but it does not eliminate the need to secure the telescope and follow the manufacturer's operating instructions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/dcs-touptek-sh20-description-3.jpg?v=1793869959\" alt=\"ToupTek ATLAS SH20 mount saddle and mechanical adjustment illustration\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eCheck the saddle and mounting connections for your particular telescope and support.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBuild a stable imaging system\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInclude the weight of the telescope, camera, focuser, guiding equipment, filter wheel, adapters and mounting hardware when assessing payload. Also consider the distance of those components from the mount axes, the stability of the support and whether a counterweight is required by the chosen configuration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-t-forty-carbon-fibre-tripod\"\u003eToupTek T-Forty tripod\u003c\/a\u003e is a natural companion within this manufacturer package range. It has carbon-fibre legs, a reinforced brace and a removable mounting plate. If the rear of the telescope or the imaging train approaches the tripod, compare the shorter \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-ep160-160mm-pier-extension\"\u003eEP160 extension\u003c\/a\u003e against the taller \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-ep200-200mm-pier-extension\"\u003eEP200 extension\u003c\/a\u003e; the extra 40mm can matter, but neither accessory guarantees clearance in every mount position.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-sh20-7.jpg?v=1793869641\" alt=\"ATLAS SH20 mounted on T-Forty tripod with EP160 pier extension\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eExample T-Forty and EP160 package; extension, tripod and power supply are not included in the mount-only selection.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-sh20-8.jpg?v=1793869649\" alt=\"ATLAS SH20 mounted on T-Forty tripod with EP200 pier extension\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eExample T-Forty and EP200 package; check space, attachment hardware and movement before selecting the extension.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eATLAS SH20 technical specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMount\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eToupTek ATLAS SH20 strain-wave equatorial \/ alt-azimuth mount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eDrive\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDirect 100:1 strain-wave reduction; brushless servo motors\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMount head weight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5.1kg\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eRated payload without counterweights\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e20kg at a 20cm lever arm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eRated payload with counterweights\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30kg at a 20cm lever arm, with appropriate counterweights\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eOperating configurations\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEquatorial and Alt-Az\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eSaddle\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eVixen \/ Losmandy-style dovetail compatibility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eControl connections\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUSB-C data, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy 5\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eSoftware integration\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eASCOM, INDI and ToupTek StellaVita\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003ePower\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e12 V DC; 5.5 × 2.1 mm centre-positive barrel connector; regulated 5 A supply recommended; mount input current 5 A maximum\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eProtective feature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAutomatic RA brake on power loss\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMotor encoder resolution\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e18-bit motor feedback on each axis\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eQuoted periodic error\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e≤30 arcseconds peak-to-peak (±15 arcseconds)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003ePeriodic-error period\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e432 seconds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eMaximum slew rate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e6° per second\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eSoftware slew settings\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.25×, 0.5×, 1×, 2×, 4×, 8×, 20×, 60×, 720× and 1440×\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eHand-controller speed presets\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10× \/ 720×\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eLatitude adjustment\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0°–90°; overlapping 0°–60° and 30°–90° scales\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eAzimuth adjustment\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e±6°\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eCounterweight shaft thread\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eM12 × 1.75 mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eAccessory DC output\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAlways-on 12 V DC, 5 A maximum; follow the manufacturer's overall power limits\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eHome reference\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRA and DEC home sensors\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eOperating temperature\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e−20°C to +40°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTracking feedback and drive specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SH20 uses 18-bit motor encoder feedback, with a size-20 strain-wave drive on the RA axis and a size-17 drive on the DEC axis. Both use 100:1 reduction. ToupTek specifies periodic error of no more than 30 arcseconds peak-to-peak (also expressed as ±15 arcseconds) over a 432-second period. An individual periodic-error test report is included with the mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMotor encoder feedback supports the servo control system. It does not establish a guaranteed unguided exposure time or guided RMS figure. For demanding deep-sky imaging, plan accurate polar alignment and an appropriate guiding setup for your focal length and image scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-drive.jpg?v=1793869334\u0026amp;width=1600\" alt=\"ToupTek ATLAS SH20 strain-wave drive and example periodic-error test report\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-drive.jpg?v=1793869334\u0026amp;width=480 480w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-drive.jpg?v=1793869334\u0026amp;width=800 800w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-drive.jpg?v=1793869334\u0026amp;width=1200 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-drive.jpg?v=1793869334\u0026amp;width=1600 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) calc(100vw - 40px), 1000px\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eManufacturer illustration of the drive and an example periodic-error report. Achieved imaging performance also depends on alignment, guiding, equipment configuration and observing conditions.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBrake, homing and movement limits\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe automatic RA-axis brake engages on power loss, while home sensors on both axes provide a reference for the mount's mechanical zero position. Adjustable movement limits, stall detection and overcurrent protection support careful operation. Check clearance around the telescope, focuser, camera and cables throughout the intended movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-brake.jpg?v=1793869453\u0026amp;width=1600\" alt=\"ToupTek SH20 illustration of the automatic right-ascension-axis brake on power loss\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-brake.jpg?v=1793869453\u0026amp;width=480 480w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-brake.jpg?v=1793869453\u0026amp;width=800 800w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-brake.jpg?v=1793869453\u0026amp;width=1200 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-brake.jpg?v=1793869453\u0026amp;width=1600 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) calc(100vw - 40px), 1000px\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-home.jpg?v=1793869477\u0026amp;width=1600\" alt=\"ToupTek SH20 diagram describing the dual-axis home-sensor return process\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-home.jpg?v=1793869477\u0026amp;width=480 480w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-home.jpg?v=1793869477\u0026amp;width=800 800w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-home.jpg?v=1793869477\u0026amp;width=1200 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-home.jpg?v=1793869477\u0026amp;width=1600 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) calc(100vw - 40px), 1000px\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat is included with the mount?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToupTek's supplied standard packing illustration identifies:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eATLAS SH20 mount head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand controller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCoiled hand-controller cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUSB cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo hex keys\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeriodic-error test report\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick-start guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-contents.jpg?v=1793869553\u0026amp;width=1600\" alt=\"ToupTek SH20 package layout showing mount head, hand controller, coiled cable, USB cable, two hex keys, PE report and quick-start guide\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-contents.jpg?v=1793869553\u0026amp;width=480 480w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-contents.jpg?v=1793869553\u0026amp;width=800 800w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-contents.jpg?v=1793869553\u0026amp;width=1200 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-atlas-sh20-contents.jpg?v=1793869553\u0026amp;width=1600 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) calc(100vw - 40px), 1000px\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption\u003eStandard mount contents in the supplied manufacturer packing illustration. The tripod, external power adapter and pier extensions are supplied only with the separately named packages.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cp\u003eA counterweight shaft, counterweights and carrying case are not listed in this standard packing illustration. Optical tubes and cameras shown in the feature images illustrate example setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes the £2,149 mount-only option include the T-Forty?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-t-forty-carbon-fibre-tripod\"\u003eT-Forty tripod\u003c\/a\u003e and the two pier extensions are separate products unless a package specifically includes them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDo I need a counterweight?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe manufacturer quotes a payload of up to 20kg without counterweights and up to 30kg with suitable counterweights, at the specified 20cm lever arm. Follow the full manufacturer's guidance for your specific rig; do not treat a headline payload figure as a universal configuration rule.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich pier extension should I choose?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-ep160-160mm-pier-extension\"\u003eEP160\u003c\/a\u003e adds a nominal 160mm and the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-ep200-200mm-pier-extension\"\u003eEP200\u003c\/a\u003e adds 200mm. Check your telescope's overall length, the camera and focuser projection, available space and the mechanical fitting details. More height is not always necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWill my existing telescope bar fit the saddle?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe saddle accommodates Vixen-style and Losmandy-style profiles. Confirm that the exact bar is securely clamped; similarly named dovetail profiles can vary in dimension.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs USB-C enough to power the mount?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUSB-C carries data. Power the SH20 from an appropriate regulated 12 V DC source with a 5.5 × 2.1 mm centre-positive connector. ToupTek recommends a 5 A supply and specifies a maximum mount input current of 5 A. Check the complete accessory load against the manufacturer's overall power limits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan the SH20 work with an astro-imaging controller?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eASCOM, INDI and StellaVita integration provide several routes to computer-based control. Check the software and accessory versions required for your preferred workflow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRelated ToupTek equipment\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-t-forty-carbon-fibre-tripod\"\u003eToupTek Astro T-Forty carbon fibre tripod\u003c\/a\u003e — standalone support for a portable rig\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-ep160-160mm-pier-extension\"\u003eToupTek EP160 160mm pier extension\u003c\/a\u003e — shorter height option\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-ep200-200mm-pier-extension\"\u003eToupTek EP200 200mm pier extension\u003c\/a\u003e — taller height option\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-stellavita\"\u003eToupTek StellaVita astrophotography controller\u003c\/a\u003e — explore a compatible imaging-control workflow, with our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/pages\/stellavita-app-user-guide\"\u003eStellaVita app user guide\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are planning a complete setup, contact Dark Clear Skies with your telescope, optical tube length, camera and existing tripod details so the required support and interfaces can be checked before ordering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"ToupTek","offers":[{"title":"Mount only","offer_id":55725092372856,"sku":null,"price":2149.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Mount + T-Forty tripod + UK power adapter","offer_id":55725515178360,"sku":null,"price":2399.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Mount + T-Forty + power adapter + EP160","offer_id":55725515211128,"sku":null,"price":2479.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Mount + T-Forty + power adapter + EP200","offer_id":55725515243896,"sku":null,"price":2559.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/1650\/4241\/files\/touptek-sh20-hero.jpg?v=1793869591","url":"https:\/\/www.darkclearskies.co.uk\/products\/touptek-atlas-sh20-harmonic-drive-equatorial-mount","provider":"Dark Clear Skies ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}