WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20 Strain Wave Direct Drive Portable EQ/Alt-Az Mount
Ships by Next Business Day
Contiguous US Customers:
All items we sell ship for free within the Contiguous US. Shipping will be via the cheapest shipping method which will vary depending on the items in your order. During checkout, you may also be shown other optional faster shipping choices.
US Customers in Hawaii and Alaska:
Free shipping applies to almost all products. A few large telescopes and mounts are excluded from this free shipping offer. For these items, please contact us to obtain a shipping quote before you check out using the online shopping cart.
International Customers:
Free shipping does not apply to international orders. During check-out, you will be presented with several shipping choices and costs. However, the export of some items may be restricted outside the US due to size or manufacturer restrictions.
The WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20: Revolutionizing Astrophotography
Are you an astronomy enthusiast or an astrophotographer looking for a mount that seamlessly blends versatility, precision, and ease of use? If so, then the WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20 may be the perfect solution for your system! This cutting-edge mount is constructed from robust materials such as stainless steel, brass, and a small amount of ABS plastic. This collection of materials and world-class engineering promises durability and longevity while elevating your astrophotography experience to new heights.
The WarpAstron WD-20 is ready to travel to dark sites with its built-in GPS positioning module, or you can use its world-class drive system to support long focal-length telescopes in permanent setups. The WD-20 uses a widely adopted OnStep control system, meaning it can work with any software or control device such as a miniature PC or the ZWO ASIAIR Plus. It features a dual-style Vixen and Losmandy saddle to work with almost any dovetail you have, and all you have to do is provide your own tripod or pier (such as the ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Pipe Tripod). If this sounds like the right fit for you, then read on to learn more about why this mount stands out as an ideal choice for astrophotographers of all experience levels!
WarpDrive WD20 Video Review by Cuiv, The Lazy Geek
Agena Astro Affiliate Cuiv, The Lazy Geek goes over everything you need to know about the WarpAstron WarpDrive-20, including:
- what makes the WD-20 so special
- why choose this mount over others
- operation and how the motor works
- software, polar aligning and noise
- imaging and guiding performance.
WD-20 Key Features
- Direct Drive Connection: Servo motors connect directly to the strain wave reducer, eliminating backlash and improving longevity by avoiding issues with aging belt drives.
- Consistent Precision: High-precision encoders with servo motors provide rapid correction response.
- Lightweight & Quiet: At just 11.9 lbs (5.4 kg) total weight, this mount is lighter than many competitors with smaller Strain Wave Reducers. The drives operate whisper-quiet and smooth throughout their entire range of motion.
- Cold-Friendly Design: Reliable operation even in extreme cold, with operation guaranteed down to -13°F (-25°C).
- Versatile Weight Capacity: This mount can carry up to 48.5 lbs (22 kg) without a counterweight, and up to 66 lbs (30 kg) with a counterweight.
- Two-Axis Home Sensors: Optical homing sensors on both axes mean a reliable operation in remote settings.
- Extremely Smooth Polar Alignment: Precise alignment controls with negligible shift and rock-solid positioning throughout a long night of tracking and slewing.
WarpAstron WD-20: Powerful, Innovative & Versatile for Visual Observing & Astrophotography
Lightweight with Mighty Payload Capacity
The WarpAstron WD-20 features a type 20 strain wave reducer for the RA axis and a type 17 strain wave reducer for the DEC axis, both powered by BLDC servo motors. These premium components enable the WD-20 mount to support a substantial payload of up to 66 lbs (30 kg) with counterweights, making it compatible with most larger telescopes despite weighing only 11.9 lbs (5.4 kg).
Whisper-Quiet Operation & Precise Slewing
Direct drive servo motor of WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20 as compared to traditional, belt-driven harmonic drive systems. Particular focus is given to the reduction in backlash and the repeatable level of precision achieved from this direct-drive configuration (as well as the drawbacks of belt-driven motors).
Strain wave gear configurations are naturally quiet, but the WarpAstron WD-20 takes this to a whole new level with its direct drive motor instead of the more common stepper motor with belt drives. Strain wave gears like those in the WarpAstron WD-20 offer such noiseless performance thanks to their innovative gearing arrangement. Unlike traditional gear systems, this design avoids direct metal-on-metal contact and ensures precise and efficient performance.
Additional precision comes from the use of a servo motor rather than a stepper motor. This connection is made directly to the strain wave gears rather than using a belt drive, further improving both the response times and the accuracy of the mount’s positioning. The WarpAstron WD-20 is also equipped with encoders that offer real-time feedback about the motor's position and speed, allowing for exceptional control over the entire system. With the WD-20, you get a seamless blend of quiet operation and precise control, keeping both you and your neighbors happy!
Super-Smooth Polar Alignment
The base of the WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20 mount utilizes a special low-backlash design that lets you make small, precise adjustments without any unwanted movement. Even with such fine control, this base allows for an impressive 30° of adjustment in either direction during polar alignment. The WD-20 also has an altitude range of 0-90°, which makes it easier to line up your telescope accurately from anywhere in the world!
Maintenance-free Operation even in Harsh Environments
The WD-20’s innovative strain wave gearing system requires no lubrication and no tuning or replacement of any belts. This makes it virtually maintenance-free, and with no belt drive it can operate reliably in sub-freezing temperatures down to -13°F (-25°C), so you can count on its exceptional performance even in cold environments.
The low-maintenance design of the WarpAstron WD-20 ensures you spend more time enjoying the night sky and less time on upkeep. It's an ideal choice for year-round use in various conditions, and with its anodizing and anti-rust coating, the WD-20 is built to last!
Versatile in both Equatorial & Altazimuth Modes
With its versatile dual-functionality, the WD-20 is perfect for all your astronomical needs! In equatorial mode, the mount aligns with Earth’s rotation to enable precise tracking of celestial objects and allows for long-exposure astrophotography.
When set to altazimuth mode, the WD-20 allows vertical and horizontal movements. This is ideal for visual observations as it provides a more comfortable viewing angle for the telescope and eyepiece. This dually-functional design makes the WD-20 a go-to choice for both casual stargazers and serious astrophotographers.
Built-in GPS & Memory Feature
The WD-20 has a built-in GPS with a Beidou positioning module for automatic positioning. This means the mount knows where you are and what time it is without you having to tell it. This is especially useful when you’re using it in the field, often at different locations.
It also has 2-axis homing sensors, so it will accurately and safely return to the home position even when there are errors in the coordinates or if a hard restart is needed. This means you can pick up right where you left off the next time you power it on, whether that’s from your back yard or from an observatory 1000 miles away.
Broad Compatibility for Seamless Integration Into Any System
The WarpAstron WD-20 uses standard M8 screws for easy, secure, and stable attachment to various tripods like the ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod or any of their related mounting accessories and pier extensions.
The WD-20's OnStep control protocol makes it compatible with devices like the ZWO ASIAIR or StellarMate. It's also compatible with ASCOM. This means you can use it with most acquisition and guiding software, including NINA, APT, and PHD2.
The mount comes with a DC 2.1x5.5mm power cable to connect and power it from any DC source like a battery. If you wish to power this mount directly from an AC power connection, you will need to provide your own AC-DC converter rated at 12V.
| Free Shipping Graphic | Free Contiguous US Shipping |
|---|---|
| Hide Found a better Shipped Price on Frontend? | No |
- 1 x WD-20 Wave Drive Mount
- 1 x Smart Hand Controller (SHC)
- 1 x Power Cord (DC 5.5*2.1mm) (Note that this is not an AC power supply)
- 1 x USB Type-A to C Data Cable
- 1 x 4mm Allen wrench
- 1 x Transport Aluminum Case
- 1 x USB Type-C to C cable for SHC
The WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20: Revolutionizing Astrophotography
Are you an astronomy enthusiast or an astrophotographer looking for a mount that seamlessly blends versatility, precision, and ease of use? If so, then the WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20 may be the perfect solution for your system! This cutting-edge mount is constructed from robust materials such as stainless steel, brass, and a small amount of ABS plastic. This collection of materials and world-class engineering promises durability and longevity while elevating your astrophotography experience to new heights.
The WarpAstron WD-20 is ready to travel to dark sites with its built-in GPS positioning module, or you can use its world-class drive system to support long focal-length telescopes in permanent setups. The WD-20 uses a widely adopted OnStep control system, meaning it can work with any software or control device such as a miniature PC or the ZWO ASIAIR Plus. It features a dual-style Vixen and Losmandy saddle to work with almost any dovetail you have, and all you have to do is provide your own tripod or pier (such as the ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Pipe Tripod). If this sounds like the right fit for you, then read on to learn more about why this mount stands out as an ideal choice for astrophotographers of all experience levels!
WarpDrive WD20 Video Review by Cuiv, The Lazy Geek
Agena Astro Affiliate Cuiv, The Lazy Geek goes over everything you need to know about the WarpAstron WarpDrive-20, including:
- what makes the WD-20 so special
- why choose this mount over others
- operation and how the motor works
- software, polar aligning and noise
- imaging and guiding performance.
WD-20 Key Features
- Direct Drive Connection: Servo motors connect directly to the strain wave reducer, eliminating backlash and improving longevity by avoiding issues with aging belt drives.
- Consistent Precision: High-precision encoders with servo motors provide rapid correction response.
- Lightweight & Quiet: At just 11.9 lbs (5.4 kg) total weight, this mount is lighter than many competitors with smaller Strain Wave Reducers. The drives operate whisper-quiet and smooth throughout their entire range of motion.
- Cold-Friendly Design: Reliable operation even in extreme cold, with operation guaranteed down to -13°F (-25°C).
- Versatile Weight Capacity: This mount can carry up to 48.5 lbs (22 kg) without a counterweight, and up to 66 lbs (30 kg) with a counterweight.
- Two-Axis Home Sensors: Optical homing sensors on both axes mean a reliable operation in remote settings.
- Extremely Smooth Polar Alignment: Precise alignment controls with negligible shift and rock-solid positioning throughout a long night of tracking and slewing.
WarpAstron WD-20: Powerful, Innovative & Versatile for Visual Observing & Astrophotography
Lightweight with Mighty Payload Capacity
The WarpAstron WD-20 features a type 20 strain wave reducer for the RA axis and a type 17 strain wave reducer for the DEC axis, both powered by BLDC servo motors. These premium components enable the WD-20 mount to support a substantial payload of up to 66 lbs (30 kg) with counterweights, making it compatible with most larger telescopes despite weighing only 11.9 lbs (5.4 kg).
Whisper-Quiet Operation & Precise Slewing
Direct drive servo motor of WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20 as compared to traditional, belt-driven harmonic drive systems. Particular focus is given to the reduction in backlash and the repeatable level of precision achieved from this direct-drive configuration (as well as the drawbacks of belt-driven motors).
Strain wave gear configurations are naturally quiet, but the WarpAstron WD-20 takes this to a whole new level with its direct drive motor instead of the more common stepper motor with belt drives. Strain wave gears like those in the WarpAstron WD-20 offer such noiseless performance thanks to their innovative gearing arrangement. Unlike traditional gear systems, this design avoids direct metal-on-metal contact and ensures precise and efficient performance.
Additional precision comes from the use of a servo motor rather than a stepper motor. This connection is made directly to the strain wave gears rather than using a belt drive, further improving both the response times and the accuracy of the mount’s positioning. The WarpAstron WD-20 is also equipped with encoders that offer real-time feedback about the motor's position and speed, allowing for exceptional control over the entire system. With the WD-20, you get a seamless blend of quiet operation and precise control, keeping both you and your neighbors happy!
Super-Smooth Polar Alignment
The base of the WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20 mount utilizes a special low-backlash design that lets you make small, precise adjustments without any unwanted movement. Even with such fine control, this base allows for an impressive 30° of adjustment in either direction during polar alignment. The WD-20 also has an altitude range of 0-90°, which makes it easier to line up your telescope accurately from anywhere in the world!
Maintenance-free Operation even in Harsh Environments
The WD-20’s innovative strain wave gearing system requires no lubrication and no tuning or replacement of any belts. This makes it virtually maintenance-free, and with no belt drive it can operate reliably in sub-freezing temperatures down to -13°F (-25°C), so you can count on its exceptional performance even in cold environments.
The low-maintenance design of the WarpAstron WD-20 ensures you spend more time enjoying the night sky and less time on upkeep. It's an ideal choice for year-round use in various conditions, and with its anodizing and anti-rust coating, the WD-20 is built to last!
Versatile in both Equatorial & Altazimuth Modes
With its versatile dual-functionality, the WD-20 is perfect for all your astronomical needs! In equatorial mode, the mount aligns with Earth’s rotation to enable precise tracking of celestial objects and allows for long-exposure astrophotography.
When set to altazimuth mode, the WD-20 allows vertical and horizontal movements. This is ideal for visual observations as it provides a more comfortable viewing angle for the telescope and eyepiece. This dually-functional design makes the WD-20 a go-to choice for both casual stargazers and serious astrophotographers.
Built-in GPS & Memory Feature
The WD-20 has a built-in GPS with a Beidou positioning module for automatic positioning. This means the mount knows where you are and what time it is without you having to tell it. This is especially useful when you’re using it in the field, often at different locations.
It also has 2-axis homing sensors, so it will accurately and safely return to the home position even when there are errors in the coordinates or if a hard restart is needed. This means you can pick up right where you left off the next time you power it on, whether that’s from your back yard or from an observatory 1000 miles away.
Broad Compatibility for Seamless Integration Into Any System
The WarpAstron WD-20 uses standard M8 screws for easy, secure, and stable attachment to various tripods like the ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod or any of their related mounting accessories and pier extensions.
The WD-20's OnStep control protocol makes it compatible with devices like the ZWO ASIAIR or StellarMate. It's also compatible with ASCOM. This means you can use it with most acquisition and guiding software, including NINA, APT, and PHD2.
The mount comes with a DC 2.1x5.5mm power cable to connect and power it from any DC source like a battery. If you wish to power this mount directly from an AC power connection, you will need to provide your own AC-DC converter rated at 12V.
| Free Shipping Graphic | Free Contiguous US Shipping |
|---|---|
| Hide Found a better Shipped Price on Frontend? | No |
- 1 x WD-20 Wave Drive Mount
- 1 x Smart Hand Controller (SHC)
- 1 x Power Cord (DC 5.5*2.1mm) (Note that this is not an AC power supply)
- 1 x USB Type-A to C Data Cable
- 1 x 4mm Allen wrench
- 1 x Transport Aluminum Case
- 1 x USB Type-C to C cable for SHC
WarpAstron WarpDrive WD-20 Strain Wave Direct Drive Portable EQ/Alt-Az Mount # WD-20