The Skymax 90, being a compact Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope, requires a mount that balances stability with portability. Here are a few options to consider based on different use cases:
Tabletop Mounts: Ideal for beginners or casual observers, a simple tabletop mount can provide enough stability for short sessions, especially for indoor viewing through windows. The Orion Tritech II-M Pro is a lightweight option that offers good support for small scopes like the Skymax 90.
Alt-Azimuth (AZ) Mounts: For straightforward manual tracking and easy adjustments, an alt-azimuth mount like the Celestron NexStar AZ or the Sky-Watcher AZ-GTi makes a great choice. The AZ-GTi adds the advantage of motorized tracking and the ability to control the scope with an app via Wi-Fi.
Equatorial Mounts: If your focus involves astrophotography or tracking celestial objects accurately, a German equatorial mount (GEM) like the Sky-Watcher EQ3 Pro SynScan offers precise tracking capabilities. However, these mounts require polar alignment, which may demand more setup time and complexity.
Go-To Mounts: For those seeking automated navigation to celestial objects, a Go-To mount system like the Celestron NexStar SE or the Meade LX65 offers a good compromise between ease of operation and functionality. They enable users to quickly locate and track objects by inputting target coordinates or selecting from a database.
Customizable Mounts: For enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their setup, a modular mount system like the Vixen Porta II, which allows for adding or exchanging accessories, can provide flexibility to adapt to various observation needs.
When choosing a mount, consider your primary observation goals, how often you plan to transport the setup, and whether you prioritize manual or automated tracking.