Universal Astronomics MicroStar - Basic

3.0 Compact Alt-Az Mount for Small Scopes

Nice mount for widefield views with small scopes.

No slow motion controls, noticeable stiction when aiming the scope.

The Microstar is a good mount for compact scopes about 8lbs or less. I found it performed best for widefield sweeping at low power. Using powers over 100x was a problem because the mount has a noticeable amount of stiction (more pronounced with light scopes). The Microstar is a also very sensitive to balance in altitude when it is adjusted to move smoothly. I found myself having to adjust the tension all the time. I used it with a refractor that weighed about 7lbs and a Celestron 5.5" Comet Catcher. I liked using it with the Comet Catcher but only at low powers due to vibration. The off center weight of the telescope and the light weight of the mount means that a sturdy, fairly heavy tripod is required for best performance.