What is an altazimuth mount?

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Like a dobsonian, the altazimuth mount works free of locked down controls, allowing the viewer to move the telescope in perfect horizontal and vertical increments. Like the equatorial, the altazimuth is set upon a tripod.

Because there are fewer moving parts and less weight, the altazimuth does not require a counterbalance and is usually offered with a small refractor. With its left-to-right, up-and-down movements, a quality altazimuth will also stop exactly where you leave it, but must be readjusted as the Earth moves. This makes it an excellent choice for both the beginner and those wishing to use a small refractor.

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