10 best equatorial mount with tripods

An equatorial mount is a type of mounting system used primarily in astronomy for telescopes and cameras to track celestial objects as they move across the sky due to Earth's rotation.Equatorial mounts are a crucial tool for astrophotography and observational astronomy. They are typically used in conjunction with tripods or other support structures to provide a stable and adjustable platform for telescopes and cameras.

Here are key features and information about equatorial mounts with tripods:

  1. Purpose: Equatorial mounts are designed to compensate for the Earth's rotation, allowing celestial objects to remain in view for extended periods. This is essential for astronomers and astrophotographers who want to observe or capture images of planets, stars, galaxies, and other celestial phenomena.

  2. Two Axes: Equatorial mounts have two primary axes: the right ascension (RA) axis and the declination (Dec) axis. The RA axis aligns with the North or South Celestial Pole, depending on your location, while the Dec axis adjusts the telescope's angle relative to the celestial equator.

  3. Polar Alignment: To use an equatorial mount effectively, it must be polar-aligned. This means aligning the RA axis with the celestial pole, which is done using a polar scope or other alignment tools. Proper polar alignment ensures accurate tracking.

  4. Tracking Mechanism: Equatorial mounts often come with motorized or manual tracking mechanisms. Motorized mounts can automatically track celestial objects as they move across the sky, while manual mounts require periodic adjustments to keep objects centered.

  5. Payload Capacity: Equatorial mounts are available in various sizes and capacities to accommodate different telescope or camera setups. The payload capacity indicates the maximum weight the mount can support without affecting stability or tracking accuracy.

  6. Tripod: Equatorial mounts are typically attached to sturdy tripods to provide stability and height for observation or photography. The tripod should be adjustable in height and designed to support the weight of the mount and equipment.

  7. Accessories: Equatorial mounts often come with additional accessories such as counterweights to balance the telescope or camera setup, dovetail plates for attaching equipment, and hand controllers or computer interfaces for motorized tracking.

  8. Types: There are different types of equatorial mounts, including German equatorial mounts (GEM) and fork mounts. GEMs are popular for their stability and versatility, while fork mounts are commonly used for specific telescope designs.

  9. Use Cases: Equatorial mounts are primarily used for astronomy and astrophotography but can also be used for terrestrial photography when precise tracking of moving objects is necessary.

Equatorial mounts provide an excellent solution for amateur and professional astronomers alike, allowing them to capture detailed images of celestial objects or observe distant stars and planets for extended periods. When selecting an equatorial mount and tripod, it's essential to consider factors such as payload capacity, ease of use, and the specific requirements of your telescope or camera setup.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best equatorial mount with tripods on the market
  

Celestron CG-4 German Equatorial Mount and Tripod

Based on 48 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Celestron Omni CG4 provides solid support for many types and sizes of telescopes.# CG-4 German Equatorial mount with setting circles and slow motion controls - to accurately locate and track sky objects# Ball bearings in both axis of the mount for smooth performance# Heavy-duty pre-assembled stainless steel tripod featuring 1.75" legs, accessory tray and bubble level# Easy no-tool setup# The Omni CG4 makes finding objects easy.# Total weight of mount head, counterweight, and tripod is 30 pounds.#Includes Two counterweights - 7 lbs and 4 lbs.# Height range of the mount head and tripod is 42" to 55".# Load capacity rating is 15 pounds.An optional dual axis motor drive is available for this mount.You can trust Celestron's 40 year history of making quality telescopes. This Celestron mount and tripod IS NOT a blem, refurb, or customer return. It is new in box and you will be the first to enjoy genuine Celestron quality.Uses any of the popular dovetail mounting bars from Celestron, Vixen, Meade, and Orion.PLEASE NOTE: Dovetail mounting bar is not included. If you need a dovetail mounting bar, we have three sizes available.

  • German Equatorial mount and tripod as supplied with all Omni XLT Series telescopes
  • Includes RA and DEC slow motion controls and setting circles
  • Tripod has adjustable height 1.75" steel leg tripod with center brace/accessory tray
  • Two counterweights - 7 lb and 4 lb

User questions & answers

Question: Can i mount my nexstar 6se on this? it seems to be an upgrade over the current system
Answer: Yes, this Motorcycle Mirrors are fit Indian Chieftain 2018, please rest assured. If you have any problem about installation in the future, you can contact our customer service, they will help you solve it.
Question: Will the CG-4 work with the Sky-Watcher ProED 120 mm Doublet APO telescope
Answer: Yes, If your Vstar used 10mm normal threaded, this motorcycle mirrors will fit.
Question: I am going to do night photography with a canon dsl camera. will this tripod work with the camera
Answer: This style of mirrors are chrome, it maybe wrote wrong, I'm sorry. Please don't worry, this mirrors color is chrome, if you received the black mirrors or the mirrors have any problem, you can contact us by Clicking ”Ask Product Question” beside your Amazon order, they can help you solve it.
Question: I am new to this. What are ra and dec slow motion controls and setting circles
Answer: Hi there, the manufacturer lists the following for this item: Installation: M8 and M10 adapter bolts are included to fit on your motorcycle. Included in each pair of Mirrors: 2 x 8mm Extended Clockwise Bolts 2 x 10mm Clockwise Bolts 1 x 10mm Counter-Clockwise (Reverse) Bolt

EQ6-R – Fully Computerized GoTo German Equatorial Telescope Mount – Belt-driven, Motorized, Computerized Hand Controller with 42,900+ Celestial Object Database

Sky Watcher

Based on 92 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The EQ6-R builds upon the legacy of Sky-Watcher’s popular EQ6 mount delivering the next evolution of the EQ6 family with a platform for better visual and photographic utilization Improved latitude adjustment innovative carry handle accurate belt-driven motors and a built-in DSLR triggering system brings the EQ6-R into the modern age Perfect for Photography The EQ6-R boasts a number of features to aid astrophotographers The built in ST-4 Autoguider port turns this mount into an astrophotography powerhouse allowing you to utilize most of today’s best autoguiders Integrated USB-B port allows for direct connection to PC via user supplied USB-B cable With a weight capacity of 44 pounds the EQ6-R can handily support an optical tube imaging accessories and camera Silent Precise Slewing The EQ6-R Pro uses 64 microstep driven stepper motors Stepper motors are quieter than servo motors providing precise accuracy without the annoying sound of grinding gears 42 000 Object Database Using our proprietary SynScan hand controller the EQ6-R Pro provides a user-friendly interface with a 42 000 object database including complete Messier NGC IC and SAO catalogs The hand controller can also connect to a computer using a USB-B cable enabling computer control with most astronomy programs For the astrophotographers looking to reduce Periodic Error the SynScan hand controller has built-in PEC training that can be configured while in the field! Flexible Polar Alignment Sky-Watcher includes an illuminated polar finderscope to aid the polar alignment process The polar scope reticle features a circular grid for the northern hemisphere consistent with today’s popular polar alignment apps For astronomers in the southern hemisphere the constellation Octans is built into the reticle as well Even without a clear view of Polaris the EQ6-R Pro can be polar aligned using our SynScan hand controller Simply choose one of the visible stars listed and use the latitude adjustment screws to center it in the eyepiece Bundle of Accessories As customary with most Sky-Watcher products an assortment of accessories are included with the EQ6-R Pro mount A retractable counterweight bar is built-in providing easier transportation and storage as well as two 11 pound counterweights to virtually balance any payload The EQ6-R Pro features a saddle compatible with both D- and V-style mounting plates giving you the flexibility to use optical tubes even if the mounting plate is different.Slewing Speed: up to 3.4°/sec (800X)

  • PRECISE, ACCURATE GOTO: Computerized, motorized GoTo German equatorial telescope mount capable of accurately tracking astronomical objects for both visual observing and astrophotography.
  • BELT-DRIVEN MOTORS: Belt-driven stepper motors provide whisper-quiet slewing with renowned precision and accuracy while virtually eliminating Periodic Error.
  • 44-POUND PAYLOAD: Beefy, all-metal construction provides 44-pound payload capacity, perfect for all but the heaviest optical tubes.
  • BUILT-IN POLAR FINDERSCOPE: Built-in illuminated polar finderscope provides quick and easy polar alignment.
  • 42,000+ OBJECT DATABASE: SynScan hand controller with 42,000+ object database will keep even the most experienced astronomer busy for countless observing nights. Tripod Leg Diameter: 2".Power Type: 12V (4 amp minimum). Latitude Range (degrees): May-65. Mounting Saddle Type: D/V
  • EASY TO TRANSPORT: Built-in handle for easy transportation and quick setup.
  • AUTOMATE DSLR EXPOSURES: SNAP port allows for fully automated, remote controlled DSLR camera operation.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this mount compatible with my Celestron 8SE
Answer: Yes they will fit 2009 Road King, however you will probably be disappointed in the cheap chrome finish.
Question: I just want to confirm... this is the eq6-r pro, not the older version, correct
Answer: Bill I have a victory bike they work on mine. I would say they work on metric bikes too
Question: Is this mount identical to the atlas pro? can you move the head around by hand and the computer keeps up with where it is like the atlas
Answer: Well my friend they are short. 3 3/8" tall. You may have to grind some clearance on your master cylinder side of the .675 flare at the post base.
Question: Hi, Can this mount work on a sky-watcher 12 inch collapsible
Answer: Honestly they don't hardly work on cruisers that well unless you have ape hangers they only sit about two inches above your hand grips. I tried them on the V-Star and had to give them away cuz I couldn't see past my forearm

Product features

About us

David Shen, the founder of Sky-Watcher, started pursuing his interest in optics design and star observing when he was 26, working as a polishing technician at a research institute in Taiwan.

It was a lovely summer night after work that the bright stars urged David to observe them with a telescope. After placing the telescope on top of the hood of his car, the view of the magnificent rings from the Saturn planet greatly moved David. That night was deeply engraved in David's memory since and constantly inspires him to live his dream:

Building High-quality and Affordable Telescopes for Everyone.

“In the past, telescopes are only available to few. But I hope that I could help more people gaze further.” David summarizes his dream. This dream gradually took shape when David established Synta factory for building optics in the 1990s. In 1999, Synta launched the "Sky-Watcher" brand.

“Innovate continuously, and always challenge your limits.” —as his simple motto suggests, David’s passion and love for astronomy have turned into a great source of creativity and pursuit of quality.

SVBONY 8.26 inches Dovetail Mounting Plate Telescope Version 210mm for OTA Equatorial Tripod

SVBONY

Based on 83 reviews Check latest price
  • This metal mounting plate can be used to mount your telescopes or spotting scopes to tripod head with dovetail fixing
  • Dovetail plate provides a platform for coupling telescope optical tubes to equatorial mounting
  • Vital accessory for obtaining star-trail photos with your EQ mount and a point-and-shoot, SLR or DSLR camera
  • Adapter makes it easy to attach and detach instruments without using tools
  • 43.5*210mm Bottom size 43.5mm, Length 210mm;UNC 1/4-20 standard photographic tripod

User questions & answers

Question: Can i use this to mount a orion st80 with orions 90mm tube rings
Answer: Definitely, I boiled a large stock pot of water to to wash with. Kept my Arctic tent toasty in Laramie Wyoming Mountains this spring
Question: Is this compatible with the Celestron 8 SE
Answer: No ash grill
Question: will i be able to mount this on a celestron AVX
Answer: Yes! The threads are also soft and strip easily. The mirror also does not tighten firmly to the "arm" causing it to "flop" over. Hiwever, I fixed mine by using Thread Lock Red for the threads into the post and Versa Chem Super Clear Silicon Gasket Maker to stop the mirrors from flopping over. They do look good once installed.

Product features

Strong and durable material:

Black anodized, machined aluminum construction for added rigidity, durable surface and professional look.

Works great solid construction great value.

Easy to Use:

Adapter makes it easy to attach and detach instruments without using toolst

Orion 9829 SkyView Pro Equatorial Telescope Mount

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Heavy-duty SkyView Pro equatorial mount and tripod provides a solid and stable foundation for astronomical telescope use. Supports telescope tubes weighing up to 20 lbs; tubes attach via an included quick-release dovetail bar. Slow-motion knobs on Declination (Dec) and Right Ascension (RA) axes allow fine manual motion control and tracking of celestial objects as they appear to migrate across the night sky. Includes two counterweights (4 and 7.5 lbs) Total weight with counterweights equals 35 lbs. Accepts optional TrueTrack dual-axis electronic drive or our SVP GoTo upgrade kit (both sold separately)

  • Heavy-duty SkyView Pro equatorial mount and tripod provides a solid and stable foundation for astronomical telescope use
  • Supports telescope tubes weighing up to 20 lbs; tubes attach via an included quick-release dovetail bar
  • Slow-motion knobs on Declination (Dec) and Right Ascension (RA) axes allow fine manual motion control and tracking of celestial objects as they appear to migrate across the night sky
  • Includes two counterweights (4 and 7.5 lbs) Total weight with counterweights equals 35 lbs.
  • Accepts optional TrueTrack dual-axis electronic drive or our SVP GoTo upgrade kit (both sold separately)

User questions & answers

Question: Would this hold a Skyquest XT
Answer: Just 1
Question: Will I need to purchase additional counterweights for an 18 pound 180mm mak cass
Answer: No, aiden845. The Belkin F7U020 (10K Power Bank) has a length of 5.76-in, has a width of 2.92-in, a height of 0.62-in, and it weighs 0.49 lbs. While the Belkin F7U019 (5K Power Bank) has a length of 4.86-in, has a width of 2.49-in, a height of 0.51-in, and it weighs 0.29 lbs.
Question: whould this mount hold an Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope
Answer: Hello, S. It is not recommended to charge a laptop using the Belkin F7U020.
Question: would this hold a Orion Space Probe 130ST EQ Equatorial Reflector Telescope
Answer: Yes, Cynthia. However, due to shipment regulations, the device is not shipped fully charged.

Celestron CGX Computerized German Equatorial Mount and Tripod

Celestron

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Mount holds up to 55 lb load capacity Spring-loaded brass worm wheel, stainless steel worm gear Two all-new dovetail clamping knobs +20° of additional tracking past the meridian Internal cabling for worry-free remote operation Two internal optical sensors Control software for remote astroimaging Aux accessory ports and autoguider port 2" stainless steel tripod legs

  • Motorized EQ Mount, 55-lb Payload
  • High-Torque Servo Motors and Belt-Drive
  • NexStar+ Computer Hand Controller
  • 40,000-Object Database
  • Guided Tours and Custom Object Filters

User questions & answers

Question: How much does the mount and the tripod each weigh
Answer: I am not familiar with Bristol bay gloves but I do not "feel" seams in these gloves. The Glacier gloves keep my hands warm, are water proof and fit nice and tight. I use them for ice fishing and am able to use my small ice fishing rods and reels with no problem. I hope this helps!
Question: What is the diameter of the base? That is, what diameter should a pier need to be in order to fit the mount
Answer: I have owned these for a while and use them incessantly during winter months...the grip is very good, I would give it an 8 out of 10. The durability really depends on what you are doing with them...I would give them a 6 out of 10.
Question: Does this supports celestron 14 inch ota
Answer: Yes. Just remember that it is simple carbon steel & not cast iron. So it heats up quickly but also cools down quickly. And it doesn't hold a lot of fuel. So you have to keep adding fuel to keep it running. Whereas a large cast iron wood stove will stay warm for many hours after it has finished burning.
Question: Given there is only 1 aux port, what is the recommended method for connecting, star sense, guide scope and sky portal
Answer: 3 inch

Orion 9822 AstroView Equatorial Telescope Mount

Orion

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The smooth-moving, sturdy AstroView mount provides a robust equatorial support system for any telescope weighing up to 12 lbs. Heavy-duty equatorial head has enclosed worm gears, azimuth adjustment and dual slow-motion controls for convenient manual tracking of celestial objects. Modern equatorial mount head design features removable dovetail plate for quick attachment of a telescope without using tools. Includes adjustable-height aluminum tripod. Weighs 27.5 lbs

  • The smooth-moving, sturdy AstroView mount provides a robust equatorial support system for any telescope weighing up to 12 lbs.
  • Heavy-duty equatorial head has enclosed worm gears, azimuth adjustment and dual slow-motion controls for convenient manual tracking of celestial objects
  • Modern equatorial mount head design features removable dovetail plate for quick attachment of a telescope without using tools
  • Includes adjustable-height aluminum tripod
  • Weighs 27.5 lbs

User questions & answers

Question: What is dovetail rail that attaches to the mount....missing rail mount for the orion 9826 starmax equatorial maksutov-cassegrain telescope
Answer: You should probably speak with o e of the administrators at your church, am sure you can keep your receipts.
Question: Can this carry up a 16 lbs orion cassegrain tube
Answer: Great question......Mine bent and broke. Too windy where I vend and it was the second one I bought. It was a flimsy frame so after 2 losses, I went to a different tent and I love my new one. I have used it at the same windy place and have had no problems at all.
Question: Will this mount be able to handle the weight of the orion xt4.5 dobsonian telescope
Answer: I believe you would be very happy with the warmth of these gloves due to the fact that your hands remain dry no matter how wet or cold the conditions. I have used these gloves for pulling crab traps and fishing during extremely cold conditions with great success. The fleese lining is very warm and soft.
Question: Can an EQ-1 motor be attached to this successfully
Answer: You could scratch down some notes with these gloves. But probably wouldnt be able to write neatly, as accurately or extensively. Your hands will be warm and dry though

Orion Skyview Pro Equatorial GoTo Telescope Mount

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Designed for the serious amateur astronomer, the heavy-duty SkyView Pro has always offered stability and precision control. Now with GoTo capability, this popular mount effortlessly guides your scope to over 42,900 celestial gems. Supporting telescopes weighing up to 20 lbs., this German-type equatorial platform features an all-metal head with enclosed 360-deg worm gears on both axes for smooth motion. Stainless steel legs give the tripod a solid stance. Other great features include an azimuth fine-adjustment and latitude scale for easier polar alignment, large lever locks for the right ascension and declination axes, and tripod leg extensions. The mount accepts an optional polar-axis finder scope.

  • Designed for the budget-conscious amateur astronomer who wants to enjoy the benefits of GoTo technology, our affordable SkyView Pro EQ equatorial telescope mount and tripod is equipped with GoTo computerized pointing to over 42,900 celestial objects
  • German equatorial platform supports telescopes weighing up to 20 lbs. for a wide variety of applications
  • Select from among 42,900 celestial objects using the intuitive menus on the GoTo hand controller, or take an automated tour of the finest celestial showpieces
  • Stainless steel legs provide a solid stance for stable views free of excessive vibration
  • The equatorial mount accepts an optional polar-axis finder scope (sold separately)

User questions & answers

Question: Can this mount be moved free hand in any direction? For instance if I want to use my maksutov for bird watching on this mount
Answer: .195"
Question: Polar alignement scope is included
Answer: Depending on how the roller attaches to the window, you may be able to replace your rollers with a shorter assembly like this one.
Question: This mount come goto ready? Why description says could be upgrade to goto anytime? How much it's cost and what need to do
Answer: It's 8.5ft.
Question: How much does it weigh
Answer: Who knows don’t buy this.

Orion AstroView EQ Mount & EQ-3M Motor Drive Kit

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Whether you're looking to upgrade from your present telescope mount or are seeking a more robust, motorized equatorial system for a new telescope, you can't go wrong with the smooth-moving, sturdy Orion AstroView EQ and EQ-3M Motor Drive Kit. The AstroView Equatorial (EQ) Mount head has a convenient dovetail attachment saddle that makes it easy to attach telescopes or swap between more than one telescope without having to hassle with tools. An 8" long dovetail attachment plate is included in case your telescope isn't equipped with one. The AstroView Mount can support telescopes weighing up to 12 pounds and has enclosed worm gears, an azimuth adjustment, and dual manual slow-motion controls. A hinged center brace adds stability to the adjustable aluminum tripod, and a high-walled accessory tray makes for a great storage spot for eyepieces, Barlow lenses, filters, and more while you're stargazing. Attach the included EQ-3M Telescope Drive's precision mini-motor onto the AstroView EQ Mount to track celestial objects automatically. This single-axis motor drive will make observing easier and more fun, since you won't have to hassle with periodically centering an object in your telescope eyepiece's field-of-view. The EQ-3M Single-Axis Telescope Drive provides regulated sidereal-rate tracking in right ascension. The included electronic handheld controller has 8x speed and pause mode controls.

  • A value-packed combination of the Orion AstroView Equatorial Mount and EQ-3M Single-Axis Telescope Motor Drive
  • The smooth-moving, sturdy AstroView mount provides a robust equatorial support system for any telescope weighing up to 12 lbs.
  • The precision EQ-3M mini-motor attaches to the AstroView Equatorial Mount for automatic, motorized tracking of celestial objects
  • Modern equatorial mount head design features removable dovetail plate for quick attachment of a telescope without using tools, and an 8" long dovetail plate is included
  • Weighs 28.8 lbs.

User questions & answers

Question: I'm assuming you can, but better to ask...can you mount a dslr to this as well as telescopes
Answer: Not sure if your car has one fixed point and one roller or two rollers? The riveted ones are a little more tricky since you have to peen them over. X-tras are much better to have than needing one halfway through the project.
Question: Can this mount track the sun
Answer: The bottom edge is flared at 11/32" and the top of roller assembly is 1/4".
Question: Does this come with a Dslr camera mount
Answer: 2 wheels per housing. Exactly as pictured.
Question: Has anyone used this mount successfully for long exposure astrophotography
Answer: The wheel is 3/32" thick and the axle is approximately 11/32" wide

Orion 9055 Min-EQ Tabletop Equatorial Telescope Mount

Orion

Based on 38 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Small but sturdy equatorial telescope mount that's perfect for traveling or campouts and capable of supporting small telescopes up to 7 lbs. Features a rugged metal EQ-1 equatorial mount head perched on a petite tabletop tripod with three thread-on legs. Makes a terrific portable tracking platform for wide-field astrophotography with a 35mm DSLR or SLR camera. Includes 4.8 lb. counterweight, dual slow-motion control cables for manual tracking, latitude adjustment, and threaded 1/4"-20 adapter. Height approximately 14", weighs 10 lbs., 5 oz.

  • Small but sturdy equatorial telescope mount that's perfect for traveling or campouts and capable of supporting small telescopes up to 7 lbs.
  • Features a rugged metal EQ-1 equatorial mount head perched on a petite tabletop tripod with three thread-on legs
  • Makes a terrific portable tracking platform for wide-field astrophotography with a 35mm DSLR or SLR camera
  • Includes 4.8 lb. counterweight, dual slow-motion control cables for manual tracking, latitude adjustment, and threaded 1/4"-20 adapter
  • Height approximately 14", weighs 10 lbs., 5 oz.

User questions & answers

Question: Will it work with Orion 10022 StarMax 90mm Mak-Cass Telescope
Answer: You may wish to contact Prime-Line directly for assistance.
Question: How are you supposed to balance the telescope in declination if one side of the telescope is much heavier than the other
Answer: you'd have to compare the dimensions
Question: The slow motion control cables for manual tracking are too short. Where can you purchase longer ones
Answer: Sorry Dorman doesn't list any rollers specifically for this truck.
Question: Can this mount be adapted for a conventional tripod in addition to a table mount
Answer: Depth: 0.385 In.Inside Diameter (in): 0.255 In.Material: PlasticOutside Diameter (In): 0.957 In.

figatia Telescope Dovetail Mounting Plate for Equatorial Tripod Long Version 210 Mm

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description:

- Dovetail plate provides a platform for coupling telescope optical tubes to equatorial mounting.

- accessory for obtaining star-trail photos with your EQ mount and a point-and-shoot, SLR or DSLR camera.

- Adapter makes it easy to attach and detach instruments without using tools.

- Full metal alloy precision manufacturing.Full-surface oxidized black.

- 1/4 standard photographic tripod.

Specification:

- Material:Metal

- Bottom Size 43.5mm

- Length 210mm

- Color: Black

- Weight: 183g

Package Includes:

1 Piece 210mm Dovetail Mounting Plate

  • 1/4 standard photographic tripod.
  • Dovetail plate provides a platform for coupling telescope optical tubes to equatorial mounting.
  • Full metal alloy precision manufacturing.Full-surface oxidized black.
  • accessory for obtaining star-trail photos with your EQ mount and a point-and-shoot, SLR or DSLR camera.
  • Adapter makes it easy to attach and detach instruments without using tools.

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