5A Battery Charger
NOCO Genius 5 observatory battery charger maintains your backup power system for automatic roof closure during outages. Tested with DragonLAIR since 2023.
Out of stock - will ship when available
Keep Your Observatory Protected-Even When the Power Goes Out
The NOCO Genius 5 is the battery charger we recommend to keep your emergency backup battery topped off and ready. When paired with a 35Ah AGM battery and a DragonLAIR controller, you get automatic roof protection during power outages-no intervention required.
Why This Charger?
We've tested multiple chargers with the battery backup systems we recommend for small observatories. The Genius 5 hits the sweet spot: enough power to maintain a 35Ah AGM battery without being oversized or overpriced. It's been part of our recommended backup power setup since 2023, with dozens of installations running reliably across North America-including sites that have seen temperatures down to 10°F.
This isn't a generic recommendation. It's the charger we use, and the one we trust to keep observatory equipment protected.
Key Benefits
Thermal Compensation for Unheated Observatories
The Genius 5 includes an integrated temperature sensor that adjusts charging based on ambient conditions. This prevents overcharging in summer heat and undercharging in cold weather-critical for observatories that see temperature swings from season to season. It's rated for operation from -4°F to 104°F.
True "Set and Forget" Maintenance
Once connected, the Genius 5 handles everything automatically. It charges, maintains, and monitors your battery without any intervention. Leave it connected year-round and your backup battery will be ready when you need it.
Battery Recovery Mode
If a battery does get deeply discharged (it happens), the Genius 5's repair mode can often restore capacity by breaking down sulfation. It's not magic, but we've seen it bring batteries back from the brink.
Compact Design
At just over 7" long, the Genius 5 tucks easily into an observatory cabinet or equipment enclosure. It won't take up valuable space in a small roll-off roof setup.
What's Included
- NOCO Genius 5 charger (retail package)
- Battery clamps
- NOCO documentation
- Access to the Dark Dragons Astronomy community for setup questions and support
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Output | 5A max |
| Voltage modes | 6V and 12V |
| Battery types | Lead-acid (flooded, gel, AGM, maintenance-free) and lithium-ion (LiFePO4) |
| Capacity range | Up to 120Ah (charging), all sizes (maintenance) |
| Input voltage | 120-240V AC, 50/60Hz |
| Operating temperature | -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C) |
| Charging modes | 12V, 12V AGM, 12V Lithium, 6V, Repair, Force |
| Warranty | 3 years (NOCO manufacturer warranty) |
Integration/Compatibility
The setup is simple but effective: your DragonLAIR runs directly off the backup battery while the NOCO Genius 5 keeps it charged via an always-on AC outlet. During normal operation, the battery stays at full charge, ready to go.
When the power goes out, your DragonLAIR automatically switches to battery power and monitors the voltage. You can configure a threshold-say, 11.5V-where the DragonLAIR will automatically close the roof. Brief outages? The roof stays open. Extended outage during a storm? The roof closes before the battery runs down, protecting your equipment.
When power returns, the Genius 5 brings the battery back to full charge automatically. No babysitting required.
Installation/Setup Reality Check
If you already have AC power available in your observatory, installation takes less than 30 minutes. Connect ring terminals to your battery, plug in the charger, select 12V AGM mode, and you're done.
Tools needed: Wire strippers, crimping tool for ring terminals
Skill level: Low-if you can connect a car battery and plug in a phone charger, you can set this up. The only caveat: if you need to run new AC wiring to your observatory, we recommend hiring an electrician.
What You Need to Provide
- 35Ah AGM battery (or similar 12V deep-cycle battery)
- Ring terminals (M6 or 1/4") for permanent installation-we recommend these over the included clamps
- Always-on AC outlet in your observatory (consult an electrician if you need to add one)
- Wiring to connect battery to your DragonLAIR
Real-World Performance
This charger has been part of our recommended battery backup configuration since 2023. Dozens of DragonLAIR owners are running this exact setup, and it's proven reliable in real-world conditions-including cold-weather sites that have tested it down to 10°F.
The NOCO Genius 5 is rated for operation down to -4°F, so there's headroom for even colder climates. It's warrantied for 3 years, and our experience suggests it will last well beyond that with normal use.
Protect Your Investment
Your telescope, camera, and mount represent a significant investment-often $10,000 or more. A battery backup system with the DragonLAIR and Genius 5 provides peace of mind that a power outage won't leave your equipment exposed to the elements.
The Genius 5 is one piece of a reliable backup power system. Combined with the DragonLAIR's voltage monitoring and automatic roof closure, you get protection that works even when you're not there.
Need help? Join our Discord community for installation guides, troubleshooting, and direct support.