3853 replies to this topic

[davidparks]

Max,  it's fun to see that old picture!  I still use that lens for Terrestrial... but for your question:  I never had issue with it due to only using that setup for EAA, which meant I was right there with the scope the whole time, and doing only short exposure/short integrations before I would be off to a new target.  The only real danger point is a target very low on the direct south horizon. 

[tkottary]

Adding some setup pictures with this mount.

[maxsid]

That's an awesome 3D printing job! (saw it on the indi forum as well).

My question (I am still learning) - how do you make sure the finder/guide scope is aligned with the mount?

Also - what counter-weight do you use. I have the shaft but not the weight.....

Thanks!

 

--max

 

Adding some setup pictures with this mount.

Edited by maxsid, 14 January 2019 - 05:16 AM.

[tkottary]

Thanks Max .When the guidescope was mounted initially i did check with ekos align & frame module that i was indeed looking at the same object. I slewed to bright star and eye balled that was in the center of frame on both camera. Hopefully that should serve the purpose.I also plan to make markers on the mount for the declination 90 0 so that it's easier to set  up on same spot repeatedly .

 

I use this counterweight https://www.teleskop...ntierung.html. 

[maxsid]

Thanks! Will try to align mine when the sky is clear...

I'll get an SW counterweight with shaft. It actually just went down from $28 to 25 at B&H.

 

Thanks Max .When the guidescope was mounted initially i did check with ekos align & frame module that i was indeed looking at the same object. I slewed to bright star and eye balled that was in the center of frame on both camera. Hopefully that should serve the purpose.I also plan to make markers on the mount for the declination 90 0 so that it's easier to set  up on same spot repeatedly .

 

I use this counterweight https://www.teleskop...ntierung.html. 

[maxsid]

Here's my 2nd iteration...  The 1st was with the guider below the main scope which I felt would be unsafe.

Now they are side-by-side. Got a steel bracket from Home Depot and cut it to size, drilled holes to attach to the dovetail.

 

 

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[davidparks]

Great setups!  And i really like your first picture with Orion in the background 

[EastAnglian]

I hope everyone is keeping up with all the recent SynScan app updates. At least they’re listening to complaints I guess.
The weather in my part of the world has been appalling (usual story) since Christmas, with only one fully clear period which didn’t last long. It made me aware, being first outing of my unit, of two things that needed addressing. Firstly, it took me much too long to level my tripod. Secondly, using my iPhone to control the thing is much more tricky in a ‘live’ situation. I was made aware that I should have turned down the brightness of my screen in advance, it was very distracting. Also, I can imagine how awkward it would be using gloves with this method of control. Using an iPad on a table would help a lot, but my intention for this setup was to use it ‘in the wild’ where luxuries like tables wouldn’t be an option. So for all you would be buyers out there, this is something to figure into the equation. SynScan handsets are a ridiculous amount of money for what they are, but clearly, to me at least, they are the best option for how I want to use mine.
Getting back to the levelling problem, I’m thinking of getting one of the tripod levelling heads that I’ve seen on eBay; the type with a locking lever on the side. Has anybody used one of these? Although they look simple, I can’t see exactly how they work? I’m guessing that you lock the central screw by using an Allen key from underneath, and that the lever is used to lock position? If I’m right about this it would make levelling the head a much simpler and quicker job. Any help appreciated.
Cheers
Max

[davidparks]

I havn't found levelling to be real critical.  I do level, but I just eyeball using the mini bubble level which is integrated into the top of one of the tripod legs.   2 or 3 star alignment (or north-level when AZ mode) cancel out any errors in leveling, and guiding also compensates for minor errors in level.  Of course the bubble level on top of the mount is useless when in EQ mode... so no help there...

 

I'm sure a more accurate leveling system can be devised if needed.

[NGC 2419]

<Snip>... SynScan handsets are a ridiculous amount of money for what they are, but clearly, to me at least, they are the best option for how I want to use mine.
Getting back to the levelling problem, I’m thinking of getting one of the tripod levelling heads that I’ve seen on eBay; the type with a locking lever on the side. Has anybody used one of these? Although they look simple, I can’t see exactly how they work? I’m guessing that you lock the central screw by using an Allen key from underneath, and that the lever is used to lock position? If I’m right about this it would make levelling the head a much simpler and quicker job. Any help appreciated.
Cheers
Max

Like you, I quickly tired of dealing with the non-tactile feedback of a smartphone and am now using a hand controller. While the V4 versions were ridiculously expensive, the newer v5 can be had for ~$110. I bought one and never looked back.

As for leveling, the computer really doesn't care if the tripod is level in Alt-az mode. Just get it close and spend your time observing.

Clear skies!

Edit to add that the computer really doesn't care in equatorial mode either. It just makes polar alignment much easier.

Edited by NGC 2419, 16 January 2019 - 05:36 PM.

[EastAnglian]

Many thanks for the replies!

I didn’t know about the V5, and it took me a while to find it’s the Orion version. It looks like this is an affordable answer! On thinking about it, a question came to mind; can it be used in conjunction with a SynScan app on iPhone to get coordinates via WiFi? 

I should say I appreciate the heads up on it not being too critical in respect of levelling!

Cheers

Max

[NGC 2419]

Many thanks for the replies!
I didn’t know about the V5, and it took me a while to find it’s the Orion version. It looks like this is an affordable answer! On thinking about it, a question came to mind; can it be used in conjunction with a SynScan app on iPhone to get coordinates via WiFi?
I should say I appreciate the heads up on it not being too critical in respect of levelling!
Cheers
Max

I toyed around with using both and forget what problem I ran into. I think that if you align with the phone, then the hand controller doesn't know where it's pointed. (I could be remembering wrong though.)

I would like to use Skysafari for go-to, and the hand controller to adjust and maintain. I don't think you can use both for go-to or the hand controller will get confused.

I got tired of messing around and got busy observing.

Here's hoping you'll try it out and get back to us. :-)

Clear skies!

[EastAnglian]

I toyed around with using both and forget what problem I ran into. I think that if you align with the phone, then the hand controller doesn't know where it's pointed. (I could be remembering wrong though.)

I would like to use Skysafari for go-to, and the hand controller to adjust and maintain. I don't think you can use both for go-to or the hand controller will get confused.

I got tired of messing around and got busy observing.

Here's hoping you'll try it out and get back to us. :-)

Clear skies!

 

Thanks again. I suspected that there might be these kind of issues, so I’m not surprised. Will keep you updated!

Max

[davidparks]

Yes you can use both simultaneously.  When issuing a GoTo from SynScan (Mobile or PC), SkySafari will show the telescope slewing to the new target, and vice versa, after a Goto issued by SkySafari, SynScan will show "Go To PC Target" and with the normal position and closing degrees readout.

 

Configure SkySafari to use Scope Type: SkyWatcher SynScan
IP Address can be the same Android Device running SynScan: 127.0.0.1
IP Address can be a 2nd iOS Device or PC running SynScan: 192.168.4.X  (if using the AZGTi Access Point)(Replace X with node of device running SynScan)
Port Number: 11882

 

Simulation Curriculum has received the code libraries from SkyWatcher, so hopefully they will have SkySafari working even better with the AZGTi soon.

 

https://www.cloudyni...az-gti-support/

[NGC 2419]

Yes you can use both simultaneously. When issuing a GoTo from SynScan (Mobile or PC), SkySafari will show the telescope slewing to the new target, and vice versa, after a Goto issued by SkySafari, SynScan will show "Go To PC Target" and with the normal position and closing degrees readout.

Configure SkySafari to use Scope Type: SkyWatcher SynScan
IP Address can be the same Android Device running SynScan: 127.0.0.1
IP Address can be a 2nd iOS Device or PC running SynScan: 192.168.4.X (if using the AZGTi Access Point)(Replace X with node of device running SynScan)
Port Number: 11882

Simulation Curriculum has received the code libraries from SkyWatcher, so hopefully they will have SkySafari working even better with the AZGTi soon.

https://www.cloudyni...az-gti-support/

Pardon me if I'm mistaken, but it looks like you're talking about using two iOS devices. While what you posted will work, I was referring to using a cell phone or tablet, (in my case, Android), at the same time as a Synscan hand controller.

In my limited testing, this results in one of the devices becoming confused about where the other is pointed.

I would be happy to learn that I can use my phone to issue a go-to and have the hand controller know where it is pointed.

Thanks for your input.

[EastAnglian]

Okay, good morning! I’ve just woken to find the above posts, and what I realised was that perhaps I didn’t clarify what I meant. What I was hoping was that I could connect my iPhone via the AZ-GTi’s WiFi which would pick up GPS coordinates, and then use a handset (V5) to adjust alignment and stars and targets. I’m not really worried about what method I use for getting around I.e. handset, SynScan app or SkySafari. I’m not even concerned if I can’t use SkySafari at all. It’s all down to being able to adjust star position while looking through the eyepiece, as this is very frustrating to attempt if you have to take your eye away from the eyepiece and look at the very small arrows on the phone. I suspect and hope that in some future software update, there will be the option of a whole screen display of arrow buttons which would be so much more useable. This would be fairly easy to incorporate I would have thought. At this particular minute I’m undecided as to what I’m going to do, and am hoping that one of you fellow sky surfers can help. 

Cheers 

Max

[davidparks]

I do have a V4 hand controller, so I can test that as well and let you know my results.  I believe it should, because each device can read the mounts current position... however, field testing is better than theory...  Also, just to note, SkySafari and SynScan will know your mounts current position (and not get confused), even when you loosen the clutches and physically move the mount if you have the Auxiliary Encoders on.

 

Another idea that may, or may not, be appealing:  These touchscreen buttons work great for SkySafari on the iPad, I've also used them on iPhone with SynScan.

They just suction onto the screen anywhere you want them, and give a nice tactile button to press.

 

credit to Michael Swanson for finding them and sharing.

[EastAnglian]

I do have a V4 hand controller, so I can test that as well and let you know my results.  I believe it should, because each device can read the mounts current position... however, field testing is better than theory...  Also, just to note, SkySafari and SynScan will know your mounts current position (and not get confused), even when you loosen the clutches and physically move the mount if you have the Auxiliary Encoders on.

 

Another idea that may, or may not, be appealing:  These touchscreen buttons work great for SkySafari on the iPad, I've also used them on iPhone with SynScan.

They just suction onto the screen anywhere you want them, and give a nice tactile button to press.

 

credit to Michael Swanson for finding them and sharing.

Hi David

MANY thanks for your help here. It occurred to me that the simple way to get an answer would be to contact SkyWatcher directly. I did this and got a fairly prompt, if a little curt, answer ‘No they can't be used simultaneously’. So there you have it!

BUT your link to, and suggestion of these pads, is brilliant!! I’m hoping I can find a UK supplier. The odd thing is I came up with a similar solution myself last night! Spooky. Assuming I can get hold of some I’ll update you how I get on

Cheers

Max

[smartz1]

 

Another idea that may, or may not, be appealing:  These touchscreen buttons work great for SkySafari on the iPad, I've also used them on iPhone with SynScan.

They just suction onto the screen anywhere you want them, and give a nice tactile button to press.

 

credit to Michael Swanson for finding them and sharing.

 

Brilliant! I don't have an issue with the lack of tactile feel per se (probably cause this is my first goto so I have no prior use of a handset for reference), but it would be a welcome addition. I'm definitely gonna pick up a set of these and give them a whirl. 

[NGC 2419]

...Another idea that may, or may not, be appealing: These touchscreen buttons work great for SkySafari on the iPad, I've also used them on iPhone with SynScan.
They just suction onto the screen anywhere you want them, and give a nice tactile button to press.

credit to Michael Swanson for finding them and sharing.

Thanks for sharing the link. Thanks to all who are sharing their experience using different combos of devices.

Clear skies!

[EastAnglian]

I found that Amazon UK had these in stock so have ordered a set. Will update on my experiences. Meanwhile, I’ve just come in from my first decent experience with this mount and am puzzled. I tested the go to during daylight indoors and found it went accurately to chosen stars in the alignment process, but on two separate attempts outside it just went completely weird. The alt (alt-az setup) just kept going up and over zenith on both attempts before I cancelled the operation. I’ll check it out tomorrow and see if I can work out what’s going on. Although it was initially clear outside, the moon was gibbous and bright so not especially great for star gazing. 

Max

[Evil510]

Hello, I’m relatively new to astrophotography. Most of my experience has been doing single shot Milky Way shots while backpacking. Recently I wanted to explore deep space aspects of astrophotography, plus improve the photos while backpacking. I did some research (reading this thread, watching videos and other sites) on trackers and ended up purchasing the AZ-GTi because of the EQ firmware, the go-to (app) feature, timelapse, and payload capacity, all within a relatively transportable package. BUT after more reading and trying to use it, I’m not so sure I made the right decision. Maybe I just don’t know what I'm doing.

 

Here’s a list of my camera equipment:
Canon 5D3
Canon 70-200 f2.8L IS mk2
Sigma 150-600 Sport
Samyang 14mm f2.8 ← what I have been using for backpacking Milky Way shots
Canon 24-70 f2.8L mk2 ← this one or the 24-105 I take for my main backpacking lens
Canon 24-105 f4L

The 70-200 or 150-600 would only be for local astrophotography. I also own an 85 f1.8 and 35 f1.4.

 

So far I’ve mounted the 5D3/70-200 @ 200mm on the AZ-GTi (EQ firmware) which is on an EQ wedge on the supplied tripod. I have the optics “on top” aimed north (Polaris), the on-off switch pointing to the ground, and the small knob pointing west. It’s oriented like DavidParks’ avatar. However, I’m not sure if I’m using the AZ-GTi correctly with the SynScan Pro app. Not really knowing what I’m doing, I placed the center of the camera’s focus on a rough location of the NCP, slewed to another star, centered it, and was able to get one 38 sec shot with no trail at 200mm. Subsequent clouds and rain has stopped me from doing more testing.

 

A few questions about the mount/app in EQ mode...

1. Is polar alignment necessary if the mount/app does a 2 or 3 star alignment? If 2 or 3 star alignment is not the correct way to align, how can I get polar alignment with my current setup? Drift/DARV method?
2. What is the purpose or how do I use the “Polar Alignment” function in the Advanced menu? Is it pertinent to my setup? It only allows me to choose one Polar Align Star.
3. I’m assuming celestial objects are only listed in the app if I can see them above the horizon?

Finally, with all that I have posted above...

1. Should I keep and learn the AZ-GTi?
2. Should I return the AZ-GTi and get the SkyGuider Pro? It has a polar scope, similar payload capacity, but missing the go-to and other features. I was thinking having the go-to feature would help me find objects easier.
3. Should I get a more robust EQ mount for local and a small portable mount for backpacking? This SiFo Rotator looks promising... https://www.moveshoo...ama-photography

Sorry for the long first post, thank you in advance for any answers/advice you all can provide.

[davidparks]

Evil510,

 

While I do not have any experience with DSLR's, or the lens' you've listed,  I don't think  you should have any problem using this gear with the AZGTi.  You may not even need a counterweight, depending on the weight of your gear.  Similarly, I'm not sure anyone but you can really know if the AZGTi or some other mount will truly serve your purpose... it all depends on how and what you want to shoot... However, since you already have the AZGTi in hand, I encourage you to continue, as you have been, to learn how to use it to your purpose,  it's the best way to make an informed choice...

 

To that end I can share a few thoughts:

 

AZ mode vs EQ mode:  Don't forget AZ mode, a simple North-Level alignment can get you up to 30 second exposures, maybe more, depending on your focal length.  Best thing here is to use your various lens' and keep increasing the exposure until you get star-trails.  The unguided alt-az tracking is pretty good relative to other mounts I've used so test the limits.

 

EQ mode should get you longer exposures, guided and un-guided.  My guess is that with poor Polar Alignment, then the un-guided EQ mode tracking will be very similar to simple Alt-AZ mode, as the mount will be tracking in both axis, according to it's sky model which has been built on your 2 or 3 star alignment.   You may be able to increase the exposure with un-guided tracking as your Polar Alignment gets more accurate (1, 2, 3 minutes?), still, you'll have to test the limits for your focal length.  Best, of course, is guided tracking, which will allow you much longer exposures (I've done up to 20 minute exposures), but required more gear, namely a guidescope/cam and computer (and power to run it).  Stacking and post processing goes a long way for making even 5 or 10 second exposures look amazing IMHO.

 

Polar alignment in EQ mode is fairly simple just using the SynScan app on your mobile device.  You will first need to do a 2 or 3 star alignment from the alignment menu.  I'd recommend 3 star for more accuracy.  Then you can do a Polar Alignment.  Synscan will let you choose a star, to which it will slew to, and ask you to center it using the arrow keys.  It will then move your mount slightly and ask you to re-center the star using your EQ Base adjustment knobs, first in latitude, and then in longitude.  You should then do another 2 or 3 star normal alignment.  If your DSLR has a live view, you can use that to assist with centering stars, or use a finder scope, laser pointer, or other previously aligned tool.

 

Daniel (dciobota) has done a very nice review/comparison of several popular minimalist mounts here, maybe you'll find some helpful information.

Edited by davidparks, 18 January 2019 - 12:45 PM.

[Evil510]

David,

Thank you for your response. It gives a clearer idea of how the app works. I will try the Polar Alignment method you described.

Yes, my DSLR has liveview. I was using it to center the stars the other night.

Thanks again.

[EastAnglian]

I found that Amazon UK had these in stock so have ordered a set. Will update on my experiences. 

Okay, these arrived this morning and I’m disappointed ☹️. Although initially seeming really nice, and exactly the right size, when I came to actually fit them to my screen I found a problem; they didn’t stick! After a few seconds they just fell off. My conclusion is that they don’t like screen protectors, which I have fitted. There are only minuscule scratches from everyday use, nothing deep and obvious. I’ve got to decide now whether or not I remove my screen protector, which I don’t really want to do.

Bye the way, the two supplied wipes are useless, the wet one being dry! Just had a thought, I’ll try some polypropyl alcohol on the screen protector first; watch this space. 

Max