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Modern telescopes are not just manageable via wireless hand controllers and computers; they can also be operated through smartphones or tablets. This capability is enhanced further by the availability of WiFi modules, which can upgrade existing mounts to enable wireless control via smartphone apps.
In this context, the Celestron SkyPortal WiFi module emerges as a key player.
This article will delve into the specifics of the SkyPortal module, discussing its compatibility with various mounts, addressing potential usage challenges, guiding on how to connect it to a telescope, and exploring other relevant aspects, thereby highlighting the impact of these technological advancements on the experience of amateur astronomy.
What is the Celestron SkyPortal WiFi Module and how does it work?
Celestron SkyPortal WiFi module is a small device that you can plug into the AUX port on the computerized mount. It will create its own WiFi network that you can connect to. The device doesn’t require any batteries or external power because the AUX port of the telescope powers it.
The unit works only with telescopes made by Celestron. However, it is not compatible with all the Celestron mounts, so check your mount’s version before buying the module.
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Description of the SkyPortal WiFi Module
The Celestron SkyPortal module is a simple device with only a few buttons. On the left side, you have one small hole where you can find the RESET button.
On the right side, there are indicator lights and one switch. The switch button is for alternating between Direct Connect Mode and Access Point Mode(WLAN). The three indicator lights are for Mode, Connection Status, and Activity.
The indicator lights of the SkyPortal WiFi Module
The Mode light is ON when using Direct Mode. It will stay OFF for Access Point Mode(WLAN).
If no network is found, the Connection Status indicator light will flash fast. Slow flashing means the connection was established with a smartphone, tablet, PC, or WLAN. Staying ON without blinking means that the app is connected.
The Activity indicator light flashing indicates network activity.
SkyQ Link vs. SkyPortal WiFi Module
You can come across the name SkyQ Link on the internet and even find a WiFi module with that name. It looks like a clone of the SkyPortal WiFi module.
The SkyQ Link module has a gray cover around the connector, and the SkyPortal module has an orange cover around it. So what is the difference? Let me explain.
The SkyQ Link is an old name for a generic wireless signal produced by the first Celestron Evolution mounts and external WiFi modules manufactured before 2017. The WiFi network produced by the mount and the module were weak and caused many issues.
SkyPortal is the name of the astronomy app, and the new WiFi module has its name. The SkyPortal WiFi module produces a 20x stronger signal compared to SkyQ Link thanks to an improved Zentri Ppty chip. It has an orange cover around the connector.
So be careful, and if you plan to buy a WiFi module for your Celestron telescope, it must have an orange cover, not gray. This is the easiest way to differentiate between these two modules.
Additionally, they will have different names, so look for the Celestron SkyPortal WiFi adapter, which is also cheaper than the old SkyQ Link WiFi module.
What do you need to control your telescope wirelessly through the SkyPortal WiFi Module?
To control your telescope wirelessly through the SkyPortal WiFi Module, you’ll need a smartphone or tablet and Celestron’s free SkyPortal app for iOS or Android. You can download the app for free on Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
After downloading the SkyPortal app, connect the WiFi Module to the AUX port. Next, you must choose the network connection type you want by pushing the switch on the module.
The next step is to connect your iOS and Android devices to the network created from the previous step. Once this is complete, you can start wirelessly controlling your telescope.
One extra benefit of connecting your device to the module is that the latter takes the exact time and location, date, and GPS coordinates from your device. This makes the alignment process easier if you don’t have StarSense AutoAlign.
Is the SkyPortal WiFi Module compatible with any mount?
The SkyPortal WiFi Module is only compatible with computerized mounts made by Celestron. The module is compatible with all current Celestron computerized telescopes and some old models like SkyProdigy, the NexStar SE Series, NexStar SLT, CPC, and CPC DX.
I have provided a list of computerized models that the SkyPortal WiFi adapter is compatible with below:
- Advanced VX – CGX-L
- Astro Fi – CPC, CPC DX
- CG-5 (with CG-5 Aux. splitter) – NexStar Evolution
- CGE – NexStar GT (2015 models and newer with Aux. splitter)
- CGE Pro – NexStar SE Series
- CGEM II – NexStar SLT
- CGEM, CGEM DX – SkyProdigy
- CGX – LCM
Unfortunately, the module is not compatible with:
- NexStar i Series
- NexStar GPS
- Ultima 2000
- Early generation GoTo mounts – such as Compustar
How to connect the Celestron SkyPortal WiFi module to your telescope?
As mentioned before, the Celestron SkyPortal WiFi Module has two options for connecting your device. Direct Connect Mode and Access Point Mode. The two modes serve different purposes.
Direct Connect Mode
Direct Access Mode is simply a direct connection to the WiFi network created by the module. It is simple, fast, and mostly used when out in the field with no home WiFi network you can connect to.
The only thing you need to do is to slide the switch upwards to the direct mode position and turn on the mount. Then open the settings for the WiFi networks on your device and connect to the WiFi (Celestron-###) created by the SkyPortal Module.
Open the app and tap scope, then connect and align to start the star alignment. With this mode, you will lose the option to have internet access over the WiFi network.
But it is not an issue if you have internet access over your cell phone carrier data (3G/4G/LTE). If you want to use the direct mode on your PC, you will need a wired internet connection on your PC.
Access Point Mode
Access Point Mode will connect the module to your existing WiFi provided by the router. So, you can control the telescope while connected to your home WiFi network. However, this mode requires additional settings to be made in your SkyPortal app.
The first thing to do is to use the Direct Connection method described above to access the settings for the Access Point Mode in the SkyPortal app on your device (Tap only Connect, not Align and Connect).
When connected, go to settings in the SkyPortal app (gear icon), then Communication and Configure Access Point. Fill in your wireless network name (SIID) and the password, and tap Send Configuration.
After that, return to the previous menu and select Use Access Point. Now you can slide the switch on the SkyPortal WiFi Module into the Access Point position.
The unit will now automatically authenticate with the wireless network of your router. If it is successful, the Connection Status indicator starts to flash slowly.
The module is ready, and you can control the telescope while connected to your home WiFi access network.
You may also like: How To Connect Telescope To Computer.
Celestron’s free SkyPortal app overview
The SkyPortal app is free and available for Android and iOS. You can install it on your smartphone, tablet, or PC. It has an intuitive user interface and, thus, it is easy to use.
You can use this app without the module, and it is useful to learn something about the night sky. It has over 100,000 objects in SkyPortal’s database. The sky tour feature generates the best night sky objects based on your location and time.
It is a stripped-down version of SkySafari, which is more complex and contains more objects. You can use SkySafari with the Celestron SkyPortal WiFi Module as well.
Possible problems with Celestron SkyPortal Wifi Module
You can encounter problems while using the Access Point Mode. The module might encounter intermittent loss of connection with your router. It is unclear what is causing it, if it is the module itself, the environment, or the router.
If you are experiencing this issue, then use the Direct mode with the module and contact Celestron support for help.
SkyPortal app license verification failed
Some people report the problem with the app license verification failing when launching the app and trying to connect it via Direct Mode with the SkyPortal module. No internet connection causes this problem.
When you first start the app, you need to be connected to your home wireless network with internet access so the app can verify the license online.
Because you are connected to the module WiFi with no internet access, the license can’t be verified. Launch it first while online and then use the SkyPortal Module Direct Mode.
Is the SkyPortal WiFi Module a good investment?
The Celestron SkyPortal WiFi Module is a worthwhile investment for those looking to enhance their stargazing and astrophotography experiences. This relatively affordable accessory offers a substantial upgrade by introducing greater control and convenience in telescope operation. With the SkyPortal module, users can manage their telescopes wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical contact and the associated vibrations that can occur with hand controllers.
However, it’s important to consider a potential drawback: using a smartphone display may impact night vision during observational sessions. Balancing this concern, the module proves exceptionally beneficial for astrophotography. It allows users to control their telescopes comfortably from indoors, a significant advantage in cold weather conditions.
This convenience is further highlighted for those who previously relied on long USB wires to connect their telescopes to computers. By replacing cumbersome wired setups with wireless control, the SkyPortal WiFi Module not only streamlines the process but also enhances the overall experience of exploring the night sky.
Effortless stargazing with the Celestron SkyPortal WiFi Module
The Celestron SkyPortal WiFi Module revolutionizes the stargazing experience, aligning perfectly with the needs of the modern astronomer. By enabling a hands-off, wireless approach, it significantly reduces the complexities traditionally associated with astronomical observation. This module not only diminishes vibrations caused by physical contact but also streamlines the process of tracking celestial objects, offering a more relaxing and efficient observation experience.
Incorporating the SkyPortal WiFi Module into your astronomical toolkit is more than just an upgrade; it’s a step into a new era of stargazing where convenience and advanced technology combine to enhance your connection with the cosmos.
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a beginner, this module promises to elevate your stargazing sessions, making them more enjoyable and productive.
Its impact on the overall quality of both casual observation and serious astrophotography cannot be overstated, marking it as an indispensable addition for anyone passionate about exploring the night sky.
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