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Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts are portable and versatile tracking mounts designed for astrophotography and celestial observation. They can be used with various cameras, lenses, and telescopes to capture long-exposure images of stars and other celestial objects.
The night sky has always fascinated humans, and with the advent of technology, we can now enjoy these beautiful views. For amateur astronomers and astrophotographers, a reliable and portable equatorial mount is essential for capturing beautiful images of celestial objects.
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Mount is one such device that has gained popularity among “Sky-Watchers” because it provides a stable celestial tracking platform that can hold your camera, a big or small telescope.
In this article, we will review the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Mounts, their common features, pros, and cons, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you decide whether this mount is the right tool for your needs.
Common features of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Mounts
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer series of mounts are designed to provide stable and accurate tracking for astrophotography and timelapse photography as well as precise tracking of celestial objects.
Despite the range of models available, they all share some common features.
Here are some of them:
Portable design
One of the most significant features of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts is their portability. They are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry to remote locations for astrophotography sessions.
These portable tracking mounts are easy to set up and require minimal assembly, which is ideal for photographers who want to maximize their time shooting.
Equatorial wedge
The equatorial wedge is another essential feature common to the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts. The wedge is designed to align the mount with the celestial pole, which is necessary for accurate tracking.
With an equatorial wedge, photographers can track celestial objects across the sky without introducing field rotation, resulting in sharp, high-quality images.
Built-in polar scope illuminator
The built-in polar scope illuminator is another useful feature of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts. The polar scope enables photographers to align the mount accurately with the celestial pole for precise tracking.
With the polar scope, photographers can also adjust the mount’s position to compensate for any misalignment, which is particularly useful when working with longer focal lengths.
Time-lapse functionality
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts time-lapse functionality is a very useful feature. With time-lapse mode, photographers can capture exciting time-lapse videos of the night sky.
The mounts include advanced features such as interval timing and bulb ramping, which enable photographers to create smooth, professional-looking time-lapse videos.
Best Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts
The mount models from Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer are great for astrophotography enthusiasts. These mounts are versatile and can also be used for astronomy and landscape photography.
Below are some of the most recommended mounts in the series.
Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i Pro Package-Best for astrophotography and time-lapse photography
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i Pro Package is a versatile and portable mount designed for astrophotography. It includes a Star Adventurer 2i Pro mount with built-in WiFi control and Bluetooth connectivity.
It also has an illuminated polar scope, a ball head adapter, a fine-tuning mounting assembly, and a counterweight kit.
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i Pro Package mount has a high payload capacity of up to 11 pounds and multiple speed settings for precisely tracking celestial objects. It is a good star tracker for astrophotography.
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Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i Photo Package-Best for astrophotography and visual observation
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i Photo Package is a portable and compact mount designed for photographers who want to capture time-lapse videos and long-exposure images of the night sky.
It includes a Star Adventurer 2i mount with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, a ball head adapter, and a time-lapse shutter release cable.
This package is perfect for photographers who want to capture beautiful and dynamic images of the stars, Milky Way, or Aurora Borealis.
It has a built-in polar scope illuminator that comes with LED-lit polar alignment sight.
Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i Astro Package-Best for astrophotography
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i Astro Package is a must-have for astrophotography and visual observation. This motorized portable tracking platform is perfect for capturing incredible detail of the Milky Way, eclipses, and other astronomical objects.
Its unique, modular design allows integration with existing photographic tripods, making wide-field astrophotography, time-lapse videos, and telescopic use all possible with the Star Adventurer.
It includes a Star Adventurer 2i mount with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
The built-in illuminated polar scope of this package allows for easy and accurate polar alignment, which is important for capturing the perfect shot.
Read also: Sky-Watcher HEQ5 GoTo Astronomy Mount Review (Read Before Purchase)
Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Mini Pro Pack-Best for beginners
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Mini Pro Pack is another excellent option for astrophotography. It is a smaller, more portable version of the Star Adventurer Pro, but it still includes many of the same features, such as auto-guiding and Wi-Fi connectivity.
If you are new to astrophotography or astronomy, knowing which mount to choose can be challenging. The Mini Pro Pack is a good option. It is also relatively affordable, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer weight
The weight of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount varies depending on the specific model and accessories that are being used. Generally, the mounts weigh between 1.5-3.5 pounds (0.7-1.6 kg) without any accessories attached.
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount is designed to be compact and portable, making it a popular choice for astrophotography and observation on the go. One of the key factors in its portability is its weight.
It is important to consider the weight of your equipment and accessories when choosing a Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount to ensure that it can support your setup.
How much weight is the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount capable of holding?
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount is capable of holding a maximum payload capacity ranging from 5-11 pounds (2.3-5 kg), depending on the specific model.
This includes the weight of the camera, lens, and any additional accessories such as guide scopes or counterweights.
It is important to note that exceeding the recommended payload capacity can result in unstable tracking and potential damage to the mount.
Best tripod for Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount
Choosing the right tripod for your Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount is important to ensure stable tracking and avoid any vibrations or wobbling.
The tripod should be sturdy enough to support the weight of the mount and any additional equipment. The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount can be attached to any standard tripod with a 3/8-inch screw thread.
Some recommended tripods for the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount include
Manfrotto 055
Manfrotto 055 Aluminum Tripod is a reliable and adaptable option with a maximum weight capacity of 19.84 lb (9 kg). It features a 3/8-inch screw thread and a center column that can be adjusted and rotated to suit a range of shooting angles.
Benro Mach3
The Benro Mach3 TMA38CL Aluminum Tripod is a versatile option with a maximum weight capacity of 39.7 lb (18 kg). It features a 3/8-inch screw thread and a reversible center column, allowing low-angle shooting.
The tripod’s aluminum construction ensures stability, while its adjustable legs provide flexibility and ease of use.
ZOMEi Z818C Carbon Fiber Tripod
This tripod is made of lightweight carbon fiber and can support up to 33 pounds (15 kg) of weight. It has a maximum height of 65 inches (165 cm) and can be folded down to 18 inches (46 cm) for easy transportation.
The ZOMEi Z818C also comes with a detachable monopod and a sturdy ball head that features a 360-degree panoramic function.
Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Firmware
The Firmware of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount controls the functionality and operation of the mount. It is important to keep the firmware up-to-date to ensure the mount is functioning properly and take advantage of any new features or improvements.
Firmware updates for the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount can be found on the manufacturer’s website and can be installed using a mini USB cable.
Setting up and using the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount
Setting up and using the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount is relatively straightforward, but it does require some attention to detail. The mount should be set up on a sturdy tripod and carefully balanced with the camera or telescope being used.
The polar scope should be aligned with the celestial pole for accurate tracking, and the mount’s settings should be adjusted for the correct latitude and time.
How to set up Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount
Here is a step-by-step guide for setting up the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount
- Attach the equatorial wedge to the tripod and level it.
- Attach the Star Adventurer Mount to the wedge and tighten the bolts.
- Attach the counterweight shaft and counterweight.
- Balance the camera and lens on the mount.
- Polar align the mount using the built-in polar scope.
- Turn on the mount and select the correct settings for your imaging setup.
How to use the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer counterbalance
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer counterbalance is important for achieving balanced and stable tracking when using a camera or telescope with the mount.
Properly setting up and using the counterbalance will ensure that your equipment is well-supported and the mount is functioning at its best.
Here are the steps to follow for using the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer counterbalance.
- Attach the counterbalance shaft to the mount using the provided screw.
- Loosen the locking knob on the counterbalance weight holder and slide the weight along the shaft until it is in the desired position.
- Tighten the locking knob to secure the weight in place.
- Adjust the position of the counterbalance weight as needed to balance the camera or telescope being used.
- Use the included Allen wrench to tighten the set screw on the counterbalance weight holder to prevent it from accidentally sliding.
- Make sure the mount is securely attached to a sturdy tripod and properly aligned with the celestial pole.
- Turn on the mount and use the controller to start tracking the target object in the night sky.
Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer astrophotography setup
Setting up the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount properly is crucial for achieving accurate tracking and stable imaging.
Here are the steps to follow for setting up the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount for astrophotography.
- Use a wide-angle lens or telescope with a focal length of less than 300mm.
- Attach the camera and lens to the mount.
- Polar align the mount using the built-in polar scope.
- Connect the camera to the mount and use a remote shutter release or intervalometer.
- Set the exposure settings for your desired image.
To buy the best telescope for your astrophotography set up, read 15 Best Telescopes for Astrophotography (Full Guide)
Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer right-angle viewer
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer right-angle viewer is an optional accessory that can be attached to the mount to make viewing and framing celestial objects easier.
It provides a comfortable viewing angle and reduces neck strain when using the mount for extended periods of time.
Here are the steps to follow for attaching and using the right-angle viewer with the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount
- Remove the dust cap from the right-angle viewer and the mount’s polar scope.
- Align the arrow on the right-angle viewer with the arrow on the polar scope and gently insert the right-angle viewer into the polar scope.
- Secure the right-angle viewer in place by tightening the thumbscrew on the side of the polar scope.
- Adjust the focus of the right-angle viewer by rotating the focus ring until the object being viewed appears sharp and clear.
- Use the right-angle viewer to comfortably view and frame celestial objects without straining your neck or back.
Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer autoguider
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer autoguider is a useful accessory for astrophotography enthusiasts who want to achieve the highest level of precision and accuracy in their long-exposure imaging.
The autoguider connects to the Star Adventurer mount, allowing it to constantly monitor the position of a guide star and make small adjustments to the mount’s tracking to compensate for any drift.
This ensures that the camera or telescope stays perfectly aligned with the target object, resulting in sharp and clear images with minimal star trailing.
Using ZWO autoguider with Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer
The ZWO autoguider is great for achieving highly precise and accurate tracking of celestial objects. When used in conjunction with the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount, it can help produce sharp and clear images.
However, setting up the ZWO autoguider with the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer can be a bit tricky, especially for those new to astrophotography.
Here are the steps to follow for using the ZWO autoguider with the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount.
- Connect the ZWO autoguider to the mount using an ST4 cable.
- Connect the camera to the autoguider.
- Polar align the mount using the built-in polar scope.
- Select the autoguiding settings in the Star Adventurer firmware.
Performance of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount is a reliable and accurate tool for astrophotography and deep-sky viewing. Its precise tracking, range of features, and ease of use make it a popular choice among astrophotography enthusiasts.
The mount’s polar scope is highly accurate and allows for precise alignment with the celestial pole, ensuring accurate tracking for long exposures.
This is especially important for capturing sharp images of deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulas, which can require exposures lasting several minutes or longer.
Additionally, the mount’s built-in autoguider port allows for easy integration with auto-guiding systems, which can further improve tracking accuracy.
When a separate guide camera and software are used to make adjustments to the mount’s tracking, astrophotographers can achieve even longer exposures with pinpoint accuracy.
The mount can support a variety of camera and lens setups, making it a versatile option for astrophotography enthusiasts with different equipment.
From lightweight mirrorless cameras to heavy DSLRs with telephoto lenses, the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount can handle a range of setups with ease.
Pros and cons of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts have many advantages. In this section, we will explore the pros and cons of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount in more detail.
Pros of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts
Here are some of the pros of the mounts:
Portable and lightweight design
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport to different locations. Its portable design is ideal for astrophotographers who need to set up equipment in remote locations.
Equatorial wedge for accurate polar alignment
The mount includes an equatorial wedge, which helps users to accurately align the mount with the North Star. This is important for long-exposure photography, as it allows the mount to track celestial objects accurately.
Built-in polar scope for easy alignment
The mount also features a built-in polar scope, which further simplifies the polar alignment process. This is a major advantage for beginners who may find polar alignment challenging.
Capable of holding up to 11 pounds of weight
Despite its lightweight design, the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount is capable of holding up to 11 pounds of weight, which is impressive for a mount of its size.
Compatible with autoguiding systems
The mount is compatible with autoguiding systems, which can help improve the accuracy of tracking for long-exposure astrophotography.
Cons of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount
Below are some of the potential drawbacks of the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts
Limited weight capacity compared to larger mounts
While the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount is capable of holding up to 11 pounds of weight, it may not be sufficient for astrophotographers who use heavier equipment or larger telescopes.
May require additional accessories for the best performance
Some users may find that additional accessories, such as a counterweight kit or a polar alignment scope, are necessary to achieve the best performance from the mount. This can add to the overall cost of the setup.
Is the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer worth it?
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Mount is a great option for astrophotographers and astronomers who need a portable and reliable tool for deep-sky viewing and imaging. Its range of features and capabilities make it a worthwhile investment.
It is simple to set up and operate, even for those who are new to astrophotography or astronomy. The mount is also highly portable and lightweight, making it easy to transport to remote locations for stargazing sessions.
FAQ about the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mounts
What are the differences between Star Adventurer Pro Pack and 2i?
The main differences between the two models include that the Star Adventurer Pro Pack comes with an illuminated polar scope and the ability to attach an autoguider, while the 2i model has a built-in Wi-Fi module and a free app for easy control and alignment.
Also, the Star Adventurer Pro Pack can handle a slightly higher payload capacity than the 2i model.
Why is my Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer drive not moving?
If your Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer drive is not moving, there could be several possible reasons for this issue. Some of the common reasons include a low battery, incorrect settings, a defective motor, or a faulty cable.
To troubleshoot the problem, you can check the battery, ensure the correct settings are applied, and test the motor and cable. If none of these solutions work, it may be necessary to contact Sky-Watcher customer support for further assistance.
Takeaway: The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer mount is a versatile option for your stargazing needs
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer is a portable tracking mount that can help astronomers and astrophotographers enjoy their viewing sessions.
With its ability to hold a variety of cameras and lenses, its various features, and its ease of use, it is a popular choice among both beginners and experienced astronomy enthusiasts.
While there are some challenges in setting up and using this solid mount, with proper instruction and practice, it can be a valuable addition to your toolkit.
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