The SkyWatcher Star Adventurer GTi has generated significant buzz among astrophotography enthusiasts. This review delves into its features, performance, and potential drawbacks, offering a comprehensive overview for those considering this innovative star tracker.
Portability and Design of the SkyWatcher GTI
The Skywatcher Gti excels in portability. Its compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for travel and fieldwork. The integrated elevation and azimuth adjustments are a significant improvement over previous models, eliminating the need for a separate wedge. The Vixen-style dovetail saddle provides compatibility with various accessories, though a dovetail rail isn’t included.
The internal battery compartment holds eight AA batteries, doubling the requirement of its predecessor. While integrated neatly, the battery compartment’s thumbscrew is prone to being lost. A 12V DC input offers an alternative power solution. The built-in polar scope, complete with illuminator, streamlines the polar alignment process. However, its unique operation, requiring declination axis rotation for sky visibility, might confuse first-time users.
Dual-Axis Tracking and Autoguiding with the SkyWatcher GTI
The SkyWatcher GTI’s standout feature is its dual-axis motor system, enabling both right ascension (RA) and declination (Dec) tracking. Coupled with an ST-4 autoguider port, this allows for precise tracking even with imperfect polar alignment.
Tests reveal slight periodic errors in the RA gear train, but these are generally manageable for short exposures and can be corrected with autoguiding. Even unguided, the tracker performs admirably with 30-second exposures over several hours, as demonstrated by a successful four-hour exposure of the Witch Head Nebula.
Go-To Functionality and Advanced Features
The SkyWatcher GTI boasts go-to functionality controlled via smartphone, tablet, or PC using Wi-Fi or a direct USB connection. This, along with polar alignment assistance and ASCOM compatibility, positions the GTI as a bridge to more advanced astrophotography setups. However, basic star knowledge is still crucial for initial alignment.
SkyWatcher GTI: Potential Downsides
Despite its strengths, the SkyWatcher GTI has some drawbacks. It requires app connectivity for basic tracking initialization, lacks default Wi-Fi security, and operates on the potentially congested 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band. The overly cautious solar observation safety feature in the app can also be cumbersome.
Conclusion: Is the SkyWatcher GTI Right for You?
The SkyWatcher Star Adventurer GTi is a powerful and portable star tracker packed with features. While minor inconveniences exist, its dual-axis tracking, autoguiding capabilities, and go-to functionality make it a compelling choice for both beginners and experienced astrophotographers. However, users seeking a truly basic, standalone tracker might find its reliance on app control and potential Wi-Fi complexities less appealing. Overall, the SkyWatcher GTI offers a significant step up in functionality and performance within the portable star tracker market.
