The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer GTi is the latest iteration of Sky-Watcher’s popular star trackers. This review delves into its features, performance, and potential downsides, providing a comprehensive overview for astrophotography enthusiasts.
Portability and Design of the Sky-Watcher GTI
The Sky-Watcher 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 adjustment wedge. The mount head utilizes a Vixen-style dovetail saddle.
While the GTi requires eight AA batteries, doubling its predecessor’s requirement, it also offers a 12VDC input for external power. The integrated polar scope with illuminator streamlines the polar alignment process, although its unique design might require some getting used to. The declination axis must be rotated to allow for viewing through the polar scope.
Dual-Axis Tracking and Autoguiding with the Sky-Watcher GTI
The Sky-Watcher GTI boasts dual-axis motors and an ST-4 style autoguider input. This allows for more precise tracking and the potential for longer exposure times, even with imperfect polar alignment.
Testing reveals some periodic error in the RA axis gear train, inherent in most trackers. However, this error is generally manageable for short exposures and can be corrected through autoguiding.
Four-hour unguided test exposures with a 180mm lens demonstrated satisfactory performance, with minimal star trailing due to slight polar misalignment.
The GTi performed well in solar tracking tests using a Hutech Hinode Solar Guider, even with a heavier payload than recommended.
Go-To Functionality and Advanced Features
The Sky-Watcher GTI incorporates go-to functionality controlled via smartphone, tablet, or PC using Wi-Fi or a direct USB connection. This feature, along with compatibility with ASCOM and planetarium software, makes it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced astrophotographers.
However, the go-to accuracy is limited and requires familiarity with brighter stars for initial alignment.
Downsides of the Sky-Watcher GTI’s Advanced Features
While the advanced features of the Sky-Watcher GTI offer significant advantages, they also introduce some drawbacks. The tracker requires connection to the SynScan Pro app for initialization and hemisphere selection. The default open Wi-Fi hotspot poses a security risk, although it can be password-protected. The 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi frequency might lead to interference in crowded environments.
Fully automating the Sky-Watcher GTI can be challenging and might exceed the mount’s capabilities. The SynScan app’s solar observation safety feature, while necessary, can be cumbersome.
Conclusion: Is the Sky-Watcher GTI Worth It?
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer GTi offers a compelling combination of portability, dual-axis tracking, autoguiding, and go-to functionality. Despite minor drawbacks related to its advanced features, the GTi remains a solid choice for astrophotographers seeking a versatile and compact tracking mount. The Sky-Watcher GTI provides significant value for its price point.
