Astrophotography allows us to capture the awe-inspiring wonders of the universe. To achieve those breathtaking shots of stars, galaxies, and nebulae, it is essential to have a reliable astrophotography tracker. These devices compensate for the Earth’s rotation, enabling photographers to capture sharp and detailed images of celestial objects.
In this article, we explore some of the best astrophotography trackers available in the market, unraveling their features in simple terms.
1. Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Pro
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Pro is a lightweight and versatile tracker designed for both beginners and experienced astrophotographers. It offers precise tracking capabilities and is compatible with various camera setups.
This compact device supports long-exposure photography and can even track the movement of deep-sky objects. With its intuitive control panel and polar scope, aligning the tracker becomes a breeze.
2. iOptron SkyGuider Pro
The iOptron SkyGuider Pro is a popular choice among astrophotography enthusiasts due to its excellent tracking accuracy and user-friendly design. It can support cameras and lenses of different sizes, making it adaptable for various setups.
The SkyGuider Pro also features an illuminated polar scope, allowing users to align it accurately with the celestial pole. Its compact size and portability make it a fantastic option for photographers on the go.
3. Vixen Optics Polarie Star Tracker
The Vixen Optics Polarie Star Tracker is a lightweight and easy-to-use tracker suitable for both beginners and professionals. It offers accurate tracking for wide-angle shots, making it ideal for landscape astrophotography. With its innovative design, the Polarie can be easily aligned with the North Star, simplifying the setup process.
This tracker also features various tracking speeds, allowing photographers to capture star trails and time-lapses effortlessly.
4. AstroTrac TT320X-AG
The AstroTrac TT320X-AG is a premium astrophotography tracker renowned for its exceptional tracking performance. It utilizes an advanced auto-guiding system, which continually adjusts the tracking to compensate for any errors, resulting in pinpoint accuracy.
The TT320X-AG can handle heavy camera setups, making it suitable for astrophotographers using telescopes or large telephoto lenses. Additionally, it offers multiple tracking modes, including sidereal, lunar, and solar, providing flexibility in capturing different celestial events.
5. Losmandy GM8 Equatorial Mount
The Losmandy GM8 Equatorial Mount is a sturdy and robust tracker designed to support heavier camera setups and telescopes. With its precise gearing system, it offers smooth and accurate tracking for long-exposure astrophotography.
The GM8 features a user-friendly hand controller, allowing users to adjust tracking speeds and easily locate celestial objects. Although it may be bulkier compared to other trackers, its durability and performance make it a go-to choice for professional astrophotographers.
Conclusion
Astrophotography trackers play a crucial role in capturing stunning images of the cosmos. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced astrophotographer, there is a tracker available to suit your needs.
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Pro, iOptron SkyGuider Pro, Vixen Optics Polarie Star Tracker, AstroTrac TT320X-AG, and Losmandy GM8 Equatorial Mount are among the best options in the market, each offering unique features and capabilities.
By investing in a reliable astrophotography tracker, you open up a world of possibilities to capture the mesmerizing beauty of the universe.
