Part I | COMPLETE Setup Guide for Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i Pro Package (Wi-Fi Enabled)

[@bry2k]

The Sky Watcher people should pay you for this. 😁 Excellent tutorial.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks so much for your kind words. Glad you found the tutorial helpful.

[@Cschroed357]

I rarely comment on videos, but this is a fantastic introduction. I recently bought a Star Adventurer and I appreciate the effort and time you invested in making this guide. Two thumbs up!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks so much for your feedback Cristopher - glad you liked the content and found it helpful.

[@ftballmaniac77]

@@TheLightExplorer Same here! This video was fantastic. I really appreciate all the time and effort that went into this

[@theresawilliams4228]

Very best you tube tutorial on the star adventure 2i pro out there! Thanks so much for your effort to cover every detail. The rate and tone of your speaking voice was perfect. (Most talk way too fast). Clear skies!!

[@F1McLarenFan]

@thelightexplorer just found your channel, what a fantasising video! 👏🏼

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you. So glad you found it useful.

[@TaleOfTwoIdiots]

As someone so old that I actually tried to photograph Halley’s comet with tripod-mounted film SLR in 1986, I find this sort of tech absolutely magical.

[@PeaceTrainUSA-1000]

You know this is a great tutorial when it's answering every single question/uncertainty that came up as you set up without bothering to RTFM.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks so much for your feedback. Really appreciate it.

[@JimNotCarrey]

First channel to see point out the importance and solution to balancing in the declination axis. Thank you

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you so much for the feedback Jim. Appreciate it.

[@marcelbakker6512]

I've been a hobbyist photographer for years and recently decided to seek a new challenge to push my skills further. Since I’ve always been fascinated by the sky and everything connected to it, I’ve started exploring astrophotography. I’m especially drawn to capturing nebulae, though I know it’ll be a while before I’m ready to photograph my first one. As a beginner, I’m focusing on mastering the basics: understanding equipment, using sky trackers, achieving proper polar alignment, and setting up my camera with the right settings. To start, I plan to practice with the Moon and nearby celestial objects to build my skills gradually. To learn, I’ve been watching a lot of tutorials on the subject, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every moment of your video. You managed to answer so many of my questions, and I appreciate the clarity and detail you provided. Thanks a lot.

[@scapellinni]

This is by far the best video tutorial on the subject!! Thank you! I’ve spotted 3 errors on my procedure, next night out I’ll try again doing right!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks Sérgio - let us know how it goes and if you have any questions.

[@MrOkieChef]

I’m in the very beginning of the learning stage of astrophotography and I have yet to invest anything but time into the process. I found your video really helpful in ordering things in my mind. Very concise and well thought out. The production was excellent with no background distractions, very clear demonstrations and great photography. Nicely done.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for the feedback John. You will really enjoy this crazy journey learning astrophotography.

[@paulmanhart4481]

Great review. Thanks. I’m thinking of getting this for the 2024 eclipse. I have a Nikon Z7 II and a Nikon 600 mm lens. I want to take a series of exposures ranging from 1/1000th to 1 second for HDR photography. I think I would need a leveling head on the tripod, right? Alignment would be during the day. What can you offer in advice? Would this be useful? I don’t want any clocking of images from one exposure to another. This is my main concern, not x and y translation. What hardware would I need other than the tripod, leveling head and tracker? Thanks, Paul

[@atariman7196]

⁠@@paulmanhart4481 I too, am getting into the realm of astrophotography due to the eclipse. My Equipment is not as nice. I have a Nikon N1 J5 as well as a D5600. I am thinking about using a long lens on the N1 and a wide angle on the 5600. (i’m going to take advantage of the crop sensor multiplier on the N1. I have a lens that adjusts out to 300 mm which is equivalent to an 810 mm on a full frame sensor. I am interested in daytime alignment practices.

[@anthonyrenaud5783]

Great Tutorial. You’re very detailed on every step including the 3 degree increments on the Star Tracker. You’re the first one who included that information. Thank you.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you Anthony - glad it was helpful!

[@Icefy_YT]

Been having so much trouble finding the motivation to set up and use my skywatcher because all the short videos I watched never really explained it great. Decided to just sit down and finally watch this long one, and man was it worth you. You explained it so well, to the point I almost have no questions at all and I’m finally confident using it. Thank you so much!

[@AstroCloudGenerator]

This is without doubt the best SA2i tutorial. I’ve had mine for a while and you have taught me a lot of good stuff. I also like the way you have embraced the app. So many other reviews are clearly too lazy to use it fully, and continue using unnecessary intervalometers which don’t offer dither and just add more cables to catch the wind. Can’t wait to see what you do next.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for your feedback Richard. So glad you liked the video and found it useful.

[@ThistleBeaksBirdCams]

what does dithering do?

[@AstroCloudGenerator]

@@ThistleBeaksBirdCams although the tracker is tracking the stars during the exposure, dithering moves the subject of your image slightly between shots to ensure that hot pixels and other noise can be identified by your stacking software and removed.

[@ThistleBeaksBirdCams]

@@AstroCloudGenerator interesting, thank you for the response. I'm still new to astrophotography and was considering getting the star adventurer. So inbetween shots does the camera take another image while it moves ? or is it just that as the next image is taken due to the camera being ever so slightly different from last time it has different noise/hot pixels?

[@AstroCloudGenerator]

@@ThistleBeaksBirdCams You set up the Star Adventurer to take a shot for a set period with a set interval. The SA sends a signal to the camera to take a shot and accurately tracks the stars however between shots it varies its speed very slightly to ensure that the subject moves slightly. If you are new to Astrophotography then a great place to learn is the Nebula Photos discord server. There are plenty of people only too happy to help you get started.

[@rsankuratri]

Hello Nikhil, I am just venturing into astrophotography and your channel has been such a tremendous help in my journey, and I am sure will continue to do so. My compliments and thanks for your KZbin channel!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks so much for your feedback Raj. Wishing you lots of fun on this wonderful photographic journey!

[@mikesensier3656]

A great tutorial as I’m in the process of buying a star adventurer at the moment. I like how you went into depth on the areas and didn’t gloss over some parts like other tutorials I’ve seen. For me the best area was the checking of the re-alignment after framing your target...love that app, makes life very easy. Now subscribed and will check your other videos...Nicely presented....👍

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for your feedback Mike - appreciate it. Have fun with your new toy - I really like it. And you are getting it in time for the Milky Way season. 😀

[@barrystuart7536]

Your video was great!! You explained things so well, without getting sidetracked with a lot of less then significant info. And you covered so many of the settings not covered well in the star adventurer manual. Thank you. Ready to use it on the Gemini meteor shower tonight, despite the bright moon.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks for your feedback Barry. So glad you liked the video. Hope you got some good shots of the meteor shower.

[@AttilaTheHun333333]

Unbelievably well presented and explained. Thank You for this well thought out and beautiful video! It’s so much appreciated.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@scottchambers6953]

Thank you. Your video saved me a great deal of aggravation and frustration after reading the instruction manual which was infuriating at best. I understood photography, but astrophotography is all together more complicated particularly with the written instructions included with this. This is a fantastic, informative video and a must watch for anyone who just purchased a Sky-Watcher Sky Adventurer 2i.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hi Scott. Thanks so much for your feedback. Glad you found the video useful. Hope you get some awesome images this winter. I am looking forward to heading to Utah in November to capture Andromeda and my favorite, Orion.

[@GordonBurnsVideo]

This was totally great - exactly what I needed to get started with my new Star Adventurer 2i Pro. Expertly put together at exactly the right level of pace and detail. I will certainly feel very confident now setting this all up - soon as I can get a clear night that is - which here in UK this year has been not brilliant. Will watch your other videos too for sure.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Dartheomus]

Getting into the game a bit late I guess? I just bought the 2i Pro and tried to get the SA Console App, however Google Play says that software was made for an older version of Android. It wouldn't let me install the app. However, I went to the play store on my PC and told it to install the app on my phone. For some reason, that actually worked. Anyway, absolutely amazing tutorial. Very helpful! Thank you!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Awesome that it worked out for you. Thanks for that information.

[@EuropaChronicles]

Very impressive tutorial! I can’t believe you put in all this work and released it for free on KZbin. You’ve gained a new sub today! I’m an old hat at photography, but brand new to Astro. Looking forward to learning much more from you! Thanks for putting in the time and effort! Hopefully I can pay it forward someday.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for your kind words and glad you enjoyed the video. It is rewarding enough to hear that the videos help others. Please don't forget to check out the pinned comment with the values to be used for dithering - I unfortunately forget to include that in the video (even though I had recorded the explanation).

[@TrevorMcGrathPhotography]

I echo all the other complementary comments and words of praise. In the world of pro cycling there's a word (Chapeau) used to express respect to a personality encountered for their knowleadge and expertise. Chapeau is a French term signifying to tip one's hat in respect. Chapeau to you and thanks!

[@Zi8er]

Amazing detailed tutorial. Thank you very much for the time and effort.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for your kind words. It totally makes it worth spending those long hours creating these kind of videos.

[@Mazzter101]

This is by far, the best video on the Star Adventurer I have seen.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Notes on Dithering & the SAM Console App =================================== Dithering Notes ------------------------- I got a few comments requesting more color on the 'Dithering' option in the app. Dithering is the process of moving the mount by a very small amount, in a random fashion, for each sub photo you take. Since hot pixels and any fixed pattern noise is static, it will show up at the exact same location on each frame. But because of dithering, the stars will show up at slightly different locations in those same frames. Thus when you end up stacking the frames and aligning the stars, the pattern noise will now be located in random portions of the stacks and can be removed by the stacking software. First just make sure you have the latest firmware for your Mount (i.e. later than 3.10) and that you have the latest SAM Console app. The dithering on the SA v2i is in the RA axis only, but will definitely be beneficial. You would of course have to use the cable to connect your camera to the SNAP port and let the SA control the exposures. If you wanted to dither in the declination axis, you could very slightly move the gear in that axis (with the fine tuning adjustment knob) every few frames. I had found this formula below from a post by Fred on the Star Gazers Lounge website: d = 35 x p / F Where : d is the dithering in arcmin, to enter in the SAM console app p is the pixel size of your camera's sensor, in µm F is the focal length of your lens in mm The above is to dither by 10 pixels. If you would like to adjust the amount of dither, you can apply a factor - for instance, if you would like to dither by 15 pixels (i.e. 1.5 times of 10 pixels), then simply multiply the result obtained above (i.e. multiply 'd'), by a factor of 1.5. It seems you might not be able to enter decimal numbers directly in the SAM console. To get past that, just enter 0 and press 'Done' - you will see 0.00 in the input box. Then just edit the figures and don't delete the decimal separator. Fred recommends saving a profile for each DSLR/ lens combination you use so that you don't need to calculate it again. SAM Console App Notes ---------------------------------------- One thing that I forgot to mention in the video, is that when the mount is switched to the 'App' mode, it will NOT start tracking UNTIL you hit 'Run' for the sequence (e.g. 'Astrophotography'). For some reason, Sky-Watcher has chosen NOT to let the mount track UNTIL you actually tap 'Run' on the top right - it will then begin the tracking. I thus suggest that after you frame the DSO, if you need additional time before you start taking the exposures, simply switch the mode dial on the mount to 'Sidereal' (or 'Solar', 'Lunar' as the case maybe) - that way the mount will begin tracking right away and continue to track (allowing the DSO to stay framed). Once you are ready to take the photos (i.e you have set focus manually along with the exposure etc.), you can then switch the mode dial on the mount to 'App', connect your smart device to it and then hit 'Run' to begin the shooting sequence. Miscellaneous Notes ---------------------------------- 1) Latitude Adjustment: When you have positioned Polaris in the correct position on the polar clock, you will be tightening the Latitude adjustment lever (on the left side of the wedge) and the Azimuth adjustment screws (on the rear of the wedge). Please note that over-tightening the Latitude adjustment lever can shift the alignment. What I suggest is that once you have Polaris in the reticle, tighten the Latitude adjustment lever, but don't over-tighten it (so turn it clockwise until you feel resistance and maybe turn a quarter turn more). You can then use the Latitude adjustment knob on the front to make any fine adjustments (at this point don't touch the lever anymore). Once you have Polaris in the correct position on the polar clock (per the SAM console app), tighten the Azimuth adjustment screws on the rear, by turning both the screws clockwise - at the same time. This will ensure that there is no play in the horizontal plane and the wedge does not move. 2) Android users: I have received feedback that the version of the PS Align Pro app in the Android App Store is not stable and crashes. You can try to download the "stable" version from Sky-watcher's website. The link is: skywatcher.com/download/software/star-adventurer/ If that link does not work, then there seems to be a new app in the Android store called Polar Clock that addresses a rotated reticle. Check it out and see if it works for you: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.astrotools.polarclock&hl=en_US&gl=US

[@adityasoni6185]

One very important but disastrous thing i found last night during Dithering which u missed as well. Because of Dithering i lost ~50~70% frames with eggy or trailing stars. The reason i explain. Its my first time i did Dithering and found that out of 3~4 frames only 1 had round stars while i have shot many times without Dithering and accuracy was 100% upto 300mm for 120 sec. After reading about Dithering, i noticed that after Dithering its takes a lot of time to return to its normal tracking speed as it happens during guided tracking in ASI Air system. But in SAP2i app, there is no such control. I usually keep interval between photos 3 sec and last night i kept it 5 sec and still my 50~70% frames ruined. So, Dithering on SAP2i is just waste of time because we have to manually find out the time between frame by trial and error. If i had not done Dithering, i would have got 80min of totol exposure with perfect round stars, but now i have ended up with just 28 mins. (Weather was good, no strong wind, tripod dead center accurate; well balanced gears) Please explain something so that we can have some idea.

[@TheLightExplorer]

@@adityasoni6185 Hi Aditya - yes, you need to increase the Photo Interval time to allow for the mount to settle. Having said that, I have used 10 seconds for my mount and have had no issues for a 10 pixel dither. You could try 15 seconds or so (or 20) to start with and then lower it to see what the sweet spot is. I hadn't addressed dithering in this video, but I am just completing my Complete guide to the SA Console App - which I will upload in a. few hours. That has this information. LMK if you plan on going again tonight to try out dithering and what settings you used.

[@adityasoni6185]

@@TheLightExplorer thanks for your reply. Unfortunately, no clear skies or if present, 95% above humidity. I will be looking forward to your new tutorial. Clear skies!

[@TheLightExplorer]

@@adityasoni6185 Thanks Aditya - that tutorial on the SA Console app is up now. You can watch it at kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIiUeZqQl5ykd7c

[@maximilianscharf180]

Normally I don't comment videos, but here I have to... extremely helpful and very well done, so structured and easy to follow! Thanks for investing your time!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Awesome, thank you! So glad you liked it.

[@jeffscra]

Awesome video!!! I appreciate all the detail. I would like to see how you go about framing your shots and making sure you are getting what you are intending to.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks Jeff and glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for the suggestion for a future video. I can definitely work on creating another video with that in mind.

[@shootstuff_se]

I use this vide as an exampel for my students how a tutorial should work.. its by far the best ive seen. Great job.

[@keithmc]

I've learned so much from your video! Great job!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@129bill]

I recently purchased the Star Adventurer 2i. After looking at several other videos about it, I found your video and I am so glad I did. You hit all the key points clearly and concisely. I now understand how this thing works, thanks to your presentation. Great job! If anyone else wants to know how their Star Adventurer works, THIS is the THE video to watch!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks for the feedback Bill. So glad you found the video useful.

[@jean-pierreevain2623]

@@TheLightExplorer So glad I found it too. A 5-star tuto. You have been going through all the details that some would consider obvious but which make the difference. I wish I would find the same for the GTI.

[@jamesdennis1777]

When aligning the date date scale with zero, you used Oct 31st and placed the mark halfway between 10 and 11 on zero. Question #1: Is the day you shot the video Oct 31st? If so, Question #2: The alignment mark is halfway between 10 and 11, shouldn't that be Oct 15th? Or am I confused???

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hi James. Answer #1: No, I did not shoot the video on Oct 31st. You just have to set the date to Oct 31st on the scale regardless of the date you are using it on. It is just the way it has been constructed. Answer #2: The half-way mark is half-way between Oct 1st and Nov 30th - hence it is Oct 31st. Please let me know if you have any other questions. FYI, I just posted a complete guide to using the Wi-Fi app (the SA Console App). So do check that out if you plan to use the App.

[@jamesdennis1777]

@@TheLightExplorer thank you for your prompt reply-much appreciated sir.

[@martinthompson4202]

I've done this and it definitely isn't sitting with 0 at the top and 6 at the bottom. The only way I can get the reticle with 0 at the top and 6 at the bottom is to set it to 31st December EDIT: I've fixed this, I noticed I couldn't turn the dials separately, I located a small screw on the underside and loosened it off slightly and locked it back off when I'd got to 31st Oct. Now it is 0-6 vertically but when set at 31st Oct not 31st Dec

[@gubenedicto]

Hands down! The most detailed explation on setting up the SWSA.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for your feedback.

[@RahilSethi]

There's so much of learning curve in Astrophotography. Without star tracking mount, is like a car without any gear. So, thank you for the detailed tutorial on this.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks Rahil. Glad you found it useful.

[@egar4767]

Wow!! Great tutorial- from someone who has been teaching over 39 years.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you so much. Really appreciate your feedback.

[@monybclaudioc.6647]

This is by far the most complete and helpful video on the SW Star Adventurer. Fantastic job. Thanks a lot.❤

[@brucelsprout]

That's one heavy duty ball head. Wow. Great tutorial

[@brucegowdy4]

Nikhil - this is the most clear and thorough set of instructions on how to use the Sky-Watcher that i have found. The manual that comes with the tracker is severely lacking in detail and leaves the operator guessing on how to operate it effectively, especially when using the fine tuning assembly for larger lenses. I think Sky-Watcher should be paying you a royalty for creating a functional user manual that they obviously weren't willing to do themselves. Many thanks to your professional instruction. If you are not a teacher or an instructor of education, perhaps you should be, because your communication skills are top notch.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hi Bruce. Thank you so much for your kind comments. My goal was to make something I would have wanted when I was first starting out. So glad you liked it.

[@oceanside2152]

I am a very experienced amateur astronomer and I found this concise, clear. Excellent job. I'm buying one of these for the upcoming 2024 eclipse and my H-α filter/refractor.

[@mikeboyles8961]

Rare to see an instructional video with no "dislikes". Awesome video.

[@Bubbz2024]

Such a thorough well spoken well-produced video. Thank you very much for making this ! Along with being new to astrophotography, I'm preparing for the 2024 total eclipse and a little over one month from now.

[@TheLightExplorer]

So glad you liked the video. Have lots of fun shooting the Eclipse - it will be spectacular.

[@cecilepuckhaber1067]

I rarely comment. But ive watched so many videos and they all talk about polar alignment but dont really explain. You got the only sub i think ive ever done and a follow. By far best video ive ever seen

[@crrc250]

The best tutorial I have seen yet on this unit! I was going to get the MSM, but this will do so much more. You have pretty much sold me to get this one now. You've shown and explained so many details that no one else has. Thank you ever so much!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for your feedback. So glad it was helpful!

[@cc63]

Thanks so much for explaining camera orientation. I probably would have figured it out eventually, but you made it very clear.

[@TheLightExplorer]

You're welcome! Thanks so much for your wonderful feedback.

[@matthewgrichmond]

I've watched several videos about getting this tracker set up, and this video is the best! It's a bit long, but covered the situations that were confusing me earlier today as I tried to get acquainted with this tracker, so the length was worth it. Thank you for taking the time to make this!

[@atlassilverbraid]

Fantastic video. Thank you for speaking slowly, calmly and clearly.

[@TheLightExplorer]

You're very welcome! Glad you found the pacing comfortable.

[@stanbarton914]

Best tutorial on balancing across both RA and DEC axes I've seen. It was very helpful.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@sarahrenee9891]

I never comment on YT videos, educational or no, but this…..your video is PERFECT. I know every other comment says it, but THANK YOU for taking the time to explain this!! I’m not new to photography but am to Astro, and the instruction book was still throwing me off after two hours outside, a mashed finger, in freezing temps. You’ve definitely earned another faithful subscriber!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hi Sarah and thanks so much for your kind words. So glad you found it useful.

[@possummanrld]

Thank you so much for this very well explained and professionally presented video! I just got my Sky-Watcher SA 2iPro, yesterday. And, I believe I will eventually get it all figured out, and so much easier now, thanks to this excellent tutorial.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks for your feedback Ron. Hope you get some amazing shots this winter with your new rig.

[@rondoring4964]

@@TheLightExplorer , I have been doing photography and amateur astronomy of decades now. But, this is an entirely new ballgame. Thank you for your help and encouragement!

[@msujeffrey9598]

Great instructions on this video! You explained the process like it needed to be. The Sky-Watcher company should pay you money for this video. Great job!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks for watching! Glad you found it useful.

[@gopinathnair9716]

5 stars for this video presentation . Best explanation , precise , organized and systematic. Well done. *****

[@TheLightExplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@charleswilson604]

Definitely by far the best demonstration on this device.

[@808flyer8]

Aloha Nikhil. Thank-you for your SW-SA tutorials. I've recently purchased the 2i Pro Package and appreciate your in-depth tutorial. I am a novice Milky Way photographer and looking to take the next step in achieving better quality star images. Mahalo for your time and effort in providing your tutorials. Aloha!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Aloha! Thank you so much for the kind words - I really appreciate it. You are going to have a lot of fun with this tracker and I am sure you will get some great images with the awesome Hawaii landscape. I recently uploaded a complete guide to using the Wi-Fi app, so do check that out if you plan to use the app. Please feel free to ask any questions you might have. Have a great week.

[@jenslassen6441]

I bought the Star Adventurer just a few days ago and was searching for a good manual / tutorial for beginners. Fortunately I found this video. Thank you very much for the time and effort you put into this video. Thanks also, that you take your time to explain everything and give the viewer the time to follow your words. Especially for non native english speaker it is very important.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hi Jens. Thank you so much for your feedback. I really appreciate it. If you get stuck using the SA Console app, please feel free to check out my video on the app too.The app has a few quirks that might make your life hard (if you don't know about them). Have fun with your new toy.

[@Velereonics]

You are the only calming force in my life right now

[@TheLightExplorer]

Haha - thanks so much. Glad I could provide a few seconds of calmness.

[@TheCEPELE]

I am saving this until I get my watcher, can't recommend enough how this tutorial is valuable and easy to understand. Have a great day, Sir!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks, you too!

[@dgdave2673]

There are many other good videos done on this tracker including many reputable Amateur/ Astronomers , even sellers. But this one Nikhil is the best among all if anyone wants to set it up by just following your video. Best explanation of polar alignment yet by anyone. Awesome buddy 👏

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you so much for the kind words. I am so glad that a lot of folks are finding it helpful. I just made a video that I wish I had access to when I first started out. Currently working on a tips and tricks video for the Star Adventurer - hopefully folks find some of those tips to be useful. :-)

[@dgdave2673]

@@TheLightExplorer - thank you just purchased one over the weekend and assembled it today. Interestingly had to take apart the whole clutch and gear assembly and put it back again and ensure the right pressure from the bottom Allen screw to press down the worn to engage the main gear . It was absolutely sloppy assembly out of box. Not sure what QC Skywatcher even has… however the parts and the body itself is well made and hoping this serves for a while to come.

[@TheLightExplorer]

That sucks - honestly, I would have got a replacement if I were you. You paid for a functioning unit and should not have to repair it yourself. Hopefully it works well for you.

[@russellbarry30]

I just bought a star adventurer and this video is superb . It explains all the little tricks to get you going. Many thanks.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Glad you liked the video Russell.

[@maxsanseb]

Great tutorial! I wouldn't have been able to properly calibrate the Star Adventurer without your expertise. Praise!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you for the feedback and glad it was helpful. FYI, I just posted a complete guide to using the Wi-Fi app (the SA Console App). So do check that out if you plan to use the App.

[@dannyli9424]

I really like the way you explained why you don't have to but still a good idea to level the tripod. I saw so many online video keep on insisting leveling a tripod is the essential, but we all know it's not true, like you said once one manage to get a good Polar alignment done, who cares. I have seen s o many friends spend so much effort trying to get the tripod perfect level.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks Danny. That really is one of my peeves - when folks keep insisting on leveling the tripod and spend precious minutes trying to level one. There is absolutely no need to level a tripod, unless one leg is so short that the tripod might tip over.

[@frankdykes6796]

This is a excellent video - most of the information in the video is not in the user guide but is absoloutly essential. Thanks

[@TheLightExplorer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nashuaslick]

Thank you so much for this incredible work! You answer every question and potential pitfall. Exactly the way I needed to learn this mount.

[@andmaldo324]

Absolutely great info. Videos like this deserve to be promoted more in KZbin.

[@TheLightExplorer]

I appreciate that!

[@iteachtime]

Thank you for this excellent presentation. Also, thank you for the time and effort you spent providing links. Useful content like this deserves to be rewarded.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you so much - really appreciate that. And so glad you enjoyed the video.

[@David-x6e7n]

Questions….questions. I think you covered everything. Brilliant job ❤

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you so much! So glad you liked it.

[@ennaxor]

I don't even own a tracker yet and I just watched this whole video! Super informative and easy to follow - hopefully I'll be able to get one soon to put this knowledge to use!

[@TheLightExplorer]

So glad you found the video enjoyable. Hopefully you can get a tracker soon. They are so much fun to use.

[@MrSoulMonk]

Amazing tutorial, the best I have ever seen! Thank you for showing newbies like me the way to set this up properly.

[@TheLightExplorer]

You're very welcome! So glad you liked it.

[@ennileah]

I came across this video while frantically searching through alsorts of results, after pulling my hair out for hours while trying set up my mount. I am so please I found this, you explain things in a straight way and its so easy to understand!! So thank you so much for putting this together, I have learnt alot in the past 49 mins!!

[@ianmacdonald2307]

I’ve had my Star Adventurer (non-WIFI) for 7 months now. Whilst I understand most of what you have included in this video I found the content regarding the date and time graduation circles particularly useful. Over time, I have developed an understanding of them but your coverage of how to use them is refreshingly good and very easy to understand. Probably THE best video I’ve watched so far. Thank you for sharing what is an excellent tutorial 🤝👍👍

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you for your feedback - so glad it was helpful.

[@jwastroimaging2711]

What a great video tutorial. Really excellent. Thank you. Just got my own unit yesterday and you covered just about everything. You did miss out the part where you have levelled the tripod, carefully polar aligned, balanced the load exactly, framed the shot precisely, re-balanced again and re-checked polar alignment and then you go and kick the mount by accident and have to start over.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hah! What's funny is that what you said, actually happened to me a couple of times. 😆

[@jwastroimaging2711]

@@TheLightExplorer I've done it so often I'm thinking of writing it into my workflow! My SA is sitting here waiting for darkness. So many things I would have struggled with if I had not seen your tutorial! Thanks!!

[@jmcalpena]

Thanks, today I started to get familiar with the Star Adventurer 2i and this is by far the best video I've seen about it. Congratulations Jose Maria

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for your feedback.

[@alanyarwood5369]

I'm totally new to astrophotography. This is the best set up video out there. Many thanks for your time and presentation.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks for your kind feedback Alan. Glad you found the video useful.

[@joshuaghogari]

love the way you explained the video from start to end. and as a gesture of appreciation ive purchased the startracker through your link. thank you so much.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hi Joshua. So glad you liked the video and thanks much for ordering using the affiliate link.

[@VideoMan0904]

This is the BEST tutorial I've found for this system, thanks

[@yervantparnagian5999]

Fantastic and clearest explanation of this tracker. I recently purchased this tracker to go along with my HEQ5 Pro.

[@TheLightExplorer]

So glad it was helpful!

[@GediAstro]

This is the best tutorial out there. It should be an official tutorial

[@TheLightExplorer]

Glad you found it useful.

[@Biriyanibulu]

This is one of the best Videos I have seen of the Star Adventurer - and I have two of them going in for the third

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you for your feedback. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@mxquattro]

I have been using mine for over a year now and still learned something new, thank you! Great Video!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you for your kind words.

[@ian408]

Clear and concise. My only comment would to balance the rig in its final position then check the alignment. The should eliminate the prior alignment check. Also, a tripod with Really Right Stuff's spike or rock feet and help greatly in stabilizing your tripod.

[@deebugger]

Incredible video - thanks for putting in the effort, much appreciated!

[@frankkennedy2056]

Outstanding presentation. Many important details I have not seen in any other Sky Adventurer tutorial.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for the feedback Frank - appreciate it.

[@tonydodd2010]

Great video - clears much of the confusion (and fear) that was in my mind. Thanks so much!

[@TheLightExplorer]

You are so welcome! Glad it was helpful.

[@geekdomo]

Thank you for this super detailed explanation. I bought this tracker based on your instructional video. Other brands others have not covered as well, nor the manufacturer so I passed. Really appreciate it!

[@TheLightExplorer]

You are welcome! Glad it helped out. Fall and Winter are great times for some deep sky photography (Orion et al). :-)

[@GuyBryantCaveDiver]

Great tutuorial, much better than anything else I could find for the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i!!! Thanks for explaining everything so well.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks so much for your kind words. Glad you found the video helpful.

[@mickemusik]

Thank you so much, perfect video. I need to watch again like 2 times to get everything.I bought my package yesterday, and it will rain for 2 more days/night so I have time to play around//Micke from Sweden :)

[@rtumkur]

Fantastic tutorial! Love it. You give so many details that are missed out in the manual or are not well explained. Thank you so much for doing this!

[@allisonrae4828]

I just bought this as well - this exact model - the 2I version. I'm sooooooooo excited 😍😍😍

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@allisonrae4828]

@@TheLightExplorer thank you! I've used a home electric mount that a genius friend literally concocted (I swear he's a natural born genius) anyways the photos we got were amazing. I'm wondering if it will support my 6d mark II with the grip and my 24-70 / furthermore will it support my 70-700 and my tamrom 150-600 or should I be looking at adding more weight to the counterweight? Thanks for this video!!

[@TheLightExplorer]

You might need an additional counterweight for the Tamron lens (I use an additional CW for my Sigma 150-600 lens). You should not need a CW for the 24-70 or the 70-200 lenses.

[@allisonrae4828]

@@TheLightExplorer oops lol I saw that 70-700 - I meant the 200 lol! Guess what arrived at my door today? My tracker 😍 super excited. We're currently sitting at a balmy -20 up in Ontario Canada so I'm hoping it warms up a bit none the less us hardcore astrophotographers go out no matter the Temps lol. Great video again and I'm sure I'll be referencing while setting up - grateful 🙏 for this video!!

[@bradfordpepping8434]

Thanks for the setup guide! I was trying to determine which package would suit me and your video was very helpful.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nathantw]

Thank you for your video. I own the original Star Adventurer without the wi-fi option and have been using it for a few years. I had to laugh because you showed me things I never knew I could do, like move the RA after polar alignment and also the phone app. I guess it made sense that I should have been able to move the camera/telescope around, but because I used a ball head I never had to but always wondered if I could. One of my problems was that I kept things relatively loose so the entire unit would move around each time I changed settings or camera position. Nowadays I make sure everything is tightened down. Again, thanks for the great video.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hi Nathan. Glad you enjoyed the video and found it useful. Yeah, keeping the clutch hand tight is prudent.

[@jsberry4088]

Perfect! Thank you for sorting out all of my questions. I appreciate the detail and your approach. Clear Skies!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Awesome! Glad you found the video useful. Clear skies to you too.

[@randykoepsell2786]

Really helpful tutorial. I just purchased my 2i a couple of months ago. I have two issues. For additional weight I purchased a longer screw for the washer at the end if the bar. With the longer screw i added up to 30 fender washers. Plenty of weight and they fit in the foam case (with a bit of foam removed) under the weight during transport. My second issue it the 2i does not stay tracking in APP mode when the shooting RUN sequence is finished. As a result, things quickly rotate out if view. Especially if you are using a 150-600 mm lens at 600 and have the camera on live view and digital magnification. I contacted sky watcher and they have a horrible work around by switching back and forth the tracker dial to sidereal and APP. It would be so much easier if they had the tracker rotating all of the time in APP mode. I have reached out to other KZbinrs who said they gave up on using the APP position and reverted back to their external intervalometer and staying in sidereal mode.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hi Randy - those washers are a good idea for sure. The one thing to be careful about is that the longer the bar is (i.e. the further the weights are from the center point on that counterweight bar), the more the tracking errors you might find (keyword being "might"). I thus decided to get a second counter weight and can place the weight closer to the rotating point to alleviate some of those errors. However, if it is working for you, definitely leave it as is. I mentioned about the 'App' issue in the pinned comment (and am just finishing making a detailed tutorial on using the app as I got a lot of emails requesting that). I have been in contact with Sky-watcher multiple times asking them to resolve this - they only have to issue a firmware, whereby the tracking will not stop once the sequence is finished. For some reason, they are adamant on not correcting that. As a result (like you said), the tracking will stop once the sequence is over and the target will drift out of frame (especially at longer focal lengths). Finally, a lot of folks don't realize that any changes you make to the app, get downloaded to the corresponding mode on the mode dial. This is especially an issue if you have selected the number of photos in the app - so if you have chosen say 10 photos in the app for your sequence (for say Sidereal) then that number gets downloaded into the mode dial for Sidereal mode. The next time you use the Sidereal mode on the mode dial (i.e. not the app) and connect your SNAP cable to your camera, the mount will stop taking photos after the first 10 are taken. The default value of 120 seconds per photo will also be over-ridden by the shutter speed you had chosen. And finally, it appears, that the tracking will also stop once the total time for those 10 exposures has been completed. Hopefully, I can address these concerns with my forthcoming video on the app - don't want people getting discouraged as it is a fantastic mount (that even allows dithering), as long as you understand its limitations. Thanks much for your thoughtful comment.

[@randykoepsell2786]

@@TheLightExplorer the longer bolt is about 2", so it does not add much length. The fender washers are the same diameter as the weight. It's just enough weight to balance the 150-600. I did request SW to update the firmware to track in APP mode. Even add another line on the Astrophotography page in the console to have a user option. Like your mention, the support person said that's how it's supposed to be. Said I was the only person to complain. I did get them to commit to bring it up at a meeting.

[@elbass0]

This is pure gold. Thanks a lot!

[@madmike2881]

This was a great run through, I have not seen such detail in any other video! For the first time user like myself, I appreciate the methodical step by step approach. I look forward to your future videos and hopefully you will dive into the other functions of the app more (like what is dithering for example). Thanks!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks so much Mike. Yes, I can definitely work on that. Might take a little time because I want to cover every aspect. 😊

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hi again Mike. I got a few more comments requesting information about dithering. I will make another video on that, but in the interim I have posted an explanation as well as the formula to get the values for your camera and lens combo - please check the pinned post for the information. Thanks.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hey Mike. I wanted to let you know that I now have a detailed video of the app available. Please check it out at your convenience. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIiUeZqQl5ykd7c

[@jollyvivi]

Just WOW.. One of the most complete and through setup toutorials.. A big fan of this channel already :-)

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks much for your feedback - appreciate it.

[@davidperry6197]

Having just bought my SAv2i I was getting bogged down with info, this one video seems to do it all in a well explained way. Thank you. Only have to have clear skies now. #Wales #UK

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks so much for the feedback David - so glad you found the video helpful. Don't forget to check out Part II and also the 'Tips and Tricks' video on the SA on my channel if you get time. Might save you some headaches. Wishing you a Happy New Year.

[@ghostdeinidagr8462]

Wow man this is in-depth at its finest. I don’t need to watch another video on the subject you covered every thing. Thank you so much for your time and effort into creating this video. You’re awesome 👏🏼

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you. Glad it was helpful!

[@travelanddrones]

Very well-explained and easy to understand for those of us who are not English speakers.

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thank you. Glad it was helpful!

[@Ed-hz2um]

A great video! All items are presented in depth, with closeup video, and...most importantly...at a slow pace. Too many video makers assume too much knowledge for the watcher and go through items way too fast. I learned a lot from this one. Thanks!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks for the feedback Ed - really appreciate it. 🙏

[@Ed-hz2um]

@@TheLightExplorer P.S.: I'm also subscribed now :)

[@nachiketsardesai8837]

Thanks for sharing step by step guide to use Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer 2i. This was very helpful for beginner like me to understand and learn how to use this tracker. Looking forward for more videos like this. All the very best!!!

[@TheLightExplorer]

You're very welcome Nachiket! Glad it was helpful.

[@robg3545]

Excellent guide. As a user of the StarAdventurer, I level my tripod beforehand. I purchased an inexpensive 2 inch diameter bullseye level which I use before adding the SA. It also helps with polar alignment in high latitudes if you point one of the legs of the tripod roughly to the North.That way, you have room to kneel when looking up into the polar scope. (dont forget to take the camera strap off as it waves about in a breeze, introducing shake.)

[@TheLightExplorer]

The bullseye level sounds interesting. I just use a Leofoto leveling base as it saves me so much time.

[@Jerguu]

Pretty much the best video I could find on this! Straight and to the point!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Thanks so much for your feedback Jacob. Appreciate it.

[@epostiljon]

Really good work, thanks for that. Any suggestions of this eror. My wifi hotspot show up in the smart phone,but the app dont see it?

[@jackquinn4085]

Just bought a Star Adventurer as well and this video is extremely helpful with being a beginner. Thank you!

[@TheLightExplorer]

Hey Jack - that is awesome. You are going to have a great time with that tracker. I am just in the process of uploading my follow up video showing how to blend a foreground with a sky - so keep a lookout for that.