Skywatcher AZ GTI Review Innorel RT90C Testing Vanguard AltaFly 58T Goto tracking mount budget

[@geotechlb]

Purchased mine a couple of years back when the EQ firmware flash was new worked ever since with a good RMS of 1.30/1.50.

[@Astro_Ape]

I bought an AZ-GTi to run a small 70mm f/6 ED doublet (AT70ED) as a grab-n-go visual rig. Although I've since moved to a 4" refractor on an AltAz mount for my grab-n-go (AT102EDL on M2C mount) while observing from home, I still have the little AZ-GTi to use as a travel mount with the little 70ED when space is limited and I can't take my Dobs or larger refractors/mounts. The AZ-GTi works great and makes an excellent wide field setup with tracking. My only complaints have nothing to do with the AZ-GTi mount itself really, it's more against the factory tripod and the app that runs it. Although I've currently got the AZ-GTi on it's factory tripod I don't like using it on it, just too lightweight and flimsy. I prefer using it on my old Bogen 3046 photo tripod (the tripod is older than I am 😂) but I'd like to get a better dedicated tripod for it. Since seeing this video I may keep an eye out for an affordable carbon tripod on the used market. ** EDIT: just wanted to add that the pier that comes with the AZ-GTi is excellent, it's just the lightweight tripod that I don't like ** The problem with the app is that it constantly drops connection and has trouble running in the background, so that if I try running it with a planetarium app it drops WiFi connection. I've never had success using it with Sky Safari 7Pro, although it will sometimes work with Stellarium +Plus. I've actually debated getting a hand controller since the app is so aggravating. Running the SynScan Pro app on a mid-grade android phone.

[@Astro_Ape]

Ohh I forgot to mention the ADM saddle!! I bought my AZ-GTi used (I'm a poor farm boy, so all my gear gets bought second-hand) and the original owner had added an ADM saddle along with including the original with the purchase. It's a very nice upgrade and worth the cost IMO. My ADM is the "V" vixen style saddle, but ADM also makes a "D" losmandy saddle and a "V-D" dual style saddle. All of my larger refractors have losmandy dovetails but for smaller scopes that I'll be running on the AZ-GTi the vixen style is plenty enough support. I actually like the V saddle better for the AZ-GTi since it's slightly smaller than the D or V-D saddle options from ADM.

[@RefreshingViews]

Agreed re the tripod. That's why I went for the Innorel and totally agree with why you prefer the old Bogen. As for the wifi, that's interesting you find the wifi a challenge. I have been using it on the garden patio a mere few metres from our home wifi mesh network without issue. That being said, Dr Robin Glover who runs SharpCap always recommends a wired connection over wifi for the reasons you state.

[@Tony-Elliott]

Hi Mark nice review of this lightweight set-up thanks for sharing your findings

[@RefreshingViews]

Thanks, Tony 👍

[@Astro_Ape]

Another thing I forgot to mention is the firmware update!! You can update the firmware on the AZ-GTi which will give you the option of using the mount in AltAz or EQ mode. If using the mount in EQ mode you'll need to add an adjustable latitude base or wedge and modify the mount for a counterweight. In AltAz mode the mount will work the same, but will work in the opposite direction after the firmware update. So instead of the scope mounting on the left hand side it'll mount on the right after the update.

[@RefreshingViews]

That's interesting to know Astro_Ape. Is that how you use yours? I am not so interested in the eq mode simply as my live stacking + visual does not require it - plus I'd need counterweights and a wedge. Useful to know in case that changes in the future.

[@Astro_Ape]

@@RefreshingViews I purchased my AZ-GTi secondhand and the previous owner had already updated the firmware before I received it. Luckily I prefer having my scopes mounted on the right so the update worked out well for me by reversing the direction the mount works in AltAz. I'm mainly just a visual observer who occasionally dabbles in EAA, so I've actually never used the mount in EQ mode but I have seen some pretty good AP photos done using one (guided I assume)

[@stuartbolden2142]

Nice to see another review of the AZ-GTI .. the only problem I see or hear is the sound . I’ve owned a few in the past and they all seem to scream especially in the dead of night . Great vid though and really like your presentation. Nice to know somebody wants to review lower budget products .

[@RefreshingViews]

Thanks for your kind words, Stuart. It really seems to punch above its weight doesn't it? And yes I am definitely going to have to get used to the noise. I wonder if they recycled the motors from used coffee grinders?

[@koomber777]

I've got a gem28 and azgti. After the first time using the azgti I had to own up to see if they left some of the beans in the coffee grinder motors. Cracking mount, but for as loud as they are, the sound doesn't travel too far.

[@andyrawlins]

Looks great, thanks. Sharpcap looks good too. Must look into that.

[@RefreshingViews]

You should, Andy. Best eyepiece I have ever used. It turns the 90mm scope into a 20+ inch dob.

[@martynsimpson-x6m]

I have the az gti for a portable planetary setup with sw 127 mak and run off of batteries and manage to get 2-3 nights out of them before changing them out before they die. Nice setup!

[@RefreshingViews]

That must have some nice sharp views. Interesting to hear you got a few nights from a battery change. I can see myself buying packs of batteries every month - or worse finding they have corroded in the damp / cold if I forget to change them!

[@martynsimpson-x6m]

I take them out after each session and keep them with the kit with extras just incase weather being what it is in the U.K never know when the next clear night is going to be

[@RefreshingViews]

​@@martynsimpson-x6myes good point. Hopefully we'll get some nice spring weather - this year it will be a Tuesday!

[@Astro_Gardener]

No 'Box of Clouds', send it back Mark!

[@RefreshingViews]

You can clearly blame me for the awful weather, Peter. Although I blame your new Seestar.

[@Astro_Gardener]

@@RefreshingViews I will PM about that.

[@Mr.eTrain007]

Great video, thanks for sharing! Stupid question how did you integrate the camera in this setup? I don't see it or hear you speak of it? I am considering the RT90C for my 70mm BT but looks like I will be adding this great little AP setup as well.

[@RefreshingViews]

The astronomy camera just goes in the scope (or rather diagonal I use as a tube extension to reach focus). Wow, your 70mm BT will be awesome - enjoy those lovely views.

[@ShevillMathers]

I have the same mount, scope, different binoviewer, etc. what is the exposure length before field rotation becomes noticeable? Cloud cover extends all the way to 42 degrees south. To improve stability on lightweight tripods I suspend some diving weights from the centre column, keeping the weights just above ground level for maximum stability. Makes a big difference.

[@RefreshingViews]

Sorry to hear you are clouded out as well! I generally do 20 minute livestacks or thereabouts while I do my journalling and there is some rotation but nothing that upsets me. Talking of using rocks for stability, I am in Namibia and picked up some only to disturb a scorpion - eek!

[@chrisbeckett9908]

Well done Mark! I'm just getting dew strips so it's great to see yours, I need to find a similar tripod for air travel. On my AZGTi I covered the all too bright red flashing "everything's ok" light with red tape. My lithium AA's lasted a long time but I too bought an external pack but they are a great backup if the pack doesn't make it through security. Do you ever worry about the rings opening up with the thumbscrews on the bottom?

[@RefreshingViews]

Hi Chris - how is the weather in your part of the world? We are struggling through a hard frost here in England! You're right about the LEDs, they can be surprisingly bright in the dark of night. Hmm! Good point re the rings, I hadn't thought of that so will swap them over. Take care and speak soon!

[@chrisbeckett9908]

@@RefreshingViews We too have had a "hard frost" if -50 C for two weeks counts :) It's warmed up now and supposed to be +4 C today so we're heading to the beach (no joke). What dew strips are you using? I've noticed some wrap the lens while others the tube below the lens, how effective are they in your moist climate? I hope to order some this week.

[@RefreshingViews]

That sounds a tad chilly. Can't believe you have gone from -50 to +4degC, that is crazy! You must be pasteurised now. I buy my dew straps from Tim Duke at www.dewcontrol.com/. A very nice chap who makes good stuff . Not sure how you can get them in Canada but he does mail order. To answer your question, I put them around the lens - no point heating the tube. And yes they are essential in our damp climate.

[@skycr1819]

Muy bonito sep up. Ya me dieron ganas de uno

[@RefreshingViews]

Gracias - se funciona bien durante mi semana de vacación en florida.

[@John_McFadden]

Hi Mark - Great review. You mentioned the weight limitation of the AZ GTI is 5kg. Can you please tell me if the weight of your complete telescope setup, including OTA, dovetail, rings, finder, diagonal, bino-viewer and eyepieces exceeds the 5kg limit? I asking because I'm trying to determine if the mount would support a 102mm refractor that has a OTA that weighs 4kg plus the, dovetail, rings, finder, diagonal and eyepiece. Cheers?

[@RefreshingViews]

The Megrez is 3kg so I’m approaching the limit. I recall reading that the harmonic mounts are to avoid the mount toppling rather than for the motors - do check in case I send you down the wrong path.

[@gappbaaz4924]

Please also mention the brand and dimensions of the following. I also have a William Optics 90 Megrez mounted on Skywatcher AZ GTI with the small dovetail that came with it. I find it insufficient when a camera is used especially when balancing the telescope on the mount. 1. Tube clamps 2. Dovetail plate 3. Power bank I am trying to improve my set up before the next solar eclipse in April here in the US. Thank you in advance.

[@RefreshingViews]

1. Standard WO rings that came with scope 2. Unbranded 10 inch or so dovetail. 3. Talentcell battery pack. Can’t remember the size off the top of my head but it was the biggest airline portable power pack.

[@frzguida]

Hi, Nice review. I have an az-gti too. Could you please tell me the name of the power bank? is the USB port capable to charge the phone too ?

[@RefreshingViews]

It’s a talent cell lithium ion battery pack YB1208300-USB. Note it powers the AZ GTI but it does provide enough umph for my AM3.

[@MarkoZen81]

Here is a free "pro" tip... It is hard at night with a phone in the hand and your eyes on the eyepiece to navigate those buttons in the Synscan app. You can pair a bluetooth game controller (gamepad from xbox or playstation) to your phone, then you can control the movement with the gamepad joysticks, which makes it really easy compared to taping the direction buttons on the phone screen.

[@RefreshingViews]

That's useful to to know as I miss the proper buttons with an eye at the eyepiece.

[@K1assh]

buying gear comes with cloud cover.. That totally checks out.

[@RefreshingViews]

It really does doesn't it? Defo born in the wrong country with all this cloud cover.

[@guco2354]

One question about the star alignment. If the mount went to the first star, and it’s not in the middle of the eyepiece, do I have to move the mount manually to center the star or via the knobs of the app?

[@RefreshingViews]

I use the motors

[@guco2354]

@@RefreshingViews Thank you 👍🏻👍🏻😊

[@terrizittritsch745]

Surprisingly cold, and you’re only wearing a sweater and vest? You need to visit Vermont after WSP! Haha. Very nice setup Mark, nice and compact and lightweight. Many are heading to the small harmonic mounts which can also do imaging, and any reason you didn’t go that direction other than cost? I’m not clear on the weight difference, but i see the part you have is very light, but it’s the checked piece vs the carry on so not as big a deal. Nice overview of the capability.😊

[@RefreshingViews]

Ha ha! I know you N Americans would find that be funny. We had a week or so of lows of -8degC down here in southern England - obviously worse in the Scottish mountains. But I can well imagine Americans, Canadians and Scandinavians laughing when I say how cold it is!! Yes not long to go until WSP - hurrah! Looking forward to catching up again. What’s on your target list? As for the harmonic mount I’ve actually been loaned an AM3 for review. It’s super nice, absolutely bombproof; moves the frac with ease and is capable of so carrying any potential upgrade (maybe not a C14 but you get the idea). But it’s 8x the price - and also doesn’t come with a bloody power supply!!

[@terrizittritsch745]

@@RefreshingViews Hi Mark, yes we'll be there and look forward to catching up as well. Glad your channel is catching on. You do great work that's very down to earth, but interesting and engaging. I'm been eyeing one of the harmonics which would be for lightweight travel only. I have a fairly big investment here in Vermont with one clear day a month :( It's been another tough winter for us.

[@RefreshingViews]

@@terrizittritsch745 yes the harmonic mounts look great. I'll bring a copy of Astronomy Now for you as there is an interesting article from one of our club members after a bunch of them took their mounts to Tenerife for a week of observing last year. Hopefully you will find it useful. I still can't get my head round them wizzing about without any counterweights!

[@terrizittritsch745]

@@RefreshingViewsMark, thank you so much! One of club members has the AM5 and images with an 8" Edge. They're pretty amazing. I first saw one at Neaf in 2019, Rainbow Astro I think.

[@Noob.astronomer]

Can you suggest between AZgti and star adventurer 2i? Also , hows the deep sky object photography in this alt AZ mount?

[@RefreshingViews]

I haven't reviewed the star adventurer 2 so would not like to say. As for deep sky photography you'll have to get a wedge and update the firmware for eq mode. Reading online suggests it works very well but again this is not something I have done.

[@dobsonsky9056]

go for Az GTi it has a GOTO and i bit more load capacity -upgrade firmware to eq mod buy eq wedge and you are ready for decent astrophotos. In alt az you can live stack with sharpcap but certainly the quality is not comparable to equatorial long exposure photos stacks.But is rather so called EAA . The only downside i see is the RA clutch. OR think about the Staradventurer GTI which is in my opinion an upgraded AZ Gti with integrated EQ wedge and counterweight but stil meets the .travel scope dimensions and weight. Good luck with your journey and selection !

[@Darren-vf2qw]

Looks like a great setup. I guess the only issue might be the powerpack, lots of airlines are getting pretty strict on these in checked and carry-on luggage. Had any issues, or do you have another solution for power?

[@Astro_Ape]

The AZ-GTi has a 12V input so any 12V power supply will run it, but it's also got an internal battery pack that takes 8 AA batteries. The mount actually gets pretty good run time off the AAs and I've used it for several 5+ hour observing sessions in a row before draining them, but I'm usually running dew heaters so just use the battery pack that's powering them to run the mount too.

[@Birko64]

There is a limit on capacity on aircraft. 100Wh or about 8Ah for a 12V pack. I have Talent cell Lifepo4 12V battery (safer than L-ion) similar to the one here which is 6.5Ah (measured).

[@RefreshingViews]

Hi Darren - not yet as I went for the largest talentcell power pack that was still airline legal. As for other solutions, I bring the 12V main supply and a long extension cable (which I need for the laptop live stacking anyway). My back up after that is nipping to the hardware store for some AAs!

[@arjundhannyify]

Can we do wide angle 40-85mm milkywy panos with this az gti?

[@RefreshingViews]

You can but you’ll need an equatorial wedge. I have it in alt az so it isn’t tracking parallel with the stars rotation. www.cloudynights.com/topic/721355-equatorial-wedges-for-az-gti/

[@robertvarner9519]

🔭👍