- Portable Motorized Computerized Altazimuth Mount
- Built-In WiFi Module for Remote Control
- Free Android & iOS SynScan Pro WiFi App
- 11-pound Payload Capacity
- Vixen-Style Dovetail Saddle
- Adjustable-Height Aluminum Tripod
Looking for a portable Altazimuth mount for your small refractor? The Sky-Watcher AZ-GTi should check just about every box on your wishlist.
Lightweight...check
Reasonable payload...check
Computerized...check
Runs off your smart device...check
And so on and so forth. This is a loaded lightweight mount.
The free SynScan Pro app for Android and iOS devices turns this mount into a serious observation machine with 42,900 objects in its database. The AZ-GTi also has periodic error correction, backlash compensation, tours, and a DSLR camera control. I can not state enough just how fuil featured this mount is. The built-in wifi connection allows you to connect without needing an additonal router or internet connection. With a payload capacity of 11 pounds most small to medium sized instruments should be right at home. Built in clutch knobs on both axis allow for easy movement by hand. With certain mounts when you move the scope by hand you will lose your computer alignment. Not with this one. The dual encoders will keep exact axis aligment when you unlock the mount and move the scope manually. Once you are locked in and tracking the DC servo motors run quietly and have minimum vibration. The mount runs on eight user-supplied AA batteries.
So, you want to know what exactly the SynScan App does? One this it doesn't do is cost money. It is free at the app store. The app will control the mount wirelessly allowing you to align, move, control from your device. The GPS unit will automatically update your location, day, date, time making it even easier to line up your mount. Once you get it all aligned the SynScan has a fantastic tour abilty taking you around the night sky to the best objects that are available. It has three tracking rates (solar, lunar, and sidereal) as well as 10 slewing speeds.
And in closing, we can talk about the 5.3 pound tripod and pier extension. The tripod is an adjustable height tripod with aluminum legs. Its maximum height is 43.3" and the extension pier will give you a few more inches making night time viewing a tad more comfortable while keeping vibration at a minimum. The tripod legs will spread to 42.3 inches and are held in place with a spreader tray that is designed to hold personal effects or accessories while you are out observing. The feet of the AZ-GTi are spiked to increase stability when you are on different types of terrain or soft ground.
