In this iOptron SkyGuider Pro review, the various details concerning one of the most popular star trackers for astrophotographers will be shown. You’ll learn everything about the iOptron SkyGuider Pro’s features, the different kits and pricing options, and more!
As an astrophotography specialist, the iOptron SkyGuider Pro star tracker has served as my principal apparatus for several years. However, the iOptron SkyGuider Pro camera mount is not entirely flawless. Despite my fondness for it, there are a few elements I wish iOptron would enhance in forthcoming versions.
Keep analyzing to gain more information!
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- iOptron SkyGuider Pro – Overview
- iOptron SkyGuider Pro Attributes and Construction
- Polar alignment using the iOptron SkyGuider Pro
- iOptron SkyGuider Pro Mount Assembly
- iOptron SKyGuider Pro Packages and Pricing
- Comparison of the iOptron SkyGuider Pro and SkyWatcher Star Adventurer Pro 2i
- iOptron SkyGuider Pro vs. iOptron SkyTracker Pro
- Deciding if the iOptron Skyguider Pro is worth purchasing
Table of Contents
iOptron SkyuGuider Pro – Overview
| After utilizing all the most popular star trackers over the last few years, the iOptron SkyGuider Pro is my preferred choice in most scenarios and my first recommendation if you are searching for a reliable and compact star-tracker mount. |
Technical specifications of the Ioptron Skyguider.
- WEIGHT: 2lbs (1kg)
- MAX PAYLOAD: 11lbs (5kg)
- EXPOSURES: 5-6 minutes
- MAX FOCAL LENGTH: ~400mm
- RUN TIME: 20hrs
- BATTERY TYPE: Internal – Micro USB
- BUILT-IN POLARSCOPE: Yes (illuminated)
- AUTOGUIDER INPUT: Yes
Pros
- Compact design and capable
- Built-in polar viewer with illumination
Cons
- Its EQ base was flimsy.
- Declination bracket could see improvement
- Current deals on the Ioptron Skyguider:
The iOptron SkyGuider Pro camera mount is perfectly suited for both experienced astrophotographers seeking a portable mount and beginners aiming to elevate their Milky Way photography to the next higher level.
What I really appreciate about this iOptron SkyGuiper Pro is how well-balanced and trustworthy it is. Whenever I have an important astro image to capture, I understand this star tracker will provide the highest quality results!
Looking at future upgrades, one thing iOptron may want to improve is the EQ wedge, which does not have the same high standard of construction as the iOptron SkyGuider Pro. I suggest opting for a superior equatorial wedge made by William Optics or even the SkyWatcher Star Adventurer Pro 2i EQ Wedge, which is what I currently employ.
If you want to strategize your astrophotography at a glance, I encourage you to download our Milky Way Astro Calendars!
iOptron SkyGuider Pro Features and Build
Since beginning to utilize the iOptron SkyGuider Pro, I have appreciated its durability and design. This star tracker seems as though it will withstand long-term use. And this quality applies not merely to the visible external components, but also the internal parts. The right ascension motor in this star tracker feels very rugged as I’ve mounted heavy setups on it and even without counterbalancing, it has performed quite well.
Stay with me while I closely examine each feature.
Weight (Click to reveal details)
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Even though this star tracker is lightweight, it doesn’t feel cheap. As I mentioned earlier, it feels reliable and sturdy.
Cargo
The load capacity of the iOptron SkyGuider Pro camera mount is one of its primary attributes, having the ability to support setups up to 11lbs (5kg). This star tracker is suitable for astrophotographers with normal and heavier configurations, like DSLR and long lenses/small telescopes.
The added counterweight will help balance the entire setup and put less strain on the motor. If planning to use a heavy setup nearing the iOptron SkyGuider Pro’s weight limit, I recommend using the counterweight.
Energy source
iOptron made an astute decision by including an internal rechargeable battery in the SkyGuider Pro. This is highly convenient as it removes the need to carry AA batteries (like some SkyWatcher models) or an external power supply.
The battery life is also excellent, lasting up to 20 hours. I’ve never run out of battery in the middle of a photo session.
Polar Scope
The polar scope is another robust feature of the SkyGuider Pro. The scope is incorporated and illuminated. In the listing of top star trackers I recently wrote, this was one of the aspects that set the SkyGuider Pro apart from its direct competitors like the Star Adventurer Pro or the Fornax Lightrack.
Aligning the Polar with the SkyGuider Pro is an enjoyable task when compared to other star trackers, and it’s even simpler and more accurate with the SkyGuider Pro iPolar edition, which employs a small camera, connected to your laptop, to align with precision.
To gain further knowledge about the iOptron SkyGuider Pro and astrophotography with a star tracker, I invite you to check out my Milky Way photography course!
Declination Bracket & Counterbalance
The iOptron SkyGuider Pro ships with a declination bracket and counterweight, which are both made out of metal and make the whole system feel very robust.
The declination bracket and counterweight are intended to balance the entire setup if you are using a heavy camera and lens combo; this translates into better performance and less strain on the motor.
I tend to utilize the declination bracket along with counterweights particularly when photographing with a longer lens or applying complex methods like tracking a Milky Way panorama. If the photo is straightforward and I`m using a lightweight setup, I employ the iOptron SkyGuider Pro solely with a ball head as this removes weight from my pack and intricacy during establishment.
Quality of Construction
In general, I’m very pleased with the quality of construction of the iOptron SkyGuider Pro. The main body of the SkyGuider Pro is constructed almost entirely from metal, with the only plastic part being the top black panel housing the controls.
As the leader of astrophotography workshops, many clients using star tracker equipment with this model left me with a consensus regarding the SkyGuider Pro`s craftsmanship.
The only element that doesn’t match the quality of the remainder of the system is the equatorial bracket. Adjusting the altitude and azimuth with this EQ bracket can be cumbersome and that’s why most iOptron Skyguider photographers prefer the William Optics or the Skywatcher EQ Bracket paired with this tracker.
Auto Guide
The SkyGuider Pro has an autoguider input and that’s great news for everyone looking into doing some deep sky astrophotography.
Using the autoguiding function will render the SkyGuider Pro less portable owing to the extra equipment like the guidescope, a laptop, etc. but this was anticipated .
IOptron SkyGuider Pro Polar Alignment
The iOptron SkyGuider Pro camera mount includes an illuminated polar alignment scope integrated into the body, facilitating a simpler polar alignment process than most comparable star trackers. Thanks to the thoughtfully designed polar scope with red lighting, this represents one of the main strengths of the SkyGuider Pro, and is a key reason I prefer it over its direct competition, the SkyWatcher Star Adventurer Pro 2i.
Achieving an accurate polar alignment is essential when utilizing any star tracker device to maximize effectiveness. With the SkyGuider Pro, acquiring the proper polar alignment allows for safely capturing exposures of 5-6 minutes using wide-angle and medium focal length lenses. For longer focal lengths up to 400 mm, exposures of 1-2 minutes can be expected under an accurate polar alignment and favorable tracking conditions.
The tracking abilities in the SkyGuider Pro are quite impressive. If you are primarily tracking with wide-angle lenses up to 35mm, this astrophotography mount performs exceptionally well. When you begin to use longer focal lengths (80mm and above) is when you may start noticing star trails in some shots.
While the SkyGuider Pro is able to capture some deep-sky images, its main strength lies elsewhere and extra gear like an autoguiding camera is generally necessary for astrophotography.
iOptron SkyGuider Pro iPolar Edition
In 2019, iOptron released an updated version of the SkyGuider Pro adding the iPolar electronic polar scope. This iOptron SkyGuider Pro iPolar edition lacks a traditional polar scope, but instead features a small camera which helps provide a more precise polar alignment.
If employing a telephoto lens or small telescope, or residing in the southern hemisphere where exact visual alignment is more difficult to attain, the SkyGuider Pro iPolar edition is a sound choice. You can obtain the iPolar electronic polar scope separately to update your SkyGuider Pro.
To employ the iOptron SkyGuider Pro iPolar mount, a laptop will be needed to connect it, decreasing its portability. For wide-angle astrophotography or long hiking, I would advise obtaining the iOptron SkyGuider Pro Full Package instead.
For a more in-depth guide on how to correctly align your star tracker to the celestial poles, read the article I wrote on capturing images of the night sky with a star tracker.
iOptron SkyGuider Pro Mount Setup
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- Sit your tripod and ensure that it’s leveled
- Mount the EQ wedge
- Slide and secure the SkyGuider Pro on the EQ wedge
- For substantial payloads, install the declination bracket and counterbalancing weights. Or else, utilize a ball-head
- Mount the camera with its accessories.
- Do the Polar alignment.
- Choose your composition and begin shooting!
You can view a full tutorial on how to utilize the iOptron Skyguider Pro with various setups, the optimum star-tracking techniques, and how to edit tracked pictures in my Milky Way Professional Tracking Course!
- Includes 62 video tutorials
- Over 23 hours of educational content
- 80+ RAW & PSD files
- Unrestricted support
- Free updates
- Access to an exclusive online group
iOptron SkyGuider Pro Kits and Prices
In this iOptron SkyGuider Pro assessment, I want to assist you in finding the best kit that will adapt to your needs. The SkyGuider Pro mount comes in 2 main configurations:
iOptron SkyGuider Pro Full Package
The SkyGuider Pro Full Packageretails at $488 but it’s frequently discounted and you can easily find it under $400. This is the kit I personally recommend since it’s the greatest value for money.
If you are photographing the Milky Way or want to initiate dipping your toes into deep-sky astrophotography, this kit is ideal and it will take you a substantial time to outgrow it. The package includes the following:
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- iOptron SkyGuider Pro camera mount
- Built-in polar scope
- EQ wedge
- Declination bracket
- Counterweight
- Carrying bag
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iOptron SkyGuider Pro iPolar
The SkyGuider Pro iPolar edition sells for $638. I would only suggest this kit for someone mainly shooting astrophotography from their backyard or easily accessed areas because the iPolar camera requires a laptop to operate. The enhanced polar alignment from the SkyGuider Pro iPolar allows for using longer focal lengths and even advanced deep-sky astrophotography.
This package features the following:
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- iOptron SkyGuider Pro camera mount
- iPolar electronic polar scope
- EQ wedge
- Declination bracket
- Counterweight
- Carrying bag
iOptron SkyGuider Pro vs. SkyWatcher Star Adventurer Pro 2i
The SkyWatcher Star Adventurer Pro 2i is the primary challenger of this star tracker. If you compare the Star Adventurer Pro 2i versus the iOptron SkyGuider Pro, you`ll detect some commonalities like payload capacity and max. monitoring time, but then they start to diverge.
Power Source: this is a benefit for the iOptron SkyGuider Pro because it includes an internal rechargeable battery providing up to 20 hours of use. This is much more convenient than requiring 8 AA batteries like the Star Adventurer Pro 2i needs and will prevent issues with corrosion developing over time. (an experience I had with my Skywatcher).
Polar scope: this other major advantage of the iOptron SkyGuider Pro. The polar scope is helpfully illuminated and you can select between different brightness levels, while the polar scope on the Star Adventurer is a flimsy piece of plastic that’s easy to break and lose.
Equatorial wedge: In this category, the SkyWatcher Star Adventurer Pro 2i stands out. The EQ wedge in this star tracker is very skillfully constructed; it makes the polar alignment truly smooth. On the other hand, the EQ wedge on the iOptron SkyGuider Pro feels cheap and it’s not comfortable to utilize. The good news is that you can always upgrade the EQ Wedge on the iOptron and have the best of both worlds!
Construction quality and mass: Both devices feel robustly made, but the iOptron SkyGuider Pro has a lighter, more compact form over the Star Adventurer Pro 2i, making it better for traveling or hiking.
Given all these differences, if you are undecided between the iOptron SkyGuider Pro and the Skywatcher Star Adventurer Pro 2i, my recommendation would be to select the iOptron model. The Star Adventurer is an outstanding star tracker capable of capturing fantastic images, but the iOptron generally superior in all the design features and functions that I referenced above.
If you wish to learn more on the topic, I suggest reading the full analysis article for the SkyWatcher Star Adventurer 2i.
iOptron SkyGuider Pro vs. iOptron SkyTracker Pro
iOptron currently has two models of portable star trackers available in its product line: the Skyguider Pro and the SkyTracker Pro. They are both designed to fulfill different needs.
The iOptron SkyGuider Pro (the one I’ve been reviewing in this article) is larger and heavier, which provides it with more stability and makes it better suited for heavier setups. This model will also deliver better results if you try to do complex tracked Milky Way panoramas, mosaics, or deep sky astrophotography.
The SkyTracker Pro (the younger option) is intended to be even more portable. It’s lighter weight, has a reduced payload capacity and it’s better matched for lighter setups and basic Milky Way images. This star tracker is the perfect accessory for someone who enjoys extended hiking trips seeking the perfect photograph.
iOptron SkyGuider FAQ
Throughout this article, the key characteristics of this tracker have been explored. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding the iOptron SkyGuider Pro .
Is the iOptron SkyGuider Pro a worthwhile purchase?
One of the best portable star trackers on the market is the iOptron SkyGuider Pro. I’ve owned it for a few years now and consistently recommend it. It is solidly constructed, dependable, and provides excellent tracking capabilities.
To prepare the iOptron SkyGuider Pro you must carry out a few basic steps:
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- Position your tripod and make it level
- Attach the EQ wedge
- Secure the SkyGuider Pro onto the EQ wedge
- For weighty payloads, mount the declination bracket and counterweights. Otherwise, use a ball head
- Mount the camera with its accessories.
- Polar align.
- Choose your composition and begin shooting!
To find more details, read our comprehensive guide about astrophotography with a star tracker.
What is the typical cost of an iOptron SkyGuider Pro?
The iOptron SkyGuider Pro Full Package usually sells at four hundred and eighty-eight dollars. The iOptron SkyGuider Pro iPolar edition costs six hundred and thirty-eight dollars.
How do you use iPolar?
To use the iPolar electronic polar scope you’ll need to have a laptop with you. You’ll then connect the iPolar camera to the laptop and control it through the iPolar software.
Conclusion – Is the iOptron Skyguider Pro worth it?
| The iOptron SkyGuider Pro is amongst the finest portable star trackers available on the market. The high quality construction, ease of operation, and tracking capabilities make this star tracker one of the preferred options for most astrophotographers. While there are some aspects that could be improved such as the EQ Wedge, after extensively utilizing it over the past few years, I can confidently recommend it. |
If you are planning on getting the iOptron SkyGuider Pro camera mount, I suggest opting for the Full Package. This collection provides the best value for the money. If you mostly do astrophotography from your backyard and want to photograph deep sky objects, I suggest investing in the SkyGuider Pro with iPolar.
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I hope you found this review of the iOptron SkyGuider Pro to be helpful and, if you are ready to learn more about the iOptron or tracked astrophotography, take a look at my Milky Way Pro Tracking Course! 😉
Happy Captures!
