The Seestar S50 has recently received a significant update to version 2.4.1, and firmware to 4.43 that introduces an Equatorial (EQ) Mode, greatly enhancing its capabilities for astrophotography. This new feature allows for more precise tracking of celestial objects and longer exposure times, resulting in improved image quality, especially for deep-sky objects. Here's a detailed explanation of the EQ Mode and how to use it with your Seestar S50:

Equatorial Mode aligns the telescope's primary axis with Earth's rotation, allowing it to track celestial objects more accurately than the standard Alt-Azimuth (Alt-Az) mount. This alignment compensates for the Earth's rotation, enabling: Longer exposure times (up to 30 seconds, compared to the previous 10-second limit) Reduced field rotation effects on images More stable tracking of celestial objects Improved overall imaging quality, especially for deep-sky objects

To use EQ Mode with your Seestar S50, follow these steps: Update Your Seestar App: Ensure you have the latest version of the Seestar app installed on your mobile device. Prepare Your Equipment: You'll need an equatorial wedge or a tripod capable of angling the telescope horizontally. A recommended option is the Sky Watcher Sky Adventurer, which costs under $100 and provides a sturdy base.

Extend and level your tripod, ensuring one leg is oriented toward true north. Attach the quick-release plate to the bottom of the Seestar S50 and secure it to the tripod. Align the vertical center of the device with one of the tripod legs (preferably the north-facing leg) to prevent tipping. Power On and Connect: Turn on your Seestar S50 and connect it to your mobile device.

In the Seestar app, tap “Me” at the bottom to enter the user page. Select “Advanced Features,” then navigate to “Mount Mode”. Watch the tutorial video provided in the app for visual guidance.

Follow the in-app instructions to adjust the Seestar mount angle. This step must be performed outdoors in an open, unobstructed area with clear visibility of stars. Activate EQ Mode: Tap “Switch” in the top-right corner to activate Equatorial Mount Mode.

Click “Get Polar Align Deviation” in the app. The app will display azimuth and elevation angle deviations. Fine-tune the mount based on these values until errors are within 1°.

Once calibrated, secure the device and enter Stargazing Mode. Select a target to begin observation. The observation interface will indicate that Seestar is in Equatorial Mount Mode.

Familiarize yourself with polar alignment techniques to make the most of EQ Mode. Experiment with Exposure Times: Try different exposure lengths to see how EQ Mode improves your imaging results. You can now capture exposures up to 30 seconds long. Use a Stable Setup: Ensure your tripod or mount is sturdy and well-balanced to minimize vibrations during long exposures. Consider Light Pollution: While EQ Mode improves tracking, you may still want to use filters like Color Magic to mitigate light pollution effects in urban areas. Post-Processing: Even with improved in-camera results, post-processing software like Siril or Photoshop can further enhance your images.

Improved Deep-Sky Imaging: EQ Mode allows for capturing fainter deep-sky objects like nebulae and galaxies with greater clarity. Reduced Field Rotation: The precise tracking of EQ Mode keeps stars and deep-sky targets perfectly sharp and round, even in longer exposures. Better Image Stacking: More consistent and stable exposures lead to higher-quality final images when stacking multiple frames. Enhanced Versatility: The Seestar S50 can now compete with more advanced astrophotography setups while maintaining its user-friendly interface.

By utilizing the new EQ Mode, your Seestar S50 becomes a more powerful tool for astrophotography, capable of capturing stunning images of the night sky with greater detail and clarity than ever before.