We are proud to introduce The Vixen Polarie Star Tracker for Astrophotography. This compact mount platform allows you to capture night scapes and star images with elegance and ease.
Set up is simple and fast! The Polarie attaches to a standard camera tripod and can accept any digital camera weighing up to 4.4 lbs. Using the included compass on the Polarie, orient the mount to face north. This easy to use mount features a North Star alignment window that you point at Polaris. The Polarie can also use a polar scope for alignment. Once set, the Polarie tracks with the motion of the stars to eliminate “star trailing” on your photos resulting in sharp images of the Universe. The Polarie uses very accurate stepping motors and operates on any 2 “AA” batteries.
Polarie is designed to not only be functional, but also to be compact and attractive, with its sleek design. The unit has no visible screws and although, not waterproof, it is designed to function in most weather conditions. See what Richard Tresch Fienberg wrote in the March 2012 Issue ofSkyand Telescope Magazine
This image was taken by Josh Knutson. He states "this is an astounding product. This is the most portable imaging platform I have seen. It is so compact that it makes a Netbook look cumbersome. The precision is spot on. The Polarie is a serious contender. For the price, it should be a no-brainer decision for the casual or serious astrophotographer who is looking for a lightweight platform to travel with." The image was captured with a full spectrum modified Canon T1i, 50mm EF Lens@f/3.5,30 minutes total integration time in collaboration with Salvatore Grasso. Click on the image for a larger view. Specification
Type
Star Tracker
Tracking Mode
Celestial tracking rate、1/2 of celestial tracking rate. Solar tracking rate (Mean solar time)、Lunar tracking rate (Mean lunar time):Usable in both northern and southern hemispheres
Wheel Gear
57.6mm diameter aluminum alloy axis with full-circle 144-tooth
Worm gear
9mm diameter high tension brass
Bearings
2 pieces
Drive
Pulse Motor (Stepper Motor)
Maximum Loading weight
4.4 lbs
Polar sight hole
About 8.9° field of view
Standard accessory
Compass
Working voltage
2 x AA-size batteries:DC2.4~3.0V External power supply:DC4.4~5.25V
Duration of operation
About 4hours:At 20 C (68 F) degrees temperature, a 1.5kg (3.3 lbs) loading weight with use of Alkaline batteries