Onstep V4 Pro review

The evolution of astrophotography mounts has led to the development of advanced systems capable of accurately locating celestial objects with precision and efficiency. One such mount, the Celestron CG5 Advanced GoTo, was once at the forefront of this technology, offering astronomers the ability to track stars, galaxies, nebulae, and planets with automated ease. However, as technology advanced and more sophisticated mounts emerged, older models like the CG5 began to show their age, often falling short of modern astrophotographers' expectations.

Acquiring a used CG5 Advanced GoTo mount can come with challenges, particularly as wear and tear over time diminish its effectiveness. Many users find that older mounts are either inaccurate, unreliable, or completely non-functional, making them impractical for astrophotography. This was exactly the situation faced by an amateur astronomer who had previously relied on a SkyWatcher GTi but found themselves in need of a capable mount for deep-sky imaging. The search for a solution led to the discovery of the Tan's OnStep GoTo kit, an innovative upgrade designed to breathe new life into aging telescope mounts.

Onstep V4 Pro review, what's in the kit, and installation

Unlike traditional repair or replacement options, the OnStep V4 kit provides a modernized approach to upgrading existing telescope mounts. Instead of completely replacing an outdated system, this kit allows users to retrofit their existing mounts with advanced motors, controllers, and drive belts, effectively transforming an older model into a high-precision astrophotography mount. The appeal of such an upgrade lies in its cost-effectiveness and the potential to extend the lifespan of a previously obsolete mount.

The OnStep V4 Pro kit comes with several key components essential for upgrading a mount. The package includes a GoTo controller, Right Ascension (RA) and Declination (DEC) motors, control cables, timing belts, and various mounting hardware. For anyone unfamiliar with DIY modifications or electronic installations, the idea of replacing mount components might seem daunting. However, one of the most striking aspects of the OnStep upgrade is its accessibility, allowing even those with no prior experience to successfully complete the installation.

The process of installing the OnStep kit begins with assembling the necessary components and securing the motors to the mount. The timing belts must be properly aligned to ensure smooth and accurate movement, while the GoTo controller needs to be correctly positioned to interface with the system. Although this is not a step-by-step guide, it is worth noting that the installation is straightforward enough for a novice to complete without specialized knowledge or tools.

Once fully installed, the transformation of the mount becomes apparent. Before testing the system outdoors, there is always the lingering concern that something may have gone wrong during installation. However, upon taking the upgraded mount outside for its first test, the improvements were immediately evident. The most noticeable change was in the sound of the motors, compared to the SkyWatcher GTi mount previously used, the OnStep-upgraded CG5 was significantly quieter. This reduction in noise suggests more efficient motor operation and smoother tracking, which is crucial for long-exposure astrophotography.

Guiding performance is a critical factor in astrophotography, determining the clarity and accuracy of long-exposure images. With the OnStep upgrade, the guiding accuracy of the CG5 improved dramatically. The tracking error consistently remained at or below one arcsecond, a level of precision that was previously unattainable with the original mount. This level of guiding accuracy is essential for capturing sharp, detailed images of deep-sky objects, as it minimizes star trails and enhances overall image quality.

For the first imaging test with the upgraded mount, a well-known deep-sky target was chosen, the pair of galaxies known as Bode’s Galaxy (M81) and the Cigar Galaxy (M82). This stunning galactic duo, located in the constellation Ursa Major, provides an excellent subject for astrophotography due to their contrasting shapes and colors. Bode’s Galaxy, a grand design spiral galaxy, showcases delicate swirling arms, while the Cigar Galaxy exhibits an elongated, disrupted structure caused by intense star formation activity.

As the imaging session commenced, sub-exposures began accumulating, revealing the intricate details of these galaxies. The guiding remained steady, with stars appearing sharp and round in each frame. This improvement in image quality can be attributed to the enhanced tracking precision provided by the OnStep V4 upgrade, which ensures that the telescope remains locked onto its target with minimal deviation.

Post-processing the captured data further highlighted the effectiveness of the upgrade. The final stacked and processed image displayed remarkable clarity, with well-defined galactic structures and minimal distortions. The ability to achieve such high-quality results using an older mount upgraded with the OnStep kit underscores the potential of this modification for astrophotographers looking to optimize their existing equipment without investing in an entirely new mount.

Beyond the immediate benefits of improved guiding and tracking, the OnStep V4 Pro kit also offers additional advantages for astrophotographers. The system is compatible with various astrophotography software platforms, enabling seamless integration with popular tools such as ASIAIR and other guiding programs. This flexibility allows users to tailor their imaging workflow to their specific needs, maximizing efficiency and ease of use.

Furthermore, the upgrade represents a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a brand-new mount. High-quality astrophotography mounts can be prohibitively expensive, often costing thousands of dollars. By investing in an OnStep kit, users can achieve comparable performance at a fraction of the cost, making advanced astrophotography accessible to a wider audience. This affordability makes the upgrade particularly appealing to amateur astronomers and hobbyists who may not have the budget for a high-end mount but still wish to capture stunning celestial images.

Another significant aspect of the OnStep upgrade is its potential for customization. Unlike proprietary mount systems that may have limited upgrade options, the open-source nature of OnStep allows for modifications and enhancements tailored to individual preferences. Users can fine-tune settings, adjust motor speeds, and implement additional features based on their specific requirements. This level of customization provides a unique advantage for those who enjoy experimenting with and optimizing their astrophotography setups.

While the installation process may initially seem intimidating, the success of the upgrade demonstrates that it is a feasible project even for those with no prior experience in mount modifications. The key to a successful installation lies in carefully following the provided instructions, ensuring all components are securely mounted, and verifying alignment before testing the system under the night sky. With patience and attention to detail, users can achieve a professional-level upgrade with minimal difficulty.

Looking at the broader implications, the OnStep V4 Pro kit represents a shift in how astrophotographers approach equipment upgrades. Instead of discarding older mounts in favor of new models, this kit promotes sustainability by extending the lifespan of existing equipment. In an era where electronic waste is a growing concern, the ability to repurpose and enhance older technology aligns with environmentally conscious practices.

Moreover, the success of this upgrade opens the door for further exploration into DIY astrophotography modifications. As technology continues to evolve, new advancements may emerge that offer even more efficient and precise upgrades for existing equipment. The OnStep system serves as a prime example of how innovation can transform outdated technology into a viable, high-performance solution.

Ultimately, the OnStep V4 Pro upgrade has proven to be a game-changer for the CG5 Advanced GoTo mount, revitalizing its functionality and enhancing its astrophotography capabilities. The significant improvements in tracking accuracy, guiding performance, and imaging results demonstrate the potential of this upgrade for astronomers seeking a budget-friendly yet highly effective solution. Whether for deep-sky imaging or general stargazing, the ability to modernize an older mount with cutting-edge technology is an exciting prospect for the astronomy community.

For those considering an upgrade to their own astrophotography setup, the OnStep V4 Pro kit presents an enticing opportunity. With its combination of affordability, performance enhancement, and ease of installation, this upgrade provides a compelling alternative to investing in a completely new mount. By embracing innovative solutions like OnStep, astrophotographers can continue to push the boundaries of their craft, capturing breathtaking images of the cosmos with newfound precision and clarity.

Onstep V4 Pro specifications

• Automatic nightscape tracking platform: Motorized tracking platform perfect for capturing incredible detail of the Milky Way, eclipses and other astronomical objects.
• Automatically locates and tracks objects for you. Tracking Rates Sidereal, Solar and Lunar.
• Double motor drive provides regulated sidereal-rate tracking in right ascension and declination.
• Wifi/Bluetooth/USB connect. Mobile terminal support ONSTEP,  GotoMote,  Stellarium+,  SkySafari6/7 Pro.
• 2.5 mm camera interface, no need to purchase dditional cable, can through the phone APP to control the shutter release/exposure time, exposure interval number.
• PC terminal support PHD , NINA , Stellarium , SGP , INDI , ASCOM